Garmin announce nuvi 660 GPS unit

New widescreen model announced

2 September 2006 11:10 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Garmin has announced a new GPS unit in its Nuvi range. The new 660 incorporates a large, 4.3-inch touchscreen, integrated traffic capabilities, FM transmitter, and a super-bright display.

"The nuvi 660 builds on the legacy of the nuvi 300-series while adding desirable enhancements like a wider screen and integrated traffic, which are two features that have never been packaged together before", said Gary Kelley, Garmin's vice president of marketing.

The unit also speaks street names, so drivers will know to "turn right on High Street".

In the United States, 3 months of free Total Traffic Network(TM) service is included, after which the customer may subscribe to 15 months of service for $60.00.

Other new features include an integrated FM transmitter that broadcasts voice guidance, MP3, audio books and phone calls over the vehicle's existing speakers and Bluetooth support for making handsfree calls and contacts book displayed on screen.

In Europe, customers can purchase one of nine regional map coverage areas (nuvi 610), or opt for full European mapping (nuvi 660). The North American version (nuvi 660) includes preloaded maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. All map data is provided by NAVTEQ.

The new model is expected to cost around £600 in the UK and $1076 in the US when its launched in the later this month.