Garmin and Suzuki Join Forces to Develop Improved Car Navigation Systems

Present day car navigations systems have really managed to surpass everything that we could imagine just a few years ago, but Suzuki wants to make this experience a lot more enjoyable so it joined forces with Garmin in order to develop an impressive navigation system for their 2011 Suzuki Grand Vitara and SX4 models, including the SX4 Crossover, SX4 Sport and SX4 SportBack.

Based on a nuvi 1690 navigator, this solution comes with over six million points of interest built-in while also featuring Google local search and white page telephone listings.

Apart from the pretty usual street search features, Garmin's solution can look up local events and movie listings to find interesting activities when you are on the road and don't have time for planning, a real-time flight status mode being also among the features list.

Furthermore, the Garmin developed Suzuki navigation system uses the ecoRoute software in order to conserve fuel by creating routes that are optimized for using less fuel when the users selects this option.

And the best part is that, although the unit sits in a fully-integrated mount that uses the vehicle's sound system for directions, the GPS can be easily detach for safekeeping or pedestrian excursions, a pretty nice bonus if you ask me.

“Suzuki can now offer its customers an up-to-the-minute navigational experience with an industry-leading points of interest database, as well as helpful information like traffic, weather, fuel prices, and more – all with a customized installation,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales.

“The 2011 model year marks our third consecutive year that Garmin has been offered as navigation equipment in select Suzuki models, and they can boast of being the first auto manufacturer to feature a connected navigation device in North America.”

The first year of wireless data services are free, and after that, the subscription renewal price for data services is $60.00 per year, so this isn't a “buy and forget” type of gadget.