01.Introduction
Test results for 17 GPS systems, priced from $149 to $449
This test includes 11 newly tested models - plus 6 car models still available from our previous test. All are good performers in city and regional areas, but it’s the rural test that shows the biggest differences between the GPS units. However, this situation is becoming less significant with some units delivering improved rural results compared to the models they replaced.
With sales of car GPS devices on the slide, companies are now offering more for less in an attempt to attract new users. But while features such as live traffic information and celebrities like John Cleese and Yoda telling you when to take the next left turn are all useful and entertaining, CHOICE tests performance and accuracy to separate the best car GPS devices from the rest.
While GPS-capable smartphones such as the iPhone are making some inroads in the GPS market, it seems most drivers still prefer the full functionality of a dedicated car GPS unit. Features such as lane guidance, announcement of school zones and text to speech (see What to Look For) are standard in most models.
Because all units perform well in the city, we’ve simplified the city driving component of our test. And as always, we test in rural areas too, as this is where the biggest performance differences are often found.
Models in our last test can be found on the previous GPS results page.
For more information on GPS, see Cars.
CHOICE's experts independently test a wide range of products and services to bring you unbiased reviews, product comparison tools and buying advice that is trusted by 140,000+ members.
Get access to all
CHOICE benefits.
$1.91
/week
*Billed quarterly
CHOICE puts a collection of GPS navigation units through their paces.
Brands and models tested
- Garmin nϋvi 2250 *
- Garmin nϋvi 2460LT *
- Garmin nϋvi 3760 *
- Navig8r T50B *
- Navman EZY15 *
- Navman EZY45 *
- Navman MY85XLT *
- TomTom GO LIVE 2050 (Australia) *
- TomTom GO LIVE 820 *
- TomTom Via 220 *
- Uniden IGO500 *
- Navigon 40 Easy
- Navigon 40 Plus
- Navigon 40 Premium
- TomTom Start 10
- TomTom Via 160
- Uniden iGO43
* Newly tested.
CHOICE independence guaranteed
These independent ratings are only available through membership with CHOICE Online because no one tests products like we do. Arm yourself with our unique and exclusive information and make your next purchase with confidence.
Want more?
Get access to our independent testing reports and save yourself time and money.
