Discover The Best GPS Car Navigation System For You

According to a recent survey by JD Power, the most desired multimedia-related feature among new-vehicle buyers is a GPS car navigation system. If you're one of these customers and are buying a new car, GPS Buyer's Reports identifies four navigation systems you can choose from:

Built-in GPS: it's larger than a handheld unit, accommodates a large screen easy to see while driving, and is powered by the car's electrical system. It can only be used in your car.
Mapping handheld receiver: it displays maps uploaded from a PC to the GPS receiver. It's cheaper than the previous option but has fewer features.
GPS for a PDA: it includes a large screen for easier viewing and more detailed maps. The main disadvantage is the need of clear access to the sky for satellite reception.
Laptop GPS: the receiver is connected to a laptop via a cable. It's one of the cheapest options but offers worse reception than units placed on the dashboard.

Option 1 is the best to use in your car for three reasons: security, aesthetics, and power source. This option used to be the most expensive, but things might change thanks to GM and OnStar.

For 2007, GM will offer the simplest and smartest Navigation System in North America: OnStar's Turn-by-Turn Navigation. It's the first factory-installed, fully-integrated off-board GPS navigation system.

Turn-By-Turn from OnStar will be affordable and easy to use. If a GM car model doesn't include it, it can be added for just $100 the first year. The simplicity of the device allows a driver to talk to a live advisor instead of using a computerized voice recognition program that might not understand the customer's instructions.

So if you're buying a new car and GPS is a must, check your options and choose the one that best suits your needs.

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