I own a 2004 TSX Navi same as Euro Accord and US model so I maybe able
to help as they both use the same Navi system.
Just like everything else, there is a lot to like about the Navi and
some things that are not so perfect.
Entering destinations is fairly straightforward but can be cumbersome
depending on the method.
For example, if you are entering a destination from the Navi database
such as a restaurant, bank, ATM, etc., you can perform this by voice
commands alone.
On the other hand, entering someone's address requires manual keyboard
strokes. So it's not completely hands free.
There are some times when the system will baffle you by not responding
incorrectly to your commands but these are ususally due to limitations
in the technology which means you are in the wrong menu screen .
For instance, the Navi supplies a few extra features such as a trip
computer that provides engine run time, miles since last refuel and
average fuel mileage. BTW, so far the fuel mileage readout has never
been accurate as it's alway overly optimestic by about 2-3 mpg compared
with a calculator.
Anyway, if you are viewing this screen and try to use a voice command,
it will respond incorrectly. You need to back out of this menu and
return to the main page or map page for it to work.
To be fair, these are nitpicks as the system works very reliably and
saved my butt numerous times, especially when getting lost on
Claifornia freeways or trying to find a location you've never been to
before.
But you need to weigh all aspects before you put down your money.
Another small shortcoming involves deviating from a plotted route.
Let's say you're going on vacation or a long trip and want to stop at a
restaurant along the way.
Currently, you can't choose the menu mode to find a restaurant without
cancelling the current route first. So you need to cancel your current
route, go back to menu, find a restaurant, plot it and after you get
there, retrieve your previous route or replot it again.
I understand the new Odyssey and Acura RL allow you to add additional
routes to existing ones?
All this brings up a fundamental problem with the technology, it's
still evolving. You could argue, maybe I'll wait for it to get better
or cheaper? Trouble is, it always will be changing and improving so at
some point if you decide you must have it, just say what the hell and
go for it.
True, it's more fun to "talk to your car" and tell it change the
temperature, radio station or ask it how long it take to get somewhere.
But the price is steep, about $2K.
Something else to consider, if you plan to keep the car a while, you
will want to update the DVD software at some point. It contains the
maps, restaurants, ATM, gas stations, etc. The updates occur about
every year or two and currently sell for $185 + shipping
https://iweb.alpine-usa.com/Hondadvdsales/naviorder.php
This leads to your last question, is it worth it? Tough to say, as
it's a subjective question and only you can decide if it is. Many
might argue you can buy a lot of maps or even a portable GPS unit with
plenty of change left over for $2K.
In my opinion, you can't wait for the "perfect time to buy a car that
will be perfect." Never gonna happen, it's always emotion based. Try
to find a dealer or someone that will let you play with one for a
couple of hours and decide if you can't live without it. That's what I
did.
Sorry for the rant and hope I didn't paint too bleak a picture but it's
always good to know the downside of stuff as most advertising is the
opposite.
Good Luck