Suzuki and Garmin have teamed up to launch the automaker's first fully integrated, factory-installed navigation and infotainment system.

Over the last two years, we've had abundant criticism for Ford's MyFord Touch (and the similar MyLincoln Touch) dashboard control design. But Ford deserves credit and compliments for this system's recent comprehensive update.

The latest new feature from OnStar is aimed at drivers who have ever found themselves asking the question: It's 10 o'clock. Do I know where my car is?

Taking a design cue from audio systems of more than a half-century ago, Ford is adding radio volume and tuning knobs to the version of MyFord Touch being introduced on its high-end Super Duty pickup trucks for 2013.

Ford announced today that an upgraded version of its MyFord Touch infotainment system will both appear in freshened 2013 models and will be available as an upgrade for current owners. It aims to improve both interface and reliability issues—areas we have noted as critical weaknesses.

Sony displayed two aftermarket A/V car receivers at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) that not only control your smartphone, but they can become your smartphone. The new XAV-601BT and XAV-701HD stereos feature large touch screens that can look and function just like your phone, allowing some or all of the functionality on a larger screen that is easier to access.

Ford, Honda and Subaru all announced partnerships with Internet radio providers this week at CES, promising digital and custom user-created radio stations and other web content into their vehicles by leveraging the user’s smart phone and a free downloadable app.

Ford and National Public Radio have partnered to make voice-controlled NPR News content available to SYNC users on demand.

OnStar held a CES press conference to make a number of announcements, and to give a preview of some additional features and services the telematics provider might offer in the future.

The latest version Ford’s free SYNC Destinations app for cell phones will let SYNC Services subscribers send directions remotely to their vehicle from their smart phone using SYNC AppLink. Previously, users could only send directions to their car from a desktop computer or laptop.

At the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Magellan will unveil a new, “entry-level” GPS navigator targeting RV drivers. The RoadMate RV9145 is loaded with features tailored to the unique needs for these large rigs, from multi-destination routing to RV park guides.

It’s clear that the designers of Cadillac’s new CUE infotainment system paid a lot of attention to the negative feedback surrounding the much-maligned MyFord Touch. After getting a run-through of CUE in Los Angeles, my initial impressions are that the system is more intuitive and user friendly, although questions remain about the potential for driver distraction.

GMC has launched a new navigation system featuring a large, seven-inch screen, a lower price that is less than half that of some automaker systems, and app-like icon controls hinting at future additional functionality.

Ford’s high-tech touch-screen dashboard interface, MyFord Touch, has proven to be a lighting rod for criticism. To address this, Ford today announced interface and performance upgrades for the system. These changes launch with the redesigned 2013 Ford Escape and updated 2013 Flex and Taurus. They will also be available as a free upgrade for current owners of MyFord (and MyLincoln) Touch-equipped vehicles.

Ford and Toyota today announced a partnership to develop a new hybrid system for light-duty trucks and SUVs. In addition, they will cooperate to establish standards and collaborate on technologies for future telematics systems.