Garmin Nuvi 660 Review

Garmin, one of the market leaders in consumer Sat Nav systems, and a name synonymous with GPS, now offers the Nuvi 660 model. As with other Nuvi range models, this unit gives portable high quality navigation, but has loads of added features to make it more than just an aide to get from A to B.

The Nuvi 660 has a 4.3 inch WQVGA colour TFT bright screen with a white backlight and automatic night and day modes. Even with its large screen and integrated Bluetooth capability, it is still one of the smallest, sleekest units around, weighing in at a mere 176 grams.

Like its younger brothers, the mount is a suction cup design with the ball and socket joint feature which allows for easy adjustment of the viewing angle. The battery is the normal rechargeable lithium-ion type and can hold a charge up to 7 hours. Cables, included with this unit, are the vehicle power cable, a USB cable and an AC charger for off road updates and charging. Also included is a carrying case.

Now for the added features. With Bluetooth technology this device can be used for making and receiving telephone calls underway. Some people may argue that this function is not a basic requirement, but like it or not, in our busy lifestyle the car is often a place where we make a lot of uninterrupted calls - having this kind of hands free capability therefore is almost a necessity.

The full designation for this Sat Nav is Nuvi 660FM. The suffix denotes its capability to have both voice directions and external audio sources transmitted via your car radio. As well as the telephone calls mentioned above, the unit is also a MP3/audio book player.

Traffic warnings and real time traffic radio are relayed through the FM radio system, and this version comes with a lifetime subscription to the UK traffic channel. Other European cities may require a fee to access their coverage. A speed camera database is included but you will need an annual subscription to keep the information up to date. The audible warning as you approach a camera increases in pitch if you are speeding.

The touchscreen and menu system are so straightforward and intuitive that it is one of the simplest units to learn to use. A user manual is of course included in the box, but chances are you will not need it. The navigation software is WAAS enabled, which stands for Wide Area Augmentation System and allows for better position accuracy. Fixes were achieved in less than a minute at startup and even faster once en route. The maps are both 2D and 3D and are very clear although in built up areas the screen became a little cluttered.

Lightweight, stylish and efficient, the Nuvi 660FM is definitely worth considering as an overall best buy, but it is priced considerably higher than its competition and that is the biggest drawback for Garmin.