I'm planning to get my RDX within a few days. Originally I was going for the base model, then decided to go for the tech package, and now I'm wavering again. Half of the stuff in the tech package just doesn't interest me, and I could probably get a better deal on the base model. I think I prefer the ergonomics of the base model as well.

Has anyone gotten a base model and regretted not getting the tech package?

 

Check this thread:

https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=484

 

Yup, looking at that thread too ... but I wonder if anyone else prefers the ergonomics of the non-tech?

I haven't tried voice command, though. That might make the ergonomics a moot point.

 

My own opinion is that Acura nav systems almost always make the operation of the radio/HVAC controls worse in some way. It could be as minor as moving the main radio/HVAC controls to a slightly less convenient location, or displaying the radio/HVAC info in a slightly less convenient place or fashion. If that's what you meant by ergonomics, then you are correct.

Basically, if you really want Nav, then these issues probably won't matter at all. If you're like me and don't really need Nav, then the more direct operation of radio/HVAC on the base RDX is actually a good thing.

 

Yes, it really comes to a point whether you really need the nav. For me, I don't even use it once a year as I mainly use the GPS when I am on rental car travelling out of town. So I guess my portable GPS is fine enough for me.

Rear camera: I am still not sure how to park the car with the head constantly looking at back and turning back to the LCD............ (I assume people can't park the car by just looking at the camera screen, right ?) So, for me, if I really need parking assistant device, I would get the sensor instead).

XM and traffic reports not available in Canada, so a factor at all.

Stereo: 360W vs 410W and 7 speakers vs 10 speakers, it is nice to have 10 speakers, but not really a huge difference

 

I first thought the rear camera would just be a cool thing to showoff but the rear sensors would be more helpful... boy was I surprised at how much we use the rear camera. Two applications for my wife and I are:

1. Backing out of city garages with tiny spots and narrow lanes. In chicago, you often find yourself surrounded by huge SUVs and thus sometimes backing out of a spot required a bit of a prayer and hope that no one charges up or down the ramp at you. The wide angle allows one to simply backup a bit towards one side and you can see pretty much the whole ramp.

2. Parallel parking is a cinch with the rear camera because it shows your rear bumper in relative to the car behind you. So, what we do is start parallel parking like any other car and once we get the front bumper cleared of the car infront, we used the rear camera to guide us back. This car is far easier to parallel park than my RSX-S, which has a high rear deck and poor general visibility towards the rear.

Jim

 

The HVAC is not controlled with the navigation in the RDX w/tech. You can use voice commands to control the HVAC, but the RDX w/tech has buttons to control everything. I think only the touchscreen nav systems use the HVAC controls on the screen.

 

Yeah -- I wasn't suggesting that -- tech and base RDX models have the same exact input controls for HVAC. What is different is that the status display for radio/HVAC is abbreviated in Tech models and put in the smaller display at the top/front of the dash. On base models, it's on the LCD panel (where Tech has the nav screen), is larger and a bit more detailed, and of course is right next to the radio/HVAC controls. I feel that this enhances the usability of the systems a bit (especially the last part).

This is still a step up from other Acuras. For instance, we were real horrified at the tradeoff in dash space/controls on the 2004 TSX with nav, and that convinced us to get a non-nav model. I see the newer TSX is a bit better. For 04, they really compromised the controls to free up space for nav.

 

I don't mean to be mean, but the response about ergonomics is a classic reach for justification. The only place I could ever see that holding any bearing is with I-Drive. The "ergonomics" with the tech package are perfectly fine. One still has full "manual" control over the radio and climate control.

While you may not necessarily regret getting the base, more likely than not you will have second thoughts if you were even considering it at one point. Look in the 3g TL section, their are countless threads of people either asking about the navi install (a few actually ripped apart the entire car to install it), just venting, or inquiring about a trade.

When we didn't have navi we used map quest when we needed help finding some place. Now that we have navi it is used more than we ever thought we would. It also gives you a great peace of mind knowing that you can't get lost. Even in the underground Boston Central Artery the gyros in the navi are able to get me where I want to go.

Now you may not be a huge audiophile, and I admit we don't use the ELS a ton in the TL with DVD-As, but its nice to have a good, clear, loud sound system.

You also get the backup camera which is much more useful than the sensors. Sure you should always look back too, but when I am backing up I usually go back and fourth between looking back and the side views, so a camera makes it that much easier.

