Ford offers sat-nav built into rear-view mirror

03/09/10

Here’s a nifty idea if you drive a current-model Ford. For £299 your nearest dealer can supply and fit this satellite navigation unit, which is built into the rear-view mirror. The unit uses a Garmin sat-nav and has a 3.5 touch-screen colour display.

It replaces the regular rear-view mirror and takes a technician about an hour to install. Once in place, it charges itself from the car and has its own anti-theft system, too. For that reason insurance companies regard it, Ford says, as a built-in system, meaning you can claim for a replacement if stolen. It can be fitted to new or second-hand cars.

The unit has its own internal memory but also has a card slot. It displays maps in two or three dimensions and guide you across more than 70 countries, giving spoken directions in a choice of languages.

The unit will fit most current Ford cars and vans. The 2009-model Ka city car and Ranger pick-up aren’t suitable, though: there’s too little space between driver and passenger sun visors.