Navigon 42 Premium sat-nav

Price: £179.99
Contact: www.navigon.com

Navigon sat-navs have always been let down by the number of steps required to switch between menus. But the firm’s new Flow software lets you flick between screens by swiping your finger. We tried a 42 Premium sat-nav with the new system.

It doesn’t take long to get used to the new set-up. You swipe through the icons at the bottom of the screen, or tap an icon at the other end of the bar to get to a menu quickly. Other features are hidden, but can be accessed by tapping the top of the screen.

The 4.3-inch widescreen display isn’t as responsive as rival units, but it’s bright and easy to read. The device comes with European mapping for 44 countries and hands-free Bluetooth connectivity for your phone. There are traffic updates, too – they’re not live, but they’re free, as they use Traffic Message Channel (TMC) information.

There’s also a new silver case, but Navigon still uses its old windscreen mount, which is  a curved piece of plastic that doesn’t offer as much adjustment as rivals. That’s disappointing, but for £179.99 the 42 Premium is a decent value sat-nav system.

Verdict

Rating: ★★★
What is it?
Comprehensive sat-nav from Navigon includes latest VW-approved software.
Problems?
Touchscreen isn’t as responsive as an iPhone, still not the best mount.
Why buy?
New menu is a breeze to use, nice silver case, comes with Bluetooth connectivity, too.