Gear & Gadgets
Tesla considers driverless cars; GM to build Cadillacs in Shanghai
(Tesla) Tesla's auto pilot future Tesla says it's considering adding driverless technology to its vehicles and may discuss the prospects for such systems with Google. Tesla's head, Elon Musk, says...
Prius, Cherokee add Qi charging pads; Sprinter updated for 2014
(Toyota) Wireless charging pads The Jeep Cherokee and Toyota Prius will offer optional Qi wireless charging pads in their 2014 models. The pads wirelessly charge smartphones placed upon them. The...
Use apps to hail taxi in Big Apple; Audi a co-star in 'Iron Man'
(Hailo) Cab-catching apps Visitors to New York City will soon be able to hail taxis using smartphone apps, now that a judge has ruled that a pilot program to test...
Honda Fit to become safer; Mirage unveiled as most fuel-efficient
(Honda) Honda crash system Honda says it will add its accident-avoidance system — the City-Brake Active System — on the 2014 Honda Fit, which goes on sale in Japan later...
Kia's Wonder Woman car made for charity; Subaru protecting pets
(Kia) Wonder Woman Kia Kia debuted a Wonder Woman-themed Sportage at the New York auto show last month. Several vehicles representing characters from the Justice League have been made as...
2014 Jeep Cherokee, Kia Soul ditch boxy look
(Jeep) Cherokee's big redesign The 2014 Cherokee SUV debuted this month at the New York auto show with a surprising design that ditches Jeep's traditional boxy look for a more...
Toyota unveils new Highlander; Daniel Craig paired with Range Rover Sport
(The Associated Press) Highlander unveiled Toyota debuted a new version of its Highlander last week at the New York auto show. The SUV is less boxy-looking and has richer materials...
Volvo introduces smart high beams; Wraith is powerful luxury from Rolls
(Volvo) High-beam technology Volvo recently debuted its Active High Beam Control, a system that detects oncoming cars and shades part of the high beam to avoid blinding other drivers. The...
Harley's Breakout debuts; Bentley to release fragrance line
(Harley-Davidson) Latest Harley Harley-Davidson last week debuted its Breakout motorcycle, a premium model designed to emphasize the engine and tires. It starts at $17,899. — NWautos staff (Bentley) Car smell...
Finalists for World Cars of the Year announced
(Jaguar) Award nominees The finalists for the World Cars of the Year were announced at the Geneva auto show last week. The winners will be given out at the New...
Company's Android designed to stay in car; book recalls GM turnaround
(Accel Telecom) Car phone Telecommunications company Accel Telecom has plans to launch an Android smartphone designed to remain in any car. The Voyager offers voice activation, an in-car 3G Wi-Fi...
MyLink mode offers driver privacy; Spotify will be option for Fords
(General Motors) Secret storage The 2014 Chevrolet Impala features a valet mode as part of its MyLink system, allowing drivers to shield personal items. The car's interactive touch-screen display doubles...
Alfa Romeo's American arrival coming in fall; talk to your Sonic, Spark
(Alfa Romeo) Brand returns The latest blueprint for Alfa Romeo's American resurrection calls for sales of the 4C sports coupe, a 2014 model (shown), to begin here in the fall....
Nissan introduces remade crossover; new Cadillac a plug-in milestone
(Nissan) Remade arrival Nissan introduced its remade crossover, the 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo (shown), last week at the Chicago Auto Show. Featuring nearly 100 revised components, including a 197-horsepower 1.6-liter...
Grand Cherokee to run on clean diesel; new Nuvi talks landmarks
(Chrysler) Diesel technology German-based technology supplier Bosch announced its clean-diesel technology will be featured in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee (shown). The vehicle's 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 is equipped with a...
CES shows off TuneIn in Spark; Dart to debut at Detroit auto show
(General Motors) Radio friendly At the International CES (Consumer Electronics Show), which ends today, Chevrolet showed how its MyLink Radio system will be able to play more than 70,000 stations...
Toyota readies for electronics show; app stops texting while driving
(Toyota) Safety peek Toyota will display its newest safety features that use autonomous technologies (shown) at the Consumer Electronics Show, which begins Tuesday in Las Vegas. The features are part...
Chrysler Motown edition in commercial; Toyota Avalon has Qi charging
(Chrysler) Motown star A new commercial titled "Who We Are" showcases the 2013 Chrysler 300 Motown Edition (shown) and features Motown founder Berry Gordy. It covers Gordy's journey from humble...
Nissan rewards innovative ideas; 'Artist' Caddy to be auctioned
(Nissan) Winning ideas A device that enables you to learn in your sleep and a low-cost system for improving health care in developing countries were the winning ideas from a...
Advice for safe holiday driving; Range Rover earns luxury kudos
Holiday reminder Forty percent of traffic fatalities during Christmas and New Year's involve a driver who is alcohol-impaired, compared to 28 percent for the rest of December, according to the...
Mazda entry is event's first diesel; vehicles honored for value
(Mazda) Diesel racer The racing version of the 2014 Mazda6 will make its motorsport debut at the Rolex 24 endurance race Jan. 26-27 in Florida. The car will be powered...
Cars.com names top redesigns; Corvette to have new logo
(Honda) Top redesigns The editors at Cars.com have named the Honda CR-V (shown) and Toyota Camry the top redesigned cars of 2012. The website ranked the winners not just on...
LA Auto Show debuts: RAV4 crossover, diesel Audis
(Toyota) RAV4 debut Toyota will stage the world premiere of its all-new 2013 RAV4 crossover at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week. It's expected to have a more stylish,...
Porsche has big LA Auto Show plans; Harley from tsunami displayed
(Porsche) Porsche debuts Porsche is planning a world premiere of a compact sports car at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 28. The company will also have its North...
Porsche expands Cayenne lineup; Bentley GT3 made for races
(Porsche) Porsche Turbo S Porsche is adding a Turbo S model to its Cayenne lineup. The SUV will get 550 horsepower, an increase of 50 hp from the Cayenne Turbo,...
