Since publishing my comparison in October 2024, a lot has changed… including my own choice.
After hesitating for a long time and remaining loyal to my Navigator VI (which, I repeat, never let me down), I took the plunge almost a year ago. Since then, I've exclusively used the BMW ConnectedRide Navigator, and I can now state unequivocally that it clearly surpasses the Navigator VI for my needs.
The BMW Navigator VI (my former faithful companion):
The BMW ConnectedRide Navigator (the new one):
What tipped the scales
1. Ease of route management
This was already my main draw in 2024. In practice, it's even more convenient than I imagined. Creating a route on the Calimoto app, which is perfect for this, respecting the chosen waypoints (or on a computer), syncing it in seconds via smartphone, and finding it immediately on the CRN: no more cables, BaseCamp, or manually transferring GPX files. For someone who frequently plans road trips or changes their routes at the last minute, it's a huge time and peace of mind saver.
2. Real-time navigation that's truly useful
The Navigator VI was still very good in standalone mode, but as soon as traffic, roadworks, or weather conditions were involved, you were dependent on a manual connection to your phone. With the CRN, information arrives smoothly and continuously. Recalculations are faster and more accurate. On long highway journeys or in densely populated areas, the difference is clear.
3. Integration into the BMW ecosystem
Music control, calls, notifications, ride sharing, trip analysis… everything happens within the same environment. The interface is more modern, more readable, and the high-definition TFT screen remains very pleasant even in bright sunlight. The Multi-Controller works perfectly, and the voice commands are more natural.
4. The ability to follow both a track and a route simultaneously
This feature makes routes even more precise and very useful when making detours, allowing you to get back on the planned route without wasting time.
The ConnectedRide Navigator mounted on a motorcycle:
4. Upgradability
BMW continues to develop the ConnectedRide ecosystem. Updates are delivered via the app, without requiring a computer. The Navigator VI, as robust as it is, remains stuck in its generation. The CRN, on the other hand, continues to improve.
Where the Navigator VI Remains Superior
To be honest, the Navigator VI still has two strong arguments.
• It is completely independent. If you ride in areas without network coverage or simply don't want to rely on your phone, it remains unbeatable.
• Its robustness, purely as a dedicated motorcycle GPS, and its longevity without software dependencies are reassuring.
But for my current use (regular commutes, planned road trips, daily use of the BMW ecosystem), these advantages no longer compensate for the shortcomings compared to the CRN.
My personal verdict after almost a year
The BMW ConnectedRide Navigator has clearly taken the lead. It's more modern, smoother, more practical for everyday use, and fits perfectly into BMW's technological evolution. The Navigator VI remains an excellent GPS, reliable and durable, but it now belongs to a previous generation.
If you're still looking for a standalone and indestructible GPS, the Navigator VI (especially used) remains a solid choice.
If you're comfortable with a smartphone and want to fully enjoy the BMW connected ecosystem, the ConnectedRide Navigator is, in my opinion, the best choice today… by far.
And it can also operate completely independently, without needing your smartphone when following a route.
After almost a year of intensive use, I wouldn't go back.
Ride Safe
✌️
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