Why a Sat‑Nav That Points North Is a Problem for Drivers
Bottom line: A north‑up map can actually make everyday driving harder, especially when traffic, roadworks, or confusing junctions appear.
Why a Sat‑Nav That Points North Is a Problem for Drivers
Image: Why a Sat‑Nav That Points North Is a Problem for Drivers – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Most modern car screens let you choose between “north‑up” and “direction‑of‑travel” modes. The north‑up view keeps the map static, like a traditional paper chart. It looks tidy, but it forces you to constantly spin the map in your head as you turn the wheel.
In contrast, the direction‑of‑travel (or “heading‑up”) view rotates the map so the road ahead is always at the top. This mirrors what you see out of the windscreen and reduces the mental gymnastics needed to match the route line with the road.
Performance & Mileage
When the map stays north‑up, you may miss early warnings about traffic jams or road closures because you’re focused on aligning the route with the screen, not the road ahead. Drivers end up taking last‑minute lane changes, which can waste fuel and increase wear on the car.
Direction‑of‑travel mode, on the other hand, gives you a clearer picture of upcoming bends, roundabouts, and exits. That simple visual cue helps you stay in the right lane earlier, saving a few percent of mileage over a long trip.
Price & Rivals
Many manufacturers have dropped the north‑up option in favor of flashy bird‑eye or “out‑run” views. The idea is to sell more premium infotainment packages, but the trade‑off is a less practical navigation experience.
Aftermarket devices like TomTom or smartphone apps (Google Maps, Apple Maps) still let you switch to north‑up if you prefer. They are often cheaper and receive more frequent updates than built‑in systems, making them a better value for drivers who want flexibility.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A | N/A | North‑up map, Direction‑of‑travel mode, Bird’s‑eye view |
FAQ
- What is the difference between north‑up and direction‑of‑travel modes? North‑up keeps the map fixed to true north; direction‑of‑travel rotates the map so the road ahead is always at the top.
- Does using north‑up navigation affect fuel efficiency? Indirectly, yes. It can cause later lane changes and extra braking, which use more fuel.
- Are aftermarket sat‑navs better than factory systems? Often they are, because they update more often and usually keep the north‑up option while offering a clean interface.
If you’ve noticed your car’s sat‑nav making you work harder than necessary, try switching the view mode or testing a smartphone app on your next drive.
What do you think? Share your experience in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