New Corvette engine goes for power; locate vehicle with AAA service
(General Motors) Corvette engine A new high-tech V-8 engine will make the next-generation Chevrolet Corvette the quickest, most powerful and most efficient Corvette ever made, General Motors says. The 6.2-liter...
New NASCAR Camaro unveiled; Toyota makes HSN TV debut
(General Motors) Racing camaro Chevrolet has unveiled a new NASCAR Camaro it has been developing for nearly three years. The Camaro will make its first Nationwide Series appearance Feb. 23...
McLaren supercar debuts; Sonic driving game released
(McLaren) McLaren supercar McLaren debuted its new supercar, the P1, at the Paris auto show last week. All the body panels on the highly aerodynamic car are carbon fiber to...
Chevrolet introduces Trax; choices grow for Viper finishes
(General Motors) Chevy Trax Chevrolet premiered the all-new Trax, an edition of the Spark mini-car, at the ongoing Paris auto show. The global car is Chevrolet's first entry to the...
New Honda Accord and Nissan Sentra debut
(Honda) New accord Shoppers are getting their first chance to check out the redesigned Accord as Honda launches a crucial comeback push. The 2013 Accord is almost 4 inches shorter...
New Volkswagen Golf hatchback and redesigned Ford Fusion introduced
(Volkswagen) New golf Volkswagen will be showing the latest version of its mainstay Golf hatchback at the upcoming Paris Auto Show. The seventh edition doesn't look that different from the...
Mazda6 sedan gets a new look; Kia releases a limited edition
(Mazda) Redone mazda6 Mazda recently debuted its Mazda6 sedan at the Moscow auto show. It features a completely new look and is the first Mazda to use the company's energy...
Limited editions mark Harley's 110 years; Jaguar changes AWD
(Harley-Davidson ) Harley specials Harley-Davidson is releasing 110th Anniversary Editions for 10 of its motorcycle models. Each limited-edition model will be serialized and will feature exclusive paint and commemorative solid-bronze...
Cars star in new Discovery survival show; sporty Chevy Sonic coming
(Discovery) Car show In Discovery Channel's new show, "One Car Too Far," a former British Special Forces operative and an American car junkie get in survival situations and use whatever...
2013 Range Rover due in December; exclusive Audi R8 for U.S. only
(Land Rover) Rover debut Land Rover recently introduced the all-new 2013 Range Rover, featuring an all-aluminum body that makes it 32 percent lighter than the outgoing model. It's due out...
New Accord unveiled; MINI and Puma create fashion line
(Honda) Accord rollout Honda unveiled its new Accord sedan on Monday and began production at its Marysville, Ohio, factory. The new Accord has a fresh athletic look and nicer interior....
Mercedes to release 2013 GL; Audi allroad returns to market
(Mercedes-Benz) SUV launch Mercedes-Benz has launched the new-generation 2013 GL-Class SUV in the U.S. It's slightly longer, wider and taller than the previous version, and features new safety systems, including...
Lincoln MKZ price set; app adds hybrid-car service
(Ford) Lincoln pricing Ford says that the Lincoln MKZ will start at $35,925, $175 less than the Lexus ES 350, its main rival. The MKZ (shown) is the first in...
A debut from Lexus; report potholes with app
(Toyota) Lexus LS debut Lexus debuted its 2013 LS luxury sedans this week, including the first-ever LS 460 F Sport (shown). The model line has been restyled, and features the...
Aston Martin unveils Vanquish; app combines AAA features
(Aston Martin) New flagship Aston Martin has unveiled a luxury sports car: the Vanquish. The line's new flagship features an upgraded 6.0-liter V-12 engine and a design derived from the...
Ford Fiesta drive a hit on YouTube; Model T museum reopens
(DC Shoes) Extreme movie A video of driver Ken Block racing a 650-horsepower Ford Fiesta through the streets of San Francisco has racked up more than 15 million YouTube views...
Seinfeld and friends in cars; a life-size 'origami' Mustang
jerryseinfeld.com Funny car Jerry Seinfeld is debuting a Web series called "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" on Thursday. The interview show will feature Seinfeld's comedian friends as guests. In a...
New Chevy SUV slated; 'Need for Speed' goes to big screen
New Chevy General Motors plans to introduce a new small SUV called the Chevrolet Trax to its foreign product mix. The vehicle, which will be shown for the first...
A watch worthy of Carroll Shelby; car-battery minder
Shelby timepiece Still looking for an appropriately lavish ode to the late Carroll Shelby? Check out the limited-edition Shelby 1000 wristwatch designed by David Yurman. Only 150 will be...
An intriguing new look at VW's history; a load off your tailgate
VW history "The Extraordinary Life of Josef Ganz: The Jewish Engineer Behind Hitler's Volkswagen," by Paul Schilperoord, revisits the origin of the VW Beetle and profiles one of the...
'Hardbody' heads to Broadway; a pet that always behaves
(La Jolla Playhouse) 'Hardbody' musical The cult documentary "Hands on a Hardbody" has been made into a musical bound for Broadway. It's garnering good reviews in previews for its look...
Free Le Mans racing movie; back-seat organizer for kids' gear
Race movie Get a glimpse into the Audi car's dramatic win at the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans race in "Truth in 24 II: Every Second Counts." It's...
'Transformers' the ride; a guide for your summer road trip
Transformers 3D The $100 million "Transformers: The Ride — 3D" is now open at Universal Studios Hollywood. Visitors ride a transformer named Evac through a set enhanced by 3D...
Help seeing behind you; digital guides for travel with kids
Added safety The ReverseGUARD from American Road Products is an aftermarket backup warning system that uses sensors built into a license-plate frame to detect objects within a six- to...
A charger built for two; shoes fit for a Detroit auto worker
Mobile charger Charge multiple mobile devices at once with the Dual USB Car Charger by PureGear. It provides one amp of power per port for a speedy recharge. $20,...
Add cargo to your hitch; a chic use for recycled tires
Small hauler The Cargo Carrier with Ramp by Ultra Tow is a smaller alternative to a trailer. It fits a 2-inch receiver tube and has a 500-pound load capacity....
