Garmin nuvi 1450LMT

It costs a little more than the Garmin nuvi 1490T (*Est. $195) -- one of the most often-recommended, under-$200 GPS units in reviews -- but the Garmin nuvi 1450LMT adds free map updates for the life of the unit, making it a top pick at several review sources. The nuvi 1450LMT doesn't have Bluetooth for hands-free calling like the nuvi 1490T does, but otherwise it shares all of the same pros and cons. Critics especially like the big, easy-to-see 5-inch screen and free traffic updates for the life of the unit. These models also offer lane assist (to help you get into the correct lane at an upcoming junction), multi-destination routing (which automatically sorts several stops into one efficient route) and the ability to add pedestrian/public transportation maps for major cities worldwide (*Est. $10 to $18 each). The traffic and lane information aren't available everywhere, though, and some owners have complained that these nuvi models have picked the wrong routes.

GPSTracklog.com publishes the most descriptive review of the Garmin nuvi 1450LMT. GPSLodge.com and ConsumerReports.org also test the unit and provide clear buying advice. This model has amassed more than 1,400 owner reviews at Amazon.com.