Skip advert
Advertisement

Map books

Can't afford a satellite navigation system? Get a traditional road map instead! We try 12 atlases for size...

Despite an endless stream of new sat-nav systems hitting the accessory shop shelves, there is still a huge market for the traditional atlas. It means no fiddling with buttons, batteries or brackets - just a book on your lap that will work anywhere.

And that explosion of sat-nav products has had a welcome spin-off, as many atlases now include points of interest (POIs), such as camp sites, retail chains, universities and even speed cameras. But which is the best for the technophobes and those who can't spare a few hundred pounds for sat-nav?

Advertisement - Article continues below

First, pick the size. A3 is easy to read, but hard to store, while A4 is convenient, but means more page turning. Scales are also important. Measured in miles per inch (mpi), get the one which suits your driving... but generally the more easily read detail, the better.

Verdict

The new-for-2006 Navigator remains the ultimate atlas for drivers, combining super detail with readability and a great price per page. The AA Atlas Britain takes second despite its price, with those camera trap locations a worthwhile addition. Third place was a close call between the A-Z and the Collins Superscale. Their plus and minus points just about evened out, but the former gets the verdict.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,886
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,930
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,214 off RRP*Used from £10,395
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 grant for new EVs sold
News
15 Jul 2025