Magellan SmartGPS navigator may be too smart for its own good

Magellan has just introduced its latest connected device to the world of portable navigation with their new SmartGPS, and we're already well into testing this creative new device in our lab and on the road. So far, we're impressed with the features and variety of updated information SmartGPS can deliver. But we're not crazy about how this info is displayed and how awkward it can be to access.

The connectivity comes from either a Wi-Fi connection when one is available, or by pairing with your smart phone via Bluetooth and tapping into your data plan.

The SmartGPS makes the most of its connected capabilities, but it packs so much info into its five-inch screen that it can be distracting. Constantly changing graphics point out area restaurants, gas stations, and more. Other selections available include weather information, traffic updates, parking availability and rates with Best Parking, and Yelp and Foursquare reviews and suggestions for stops along the way. (The user reviews within the device can be updated by plugging the device into your home computer.)

To learn more about navigation, visit our GPS buying guide for advice and ratings.

At an inch or so square, each mini display takes up a fair piece of screen real estate, and you can be looking at up to four of them at once while underway. Tapping an icon for a given business can even bring up a virtual discount coupon, which again is nice, but distracting and all but illegible at speed.