I recently rented a car with a GPS unit built into it, and fell in love with the way it worked. I am now looking for something that works in a similar way with a fairly large screen, and lowers the volume of the radio to give voice commands.

It would be nice if i could upload topo maps to it, and use it for off road as well, but that is not necessary.

There are some models out there that offer up to the minute traffic updates visually on the unit, and guide you around problems.... I like the idea of those as well.

There are a couple i have glanced at on the net that interest me, but i wanted some real world feedback and suggestions from those familiar with different units.

Here are a couple that i was looking at.
http://graphics.samsclub.com/images/products/0075375906799_L4.jpg (http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=364560)
http://graphics.samsclub.com/images/products/0075375905044_L4.jpg (http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?dest=5&item=364563)

These units are fairly expensive so if you know of others with similar sleek look and function, please let me know.

i like the screen size of the 680, but it really costs.
:no:

I have been looking at the Garmin c330 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=6385), about $299 at WalMart before taxes. I first saw one on base in Stuttgart but didn't buy it, I wasn't sure if I could load topo maps into it so I didn't want it for just street use. I was hoping for something just as simple, but with the ability to load in maps for offroading. I haven't done much research on it yet, but I hope to do so soon...

Cheers! M2

On that top model, do you get the option to change the blue car to a beat up red Jeep? :wave:

On that top model, do you get the option to change the blue car to a beat up red Jeep? :wave:

yes, i believe you do :D
those are some great looking units, but the price is a bit retarded.
no other suggestions, eh?

yes, i believe you do :D
those are some great looking units, but the price is a bit retarded.
no other suggestions, eh?

Rented a car in the SF area with the Garmin nuvi. Cool unit but the still got stuck in some traffic. Updates are not accurate. But found where I was going to in the BAy area that helped..but so would a map.

I wouldnt invest in one if I'm driving local traffic.

90 or 60 on any given day is a mess.........in a LA minute

i do quite a bit of driving. one day i might be in Elsinore, the next in palm springs or Menifee..
i am all over on any given day.
i usually plan my day before i leave, and print out mapquest directions for my route. this works until something changes with the plan :D

Well I would assume you have the time and traffic figured out. Used to drive to Northridge about every other day. Thought I had that figured out..ya wrong.....one accident and its all over your route is pooched...

we have a little garmin. The screen's not too big, and it's not voice activated, but you program in the addresses, and it's a dream. It'll tell you where to go with voice assistance. It's really cool.

If you're looking for an in dash unit, the Pioneer AVIC-Z1 is pretty sweet. But it's pricey too.

saw this today...

http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=204170377&adid=17653&dcaid=17653

not sure if it's any good.

my loss your gain decided to go with a in dash unit so you get this week old unit for a great deal i am askin 275 plus shipping item retails for 400 i paid 360 plus shipping it comes with window mount car and wall charger and usb cable


here are the specs:

Display Section
Display Technology Full Color TFT Screen
Screen Size 3.5" (Low Reflection)
Pixels 320 x 240
Touch Panel Operation
AG (Anti-Glare) Screen Coating
Day/Night Display
Brightness Control 8 Levels
GPS Receiver SiRF Star III
Navigation Section
Map Type 2GB Flash Memory
Map Coverage Preloaded U.S. (48 continental states) and Canada
Map Perspective 2D and 3D
Map Source NAVTEQ
Points of Interest (POI) 1.5 Million
Supported Languages US English, French, Spanish, Czech, Danish, UK English, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Finnish, Swedish, Flemish, Turkish
Bluetooth
Bluetooth Capability Built-In
Hands-Free Calling Yes, Microphone Built-In
Phone Book Transfer Yes (service restrictions may vary)
List Display
General
MP3 Player No
Device Color Black
SD Memory Card
Speaker Built-In
Accessories Included AC Adapter, 12V Car Power Adator, Stylus, Suction Mount, Dash Mounting Plate, Carrying Case, USB Cable
USB Interface
Weight 180 Grams ( 6.35 ounces)
Battery Built-In Lithium Ion
Battery Usage Time Up to 4 Hours Operation
Dimensions 4.1" x 3.5" x 0.7"
Warranty 1 Year Parts and Labor




http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pio/pe/images/portal/cit_3442/309501410AVIC-S1_MAIN_med.jpg
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pio/pe/images/portal/cit_3442/309501410AVIC-S1_side_med.jpg