Don't Pay Extra For This Subaru Feature

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There is one Subaru feature you should never pay extra for. Check out the navigation upgrade you don't need and the best option for new Subaru owners that's free.

Here is good advice for new Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, and other new model owners. I cover Subaru advice stories often, and this is one of the best. Some of this report comes from Alex Prestigiacomo, a Subaru insider from Bachman Subaru. Check out his YouTube video below for additional information on this subject.

Today, I will cover the Tom Tom navigation system that Subaru of America offers customers of some new models. Subaru allows you to upgrade to Tom Tom navigation on certain trim levels. However, as Alex explains, there is a better option for Subaru navigation that has more capabilities and doesn't cost you anything as long as you have a smartphone. Who doesn't, right?

The good news is that newer Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, and other new models now have standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that allow you to mirror your navigation from your phone. You can now put it directly on your Subaru touchscreen display. Depending on the year and model of your Subaru, you can connect through a data cable or wirelessly. 

Here is how to connect your phone's navigation to your Subaru model

With your phone connected to your Subaru vehicle, go into Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and connect your phone directly to your car. You can use your phone's navigation system directly on your touchscreen. After you've connected, you can store your phone away. 

Use other apps on your phone. 

And you can use other apps, not just Google Maps. If you have other navigation apps downloaded, you can access any of those apps on your Subaru's touchscreen. 

No Subaru software updates are needed.

This also eliminates the need to update and new software updates from Subaru, which can be a pain. When you update your phone, it will automatically be updated on your vehicle's screen the next time you use the navigation. 

If you have a 2020 Subaru model, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are now standard across the entire lineup. For 2024, wireless connectivity exists on all models except Forester, which is coming in 2025.

What if you are traveling to a remote area?

It's important to note that if you travel to a remote area where you lose cell service, you will lose your phone's navigation system. But there is a way to stay connected. Before you start your route and leave your WiFi connection or cellular data source, set your navigation and begin your journey. Your path will remain connected if you do this before losing service. 

With a smartphone, you'll never have to pay extra for the Tom Tom navigation system on your Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, or another new model. 

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru navigation advice story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

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Watch Don't pay extra for this Subaru Feature - Navigation Tip YouTube video

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: Subaru USA, Tom Tom

Submitted by jp (not verified) on January 23, 2024 - 10:10PM

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Except, if you knew anything about Subaru, trims and options, you would know that the Tom Tom isn't available as a stand alone option to be added.

Thus, you are sadly misinforming your readers because often the Tom Tom comes packaged with moon roof and/or blindspot detection.

So, most people are not paying for the Tom Tom upgrade, but pay for the package so they have the other import features they care about.

You are basically writing an entire article informing people that for a good number of years, android auto and apple carplay have been standard in all Subaru models!

How about a more positive article to let them know that eyesight and AWD are standard on ever model except manual (that will be changing soon)!

I don't know any other manufacturers who offer that :)