With tech you also get the advanced MID. The dot matrix based mid looks much cleaner IMO(as does the navi LCD), and displays individual tire pressure as well as a more intuitive computer. Also, though not necessary, it displays the torque apportioning through the SH-AWD, which is kinda cool to have.

Finally you get hands free link. I think hand held cellphones as well as calls over 3 minutes should be ban, but this does make me more comfortable if I receive a call when using the TL (still haven't purchased our RDX or MDX).

Mike

 

Once you have the Acura Navi you will NEVER buy without it.....Could I live without 18 in tires- rims? YES Could I live without 10 speakers and 410 watts? YES. Backup camera is really nice esp. when you back into something with this vehicle. Did you really look at the rear design? I'd HATE to hit anything with this vehicle. Could be costly and painful to repair.
Also don't forget depreciation factors: Non-Navi vs. Navi.......which one is worth more in the long run? Navi model NOT non-Navi. Acura/Honda has done a superb job of integrating into the Navi. I wouldn't say that for MB, BMW etc......

 

IMHO... you should get the Tech package, if you can afford it.

The reasons are listed below...

1. Backup camera. Wide angle lens makes backing up a breeze. You will still need to look back when beginning to reverse, but once the car is at the right angle, you can just look at the screen to see just how far you can go.

2. Voice Commands... In a word, Fantastic. - Press the button, say "Call 123 456-1234" press button, say "Dial" and you are connected. Say "Temperature 21 degrees" and the climate control switches. Do you realize the potential here for not fiddling with the controls and keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel ?

3. Navigation, it has a ton of info on restaurants, gas stations, ATM's and other POI. Forget the Acura and Honda dealers on the map, but besides that, this too can be voice controlled.

4. Tire Pressure Monitoring - it actually shows tire pressures inside the cabin.

Believe me, get the tech package. You will not be disappointed and it is great !!

 

What tires/wheels come on the base model?

 

Thanks for all the opinions... the voice command might be the thing that really does it for me. My first couple drives were with base models, but then I took an extended drive (had the car for a few hours) with a tech package. My initial impression is that things were busier, reasonable with more functionality, and more steps were required to change settings. If voice command would let me control all of that stuff without even looking at the dash, it eliminates the problem completely.

I do like the display on the base model -- big and bright and everything in one spot, but then, nothing is perfect.

 

I don't think there is any difference in wheels or tires in base vs. tech. The 19's are an option either way.

 

While the voice command his helpful for some tasks, I find it easier just to do the simple ones by hand. The VC does work, don't get me wrong, but once you learn the controls you can do anything without even thinking about it(again referencing the TL).

The display on the tech model will grow on you...

I still wish Acuras had HUDs though.

Mike

 

I don't mind to have Base Model as long they have Acura Navigation System installed, coz I find myself always get lost...... Acura should have Navigation System as an option for the base model!!!

 

I actually like Acura's few options in most cases, although I think the MDX should have had the power lift gate, EM suspension, and rear heated seats in a comfort package instead of having to get all packages for those two things, even if we don't get the vehicle.

Hellokitty, are you getting base or tech?

Mike

 

If you have extra $$$ to spend and you will use the nav a lot, get the tech. It definitely worths spending several thousand bucks on the RDX's tech package than spending 2-3 grands on the upgrading the wheels

 

i have the base model. i dont regret it at all. i was ready to buy a TL w/o nav only because hawaii we cant use the nav. i mean its not hard to find your way on an island. so i was ready to get a car w/o nav anyways. besides that, i still love my base RDX =)

 

I never use the voice commands...I haven't learned the commands yet and I'm so used to manually doing things, I never occurs to me to try "saying" it! The only exception is the phone.

One of these days I'll get there with the voice commands!

I would definitely get the tech package again! I don't regret the extra money spent on it AT ALL! I love it!!

 

One thing to consider is the discounts, if you get some of the pricing that other members have gotten $34,500 - $35,000. You really can get a great features by going with the tech. As it is, the base model is a very good value at around $33,000.

I almost consider the tech like HD TV. The technology is more expensive, yes, but once you get it you wonder why everyone isn't buying it.

I ended up getting the base model, because for some reason I had this number in my head of what I wanted to pay and didn't break it. However looking back I could have haggled more and reached the number easily. Especially after viewing this forum.

