does it only update maps or does it make the software better possibly with new features?

 

There can be software updates. I cant remember if or what they were. But dont get your hopes up, they are basically map upgrades. From the '05 maps that came on the 2007 model, I know the newer ones have HOV guidence for carpool lanes.

 

What a rip off... I am still on original update, but I wouldn't want to pay $200 to update maps on a navigation system that's already 5 years old. I would just use a smartphone for navigation purposes if needed

 

I don't think it is much further off than other car manufacturers factory nav updates charges. At least they know the update was poor so they only release it every 2 years or so

I only use my smart phone to find the address first then enter into the nav system it works much better that way even with the Garmin or something searching POI can be too slow.