Consumer Reports tested 49 models and recommends 14 of the best. The top-rated model, the Garmin Nuvi 880, $800, provides intuitive controls, good guidance, an array of features, and an effective voice-recognition system that lets a user enter an address, choose a point of interest, or change a setting simply by speaking a command.

Overall, Consumer Reports found that GPS navigators will typically get the driver to where they need to go, but not always by the most efficient route.

The device will track the car's location, provide spoken and visual turn-by-turn directions, but when the driver is in an unfamiliar area, the system is no substitute for local knowledge.

A new feature that is becoming more widely available is real-time traffic information, which is available in many metro areas. This helpful feature can alert the driver to traffic congestion, accidents, and construction, and reroute appropriately. Some devices are traffic capable out of the box, while others require a receiver to be purchased costing up to $200.

Typically there will also be a subscription fee of about $60 annually to get traffic information. Garmin and Navigon recently announced that new models on sale this fall will provide free traffic information. Instead of paying a subscription fee, Garmin models will display on-screen advertising. Consumer Reports is currently testing these models.

"While all GPS units have similar navigational features, our tests show there can be a big difference in how easy they are to use," Rik Paul, automotive editor at Consumer Reports. "With more models providing real-time traffic info, today's GPS units can be as handy for everyday use as they are for driving in unfamiliar areas."

The Best GPS Devices Available
Good GPS navigators can cost less than $200, but if extras like traffic info, voice recognition, and Bluetooth capabilities for hands-free phone calls are of interest, the price can jump up to between $400 and $800.

Consumer Reports recommends first looking at models that score well in basic navigation functions, then consider, what, if any, extra features are necessary. For most drivers the Garmin Nuvi 255W ($280) and Nuvi 255 ($230) are Best Buys that offer a good combination of features and value.

For shoppers on a budget, Consumer Reports recommends a few models that range in price from mid-$100s to $200. The Garmin Nuvi 200, 250, 270, $150, and the Garmin Nuvi 200W, $200, provide drivers with excellent destination and point-of-interest entering and good information while on the road. Another dominate brand, TomTom offers the One 130, $170, with strong performance across the board.

The full report on GPS navigators is available in the December 2008 issue of Consumer Reports, which is available wherever magazines are sold. The full story is also available online along with expanded buying advice, Ratings, and an interactive product selector to help consumers make a smart purchase decision.

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