A cartoon based in futuristic Detroit; an app that fights traffic
Car 'toon The new animated Disney XD series "Motorcity" is set in an apocalyptic version of Detroit after it has been purchased by an evil billionaire. A group of...
A cardboard car fit for a snack; Porsche bike channels the 911
Tray cool These auto-replica serving trays from Classic Cruisers are a fun accessory for an auto-themed party. They're made out of cardboard and have enough room for a handful...
A screen for safer sniffing; remembering a champion driver
Dog guard Keep your window-loving pooch safely inside the car with a BreezeGuard Screen from MuttManagers, a company based out of Woodinville. The screen attaches easily and allows the...
An electric blanket for the road and a high-tech mileage tracker
Warmer nights Can't wait for summer to hit the camp sites? Take along a RoadPro 12-Volt Fleece Heated Blanket to bundle up under once the sun goes down. It...
Book dissects Mulally's influence on Ford; a Mini handbag
Ford recovery "American Icon: Alan Mulally and the Fight to Save Ford Motor Company," by Bryce G. Hoffman, takes a behind-the-scenes look at Mulally's leadership in Ford's recent economic...
Multi-head off-road tool kit and a fast fix for flats
Tool kit Before you start your spring off-road adventures, gear up with the All Terrain Recovery Tool Kit from Rugged Ridge. It includes four tool heads: a full-size shovel,...
GM's natural-gas trucks; high fashion made from a Lexus
(General Motors) Natural-gas trucks General Motors says it will offer the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD extended-cab pickups with a 6.0-liter, V-8 engine that can "seamlessly" transition between...
A Fiat 500 for little ones; new ways to show Detroit pride
Kiddie Fiat Give your kids a jolt of Italian cool with the Fiat 500 ride-on car by Motorama Jr. The battery-operated car goes up to 2.7 mph. $200, toysrus.com...
Headrest mount for iPad; movie posters with iconic autos
iPad mount The Wallee Headrest mount for iPad attaches to just one pillar of a headrest so it can be positioned between seats for shared viewing. It's also adjustable...
Demolition derby game released; Fiat book covers a dynasty
Twisted game "Twisted Metal" — a video game centered around a futuristic demolition derby — is now available for PlayStation 3. Drivers can do battle online or in multiplayer...
'Top Gear' spinoff comes to America; a cup-holder multiplier
'Gear' spinoff "Top Gear" fans will want to check out a new spinoff, "Richard Hammond's Crash Course," in which Hammond learns to drive giant machines with huge destructive potential....
Disney launching Cars Land; BMW app calls out great drives
(Disney) Cars Land Disney is opening a new area called Cars Land in June at California Adventure in Anaheim. The area will have three rides within a 12-acre space designed...
Gran Turismo gets extra large; Mustang Boss lore explored
Turismo upgrade "Gran Turismo 5: XL Edition" for PlayStation 3 has features such as new car-tuning settings, new NASCAR vehicles, better replay video control and support for more steering-wheel...
Facebook car game and RV GPS device
Car game The Car Town Facebook game allows you to build your own garage and swap services with friends. You can also race, customize old cars and buy new...
Winter driving help on your phone; rockin' seat covers
Winter help The free Winter Survival Kit app for smartphones helps motorists prepare for winter driving, and is a beacon when things go badly. It can pinpoint your location,...
Extra-long ice scraper and a look at the VW van
Extra reach The Thor ice scraper has a telescoping arm for better reach across wide wind- shields. It also features a front handle for added leverage and double blades...
Year of the Dragon Rolls and an app to stave off tickets
Fierce design In time for Chinese New Year this month, Rolls-Royce is unveiling a "Year of the Dragon" Phantom model with hand-embroidered dragons on the leather headrests and a...
A book all about Camaros and a toilet-paper roll built for speed
One fast read In "Camaro: Five Generations of Performance," Darwin Holmstrom updates his 2007 book on the first four generations of Chevrolet Camaros with a look at the latest...
A small-scale Ford and a pencil sharpener with power
Small scale A 1/18 scale model of the 1948 Ford F-1 Pickup from The Henry Ford museum recalls one of Ford's first postwar hits, and a vehicle that laid...
On-demand music player and a book about auto innovators
Mobile music The Grooveshark Car Kit by Livio combines the Grooveshark on-demand music service with a plug-and-play device that also offers hands-free calling and USB charging. Works with Android...
A big rig kids' book and Wi-Fi on the go
Night tale "Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site," by Sherri Duskey Rinker and Tom Lichtenheld, is a children's book that just might inspire your tot to go to sleep along with...
A phone case fit for a gearhead and the "Cars 2" racetrack app
Gasket case Inspired by the shape of a head gasket on a performance engine, the Gasket brushed aluminum iPhone case by id America comes in a range of sleek,...
'Mission: Impossible' gets a new star and a cup gets juiced
Movie star Tom Cruise's co-star in "Mission: Impossible: Ghost Protocol" is the futuristic BMW i8 extended-range hybrid. While the movie opens Dec. 21, the i8 won't show up in...
Call of Duty Jeep; Hot Wheels make Hall of Fame
Jeep on duty Jeep is releasing the 2012 Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition next month in conjunction with the popular video game. It's based on the Rubicon...
Ferrari racing wheel and text-stopping app
Race wheel A great gift for the racing gamer in your house, the Ferrari F1 Wheel Add-On by Thrustmaster is a life-size replica of the Ferrari 150° Italia wheel....
More Grand Theft Auto and easy ramp system
New grand theft Take-Two has confirmed that it's deep in development of the latest "Grand Theft Auto" video game. "Grand Theft Auto V" will return to California, taking place...
Classic beauties and auto performance app
Classic beauties ClassicCars.com and Hemmings Motor News have started an interactive photo gallery devoted to the beauty of classic vehicles. The photos can be searched by year, make and...
Smart vehicle starter and a Harley just for kids
Smart starter The My Secure Touch Biometric Vehicle Starter uses a fingerprint, pulse, blood pressure and body temperature to authorized access to your car. $600, skymall.com Kid's bike Start...
Alternative energy book and an auto chess set
Energy book "The Quest: Energy, Security, and the Remaking of the Modern World" is Daniel Yergin's follow-up to "The Prize," his Pulitzer Prize-winning look at the history of oil....
