Auto-Themed Holiday Gifts Range From Easy to Exotic
SANTA MONICA, California – Auto-themed holiday gift ideas abound this time of year, with online and local retailers making it easy to find just the right item in every price range.
Some of these are suitable for anyone on your list, like an emergency jump-starter, portable tire inflator, trunk organizer, Weathertech floor mats, priced from about $49.99, or a flashlight that doesn’t require batteries, such as the Forever Flashlight, with prices starting around $19.99.
Coupons for services like car washes, oil changes or auto detailing are sure to be appreciated, as are gasoline gift cards or a satellite radio subscription.
Then there are presents especially for those who are a bit fussy about the appearance of their vehicle, including Adam’s Leather & Interior Car Kit for $49,99, the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit for $74.99 and the Master Car Care Collection from Griot’s Garage, priced from $269-$299.
Although many newer vehicles feature the latest technology as either standard or optional equipment, many drivers of older cars don’t have access to this equipment. Items that can be added separately include portable GPS units, like the ones from Garmin and TomTom priced around $109 and up, as well as Bluetooth adapters, dash-mounted smartphone holders and Apple Watch mounts.
Brand loyalists might appreciate some useful gifts bearing the logo of their favorite make. These range from the simple and affordable, like a Ford Mustang hat or shirt for $9.95-$32.99, to more elaborate goodies, such as the Cadillac Bacchus Decanter Set at $215, Subaru’s Tool Box Refrigerator for$499 or a replica classic Ferrari steering wheel, priced at $4,550.
For the performance enthusiast on your list, consider an exotic car rental. Hertz offers such models as a BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and a Porsche Boxster or 911, with prices ranging from about $250 per day and up.
Even more glamorous vehicles are available from companies like Global Exotic Car Rentals, with locations in Chicago and Phoenix. Their fleet includes such models as a Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Huracan and a Bentley Continental GT, priced from around $899 to $1,799 per day.
Another nice gift for an enthusiast is a session at a performance driving school. For example, the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving offers a one-day course in a Chevrolet Corvette Z51 priced at $1,650, and the Skip Barber Racing School advertises its one-day High Performance Driving School for $1,600 in models that include a Mazda MX-5 Miata.
But the ultimate automotive holiday gift for someone very special would be a new vehicle.
At this time of year, manufacturers and individual dealers love to advertise their latest models topped by festive red ribbons. One well-established example is the traditional “Lexus December To Remember” campaign, featuring models like the LS sedan, RC coupe, RX SUV and the NX hybrid.
Whatever the vehicle of choice, generous gift-givers will want that giant red bow to cap off their present. And companies like the Car Bow Store, King Size Bows and the Dodson Group will be happy to oblige, with prices in the $26-$76 range.
Edmunds says: Anyone who drives a car would appreciate one of these gifts this holiday season, even if it’s not topped with a giant red bow.
