Road trip! Latest GPS navigation system ratings

Ready for an automotive adventure? Let Consumer Reports help you navigate the roads this summer with our tests of portable GPS navigation systems. 

Many manufacturers offer units that will get you where you need to go, and more are entering the market as sales continue to skyrocket. Systems from Garmin, Magellan, and TomTom have historically scored well in our ratings. But these navigation-focused companies now face competition from Delphi, Harmon-Kardon, and Rand McNally--none of which were available for our previous test. Our latest report also includes units from Alpine, Audiovox, Cobra, Lowrance, and Navman.

Detailed tests rate the ease of use, performance, safety, and the features you're looking for. Plus, we report on the latest technology and features such as live traffic capabilities, Bluetooth hands-free calling, and internal MP3 and video players.

Our expanded coverage now features a dedicated product page for each unit, complete with user ratings. These are linked from the main Ratings table. In addition, our test engineers put together a video guide to choosing a portable GPS navigation system.

All told, our GPS section has grown by more than 15 pages, providing the detailed information you need to find the right unit for your needs and budget. Follow the link and we'll get you pointed in the right direction.

--Liza Barth

Comments

[Hitzkup]

Why CR did not test the megallen maestro 3100 which is a decent entry level model?

[Sutton]

I love road trips! I've recently been using the TomTom ONE XL and love it. It is really helpful and easy to use!

[Jeff Bartlett]

We try to test a variety of representative units, but can not cover every model. Portable GPS navigation systems are now part of our "rolling ratings" program, meaning we will conduct on-going tests. Look for the next major update to occur this fall.

[Mini2Go]

I realize that CR cannot test every make and model of every category item they assess, but it surprises me that there is not even a mention of a single item from Mio - who is now the 3rd largest (by market share) producer worldwide.