Toyota Of Europe Creates New Integrated Portable Nav System For Yaris

Navigation systems, particularly the types that are built into cars, are very

costly. Although they've come down in price since first being introduced, they oftentimes remain the most expensive standalone option that can be ordered on a given vehicle. As a result many new car buyers opt for alternatives, from OnStar's Turn-by-Turn voice guidance to small, portable GPS devices such as those from Garmin and TomTom. These may be cheaper, but they lack the integration of a factory-installed unit.

Having just introduced a new OEM headunit that features integration with a TomTom handheld GPS system, Toyota's European division may just have started a new revolution with its new Yaris. When the handheld TomTom is docked in the dashboard, the system charges and operates as an integrated navigation system. What's more, via its touchscreen display it controls the car's audio system. Other cool features include USB audio integration, as well as

Bluetooth for handsfree cell phone connectivity. If the navigation unit is not docked, the Yaris' headunit still contains a small display which can show non-navigation information.

Besides relieving the windshield of suction cups, the system will actually work outside of the car, allowing travelers and outdoorsy types the convenience of a handheld system that's battery powered. Such as system has been something that Toyota has been campaigning for.

This clever little navigation unit comes as part of the SR package for the Yaris, and includes sportier alloy wheels, center-mounted exhaust, scuff plates, nine airbags plus ABS at a competitive price. Hopefully Toyota will consider a device like this for our cars here in North America, as we could see this being a very popular option.