Navman iCN 320 satnav system

Posted by T3 Online on Thu 25 Oct 2007

This is an easy guider, but not nearly the best.

A couple of years ago, GPS navigation systems rivalled the cost of a second-hand Mini, but this one will set you back about the same as a new set of tyres.

This is Navman's cheapest product, which pits it against Garmin's excellent StreetPilot i3. Like the i3, this portable device lacks the Europe-wide mapping and touchscreens found on more expensive rivals, but it does boast a decent rechargeable battery.

Unfortunately, its menu-pad interface is slower and clumsier to use than the i3's zippy scroll wheel, and you can't add your own points of interest, such as speed cameras.

With a shouty female voice and a clear, bright display, navigation is simple and reliable, although the 2D mapping does look rather old-fashioned. We found the unit took around seven minutes to pick up the GPS satellites from a cold start - five minutes or less is closer to the norm. But the fold-up aerial holds the signal well enough, and you can always boost it with an external antenna if reception is bad - heated windscreens are often the culprit.

If you can live without advanced features, this isn't a bad choice, but you can get better for less money.