Garmin nüvi 1490T Thinks Big with 5-Inch Screen, Multiple-point Routing

Garmin's new nüvi 1490T sports a 5-inch touchscreen display and a multiple-point routing feature that handles routes with multiple stops.

GPS maker Garmin has unveiled the latest model in its nüvi line of automotive GPS sytems, the nüvi 1490T, featuring a large 5-inch touchscreen display, a body that’s 25 percent thinner than most nüvi units, and a new multiple-point routing feature that can calculate the most efficient routes for trips that have multiple stops. The unit also features Garmin’s premiere navigation assistance features, like lane assist, lifetime traffic alerts, and junction views.

“The nüvi 1490T is designed to give drivers a big picture of the route ahead, while offering every-day conveniences customers want and need to take the worry out of traveling,” said Garmin’s VP of worldwide sales Dan Bartel, in a statement. “With its enhanced pedestrian navigation capabilities and ultra-thin design, it’s also a perfect companion for travelers in unfamiliar territory who want to explore the city on foot or with public transportation.”

The 1490T will save up to 10 routes, each potentially with multiple points to make running errands easier. (Although, really, if you’re running errands, shouldn’t you already know where you’re going?) The unit details upcoming turns and offers specific driving directions, including arrows indicating proper lanes. For longer trips, the 1490T also automatically transitions between time zones, and displays speed limits for most major thoroughfares.

The 1490T also sports and integrated traffic receiver with free, lifetime traffic info from Navteq traffic without a subscription fee in selected coverage areas. The unit also sports an ecoRoute feature that suggests fuel-efficient routing options, enabling users to select routes that use less fuel in addition to routes that are quickest or involve the shorted distance.

The 1490T offers Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls, and in addition to automotive features supports CityExplorer Maps for pedestrian directions in selected tourist destinations in North America and Europe—CityExplorer maps cost from $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the city.

Garmin expects the nüvi 1490T will be available in July at a suggested price of $499.99.