Test Drive: Garmin Nuvifone G60

The Consumer Reports GPS team has completed its test of the Garmin Nuvifone G60, and the results are mixed. The Nuvifone is the best phone-based navigator we have evaluated, though it falls short  of its potential and lacks the value and luster of the iPhone. (Read our Garmin Nuvifone G60 review.)
 
Consider the Nuvifone to be like a Nuvi 265 portable navigation device (PND) enhanced with basic telephony features and a three-megapixel camera. It has an easy-to-use interface that is immediately recognizable to anyone familiar with Garmin devices. Address entry is simple, directions are clear with spoken street names, and points of interest readily found. However, it lacks some features readily available on mid-priced Garmin devices, such as multi-destination routing, lane guidance, and reality view. With a $400 price tag, it should have these enhancements and more. (There is currently a $100 rebate available.)
 
Credit can be given for including a compact, well-engineered mount—something other phones do not bundle. However, at this price, a car charger should be also included. Despite getting three-hours of navigation from the Nuvifone, the battery life will diminish with cell-phone use and Bluetooth audio streaming, making the charger essential for road tripping. The Nuvifone also includes a pedestrian mode, something we have found helpful for negotiating unfamiliar metropolitan areas.
 
The Nuvifone does handle multitasking phone calls and navigation better than other tested mobile devices. iPhone applications typically require the user to choose one function or the other. But in the end, the Nuvifone is short on features and sizzle, yet with a price premium over established, slicker smart phones. It may have special appeal to Garmin loyalists, though likely will be a tough sell for others.  

The Consumer Reports Electronics franchise is running the Nuvifone through their telephone tests and will have results soon.

Read the full Garmin Nuvifone G60 navigation review. 

See our reviews of AT&T Navigator, iGo My Way, Gokivo, Navigon Mobile Navigator, Sygic Mobile Maps, TomTom iPhone application, and X Road G-Map for iPhone.

For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings, first looks, and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

 —Jeff Bartlett and Frank Spinelli