[Teledatageek]

As a Ridgeline lurker that is currently driving an Acura RDX tech I have the same questions....

I like the Honda OEM Navigation (have a 2003 MDX with it as well). However.... $2K seems like a lot these days. I have complete voice control with my RDX and do I use it, no way (cool, yes - practical - no). The only thing I use voice for is the bluetooth for the cell which of course is not part of the RL offerings.

So.... I went to my friendly auto/stereo store to see what they had. They recommended an Eclipse 6620 which is a dual DIN unit that offers GPS (via DVD); Bluetooth (via Parrot add on); Backup camera, as well as DVD video playback. All installed with OEM steering wheel controls for @$1,800.00. I don't think their XM integration is as good as the Honda OEM as they seem alligned more with Sirius (I could switch I guess.). They quoted me optional in-headrest monitors for another $1K but I think I've decided I would rather interact with my kids in the car as opposed to more video. BTW - They said Pioneer, while good was simply not reliable and they felt that Alpines offerings were too pricey - but they do carry both if you want them.

I think I would simply go with a Garmin or the like and get MP3 + bluetooth but I really want a backup camera (lots of little kids around). And I do like the built in look and as I already us a Proclip to get my cell phone front and center, it would add to the clutter.

So this is definitely a dilemma for me as well unless the dealer heavily discounts the NAV + Backup camera option, it just doesn't seem worth it as I still have to add Bluetooth (granted that is likely just a couple of hundred bucks).

Any thoughts/commetns would be appreciated!