NaviGadget

pioneer AVIC-D2

Nov 17, 2006 gps navigation

AVIC-D2 is the entry level in-dash navigation / entertainment system from Pioneer. It has a 6.5-inch LCD, separate CD and DVD Navigation drives, and optional XM NavTraffic system. Unlike most other portable systems, the AVIC-D2 uses a DVD based navigation, meaning the map data, POIs, and everything else is loaded onto the DVD and you’ll need this DVD spinning if you want directions. Pioneer AVIC-D2 uses TeleAtlas maps which takes up 15 GB of space on two DVDs and it covers the entire US and Canada.

You can access the navigation data by entering a destination by address, business phone number, or by entering the name of the destination. Once you select a destination, the AVIC-D2 provides turn-by-turn directions, estimated drive time, and voice prompts with close-ups of turns and interchanges.

You may be wondering what’s taking 15GB of space on two DVDs? The answer is the AVIC-D2’s navigation database contains detailed maps of many metropolitan areas (that’s different than just zooming out), millions of POIs that can be overlaid onto the map you are viewing and unlike most other systems it provides detailed lane information for many major cities. So when you approach a highway merge, interchange, or exit, the map will show the correct number of lanes and show you which lane you should be in.

The AVIC-D2 is quite impressive in the audio-video department as well. In addition to replacing your factory stereo it comes with advanced audio features such as Supertuner IIID, EEQ, and MOSFET50 amplification. Of course you also get AM/FM radio, and can play regular audio and MP3 CDs. Pioneer also supports XM Satellite Radio, through which you can also get Live Traffic Updates.

Vehicle Dynamics

AVIC-D2 is equipped with various sensors that can track your vehicle’s performance while you’re driving. The digital gauges display speed, acceleration G’s, lateral G’s, slope, angular velocity, battery voltage, and direction – all in real time and the Vehicle Dynamics Display has a peak hold function to quickly see the maximum values recorded. The full-color gauges are available in several different finishes and can be displayed in either day or night time modes.

You also rear-view camera support:

The optional rear-view camera mounts to the rear of your car or SUV and is automatically activated each time you shift your vehicle into reverse. The rear-view camera gives you a clearer picture of what’s behind you.

If you have something in tow, you can use the rear-view map mode to activate the rear-view camera and the navigation map simultaneously. This lets you simultaneously keep an eye on what’s in tow and your route.

The AVIC-D2’s manufacturer suggested retail price is $1500 but Amazon sells it for half of that probably because the AVIC-D3 is already announced and expected to be released in March of 2007.