Straightline

In a brilliant marketing move, Suzuki is making in-dash navigation standard on the 2009 SX4.

That's right, a factory built-in navigation unit will be standard in a sub-$16,000 car! All models are included—from the the cheapest FWD to the most expensive AWD. Cars will begin arriving this summer at dealers.

Included is a "lowest price" gas station finder and real-time traffic capability. The 4.3" touch-screen flip-up unit, called "T.R.I.P." (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play), is supplied by Garmin and is pre-loaded with a number of points of interest. Suzuki is also launching a social networking-type website where owners can upload and share their favorite routes. In addition, there is Bluetooth availability.

This is a real marketing breakthrough that I hope other carmakers will also adopt. So, kudos to Suzuki for getting this ball rolling!

Full story here and here.

Here's Inside Line's take: 2009 Suzuki SX4 Gets Standard GPS

Update: Here is more info on the specifics. Apparently there will be an optional upgrade that will give you more of the cool features, such as next-generation dynamic content from the MSN Direct network, including up-to-date traffic information, fuel prices, and weather reports. The system also offers news and stock market information, local events, movie listings, and the ability to plan trips and look up destinations on a computer and then wirelessly send them to the device. Owners can pair most Bluetooth-enabled phones with the device, for hands-free calling.