New Garmin StreetPilot i-series GPS

The StreetPilot i2 is the monochrome version in the i-series StreetPilots—a new line of small, inexpensive automotive GPS navigators that make driving fun.

No larger than a baseball and priced affordably, the StreetPilot i-series is destined to be a hit for commuters, college students, and corporate travelers who are looking to experience the ease and enjoyment of GPS satellite navigation for the first time.

Don’t let the size fool you: The StreetPilot i-series has many of the same powerful capabilities as Garmin’s other full size automotive GPS navigators.

The i-series features a unique and convenient click-to-enter scroll wheel and a “back” button which makes it easy to select a destination from the unit’s menu-driven interface. The i2 and i3 provide voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions through a built-in speaker, and the unit easily moves from vehicle to vehicle with an integrated suction cup mount. The i-series will also automatically put drivers back on course if they miss a turn.

The StreetPilot i2 and i3 come with a MapSource City Select North America NT DVD, which contains mapping detail of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico—featuring nearly six million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions. Users load the City Select data onto an included 128MB Transflash data card via a fast USB connection.

The i3 and i5 feature a 32k-color, sunlight readable TFT display with backlight, while the i2 features a high-contrast backlit monochrome display. Motorists can choose from either a three-dimensional mapping perspective, or overhead “bird’s eye” view. For added convenience, drivers can power the unit with either two AA batteries (six hours, typical use) or the included 12-volt adapter cable. PRICE: Starts at $321.42 www.garmin.com