Lego Ford and foreign driving
Ford Lego Ford A full-size Ford Explorer made out of 380,000 Legos was recently transported to the new Legoland Florida theme park. The Lego SUV will be featured in front...
Driver racing game and portable power
Racing game The latest addition to the Driver video-game series, Driver: San Francisco, is now available for most gaming platforms. The game takes detective John Tanner to California for...
Salt racer and roaring engine wake-up
New York Times News Service Salt racer The new documentary "Boys of Bonneville: Racing on a Ribbon of Salt," celebrates the life of David Abbott Jenkins, who set more than...
Truck window screen and car roof luggage bag
Window screen The Clean Breeze Truck Rear Window Screen keeps dirt and bugs out of your cab, while letting fresh air in. It attaches with double-sided tape and fits...
Porsche gear and emergency kit
Porsche gear Just in time for back-to-school, Porsche has added the Kids' Trolley rolling suitcase to its Design Driver's Selection of products. It features the Porsche 911 Turbo, wheels...
Double charger and 'Once Upon a Car'
Double charger The Belkin Dual Auto Charger works with any device that charges via a USB cable, including Android phones and navigations devices. It has two USB ports and...
Custom keg fridges made locally and garage doors that close themselves
Classic fridge Get a keg fridge custom-painted to match your hot rod from Classic Kegerators. The Seattle company transforms vintage refrigerators into car-themed beer dispensers. $2,400 average, classickegerators.com The...
Sounds of Detroit and iPad holder for your car
(Chrysler) Detroit sounds The stirring gospel version of Eminem's "Lose Yourself," performed by Selected of God choir and featured in Chrsyler's "Imported From Detroit" ad campaign, is now available for...
Banishing blind spots and more bright ideas
Better sightlines Reduce your blind spot with the Autobahn Mirror. It sticks to the lower inside corner of your vehicle's windshield and offers a 4.75-inch convex surface and adjustable...
No Loss Tire Caps and a new Jiffy app
Locked in Keep track of your caps with No Loss Tire Caps. Their retaining straps keep them attached to the valve stem, even if you forget to screw them...
Virtual Ferrari racing and American highway history
Virtually real The Ferrari Virtual Academy race simulator for PCs uses the engineering schematics for last season's Formula One race car, down to the dials. Racers can choose from...
Keep your car cool; recycled motor oil
Cool your top Block the heat before it gets in your vehicle with the Cool Cap. It attaches to the outside of a wide variety of vehicles. An interior...
Key container and famous first cars
Contained keys The jingle of keys is silenced with the Keyport, a stainless steel holder for up to six keys. They come in a variety of colors, and have...
BMW on TV and race track wall art
BMW on TV Learn how BMW went from an aircraft-engine manufacturer to one of the most well-respected luxury carmakers in the world in CNBC's "BMW: A Driving Obsession," airing...
Bike carrier and mileage booster
Bike carrier Carry up to four bikes while maintaining easy entry to the trunk with the Thule 964 Revolver. It attaches to a trailer hitch and swings away from...
'Cars 2' and accident app
Cute cars "Cars 2," Pixar's follow-up to the hit animated movie "Cars," opens today for gearheads young and old. This time, the cars are embroiled in international espionage. Playing...
Anti-sleep car pilot and a great Indy 500 read
Snooze alarm The Anti Sleep Pilot sits on the dashboard and lets drivers know when it's time to pull over. The small puck beeps and glows at intervals, and...
One cleaner for all surfaces, car crosswords
Multi cleaner Ditch the three separate cleaners for your rubber, vinyl and leather surfaces for the new product Mothers VLR. It counts neatsoil and lanolin among its ingredients to...
General Motors' Comeback; garage floor mat
Comeback story Bob Lutz, the former vice chairman of General Motors, explains how he helped turn the company around in his book "Car Guys vs. Bean Counters: the Battle...
Video to go and Harley Hour
Video to go CruiseCam International's video camera mount attaches to a car head rest to capture your driving action on the track or a scenic road trip. The mount...
Trailer in a Bag and a musical speed-check
Compact trailer Trailer in a Bag is a Motorcycle/ATV trailer that weighs about 140 pounds and fit inside a duffel bag when not in use. It assembles without tools...
Golf organizer for your trunk, lumbar massage cushion for your back
Golf gear bag Keep your shoes, tees and balls organized with the Golf Trunk Organizer. The nylon zippered storage locker has adjustable compartments, stows flat and has a handle...
Gear ring and wireless tow lights
Moveable jewelry The stainless steel Gear Ring has miniature gears that revolve in unison when the outer rings are turned. It comes in 12 standard sizes. A sizing chart...
Hot-Rod book and smooth caster wheels
Hot-Rod book "Hot Rod Magazine: All the Covers" by Drew Hardin is a coffee-table book that looks back at the history of hot-rod culture through 61 years of covers...
Rest area locator and heavy-duty off-road rope
Rest area finder The "Pocket Truck Stop Guide," a popular reference for RVers and roadtrip fans, now includes rest areas and their amenities. $6, truckandtravel.com Power rope If you...
Wireless cellphone leash and Grip-Tite bolt sockets
Portable help Add a Zomm Wireless Leash to your key chain and never lose track of your cellphone again. The petite device vibrates if the phone gets too far...
Car cover and wheel brush
Car cover The Evolution car cover from Wolf Automotive is made from a soft, strong fabric that protects your car from dirt and dings. The ready-fit covers come in...
Folding car trailer and DIY detailing system
Folding trailer The Kendon Folding Car Trailer folds into a five-by-eight-foot area for easy storage on non-car show weekends. It also has LED taillights, loading ramps and plenty of...
Mud-cutting spray and cordless emergency tire inflator
Mud cutter Get your super muddy vehicle clean with less work with Slick Offroad Wash. Spray it on, let it soak a few minutes and grime comes off with...
Storable car lift and stationary vacuum
Storable lift The MaxJax lift can be set up in about 15 minutes and put away and stored when not in use. Maximum lift capacity is 6,000 pounds. Starting...
