Garmin StreetPilot c340 Review

UPDATE: Most of the several generations old StreetPilot series, including this model, has been discontinued. For a more current recommendation, check out our Auto GPS buyers guide or go straight to our Garmin nuvi comparison chart.

 

The Garmin StreetPilot c340 is the top unit in Garmin's StreetPilot c3 line of auto navigation systems. Like the c330, this receiver comes with pre-loaded maps for all of North America or Western Europe. While all the c3 models give voice commands, the c340 adds the ability to call out upcoming points of interest and street names. This model is also compatible with the GTM 10, adding the ability to show real-time traffic info in major metropolitan areas.

Dozens of consumers have posted StreetPilot c340 reviews  at Amazon.com, which goes on to say in their editorial review...

"If you're looking for vehicle navigation that's powerful and simple to use, the Garmin StreetPilot c340 is just the ticket. Right out of the box, this unit helps you make the right turns wherever your travels take you. With an easy-to-use touchscreen interface, text-to-speech voice commands, a brilliant display that shows the way with 2D or 3D animations, and a massive points of interest database, the c340 has all the basics covered. Plus, you'll find some great additional features that make it a must-have companion..."

Compare prices on the Garmin StreetPilot c340

Here's what others have to say...

• Some readers posting at ZDNet/CNet complain of poor signal acquisition and lock-ups in their c340 reviews.
• Epinions readers were a little happier with their Garmin c340's.
• More than a dozen consumers post Street Pilot c340 reviews at Tom's Hardware.
• SportingReviews has posted their own Garmin StreetPIlot c340 review.
• Associated Content has posted a Garmin StreetPilot c340 review.
• TechyReview.com has also posted a review of the Garmin StreetPilot c340.

Here are some other resources that may be of help:

• A PDF version of the Gamin c 340 manual.
• Their is a very active Garmin Usenet discussion group, alt.satellite.gps.garmin.
• Finally, here is a handy tool to compare Garmin auto units.

Compare prices on the Garmin StreetPilot c340 at these merchants:

• Find the low price on a StreetPilot c340 at GPSNow.com.
• Check the current StreetPilot c340 price at Amazon.com.
• Get the Garmin StreetPilot c340 for an amazing price at eBay.

Product description from the official Garmin Street Pilot c340 web page:

The StreetPilot c340 provides in-car navigation that is simple for anyone to use directly out of the box. After selecting a destination from the user-friendly touch screen interface, Garmin’s text-to-speech feature tells users the name of the street, when to turn, and in what direction. If you miss your turn, the c340 automatically calculates a new route to the destination.

Notification of traffic delays is a c340 option that lets drivers see congested areas via a color-coded map. This feature lets users avoid traffic by simply pushing a button that will calculate a new route. This traffic awareness is made possible via the new Garmin GTM 10™ FM TMC receiver that connects to selected Garmin street navigation products. The GTM 10 receives digital data from specific FM broadcast stations in select major metro areas throughout the United States and Europe.

The StreetPilot c340 comes preprogrammed with highly detailed City Navigator® NT street data of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The database features nearly six million points of interest—including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions.

As an added benefit, you can now import customized points of interest with the help of Garmin's free POI Loader software. The possibilities are endless — upload safety cameras or school zones, and you will receive a warning if you are traveling too fast. In addition, an optional proximity-alert feature notifies you of upcoming custom POIs.

The StreetPilot c340 joins Garmin’s growing line of automotive GPS navigators. It has a bright, 3.5-inch diagonal, TFT display with touchscreen; dual integrated speakers for high-quality voice prompts; and an internal lithium-ion battery for out-of-car route planning.

The StreetPilot c-series boasts distinctive and sleek styling—the units’ only buttons are a rotary volume knob and an on/off switch. The device is secured by a suction-mount cradle that fastens to the windshield, for easy portability between vehicles. Users can customize their unit’s appearance with an array of colored faceplates (sold separately).
 

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Comments

[Laurence H.]

Walmart has the Garmin c340 advertised on-line for $198.00 this week. 12/5