GPS devices have continued to evolve over the years adding more functionality with every iteration. The latest high-end models for cars already have maps, MP3 players, voice prompts, and large screens.
A new addition to the market is the Garmin Nuvi 660, and it has a comprehensive list of features and functionality. It was also designed with for ease of use, with an easy to understand menu system, a 4.3-inch widescreen display, on-screen zoom controls for the maps and built-in voice synthesis which reads out road names. The controls are within easy reach, which should be a prime consideration for any safety-conscious driver.
It has a 2GB memory onboard and comes preloaded with maps of Western Europe. There’s also an expansion slot where you can plug in additional memory if you so need it, as well as Bluetooth connectivity built-in to connect to your mobile phone, making it a handy hands-free device.
On top of these standard features, it has a comprehensive list of extras it calls a “travel kit”: an MP3 player, audio book reader, a photo viewer, a unit converter and world times. Other extras, such as viewable travel guides and language guides, can be downloaded from the Garmin website for an additional fee.
The Garmin Nuvi 660 might be a bit daunting to a new user. Though it’s unlikely that new users would go for the expensive high-end model either. If you want something cheap and bare bones, this is not it.
In summary, this is a feature-rich entry to the GPS car navigator market and it stretches the functionality of a GPS device beyond the norm. It is easy to use, and looks like a bundle of fun as well. Though it does look too technical, what with all the features and extras, it is well worth the price tag.
