Portable navigation systems are one of the hottest selling gadgets in the US. People now buy more aftermarket units than they do in-car systems. As we suspected, there are plenty of new nav systems on display here at CES. This works out well for the consumer as each brand is trying to stand out by offering something unique...
The Garmin Nuvi 780 is an upgraded from the 680 it replaces and features expanded MSN services. Traffic, weather and movie listing were always availble but now they've added a news feature that displays text versions of current news stories. A listing of local events and stock market information is now part of the MSN Direct package as well. You can also plan trips and find destinations on your PC, then wirelessly send the info to your Nuvi via Windows Live.
This one's pink!
Becker already builds the factory installed nav systems for brands like Audi, VW and Porsche and they sell aftermarket units in Europe. Now they're bringing them to the US. This top of the line 7827 model includes all the expected features like Bluetooth and a music player. When they go on sale in the spring, all Becker nav systems will include a lifetime subscription to live traffic info. They're reasonably priced too - this one will retail for $599 with smaller versions selling for $399 - Brian Moody, Road Test Editor.
ateixeira says:
01:09 PM, 01/ 7/08
That Garmin looks awesome. I want one!
Becker - I'm curious because I didn't find Audi's MMI to be user friendly. I'm sure the interface is quite different.