An alternative to the RNS 510 - Polaris

[Thaiger14]

Having read all the issues with the battery drain issues and canbus upgrades for pre MY08 models with the RNS510, I thought I would look into alternatives and came across this:

Polaris GPS

They are offering a Sat Nav unit with built in maps, DVD, SD Cart slot, virtual CD drives, rear vision camera, USB slot and steering wheel funtionality for $1195. You will than need a canbus module to ensure the steering wheel controls work at an extra $300. On top of this is the cost of the fascia to match the Jetta at $80. All up costing $1575.

What are your thoughts on this? If you were to compare with RNS 510 and premium bluetooth kit and new canbus it would probably hit the 2k mark. Just fishing atm

[Jaap74]

I wouldn't bother with an unknown brand to save less than 25% off getting the proper VW unit......

[ralp2dam]

I wouldn't bother with an unknown brand to save less than 25% off getting the proper VW unit......

I agree. At least the VW gear will definitely be compatible.

[Transporter]

Hmm, you might as well go for Garmin and keep the standard radio.

[wandersen]

Polaris are prob ably the best of the aftermarket models - but you really only buying a cheap chinese unit with some local support. I would stay clear. Battery drain is not an issue if you are running the correct version of the softwate and/or change the canbus.

[Maverick]

What are your thoughts on this? If you were to compare with RNS 510 and premium bluetooth kit and new canbus it would probably hit the 2k mark. Just fishing atm

It's the waywell fiasco all over again. The unit won't operate as they claim and you'll have all sorts of problems because they don't know what they're doing when it comes to integration.

They're buying cheap units from China and rebadging them and selling them as a premium product. You can buy the RNS 510 cheaper and it's far superior in every way.

A RNS 510, bluetooth and CAN bus gateway should cost you less then $2000, maybe even down around $1500 if you buy right.