Hot kit

Lens upgrade for high-spec Garmin dash cam

NEW PRODUCT Garmin Dash Cam 55 PLUS

MORE manufacturers are now selling dash cams with polarised lenses, a feature pioneered by test-winning brand Nextbase. Mapping giant Garmin is the latest to offer the tech, which helps to reduce the effects of glare from the sun, while adding a level of depth and colour to the footage that regular lenses often struggle to capture.

The Garmin Dash Cam 55 PLUS is an update to the existing 55. It still records the same, sharp 1140p footage at 30 frames per second. The 55 PLUS features a two-inch LCD screen to access menus and change settings, too, although owners can also use the brand’s Sensory Trulyhandsfree voice control feature to operate the camera.

Garmin includes several driver assistance features as well, such as forward collision warning and lane departure warning. It even offers red light and speed camera alerts to help drivers stay on the right side of the law.

A parking mode is also available, although drivers will have to add a cable, which is a £29.99 extra feature.

Built-in Wifi lets owners share footage with their smartphone, so they can easily send accident recordings to insurers. Where close-up photography is needed, the 3.7megapixel camera will help. Garmin says the 55 PLUS is sold “exclusively with Halfords”. Features 55 PLUS dash cam has polarised lens to reduce glare, and records in 1140p HD at 30fps. Spec includes forward collision alert

“Polarised lenses help to reduce glare, and add depth to the footage”