Did you expect upgrades to significantly benefit you without the tech package, specifically without navigation? It seemed clear when I bought my car in 2013 that the greater processing power and navigation in the tech package would be a prerequisite for some potential upgrades.
At the time I ordered, I was under the impression that all the MCUs were identical, and navigation was purely software, so I
assumed it would become available as an upgrade for a reasonable price (i.e. $500-1000) down the road. We all know what happens when you
assume, of course, so that's nobody's fault but my own.
Fortunately that won't be an issue for buyers anymore now that most of what was the tech package is now standard. I never understood having a "tech package" optional on what was the techiest car.
Agreed. I felt like the "Tech Package" was just a way to keep the published base price down, but still get those features into most cars by making the package enticing enough to convince the vast majority of buyers. And it seems that since most of those features have become standard over time (except foglights, convenience lighting, and the power liftgate, which are all now part of the more modestly priced* "Premium Interior" option), so I feel a bit justified in that.
Back then I did an analysis of what I would be willing to pay for each option individually, and it came up to just under half of the $3750 price tag, so I opted against it. Had I known then that trip planning functionality (beyond what my phone is capable of) was going to come along, I might not have made the same decision, but such is life when dealing with technology. Sometimes it improves faster than you expect. My next Tesla will have Navigation (mostly because it's now standard), but it may still be a while before I'm enticed to upgrade.
*Mortician: "It is our most modestly priced receptacle."
Walter: "Is there a Ralph's around here?"