I already bought a portable GPS unit for around half of the price of the price difference. If you add in the back up camera, the voice commands, the upgraded stereo and the other little details featured in the MID display you should take the tech.

JD

 

Mike, I wanna get the tech, but I wanna get it @ invoice. I will check out the car @ dealership next weekend, if they can't sell me @ invoice price, I can wait till end of the year then, I'm sure I will have more room to negoicate @ the end of next month.

 

The biggest reason I like the voice commands is that the audio system is an ergonomic nightmare. It's way down at the base of the center stack, under the overhanging climate control section, where I have to get my hand around the shifter to get to the controls and take my eye way off the road to find the buttons. And then, of course, when I'm looking down at the radio, the display is way up at the base of the windshield.

But with the steering wheel controls and just a few voice commands, dealing with the audio system is a breeze. I never have to look down at the radio and the upper display is in a great position to be seen without taking my eye off the road.

As far as the nav system goes, using the dial to operate it is not nearly the ponderous process that I thought it would be. And if I need to get to a preprogrammed location, I can call it up by voice command even while I'm driving. Try doing THAT with a touch screen.

 

I had Navi in my TSX but went with base RDX this time. I used the Navi upon occassion, don't have bluetooth phone so didn't feel the extra expense was justified.

The stereo is very nice in the base unit and I can use that extra money to get a new HD flat screen LCD or Plasma display tv for the entrtainment room which I would use and appreciate more.

 

The Navi model should be worth more, but not on a percentage of MSRP basis... meaning, the "premium" for the tech package will depreciate at a faster rate than the car itself. Take a look at blue book or edmunds values of say the MDX of various years, with and without navigation (or the package it came in depending on year). You'll see that the nav doesn't hold a lot of value over time.

Someone mentioned discounts on the tech package, getting the car at $34,500. That's great, but you also have to take into account that you can (I did) get a base for $31,500, keeping the roughly $3,000 premium intact. Someone did mention getting an invoice offer for a tech package, and I'm not sure I've seen invoice for the base yet. So if the premium gets down to $2,000 the calculation could change a bit.

As the starter of the "other thread" and having ended up buying the base car, my advise would be to honestly assess how much you'll use the extra features and then look at the difference in cost/payment and decide if you can justify the difference. It doesn't really matter what each of us can or can't justify/rationalize. Just don't make the decision based on perceived value upon resale.

Cheers,
Phil

 

Now keep in mind the circular logic here. The reason the audio system is an ergonomic nightmare is because of Nav (and the associated voice feature) taking up the center stack. On the base RDX, the audio system is front and center and much easier to operate directly. This was one example I gave earlier where I feel that having Nav can make direct operation of the radio more difficult, just because it displaces the radio controls to a less optimum arrangement.

I have not played with a tech model, so let me ask -- what happens when you have the stereo blasting and want to adjust something -- do you need to press a button for voice, which then mutes the radio in order to hear your command?? That's when I would start to think that a voice activated audio system is kind of clunky.... It would be like having to close your eyes to adjust the TV or something...

 

I guess that is the real crux of the matter. Professionally I make these types of decisions all the time, but it's more difficult on a personal level to evaluate the value I might get out of something I don't have. Money isn't really the issue, except that I don't like paying for something I'm not going to use because it's wasteful and it clutters my life with extra "stuff."

I agree completely on the resale issue. The gadgetry pieces in a car are the parts that are going to obsolesce the fastest anyway. I bet the AWD system will still be a class leader five years from now.

 

Totally agree. Nav in Tech package might be good and voice command is cool, but the bottom line is that do you need it ? and how often do you use it ?
Real live example, last time when I travelled Florida, I went to a Polo Outlet, and saw an excellent leather jacket with down filling, excellent quality at a significiant discount price (80% off). My friend in Florida and I both agree that it is an excellent price for this quality jacket, however, he said even it is excellent deal, he won't buy it, otherwise it would be stored in the closet for 99% of the time. But for me who are from Toronto, Canada, I grabbed it without 2nd thought, good deal and I knew I can use it almost 6 months out of a year.

Like I said before, if you use GPS very often, by all mean, get the tech ! But I don't think people want to buy something simply because it is very nice but yet they have not much use of it. Not even have to mention the factor whether it is worth the money you paid for it.

 

Yes, if we keep the car for 5 yrs or more, I think there will be almost no difference in resale between base and tech.

