BMW and MINI in the UK have launched a new range of portable navigation devices in co-operation with Garmin (Europe) Ltd. Available through the BMW and MINI dealer network, the Garmin StreetPilot c310, c320, c330 and nuvi 350 models are now offered from as little as £299.

The StreetPilot devices offer a number of easy-to-use features for navigating in the UK and Europe*. Destinations can be entered via a postcode or address alongside a myriad of interesting locations including hotels, restaurants and petrol stations. The unit navigates to the destination via the fastest or shortest route and guides by two- or three-dimensional turn-by-turn directions and voice prompts. Using touch-screen technology customers can also add their own points of interest into the device such as relatives’ addresses, frequently visited areas or speed camera locations.

Customers selecting the top-of-the-range nuvi 350 benefit from additional features of particular use when travelling abroad, thanks to the nüvi’s optional capabilities as a language translator and travel guide. Standard features include a currency and measurement converter, world clock, MP3 player and audio book player while a digital photo organizer adds to its functionality. The nuvi’s personal travel guide lets users perform tasks that make travelling more convenient such as browsing restaurant menus and reviews, reviewing historical information about landmarks, translating unknown words or phrases, and converting foreign currency.

To ensure operational safety, all Garmin units are attached to the windscreen using the suction-cup mounting bracket supplied. This ensures that the navigation maps and instructions are in the driver’s line of sight while driving. To further increase safety levels, customers are able to use a Safe mode that prevents information being entered into the unit while the car is moving.

Steve Nash, BMW’s Aftersales Director, said: “BMW and MINI have been evaluating the portable navigation marketplace for the last six months to ensure that any product we offer is of the highest quality with simple-to-use, logical menus and a high specification. In Garmin, we have found a range of products that meets all those criteria while being offered at a competitive price.”

MINI UK Press