Garmin is introducing the Garmin i3 StreetPilot, South African version, a new line in small and inexpensive in-car navigation.

The units are no larger than a tennis ball and will be a hit with commuters, students and business travellers looking for easy-to-use GPS navigation.

Ian Gallacher, chief executive of Avnic Trading, exclusive distributors of Garmin in South Africa, says, "Although compact and affordable, the i3 features many of the capabilities of our top of the range systems, with a really friendly user interface."

The i3's comprehensive navigation capabilities are driven through a unique click-to-enter scroll wheel and a 'back' button controlling the menu-driven interface. Voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions are given through a built-in speaker, and if you go off course a new route is recalculated and you are guided back on track. Mapping detail for the entire South Africa is supplied, featuring points of interest such as hotels, petrol stations, ATMs and tourist attractions, which is loaded on an included 128 MB flash card over high-speed USB.

The unit features an integrated suction cup mount and is easily moved between vehicles. The i3 has a 32 000 colour sunlight-readable display with backlight for night use. You can choose between a 3D perspective view or a conventional overhead view. Power is provided through a 12-volt cigarette-lighter adapter (included) or two AA batteries (typically 6 hours life) for route planning or pedestrian use.

The i3 will be available in October.

For more information contact Jason Theunissen, Avnic Trading, 011 704 6147, jason@avnic.co.za