Does Acura have a navigation system?

Yes — built-in navigation is available on select Acura trims and model years, but today most Acura models rely on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for navigation.

Across the lineup, navigation options vary by year and trim. This article explains what you can expect in current models, how to check if your vehicle has nav, and alternatives if built-in navigation isn’t present.

Current navigation options in the Acura lineup

The following overview describes how navigation is typically provided across models and years.

• Integrated navigation on select trims and older model years: Some Acura models historically offered a built-in navigation system with dedicated map data, but availability depended on year and trim.


• Smartphone-based navigation via CarPlay/Android Auto: In most recent models, navigation is commonly provided through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the touchscreen, using the phone’s maps and live data.


• AcuraLink navigation features: Certain vehicles may include AcuraLink services that offer navigation-related functionality, sometimes requiring a subscription or specific packages in certain markets.


• Map updates and maintenance: When built-in navigation is offered, map updates vary by model-year and region, and may require dealer visits or online updates; smartphone-based maps update automatically through the respective apps.

Because navigation options vary by model-year and trim, it’s important to verify the exact feature set for a given vehicle with a dealer or the official Acura site.

Models and trends in navigation options

TLX

In recent years, the TLX has focused on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as the primary navigation method. Built-in navigation, if offered, is typically limited to specific trims or older model years and is not universally standard across the lineup.

MDX

Similarly, the MDX emphasizes smartphone navigation through CarPlay/Android Auto on newer models. Some older MDX trims or special packages may have included a built-in navigation system, but current models generally rely on external map apps for nav.

RDX

The RDX follows the same pattern: robust CarPlay/Android Auto navigation support, with built-in navigation being optional on certain years or trims in the past and not universally carried forward in newer configurations.

How to determine if your Acura has navigation

To confirm whether a specific vehicle has built-in navigation, consider these steps.

• Inspect the infotainment screen: Look for a dedicated “Navigation” icon or a Navigation menu item on the home screen or within the setup menus.


• Check the window sticker or build sheet: Look for mentions of “Navigation System,” “AcuraLink Navigation,” or a map/navigation package.


• Consult the owner’s manual: Find the section on the navigation system or infotainment features for model-year specifics.


• Ask a dealer or check Acura’s official site: Confirm with a dealership or model-year page whether built-in navigation is included for that vehicle.

If built-in navigation isn’t present, you can still navigate effectively using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which mirror your phone’s maps and live data on the vehicle’s display.

Summary

In today’s Acura lineup, navigation is most commonly delivered through smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Built-in navigation exists, but it is not universal and tends to be restricted to specific trims, older model years, or regional packages. Prospective buyers and current owners should verify the nav capabilities for their exact model-year and trim with a dealer or by consulting Acura’s official resources. For many users, CarPlay/Android Auto provides a practical and up-to-date navigation experience without the need for a dedicated built-in system.

Is there a monthly fee for navigation systems in cars?

No, basic GPS navigation doesn't have a monthly fee because it relies on free satellite signals, but some modern vehicles require a paid subscription for advanced features like real-time traffic and dynamic updates. You can avoid these subscriptions by using your smartphone's navigation apps through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, though the car's infotainment system might still have its own associated data costs if it requires a connection. 
Basic vs. advanced navigation

• Free basic navigation: The underlying GPS system is free to use because it is maintained by the U.S. government. 
• Paid advanced features: Many newer cars have "dynamic" or "connected" services that provide real-time traffic, updated maps, and other alerts. These features may be included for a trial period, but after that, you will need a subscription to continue using them. 

How to avoid subscription fees

• Use your smartphone: The easiest way to avoid in-car navigation fees is to use free apps like Google Maps or Waze on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car's screen using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to display the app on the infotainment system. 
• Check the car's connectivity: If your car has a built-in infotainment system with a data plan, you might still need a subscription for the services that use the connection, even if your navigation app is running on your phone. 
• Buy a portable GPS device: You can buy a standalone GPS device, such as a Garmin or Magellan, which has its own purchase price but does not require a subscription for its basic navigation features. 

Things to consider before buying a car

• Subscription costs: Be sure to ask the dealer about any subscription fees and the length of any free trials for built-in navigation. 
• Car's features: Many modern cars no longer offer built-in navigation as a standalone feature and instead require you to use your phone through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. 

What navigation system does Acura use?

GPS
Basic Acura Navigation Operation
The Acura navigation system uses GPS and a map database to plot your current location and guide you to your desired destination.

Do you have to pay for AcuraLink?

Yes, you have to pay for AcuraLink after the initial complimentary trial period ends. Some features, like real-time traffic on certain models, also require a paid subscription after a free trial period, while other basic functions like smartphone integration may remain free. 
Subscription details

• Complimentary trials: Most new vehicles include a free trial period for some AcuraLink services, which can be anywhere from 90 days to three years depending on the model and features. 
• Paid services: After the trial ends, you will need to pay a monthly or annual fee for the features you want to continue using. 
• Package options: AcuraLink offers different packages (Basic, Security, Remote, and Concierge) with varying costs, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. 
• Vehicle compatibility: Some older models are having their subscription services deactivated, so it's important to check if your specific vehicle is still supported. 
• Real-time traffic: Services like Real-Time Traffic will require a paid subscription after the initial free period on certain models. 

Does Acura have built-in GPS?

It can be integrated with the AcuraLink infotainment system as part of the Technology Package on certain Acura models, and the system also works to track the weather and adjust the vehicle's climate control via GPS.