While I use my iPhone as my GPS (with Navigon for long trips / Apple's Maps for the short stuff) I do like a belle or two. And a larger display would be nice.
Does the CV have Lane Assist? That's a feature I really really like. Not that it's a big thing but how 'bout POIs? With Euro software I'd assume not but I've been wrong before. I think.
How about 3D map displays? Could you elaborate in which bells and whistles the CV lacking? A 5" display at around $100 is worth consideration.
Yes, there are POIs included (a function of the mapsets which the lastest one is like the TomTom setup IIRC). And you can add POIs (but I haven't done it). You can also do a bunch of custom mods to the software (just Google IGO8 or Primo and visit some of the GPS boards). If 'Lane Assist' means it shows you what lane to be in on a multi-lane highway, yes it does. In fact one option setting will show you a 'pretty' mock up of the 'proper' lane for an exit.
The software does have 2d and 3d 'mode', but I've never used the 3d 'mode'. You can also choose up to three 'data points' (compass, altitude, MPG, arrival time, miles to destination, etc.) to show on the screen. It also will show speed limits and it turns 'red' when you are over. In fact, it will even provide verbal warnings for that (but I keep that feature turned off!
) The IGO software is the software used in most Automotive GPS systems across the pond from what I've been told. In the MC 1.9 mod version I have, it has 'throw away a waypoint' feature which comes in really nice - especially on this last trip across the USA on highway 50. I use MS Streets and Trips to plan and then convert via GPSBabel to get to kml. Sometimes MS puts a waypoint in the oncoming lane instead of the current lane and with the waypoint gadget I can just delete it (an icon pops up) before I get to it when I see a problem. Also, if you 'edit' a route on the fly, it always starts with your current position. So if you decide to change routes after you leave a place, your could load another new route, delete all the waypoints behind you, then take off on the new route. When I say 'lacking bells and whistles' I was referring to playing music, weather reports, traffic reports, tire pressure monitor, etc. - stuff other than just GPS functions. BTW, I also have written a Windows Program that allows you to convert a batch of routes, runs them through GPSBabel, then copies them to the GPS - with one click. I had 13 days worth of routes for this last trip, and it took 1 click to convert and download them to the GPS. I'm glad to provide that to anyone that wants it - it's just tough sometimes to email an .exe.