New Widescreen Navigators from Garmin

Garmin just announced several new widescreen navigators -- the nuvi 600, nuvi 650, and nuvi 660FM.

With its large, 4.3-inch (diagonal) touchscreen, the nuvi 650 offers cost conscience consumers the benefits of a widescreen Personal Travel Assistant without compromising the features that have made the nuvi popular. This device makes navigating to a destination easy thanks to the simple to use interface and turn-by-turn, voice prompted directions.

In addition, the nuvi 650 offers applications such as the Garmin Travel Guide, Garmin Language Guide, and Garmin SaversGuide. These optional guides are available on SD card and provide helpful and thorough information: restaurant and hotel reviews and recommendations, audible language translation into five different languages, the first geo-coded "coupon book" that notifies users of nearby discounts at restaurants, hotels, automotive repair, and more.

The nuvi 650 does not include Bluetooth Wireless Technology, FM transmitter, or standard real-time traffic info. Real-time traffic is available on the nuvi 650 through an optional traffic receiver. The nuvi 650 is available with preloaded maps of either North America or over 30 countries in Europe. Those in Europe seeking specific regional map data should consider the nuvi 600, a regionalized version of the nuvi 650 that is only available in Europe.

The nuvi 600's regional coverage includes UK/Ireland, Nordics, France, Italy/Greece, Belgium/Netherlands/Luxembourg, Spain/Portugal, Alps, and Germany/Switzerland/Austria/Czech Republic. All map data is provided by NAVTEQ -- a world leader in premium-quality mapping.

The nuvi 660FM brings the benefits of an integrated FM transmitter to the European version of the nuvi 660. Available only in Europe, the nuvi 660FM's integrated FM transmitter makes it possible to broadcast voice guidance, MP3, audio books and phone calls over the vehicle's existing speakers. The nuvi's entertainment audio is muted when navigation instructions are given. Other industry leading features of the nuvi 660FM include an integrated traffic receiver that makes it possible to avoid traffic and road construction delays, and Bluetooth Wireless Technology capability that allows hands-free mobile phone calls.

The nuvi 600, nuvi 650, and nuvi 660FM are expected to be available in April. www.Garmin.com.