Racing car sculptures and Grit Guard
Small wonders Mark Maholm's racing car sculptures are unique and detailed pieces of art. Measuring more than two feet in length, they are extremely realistic, complete with drivers' faces....
Put your phone on your steering wheel; read about Can-Am cars
Heads up Put your phone closer to your line of sight with the GoSmart Clip, a smartphone holder that attaches to the steering wheel. An elastic strap holds it...
Sleek desk design and flexible lighting
Sleek design The Pitstop Racing Style Desk is made up of automotive components such as a strut tower brace, shock absorbers and braided-steel lines. $400, intro-techautomotive.com Light access The...
Protective shin guard and gentle rust remover
Shin guard Protect your shins from a knock on your trailer hitch with the Shin Shield. The polymer stays soft in the cold and installs between the ball and...
Maxtrax traction control and Camaro hood upgrade
Traction control Don't get stuck spinning your wheels in the snow again with the Maxtrax system. The lightweight nylon ramps have gripping teeth to grab tires and extra long...
Gas price finder and AAA Roadside apps, plus Tire Brite cleaner
Price finder Use the new GasBuddy smartphone app to find the best gas prices wherever you roam. The app can find your location via GPS or you can search...
Diagnostic app and Steve McQueen's cars
Diagnostic app The DashCommand app for the iPad allows the device to read your vehicle's horsepower, torque readings, fuel consumption and more. $50, palmerperformance.com Star's cars Take a look...
Weather planner and powerful car cleaner
Weather planner Website Weather Underground has added a feature that overlays a Google map with weather data predicted at the time of your travel. wunderground.com/roadtrip Powerful clean If you...
Camaro computer and hot rod stroller
Cool computer Give your computer more horsepower with the new Camaro computer from PC Rides. An Intel-based computer is integrated into a Camaro replica, complete with working headlights and...
Royal Purple synthetic oil; wireless iPod player for your car
Better oil Royal Purple synthetic oil has been shown through independent testing to provide better power and fuel savings over other synthetics. Starting at $9, royalpurple.com iPod player The...
Automobile Quarterly and a handy wristband
Collector's mag Automobile Quarterly is a connoisseur's publication, highlighting past and present autos and automakers without advertising. $80 per year, autoquarterly.com Extra hand Never lose a bolt or nut...
Solar cellphone charger; garage plans for your car
Solar charger The Brunton Restore Portable Power Device can be a lifesaver if you need a cellphone charge away from a power source. Its solar panel can charge its...
Car part art and multi-use car positioners
Car part art California artist Steven Shaver turns items such as worn bearing shells, timing gears, license plates and transmissions (shown) into clocks, tables and more. Prices vary, stevenshaver.com...
Racing school programs and gear rings make autocentric holiday gifts
Racing discount Skip Barber Racing Schools are held throughout the country, featuring everything from new driver programs to high-performance racing seminars. Through Dec. 31, gift certificates are 15 percent...
Ferrari theme park and Ford Mustang Cuckoo Clock
Ferrari world A giant Ferrari logo tops the enormous Ferrari World, a newly opened theme park in the United Arab Emirates. More than 20 rides and attractions focus on...
Save your bumper, and put on your driving shoes
Bumper saver Stop scraping your car's front lip every time you leave your driveway with a Bridgit ramp system. Made from recycled tires, it's sturdy enough to withstand the...
A chassis warmer and a smart wrench
Chassis warmer If you're getting ready to put your classic into winter storage, consider the ChasiGard Classic Chassis Warmer, which provides a steady flow of warm air under the...
GPS picks from Consumer Reports, and Bionic driving gloves
GPS picks Consumer Reports looks at the GPS in its December issue, and recommends navigators in three price-points. $150 or less: Magellan Maestro 4350 ($150), TomTomOne140S ($100); $250 or...
"Top Gear" USA and Ford Mustang pool table
"Top Gear" USA A U.S. version of the popular British car show "Top Gear" will premiere on the History channel Nov. 21. It will follow a similar format as...
Car holiday cards and serious barbecue sauce from Hemi
Holiday cheer Mix Christmas and cars with hand-drawn holiday cards by Pedal Car Plus. Styles include classics, hot rods, motorcycles, race cars and more. $10-$12, pedalcarplus.com Powerful sauce Put...
Truck tool box alarm and race car wheel replicas
Truck alarm A Tool Box Alarm from Doberman Security adds a 100-decibel alarm to your truck's storage box. It comes with a remote control and warning sticker to deter...
The perfect garage stool and antique auto battery reproductions
Perfect perch A lightweight, aluminum stool from OMF Performance adds a nice industrial touch to any garage. The legs can be left in their natural raw state or custom...
Hot Wheels drag racing and green car cleaners
Mini drag racing Race your Hot Wheels down a 17-foot track, complete with "Christmas tree" starting lights, a finish line tower, sound effects and a digital timer for each...
Back seat cover for pets and national car auction info online
Pet guard Keep your back seat clear of pet hair with the Eddie Bauer Back Seat Car Cover. The cushioned cover is machine-washable and can be monogrammed. $100, eddiebauer.com...
Universal wiper kit and car wash gift basket
Universal wiper As you build your winter emergency kit, consider the E-Blade by Jamak Fabrication. A faulty wiper blade can be replaced in a flash with the kit, which...
Filters for your tailpipe and GoClaws for winter
Tailpipe filter The makers of the Blade tailpipe filter say adding one to your vehicle can help reduce particulate matter by catching it in its internal filter. $200, bladeyourride.com...
NASCAR reality show and classic car couches
Reality show The new BET reality show "Changing Lanes" chronicles 10 young female and minority racers in NASCAR's Drive for Diversity program as they compete for four spots on...
Receiver-step-hitch combo; fun hotrod sculptures
Step it up Turn your hitch into a handy step with this combination receiver and welded-on Step Bumper Hitch. The class III receiver accepts a two-inch square ball mount....
Pedal car retro roadster for little kids, diecast toy Beetle for big kids
Toy for tots Your kid can be the coolest on the block with a Pedal Car Co. "Deuce Coupe" roadster, a child-sized 1932 Ford hotrod. There's even a trunk...
