Garmin Drive Track 71 Discontinued

The Garmin DriveTrack 71 has officially been discontinued, marking the end of an era for in-vehicle dog tracking. Along with its predecessor, the DriveTrack 70, it was the first in-car navigation system to integrate with Garmin’s dog tracking handhelds, like the Alpha series. This innovation was a game-changer for hunters who relied on vehicles while tracking their dogs.

By pairing an Alpha handheld with a DriveTrack, users could view their dogs’ locations on a large 7-inch screen instead of the smaller 3-inch display of the handheld. The DriveTrack 71 not only made tracking easier but also provided turn-by-turn road navigation, making it an invaluable tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
I personally used the DriveTrack for several years as both my in-car navigation system and when running my dog tracking collars. You can even find a quote from me in the Garmin DriveTrack 71 Review blog we wrote when the DriveTrack 71 first launched.

Shortcomings of the DriveTrack Systems

Hunters quickly embraced the DriveTrack system, integrating it into their vehicles to improve tracking and navigation in the field. While the large screen and seamless pairing with Garmin handhelds were major advantages, one common complaint emerged—the lack of ruggedness.

Garmin designed the DriveTrack 70 and 71 based on their standard in-car navigation systems, meaning they were built for use inside passenger vehicles and never intended to withstand exposure to the elements. However, many hunters wanted to mount their DriveTrack units on ATVs, where dust, moisture, and rough terrain were constant challenges.

Garmin listened to this feedback and developed the Tread series—a lineup of navigation systems built from the ground up for off-road environments. Designed with durability in mind, the Tread devices offer a more rugged alternative for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rise of the Tread Series

The Garmin Tread series was built to handle the rugged demands of off-road navigation, offering six different models with varying features and price points. The base model, with its 6-inch screen, is the closest thing to a direct replacement for the DriveTrack systems—though at nearly double the price. That’s the cost of increased durability and a 7-hour battery life without needing to stay plugged in.

At the top of the lineup sits the Tread XL Overland Edition, boasting a massive 10-inch display, a range-extending external antenna, and a host of advanced features. Of course, all that technology comes at a premium, with a hefty $1,499.99 price tag.

Garmin Alpha XL: A Standalone Solution for Tracking and Training

One limitation of all the navigation systems mentioned so far was that they required pairing with a Garmin handheld to communicate with dog tracking collars. Garmin listened to customer feedback and, in January, introduced the Garmin Alpha XL—a hybrid between the Alpha 300 and the Tread series.

The Alpha XL eliminates the need for a separate handheld, as it can pair directly with dog devices. This direct connection not only simplifies the setup but also allows for training commands to be sent directly from the large 10-inch screen, making it a true all-in-one solution for hunters and trainers.

Conclusion

It’s sad to see the DriveTrack 71 discontinued, especially given its affordability compared to newer options. However, we’re excited about the direction Garmin is taking with its latest devices. Garmin has clearly listened to feedback from both vendors and customers, shaping these new units to better serve hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Gone are the days of dog tracking systems being adapted from other Garmin product lines. Instead, we’re entering a new era of rugged, purpose-built devices designed specifically with hunters in mind.

Share Your Thoughts

What do you think about the direction Garmin is taking with its in-vehicle navigation systems for outdoor enthusiasts? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below.

Have you used any of the units mentioned in this blog? Share your experiences—we always appreciate feedback from fellow hunters and dog handlers.
Thank you for reading.

Upgrade with Our Trade-In Program!

If you're looking to upgrade from the discontinued DriveTrack 71 or any other tracking system, Lion Country Supply offers a trade-in program to help make the switch easier. We accept working or non-working e-collars, beeper collars, and tracking systems—regardless of brand or age. Trade in your old gear and apply its value toward a new GPS tracking system like the Garmin Tread series or the Alpha XL. Upgrade today and stay ahead with the latest technology built for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts!

Michael Cassatt
Director of Marketing, Lion Country Supply