Real-time traffic tracking and avoidance is a terrific feature. Traffic information is gathered and broadcast via FM signal, cell phone towers, or via satellite. These signals are then interpreted and displayed as traffic-awareness and re-route information as part of your in-car GPS display. How inexpensively can you get real-time traffic tracking? Here are some of the lowest-cost in-car GPS navigators that include real-time traffic tracking and avoidance capability.
Navigon 2100 ($209 - $249)
Photo © Navigon
The Navigon 2100 is available with a "Lifetime Traffic Service" ($99) that is activated for the lifetime of the product – no trial period or ongoing service fees. Lifetime Traffic Service is available for the 68 major U.S. markets covered by the Total Traffic Network. The Navigon's traffic features include incidents, congestion and construction, and automatically presented alternate routes.
TomTom ONE 3rd Edition ($225 - $249)
Photo © TomTom
The TomTom line provides a lot of function at great value, and the ONE 3rd Edition is no exception. This lowest-cost TomTom model can be paired with TomTom PLUS services, which include traffic tracking and avoidance. To use PLUS, you will need to pair the TomTom ONE with a compatible, Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone or mobile device with an activated wireless data connection, pay for your connection time, and a subscription to the traffic service.
Magellan Maestro 3140 ($250 - $349)
Photo © Magellan
The Maestro 3140 is the lowest-priced in-car navigator in the Magellan line that includes traffic tracking and avoidance, but it packs a lot of features, including full text-to-speech (audible street name, not just turn direction), hands-free calling with a Bluetooth-enabled phone, and AAA Tourbook and AAA Roadside Assistance details. Magellan's TrafficKit North America ($99) receives NAVTEQ NavTraffic alerts in real time and displays delays and auto-reroutes. A free 15-month trial subscription is included.
Mio C520 ($290 - $340)
Photo © Mio
The Mio C520 sports a 4.3-inch widescreen with split-screen capability, and other high-end features such as hands-free calling when paired with a Bluetooth-enabled phone, and an integrated media player that can play photos, music, and video. A removable SD card expands media memory. Link the Mio C520 with an optional FM receiver and you receive the Traffic Message Channel.
Garmin Nuvi 350 ($320 - $400)
Photo © Garmin
Garmin's Nuvi series is known for its optional plug-in SD cards that include travel services such as language translation and travel guides. Fodor's North America travel guide, for example, is available on SD card for $69. Add traffic tracking and avoidance by purchasing the Garmin GTM 12 FM traffic receiver ($130 street) and subscribing to the Total Traffic Network TrafficMaster service for $60 per year.