Hot Wheels toy radar gun, and engine replica nightlight
Toy gun The Hot Wheels Radar Gun will measure the speed your toy cars can achieve, either in 1/64th scale (the size Hot Wheels cars) or in full-scale miles...
Off-road camper trailer and car vent air freshener
Off-road trailer Jeep's new Extreme Trail Edition camper is one of the first off-road camper trailers, with 35-inch mud terrain tires, 15 inches of ground clearance, a full-underbody skid...
Retro banner art spices up your garage; car catch-all contains your clutter
Retro art Spice up your garage with a vinyl banner by Unusual Automotive Solutions. Banners feature Chrysler advertisements and dealer displays from the late 1960s and early '70s. $36,...
Cool T-shirts celebrate racetracks and Oakley's sunglasses decrease glare
Race tees Morgan's and Phillip's vintage-inspired T-shirts celebrate defunct U.S. racetracks, including the legendary Riverside Raceway, Ontario Motor Speedway and Elsinore. $25-$40, morgansandphillips.net New shades Oakley's new Fuel Cell...
Road Trip Bingo game app for iPad and portable car vacuum
Car game Your kids will watch out the car window with great interest when playing "Road-Trip-Bingo" on the iPad. The app's bingo boards are full of things you might...
Racing chairs for your home and brighter headlights for your car
Car seat Does your man cave need a new seat? Check out a Racing Chair from On The Edge Marketing. They come in an assortment of colors and include...
Colorful shift knobs and edible NASCAR-themed arrangements
Sweet shifter Spice up your shifter with a new knob from the Gennie Shifter company. The Rock Candy Shift Knob collection features 20 different brightly colored knobs in a...
License plate travel game and car food tray
Travel game An old favorite gets an update with the U.S.A. License Plate Game. As your kids spot plates from around the country, they flip them over to keep...
Classic Bronco restoration parts and desktop shop toolbox
(Ford) Bronco parts Ford's expanding its restoration parts program to include its first truck-based body for restorers of the classic 1960s Bronco (shown above). Slated to come out this fall,...
The Ultimate Auto Trivia Game and classic car engine table lamp
Auto trivia Roll the dice and test your car knowledge with The Ultimate Auto Trivia Game. It contains questions on almost every auto ever made, including antiques, sports cars...
Cellphone reception booster and Macchina race car wheel tape dispenser
Phone booster You won't be putting that phone up to your ear anymore (the state's tougher cellphone laws took effect on June 10), so boost your voice reception with...
Key chain camera and biodegradable oil spill lifter
Handy cam Grab roadside photos -- or fender bender evidence -- with the Pro Series Mini Key Chain Camera. It can store up to 25 high-resolution images, and can...
Gloves with LED lights and furniture made from car parts
Handy gloves Protect your hands under the hood with gloves that also shed extra light on the problem. Memphis Multi-Task Gloves have an LED light on each index finger...
Wrap your way to a bug-free car; AAA roadside assistance finds you with GPS
Poly protection Wrap your way to a bug-free car with Road Wrap, a disposable, self-adhering, clear polyethylene film that sticks to your vehicle as if you were wrapping up...
Painting features Petty Superbird and gadget saver holds all your necessities
Petty painting Muscle car painter Michael Irvine's newest watercolor, Service Fit For A King, features NASCAR champion Richard Petty's Plymouth Superbird being serviced by his pit crew. Starting at...
Hot rod cooking grill and extended mirror views
Fast grilling Flip up this V8 engine's cylinder head and intake manifold assembly and you'll find a stainless-steel cooking surface with twin burners. Hot Rod Grills' propane-fired cooker also...
Pocket-sized tool gauges your tire tread; garage laser light helps you park
Tread tool Keep on top of your tire tread with the Milton S448 Tire Tread Depth Gauge. The pocket-sized tool measures wear, and can alert you to alignment and...
Temporary magnetic car art and convertible top cleaner
Car art The Sticars company looks at your car and sees a canvas for magnets. Its whimsical magnetic graphics include butterflies, aliens, skulls and flowers, which you can place...
A Portable Powerwash and bacteria-killing air conditioner cleaner
Porta washer April is National Car Care Month, so get a jump on spring cleaning with Frontgate's Portable Powerwash, a self-contained, battery-operated unit that comes with a 10-foot hose...
Emergency tool to escape submerged cars; wood liners for truck beds
Emergency tool Be prepared in an emergency with a ResQMe, which can help you escape if your vehicle becomes submerged under water. It attaches to your key chain and...
Original vintage auto posters and digital slot-car racer kits
Hangable history Add some decorative flair to your garage or den with promotional posters from historic auto events. The original art from Vintage Auto Posters dates from the early...
Easy-to-use armrest boosters and long-lasting, waterproof LED flares
Elbow boost If you need a little more lift on you armrest, try one of Auto Chic's boosters. They come in 2.5- or 3.5-inch heights, are available in six...
Sassy license-plate frames and emblems, and a book about the Yugo's rise and fall
DIY decoration Get a sassy, personalized look for your car with license plate frames and stick-on 3-D emblems from new California company, Luv Your Ride. For maximum impact, go...
A personal alcohol-monitoring kit and a rolling seat for working on your car
Sober reminder As St. Patrick's Day approaches, consider investing in a LifeGuard personal alcohol monitoring kit. The tester is simple to use and comes with hygienic slip-on mouthpieces, in...
A keychain modeled after a disc brake, and a helpful guide to buying a used car
Cool keychain Want a keychain with stopping power? A disc brake keychain will do the trick. The rotor rotates and it's etched to simulate braking marks. A ceramic disc...
Stackable, compact audio amplifiers and a windshield-wiper sharpener from Japan
Blade runner Before buying a new pair of wiper blades, give the Japanese company WiPal's Windshield Wiper Renewing Sharpener a shot. When the product is run along wiper blades...
A high-powered go-kart from Ferrari and a cooler made of a racing tire
Racing star Feel like a kid again with an adult-sized version of the Ferrari FXX Exclusive pedal go-kart. It features a seven-speed shifter and can support up to 250...
