Sleek and Full-Featured: Garmin Nuvi 760

If you want or need it all -- from a wide screen, to rock-solid navigation and precise text-to-speech directions, to hands-free calling support, to traffic tracking and avoidance, to travel tools, the Garmin Nuvi 760 is a fine choice. On top of all of that, the Nuvi 760 has an easy-to-use, intuitive touchscreen interface.

The Garmin Nuvi 760 is a recent addition to the high end of the company's flagship in-car portable Nuvi line. With its slim profile (three quarters of an inch wide), tight, modern design, and a 4.3-inch wide screen, its look and feel is cutting edge.

The Nuvi 760 is fully loaded with features, as it should be at this price, but let's start with the basics. The 760's screen is sharp and crisp, and its menu and map graphics are attractive and easy to follow. Even a beginner will have no trouble stepping quickly through the setup and using the 760 to navigate to a destination with minimal consultation of the quick-start guide.

The 760, like most high-end navigators, features text-to-speech directions, providing audible upcoming street names and addresses (not just "turn right 100 yards"). The 760 comes preloaded with good, detailed City Navigator street maps and millions of points of interest such as ATMs, hotels, gas stations, hospitals, etc.

You can use the Nuvi 760 to make hands-free phone calls when you pair it with a compatible, Bluetooth-enabled phone or mobile device. Phone pairing and setup was easy, and the the phone menus are logical. It was a treat to see my phone's address book come up on the 760's display and ready to go at a touch.

Traffic tracking is provided by an included FM receiver (often a $70-plus accessory) and the Total Traffic Network or MSN Direct. More goodies include an MP3 player (use with FM transmitter or audio-out jack), audio book player, world travel clock, currency converter.

One of my favorite features: The Nuvi 760 remembers its exact location automatically when you remove it from its windshield or dash mount, which is great if you park in a large lot, such as an amusement park, airport, etc.

Minor beef: I've heard better and more powerful speakers on units at this price.