Yeah, I’ve been nervous that Garmin would screw up all the good momentum that Navigon had built up over the last three years on iOS. I hope they don’t go down that road.

If Navigon does go off the deep end, you should also check out the Magellan app. They did a really nice job with their last upgrade. The traffic is “flow based,” rather than event driven like Navigon. Also, the search interface has a better, and easier to use design. Navigon really needs to simplify things, and do away with all of the sub-menus. It is reasonably priced, and performs very well. It has been my second favorite nav app for a while now.

Second, the allure to Navigon, besides it’s nice GPS look, was that you initially paid more for the app, then got ALL updates for free, including maps. Well, Garmin, being the crooks that they are and never missing an opportunity to gouge it’s customers over and over again, has decided that lifetime maps updates are being taken off the Navigon table. Thanks for stabbing us in the back, Navigon. I paid $99 when Navigon first went on sale with my iPhone 3G, then another $20 for traffic. How much more do I need to pay? And besides, the add on in app purchase for traffic is pathetic since the traffic module rarely works, and if it does it is impossible to view the traffic hotspots from the main GPS screen. Having to touch the screen while driving is just plain dangerous.

I just got an email from Garmin stating that my PND unit is due for a map update…at $80 for a lifetime, if I want it. What do you bet that Garmin will want to stick it to Navigon users for another $50-80 for “lifetime” updates? It’s always more revenue stream for Garmin.

Personally, if the lifetime map updates are anything more than $20, I’m switching to MotionX Drive. Their app is cheap, their annual voice guidance is on sale right now for $9.99 a year, and I can decipher the traffic situation easily and cleanly on their maps.

Plus, you are now able to predownload the maps and route you need, so if you are out of data range, you aren’t messed up without GPS.

Looks like MotionX Drive is getting it right, while Navigon/Garmin is only thinking about their wallets and how to pad them.

MotionX is really good for what it is, but it’s like comparing a Lexus to a Chevy Impala. They will both get you where you are going. One costs a lot more than the other up front, but offers a vast advantage in features.

MotionX is a great value if you only need a GPS occasionally. However, if you are buying yearly subscriptions for MotionX, then Navigon is a better way to go. Over time, you will pay around the same amount, but get a lot more features and flexibility. Navigon has several sales each year, so just keep an eye out when the new update comes, and grab MobileNavigator at a great price.