The Junko is a discreet trash bin; Wet Okole Hawaii's seat warmers are waterproof
Trash control Stash your trash with The Junko, a refuse bin disguised as a backpack. It can attach to the front or back of a headrest and contains disposable,...
Extra security for your bumper; a heads-up browsing device for your steering wheel
Bumper guard If you often park on the street and need to watch your back, try the Bumper Security System, a vinyl-covered, foam-backed guard that attaches to the back...
Jumper cables that are smarter than you; an iPhone racing game from Red Bull
Smart jump Hooking up battery booster cables incorrectly can damage your car, so make the process foolproof with Michelin's Smart Jumper Cables. The clamps can be attached to either...
Smart padlock makes your car key a multitasker; Harley goes pink for breast cancer
Easy lock Forgot your lock combination again? Try a Bolt Series padlock by Strattec, which opens with your car or truck key. Its automotive-style cylinder can be programmed to...
Skis with a Bentley pedigree and magnetic wristbands to keep small car parts close
Bentley skis If the luxury car they're affiliated with is any indication, the Zai for Bentley skis are sure to provide a smooth ride. The skis, handmade of carbon...
The Icedozer makes scraping easier and a new photo book celebrates auto design
Better scraper Scrape frost and ice from your windows more easily with the Icedozer, a flexible scraper and squeegee that conforms to the shape of your windshield. Its ice-breaking...
Stick Shift stoppers are vintage gadgets; rooftop carrier provides sleek storage
Cork it Pair your favorite wines with your favorite rides with beechwood Stick Shift Wine Stoppers featuring logos from Volkswagen, Alfa Romeo, Lotus and more. Complete the theme with...
Tool labels keep you organized; Remote Start warms your car up
Tool labels Never rummage through your tool cabinet again with Z-Calz, magnetic or stick-on decal labels that clearly show where each tool can be found. $20-$40. www.zcalz.com Car starter...
Safe, legal seating your pickup bed and a receiver that works with your iPod
Expanded seating Make it legal and safe to ride in the back of your pickup with the BedRyder system. A steel-tube frame bolted behind the cab holds two all-weather...
Reel in gear in your truck bed and never get lost in the parking garage again
Long reach Access gear in your pickup bed more easily with the Reach E-Z, a hooked rod that extends up to seven feet and can snag items weighing up...
Lamborghini inspires a phone and a new book chronicles a half century of Corvettes
One fast phone If you can't afford to buy your Lamborghini Murcielago lover the real thing, perhaps a phone inspired by the legendry auto will do. The MERIDIIST Automobili...
Turn your cell phone into a spare car key and win the frost battle with de-icer
Phone as key Want to remotely lock, unlock and start your car with your cell phone? There's now an app for that. The Viper SmartStart iPhone application works on...
Defeat on-the-go clutter with Truck Office and clean your car's nooks and crannies
Office space For high-end clutter control, check out the Truck Office, a system of latching compartments and roomy drawers designed for contractors and others who work out of their...
All you need to fix a flat tire and a truck bed cover with strength and good looks
Flat repair The Slime Powerspair is a 48-piece kit that includes everything you need to fix a flat tire, including a heavy-duty 12-volt compressor that will inflate most tires...
Add space and privacy to your vehicle and peruse mini replicas of classic racers
Extra space Add a little private space to your van or SUV with the Add-A-Cabana, a partial enclosure that fits over an open tailgate or lift gate. The nylon...
Seat covers adapt with the times and outboard strongbox holds a spare set of keys
Clean seats Side-impact airbags and child seats have put the kibosh on traditional seat covers. So when you want to slip a protective layer between you and the seat,...
Save loose change from between-the-seats oblivion and catch a car-building TV show
Loss blocker Stop loose change, fries and cell phones from getting lost between seats with the Drop Stop kit, which includes perfectly shaped neoprene blockers that snugly fit over...
Art that looks good coming or going and a better tool for cleaning your windshield
Wall hanging Put that hood to good use with California Car Cover Company's 3-D Hanging Shelves -- scaled-down versions of your favorite vehicle's front- or rear-end. Models include the...
Take a souped-up mouse for a spin around your desk and expand your rearview vision
Fast mouse Even while stuck in the office you can feel a little open-road freedom with a Road Mice mouse. There are models from General Motors, Ford, Lamborghini, Nissan,...
Road-trip navigation goes high-tech and cuff links sport an automotive theme
Mapping update Serious road trippers should check out the new version of Microsoft Streets & Trips, which now allows users to share trip details with friends and family, and...
DVDs offer an archive of televised car history and wrench design makes work easier
Cars on DVD Take a look back at classic car commercials, vintage racing films and historic TV programs via the DVDs offered by Historic Video Archives. Choose from options...
Web site lets you customize your Mustang and gadget gives you polishing power
Custom Mustang If the 9,224 possible accessory combinations on the 2010 Ford Mustang are a little overwhelming, check out Ford's online customizer. Up to four people can work on...
Give your garage floor a racetrack look and read up on Henry Ford and his empire
Custom flooring Spruce up your garage with RaceDeck's snap-together plastic and metal flooring. Patterns are customizable and there's no surface preparation needed before you lay it down. Design a...
Thirsty microfiber towel won't scratch and foam cushions protect doors from dings
Super towel Meguiar's supersoft Water Magnet drying towel is made from an exclusive microfiber-in-a-waffle-weave pattern and has three times the absorbency of a regular terry-cloth towel. The microfiber and...
Touch up scratches with a portable paint shop and add desk space to your vehicle
Paint pens Touch up scratches more easily with AutoSharp Paint Pens by Auto Visuals. Each marker-style pen is filled to exactly match your vehicle's paint code. And the high-quality...
Take a mini classic dash for a spin and install a subtler stopper in the garage
Dashboard mini Get behind the wheel of classics like the '65 Mustang or '67 Corvette for a lot less with California Car Cover's one-sixth-scale dashboard replicas. They come with...