 

we picked up the base and have no regrets, we are really enjoying our RDX but I may put a portable nav on the Xmas list, great for travelling when we rent a car in new location and also use as GPS for the boat when fishing, tech is a nice toy but not for 4000 Canadian.

 

If you plan to buy one, you can consider this one, bluetooth for GPS and cell phone, voice recognition as well. Only US$250

GPS

 

Do you have any experience with them? As I have mentioned I have a RoadMate760 in my truck, and the system in our TL is a thousand times better, never mind the newest systems. If you are someone who uses navi just get it with the car.

Mike

 

I do use GPS, but as I said, I mostly only use it when I am on rental car out of town. I've installed the TomTom software on my cell phone for about 2 yrs, but so far I have only used it twice in my own car. The rest of time I was using it while I was travelling in US on a rental car which was really useful. I am not sure how many satellite signal the built GPS unit in car get. My Holux 236 get signal from 20 satellites which I believe is the most the GPS can get at this time.

I have never used Roadmate before, so no comment on. Can you tell us more about it as comparing to your built-in GPS in TL ?

 

This is another excellent choice. All in One, Phone, PDA, GPS, camera, WiFi ,etc in one unit. My next purchase when I upgrade my GPS. The greatest thing about getting this all in one is that you can bring it whereever you go and since it is all in one, you are not carrying another pc of equipment other than your cell phone

Note: TomTom is one of the leading GPS mapping manufacturers

GPS on PDA

 

Sure, I have a roadmate 760 hardwired into my truck complete with mounting bracket, external antenna, and switched power source:

My grandfather just has one freestanding and had to get an external antenna as he was having trouble getting signals. His front windshield is also constantly dirty.

The Roadmate is hailed as one of the best portable systems out there. Why I would have preferred a built in system:
1. I still have to unclip it from the mounting bracket every time I finish using it to prevent theft
2. The screen is small
3. It doesn't cut off the audio so I can here it, so I must have the radio very low
4. No voice activation
5. Even with the external antenna it can take a little while to acquire satellites
6. I find Acura's systems to be much easier to use

Mike

 

Antenna for signal, I am not sure. I am currently Holux 236 with my cell phone. Tiny little GPS unit like a match size (currently selling at US$50 on ebay,it sends the GPS signal through bluetooth to my cell. Work flawlessly.

Yes, agree, mounting the GPS unit every time could be inconvenient. That's why I personally prefer the GPS on phone or PDA as we have to carry them everywhere anyway. And just place them on the cell phone holder when we get into the car.

Yes, voice activation is one big plus. So far, only Parrot system from aftermarket is able to do so.

 

I picked up my carbon gray base RDX today, and I'm happy with the decision. I think the base RDX represents a fantastic value and I just don't feel like spending more for a car right now. So far it's everything I want it to be. I don't want it to be a tech-gadget nirvana; I want it to be a very capable, comfortable all-weather daily driver that's a reasonable approximation of my Boxster. So far, so good .

 

I'm completely satisfied w/ my non-tech purchase. THe only thing I would have liked on the tech was the back-up camera, and even then it seems it isn't always usefull depending on the weather, time of day for light, etc. The base sound system is superb, so I had no need for the tech system. The big part of the tech package (nav) is completely useless for me, I would RARELY if ever use it, and even then, I would personally view it as a hassle. I tested the tech RDX, and I wasn't impressed w/ the nav or the voice commands, the dealer guy couldn't even get it to work right while showing it to me (it picked up other words, etc.)
So, I'm more than happy w/ my non-tech RDX!!

 

well i got the Base One,Cuz Here in montreal They have a store named "Canadian Tire" and they sell some accesories for the car..soo i bought a sort of license plate frame with a camera installed and its wireless with the monitor on the dash board..only 99$ CAD...than for the navigation..i got navi on my cellphone..
<--i got the Navi in this..so i almost got the same thing than the Tech has except the ELS surround sound system...=(

 

One advantage that OEM nav units have over addons is that they can use the car's motion as a backup for when the GPS signal fails. My brother-in-law had a brand new TomTom unit this summer that he brought out here and used in his rental car. When it had a GPS signal it worked pretty well, but when it lost the signal, suddenly we were driving along in the ocean or the bay or through buildings.

The car units (typically, but can't say "all" or that the Acura does this) can extrapolate their location for a while from sensors which detect the speed and turning direction of the car until they regain the signal.