No question that its overkill for a VFR helicopter, but its the only game in town if you want "modern" avionics. Also, quite a few buttons to push on the Garmins as well.
Sagem is certainly an option, and has been installed in the Jet Ranger, 407, Eurocopter and Sikorsky helicopters. We are hoping that the new Aspen display can be field approved -- that will bring lots of capability for a $10k unit.
George