Clever accessory is a tailgate triumph and leather cleaners restore your seats
Tailgate add-on Get ready for football season with the Tailgate Cargo Box, an aluminum storage box that can carry up to 500 pounds off a standard hitch receiver. Once...
A practical grill travels with you and comedian Adam Carolla podcasts about cars
Grill box Practical and clever, the Tool Box Grill comes in coal and propane versions with two cooking surface sizes. The larger grill (shown) has a center-opening lid that...
A stylish, lightweight camper trailer and utensils for the mechanic in your life
RV light If you're looking for a camper trailer you can tow with a light truck or SUV, check out the T@B trailer, by Thor Industries. Made from aluminum...
Build a simpler model car with Paper Toys and keep your little one's car seat cool
Car cutouts Download and print a foldable DeLorean or Ferrari -- or maybe a school bus or London taxi -- for free from Paper Toys. All of the folds,...
Customize a model car or truck and spruce up for summer with a shiny new grille
Custom model Build your own scale-model custom car or truck at Ridemakerz' design center. The choices are nearly limitless, with assorted bodies, graphics, wheels, electronic engine sounds and light...
Become the Rembrandt of rides with painting DVDs and clip on sun protection
DIY DVDs Learn to do advanced vehicle-maintenance projects yourself with the PaintUcation series of instructional DVDs. The series covers topics such as color sanding, rust repair, detailing and body-panel...
Try out car restoration on a small scale and upgrade to superbright LED lights
Remodel game Thinking of getting into the restoration game? Try playing American Muscle Challenge first. It's a board game that challenges players to build and restore a classic vehicle....
Ford and Ferrari clash in a speed read and car lovers get their own coffee blends
Fast read A.J. Baime's new book, "Go Like Hell: Ford, Ferrari, and Their Battle for Speed and Glory at Le Mans," centers around the quest by Henry Ford II...
Knee Blades aid weekend mechanics and artist gives new life to worn-out auto parts
Knee pads Save your knees with Knee Blades, pads that cushion and support you with injection-molded soft gel material. Three swiveling wheels aid speedy movement around your ride. About...
Cover up quickly, improve your car's acoustics and boost your tie-down capability
Half-slip The compact, easy-to-manage iCover is a great alternative to full-size car covers for short-term protection. It shields the interior from direct sunlight, keeping it cool, and hides valuables...
Sleek driving shoes, a digital gauge for old-school rides and Insight's bright ad
Racing shoe Even if you're not a racer, you can still appreciate the anti-skid thin sole that provides great pedal "feel" when driving, as well as the out-of-the-car styling...
Flashlight makes a compact emergency kit and third brake light fills your hitch
Security kit Life Gear's wind-up flashlight not only provides up to an hour of light from one minute of cranking, its four power options can also be used to...
Charge your mobile devices on the go and splash out on a thoroughly modern classic
iPod extender Extend the life of your iPhone or mp3 player on the road with the Duracell USB Charger, a USB charging port that plugs right into the car's...
New products from TAG Heuer and Scrublades improve your vision on the road
Night vision The low-light lenses in the Night Vision Driving Glasses from TAG Heuer were developed for professional racers competing in the French 24 Hours of Le Mans, but...
The perfect grill for tailgate parties and a car towel that protects your hands
Car grill The ultimate tailgate accessory has to be The Barbecue 'Vette, a grill that looks just like the rear end of the Chevrolet sports car, complete with exhaust...
Have a seat while washing the car and stay cozy when you're on the road
Back saver Save your back with the Step2 Company's Rugged Roll Work Seat, a durable stool and tool caddy that can support up to 250 pounds, rolls on large...
Outfit your ride for spring with a Jeep roll-back canopy and taillight shades
Drop top Celebrate spring with Bestop, Inc.'s Trektop, made for several Jeep Wrangler models. The soft top has a roll-back canopy that provides an open-air experience, exposing the front...
Keep stainless-steel parts looking new and prop up your hood with hydraulic struts
Steel shine Keep your stainless-steel parts looking brand new with Borla's cleaner/restorer/polish that cuts through layers of dulling oxides to restore finish and protect against tarnish. $20, borla.com Hood...
The smart design of all-terrain floor liners keeps your Jeep tidy
Dirt protection The grippy, deep-treads and high perimeter walls of Omix-Ada's All-Terrain Floor Liners (made especially for Jeep Wranglers) helps contain and channel away the goop that's part of...
McQueen's Bullitt car gets cut down to size and Cargo Sock has your back
Speeding Bullitt If the nine-minute chase scene in the Steve McQueen classic "Bullitt" is one of your all-time favorites, lay on the gas and order your own die-cast, 7.75-inch-long...
Purify your car's air while you drive and think pink with Garmin's GPS
Cleaner car air Clean your car's air with Filter Stream Products' Auto AirTamer, a filterless air purifier that plugs into a 12-volt power socket and uses the car's air...
A space-saving utility trailer, a rolling light show and a quick end to pet hair
Spare room When a utility trailer is not in use transporting classic, racing or off-road vehicles, it can take up a lot of space. Kendon Industries solves that problem...
The right muffler, tricked-out strollers and a foolproof tire pressure gauge
Muffle it Corsa db series mufflers are precision pieces made for specific makes, models and even years. You'll never buy a generic muffler again after you hear -- or...
Fuel efficiency tracking, chocolate chassis and armrests for windows-down weather
Fuel-obsessed When you plug the Ecometer from Auto Meter Products into your car, a compact gauge lets you know how fuel efficient your driving is in real-time. Stay in...
Make your horn sing, convert to Lambo style doors and ride on energy-saving tires
New tune Customize your honk with the Horntones FX-550, which accepts and plays mp3 sound clips through its loudspeaker that installs under the hood of the vehicle. About $300,...
Hot hoods, online repair advice and help corralling the junk in your trunk
Pop top Even if your Mustang isn't top of the line, your hood can be. APM Automotive's fiberglass hoods are ready to be painted or can be ordered prepainted...
Auto-audio amplifiers, CarChip data collection and cool tool storage
Speak up Celebrity car designer Chip Foose has applied his styling magic to the "FD Series by Arc Audio," a selection of auto-audio amplifiers and speakers designed to integrate...
