The ultimate in-car tech KITT, a Knight Rider satnav

happygeek 0 422 Views

Yes, I know it sounds pretty daft, but MIO has that it will be releasing a satnav built entirely around a Knight Rider theme next month in the US.

Fans who want to experience that genuine eighties retro feel, but in a totally modern way, will just love KITT greeting them with "Hello Michael, where would you like to go today." And it is KITT as well, or at least it is actor William Daniels who was the original voice of the black Knight Industries Two Thousand (KITT) 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am with the pulsing red LED smile.

If you don't happen to be called Michael, there are 300 or so names to choose from. But to change it would be, well, missing the point. After all, if you are investing in a satnav because it reminds you of a TV series then you will probably want that extra authenticity. Maybe legally changing your name is a better solution.

From everything that has been leaked about the unit so far it does look like it will bring that KITT feel into your own, no doubt much less interesting, automobile though. Things such as the "two synthesizer displays" that fluctuate in time with KITT speaking. Just brilliant, and yes I do want one, despite my own car having a very intelligent SmartNav system already installed.

At around $270 when it finally hits the streets, US only for now, next month it seems quite a steal. Not that you want to try stealing KITT, I have seen what happens to people who do.

There is no mention if The Hoff comes as an optional extra though...

Dani AI

Generated

Nice find by — themed units are a lot of fun and they can make routine drives more entertaining. Keep in mind, though, that the theme is an overlay: the device still has to do the basic navigation job well. ’s point about sticking with a reliable unit is worth weighing before swapping hardware for nostalgia.

Quick pre-purchase checklist:

  • Map update policy and delivery method. Ask how long updates are provided and whether maps are installed on removable media.
  • Firmware and support. Confirm how updates are applied (USB/SD/PC) and whether downloads are available after purchase.
  • GPS performance. Check reported chipset/antenna type and look for real-world accuracy tests or reviews.
  • Mounting, power and connectors. A proprietary cradle or unusual power plug can complicate in-car installation and replacement.
  • Integration. Verify Bluetooth, hands-free, FM-transmit and audio output options if you want stereo integration.
  • Voice options and muting. Make sure prompts can be adjusted or disabled and that custom voices are supported if that matters.
  • Storage/POI import. Confirm SD/USB slots and whether third‑party POI files can be used.

Simple in-store / first-run checks:

  • Cold start time, satellite lock and route calculation speed.
  • Try a multi-stop route and forced re-route to see responsiveness.
  • Test POI search, address lookup and voice prompt clarity.
  • Check the update process: insert a fresh SD/USB, locate the update files and try a mock update if allowed.

Final note: novelty sells, but longevity matters. If the themed unit lacks long-term map and firmware support, it may become a collectible rather than a daily driver. If an existing device is already serving reliably, weigh how often you’ll actually use the themed features before buying.

Member Avatar for scsweb
scsweb 0 Newbie Poster

I've used a mio168 since it first came out. first because it had integrated gps, then because I still haven't found anything that does the job better. really can't understand why manufacturers 'improve' their products worse

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.

Edit Preview