Garmin Debuts New BMW Navigation Systems

BMW Garmin GPS unit

GPS manufacturer Garmin today announced two new navigation devices, dubbed Portable Navigation System Plus and Portable Navigation System Pro, both of them already available at BMW dealerships in North America, Europe and other several regions. Garmin didn't provide too many details regarding the new GPS units but what we know is that they feature a high-resolution touch screen plus built-in speakers and microphone.

Bluetooth compatibility lets you connect the GPS system to your mobile phone and initiate or answer calls without taking your eyes off the road. In addition, the new Portable Navigation Systems come with a built-in MP3 player plus turn-by-turn navigation directions streamed through your vehicle's sound system.

Beside all of these functions, Garmin implemented a special audio function that automatically mutes the music in case driver directions are provided by the GPS unit in order to be sure that you “can clearly hear the navigation commands.”

The North American version of the navigation devices come with preloaded maps, traffic reports, gas prices, weather conditions, stock quotes and many other types of information, Garmin said in a press statement.

“These two premium lifestyle products provide an excellent choice to meet the high demands of BMW customers. The Portable Navigation System Pro appeals to mobile professionals as one of Garmin’s most feature-rich models to date, whilst the Portable Navigation System Plus offers flexibility as it’s available without preloaded mapping. This means the Portable Navigation System Plus can be sold worldwide, including into the fast emerging Eastern European and Asian markets,” said Roger Jollis, Garmin’s Director of OEM and Mobile Marketing.

BMW says the new Portable Navigation Systems currently fit BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series and BMW X3 models, both devices available in BMW dealerships across the aforementioned regions.