Review on TomTom XL 4 3 Inch Navigator Packaging by James Baker

After much research I decided to buy this TomTom device after reading a review in Consumer Reports. It was on the recommended list and the price matched the features I wanted. Good Features: * Fast startup and fairly quick satellite acquisition if you update with QuickFix. * Bright, clear screen, viewable even in bright sunlight. * Easily rotating suction cup mount. Stays in place as you twist the locking mechanism. *The included TomTom software includes MapShare with free updates provided by other TomTom users. Make sure your screen is off between objectives, otherwise the battery will last about an hour. When this function is activated, about 1/4 of the battery charge is consumed in the same period of time. * Other voices are available to give directions. Expensive. * $40 per year for quarterly map updates. The Bad: * If you really need traffic service, the antenna costs $100, although at that price that includes a year of service. But after that, it costs $60 a year. * More detailed regional maps are available, but they are really very expensive. I plan to use it for a holiday trip in July.