TomTom XXL 540 GPS unit

Bigger isn’t always better, but that hasn't stopped TomTom from releasing an extra-large version of the XL 340 GPS unit. The TomTom XXL 540 has a massive 5in screen, as well as IQ Routes technology, advanced lane guidance and the company's EasyPort mount system.

The main difference between the TomTom XL 340 and the aptly titled XXL 540 is the screen size. While the XXL 540 GPS unit boasts an extra-large 5in widescreen display, the XL 340 makes do with a 4.3in screen. This means there is plenty more real estate to display the simple TomTom maps, but the overall user experience remains similar. Despite the extra-large display, the TomTom XXL 540 is only as thick as its smaller counterpart. It retains the all black colour scheme of both the XL 340 and the ONE 140.

TomTom's EasyPort mount is used again to good effect. The mount has been designed to be left attached to the unit and folded flat after use. The circular lock means it's quick and easy to attach, and the design allows titling of the XXL 540 in multiple directions.

The TomTom XL 540's interface has seen only a slight refresh, and it remains effortless to use. Slightly smaller icons and a plain white background give the XXL 540 a more professional feel. A faster processor compared to previous ONE GPS units makes browsing menus and loading maps slightly snappier.

In addition to an address, the TomTom XXL 540 can navigate to a recent destination, a point of interest (POI), a postcode, a crossing or intersection, a saved favourite, a point on the map or a city centre. For traditional address entry you can choose between ABC, QWERTY and AZERTY keyboard layouts, and the extra-large screen is great for text input.

The IQ Routes technology used in the TomTom XXL 540 GPS unit is based on real-life user data rather than the traditional maximum speed method. It determines a route by considering all possible routes and then selecting the one that takes the least time, with the technology often trying to avoid main roads. The XXL 540 seemed to take the fastest route on some of our more frequently tested routes, but route calculation does take a little longer than previous models. In our experience, the XXL 540 generally still preferred to calculate routes using main roads rather than backstreets that are often slightly quicker.

The TomTom XXL 540 also comes with advanced lane guidance. On multilane roads, an icon in the bottom-left corner of the map screen highlights which lane you should be in, depending on your destination. At busy highway junctions this is enhanced by arrows indicating the lane direction combined with a static image of road signs. The signs are the same colour as the ones displayed on the road, in order to minimise confusion.

Live traffic capabilities are not included. The XXL 540 can only connect to the SUNA Traffic Channel if you purchase TomTom's TMC antenna ($159.95).

The TomTom XXL 540 has text-to-speech technology, which means that it speaks the names of streets as you approach them. The unit tends to struggle with longer street names and can only speak them using its British and American voices (there is an Australian voice, but it doesn't announce street names). The voice is clear and the XXL 540's speaker is fairly loud at its highest level, though not as deafening as the higher priced GO 750. The XXL 540 also comes with fixed speed and red-light camera warnings, school zone warnings and an over-speed alert.

The TomTom XXL 540 supports TomTom's Map Share feature. In addition to corrections and improvements to the maps being uploaded every month by other TomTom users, Map Share allows you to make adjustments to maps through the unit itself. Users can add their own POIs, update road changes, edit phone numbers and add new streets. You can then share this information with other TomTom users, uploading the changes via the included TomTom HOME software.

TomTom's 'Help Me' safety feature is also included. This displays information and allows you to navigate (either by car or on foot) to a multitude of services including police stations, hospitals, mechanics, public transport and pharmacies. It also includes first aid, traffic regulation, and repair and maintenance information.

Battery life is rated at up to three hours. As with the rest of the company's range of GPS unit, TomTom doesn't include an AC charger in the sales package, so you'll have to charge the XXL 540 via the included USB cable or in-car charger.

Stay up to date with the latest reviews. Sign up to GoodGearGuide’s Gear Daily newsletters

Follow GoodGearGuide on Twitter: @Goodgearguide