Garmin readies 3 new GPS systems

Hot off the press, Garmin announced three new GPS systems from its 200 series. Each of these new releases come with a 3.5″ touchscreen display and turn-by-turn voice prompted directions, differentiated only by the amount of NAVTEQ map data installed within. The nüvi 200 comes with only maps of the contiguous U.S., while the nüvi 250 throws in Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and Puerto Rico as well. Well-heeled travelers will have to pick up the nüvi 270 since it comes with the aforementioned maps in addition to mapping data for over 30 European countries. The nüvi 200, 250, and 270 will retail for $400, $500, and $600 respectively. There is no word on their release, but my deadpan crystal ball says it will be within this year.