Garmin reveals new 2013 range of navigation devices

By Stephen Fenech On May 16, 2013

Garmin has revealed its new line-up of 2013 Nuvi personal navigation devices which have been designed to make it even easier for drivers to stay on track.

These new GPS devices have a number of new features including Real Directions, Active Lane Guidance, Voice Activated and more information at a glance.

There are eight models in the range starting at just $109 and going all the up to $349.

Garmin’s Real Directions offers guidance in a more intuitive way and uses recognisable landmarks to provide directions.

For example, the device might say “turn right at the church” which means the driver can concentrate on driving instead of looking for street signs.

Active Lane Guidance combines voice prompts and visual guidance to help drivers navigate major intersections, exits and interchanges confidently.

The 2013 Advanced and Prestige Series allow drivers to easily access traffic information to help them decide if they need to find an alternate route.

Garmin’s 2013 range has incorporated new designs and even larger screen sizes from 4.3-inch all the way up to 7-inch along with an all-new interface to display all the relevant information for your journey.

The map is obviously always on the screen but other information like points of interest and real time traffic is shown in slide-in windows at the appropriate time.

Nuvi 3597LMT – $349

The top of the line model has a sleek design and a 5-inch screen that has “pinch and zoom” capability.

The maps of Australia and New Zealand come with free lifetime updates and include Bluetooth to connect your smartphone and use it as a handsfree-kit.

Nuvi 2797LMT – $279

This model has a huge 7-inch screen and comes with features including Garmin Real Directions and free lifetime traffic alerts.

Nuvi 2597LMT – $249

The Nuvi 2597LMT has a dual-orientation 5-inch display so it can be positioned either in landscape or portrait mode to suit the driver’s preference.

Nuvi 2557LMT – $229

This 5-inch model also has the pinch to zoom functionality along with lifetime Australia and New Zealand map updates but does not have Bluetooth or the voice-activated navigation.

Nuvi 2497LMT – $199

This device is exclusive to Dick Smith and JB Hi-FI and has a 4.3 dual orientation screen, Garmin Real Directions and voice activated navigation and Bluetooth.

Nuvi 2457LMT – $179

Onboard this model is a 4.3-inch dual orientation screen plus Active Lane Guidance with voice prompts and bird’s eye junction views.

Nuvi 52 – $129

This might be an entry-level price but you do get a 5-inch display, detailed Australia and New Zealand maps and spoken turn-by-turn directions.