If you're looking to find your way there and back again, you'll benefit from a GPS satellite navigation system on the dashboard.

Rather than messing about with a paper street directory, GPS navigators include built-in maps for the entire country, making it easy to see where you are and where you're going. If you punch in a street address they'll quickly calculate the fastest route from your current location and then talk you through the journey.

What to look for

A nice big screen and sturdy windshield mount are obviously handy. Some GPS navigators automatically offer you a choice of two or more routes and even suggest nearby places to park. Once you're off and driving, you want the friendly voice to read the street names aloud rather than just saying "turn left in 50 metres".

SUNA Traffic Information

Also look for access to the SUNA Traffic Management Channel, which operates in most capital cities and warns of traffic congestion.

User friendly

It's the little things that make a difference. Most GPS navigators indicate points of interest along the route and some make it easy to search for the nearest hotel or petrol station. Others draw attention to speed cameras, school zones and upcoming lane changes. A few even use fancy 3D maps when driving through the centre of town. The more advanced GPS navigators learn from your driving habits so they'll start to pick up on your favourite shortcuts.

Bluetooth

Some GPS navigators double as a Bluetooth hands-free speaker for your mobile phone, so you can talk whilst keeping both hands on the wheel.

MP3 Player

They'll even play your MP3 music files, while a built-in FM transmitter lets you tune in with the car radio and listen through the car's speakers.