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    Tested: 2008 Porsche Cayenne S

    From the September 2007 issue of Car and Driver.
    Porsche’s Cayenne, the Porsche so few enthusiasts get but many consumers buy, receives more than just a face lift for 2008. Evidence confirms HGH use—that’s “hefty gains in horsepower”—but Porsche has done nothing unethical. There’s a slight enlargement, to 4.8 liters (from 4.5), direct injection, and the addition of Porsche’s VarioCam Plus variable valve timing and lift. After all these changes, the V-8 in a Porsche Cayenne S now puts out 385 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, gains of 45 horsepower and 59 pound-feet. Although those figures won’t grab any headlines, they are gains of 13 and 16 percent, respectively, which is way more than some people here would ever tip.

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    With the extra power underhood being channeled to all four wheels through Porsche’s standard all-wheel-drive system, we recorded 0-to-60 mph in six ticks flat and the quarter-mile in 14.5 seconds at 98 mph, figures that beat the old Cayenne S by 0.6 second to 60 and 0.5 second and 5 mph in the quarter.
    Those numbers comfortably pad the $35,800 premium the true lunatic pays for a 500-hp Cayenne Turbo—which will perform the 0-to-60 and quarter-mile feats in 4.8 and 13.3 seconds at 107 mph—but they also represent a noticeable gain from behind the wheel over the performance of the outgoing car. This was a necessary improvement considering Mercedes-Benz’s new 382-hp ML550 will sprint to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and costs some $5500 less. If an ML and a Cayenne ever find themselves side by side at a red light, we can only assume egos will be clashing conservatively, meaning the 5-to-60-mph rolling start will probably be the more important number. Advantage: Mercedes. So you might want to think twice about that Turbo.
    Also new for 2008 is the optional $3510 Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, which consists of a pair of active anti-roll bars meant to counteract body roll. A recent Cayenne Turbo we tested had this system (and summer-only 21-inch tires) and recorded 0.90 g on our skidpad, which seems to pretty well define the limit of what a vehicle this size is capable of.

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    This S model did without the bars had lesser all-season rubber and managed 0.82 g, a figure that is still superb for a 5351-pound sport-ute. If you’re a big-league on-ramp bomber really looking to absolutely terrify the wife and kids, though, PDCC might be worth the cash.
    Inside the Cayenne, not much has changed. Actually, nothing at all has changed beyond the availability of new leather. Our tester did not have that option, and we were unable to evaluate it. So sad. It did, however, have a nav system ($3070), an adjustable air suspension ($2990), and a sunroof ($1190), among other options that pushed our as-tested price past $70,000.

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    Keep the options in check, though, and a base 2008 Cayenne S is only $780 more than the previous gen. That’s just $17.33 per additional horse, which is some of the cheapest horsepower anywhere on the market, even if it is heavy horsepower.

    Specifications

    SPECIFICATIONS
    2008 Porsche Cayenne S
    VEHICLE TYPE Front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door wagon
    PRICE AS TESTED $70,025 (base price: $58,795)
    ENGINE TYPE DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injectionDisplacement: 293 cu in, 4806ccPower (SAE net): 385 bhp @ 6200 rpmTorque (SAE net): 369 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic with manumatic shifting
    DIMENSIONSWheelbase: 112.4 inLength: 188.9 inWidth: 75.9Height: 66.9Curb weight: 5351 lb
    C/D TEST RESULTS Zero to 60 mph: 6.0 secZero to 100 mph: 15.2 secZero to 130 mph: 29.7 secStreet start, 5-60 mph: 6.8 secStanding ¼-mile: 14.5 sec @ 98 mphTop speed (drag limited, mfr’s claim): 155 mphBraking, 70-0 mph: 175 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.82 g
    FUEL ECONOMYEPA city/highway driving: 13/19 mpgC/D observed: 15 mpg

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    2021 Ferrari Roma Can Run as Well as It Can Pose

    Ferrari isn’t a brand known for subtlety. So, what are we to make of the Ferrari Roma, a car that Ferrari says is built for a buyer that “doesn’t want to show off.”
    Although the Roma is based on the front-engine Portofino convertible, this new coupe doesn’t appear to share much with it at first glance. The Roma’s flowing lines recall Ferrari’s GT cars of the 1960s more than the edgier stuff of late. Of course, there are modern elements such as the perforated grille, the slim headlights, and the futuristic taillights. The mix of modern and retro continues inside. While mid-engine Ferraris reduce the center console to a minimum, the Roma has a distinct area for both the driver and the front passenger separated by a massive center section. There are two rear seats, too, which can work for adults on short distances, provided the front seats are not pushed back too far.

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    Ferrari

    Up Close with the Ferrari Roma

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    Ferrari’s latest ergonomic decisions are present here. The steering wheel contains the turn signals and the small manettino dial to select the stability-control mode. Beyond the steering wheel is a large digital display that can be configured in a number of ways, including a traditional round tachometer.
    Firing up the engine requires touching a capacitive switch on the steering wheel. A light touch ignites a raging fire within the 612-hp twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V-8. Based on the Portofino’s engine, the changes for the Roma include a fatter torque curve and 21 more horsepower. The dual-clutch automatic is an eight speed to the Portofino’s seven.
    Driven moderately, the Roma is a superb cruiser that doesn’t really tempt the driver to hunt down and pass every other car on the road. Rather, it invites the driver to relax and enjoy the opulent surroundings and the sweet song of the V-8. The eight-speed dual-clutch automatic shifts quickly and unobtrusively, although it is too eager to select the highest possible gear.

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    Ferrari

    When you decide to drive fast, the Roma turns into a serious, extremely powerful sports car. The turbos spool up quickly, and the engine races up to its 7500-rpm redline. Gear changes let off a delightful popping report, and speed builds so quickly that you will constantly underestimate the pace at which you are charging down the highway and through the corners. We predict a 2.9-second time to 60 mph, and Ferrari claims a vague “over 199 mph” top speed.
    For this test drive, Ferrari selected a route with unusually low-friction pavement. This turned into an advantage as it allowed us to sample the Roma’s agile yet ultimately manageable handling at the limits of adhesion at relatively civil speeds. Steering effort is lighter than you might expect, but the steering manages to convey the feedback that has gone missing in many modern cars. Turn-in is satisfyingly precise and direct.
    If a Ferrari appeals to you but you have found the current lineup to be a bit immature and overtly aggressive, the Roma may be just right. Priced at $222,620, it is only slightly more expensive than the Portofino. As a grand tourer, it will compete with the similarly priced and equally mature Aston Martin DB11, Bentley Continental GT, and possibly even the Porsche 911 Turbo. We enjoyed it on its Italian home turf, and we think it’ll be just as much at home in Orange County or Miami Beach.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2021 Ferrari Roma
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2+2-passenger, 2-door coupe
    BASE PRICE $222,620
    ENGINE TYPE twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 235 in3, 3855 cm3Power 612 hp @ 7500 rpmTorque 561 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 105.1 inLength: 183.3 inWidth: 77.7 inHeight: 51.2 inTrunk volume: 10 ft3Curb weight (C/D est): 3700 lb
    PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 2.9 sec100 mph: 6.6 sec1/4 mile: 10.7 secTop speed: 199 mph
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 19/17/22 mpg

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    A Legend Revived: GTO Engineering's Ferrari 250 GT SWB Competizione Replica

    Objective reporting can only carry you so far when it comes to a car like the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione. But as it’s one of the most venerated and valuable cars of the late 1950s and early ’60s, it’s hard to do anything else. Calm, rational analysis is near impossible, not least because of the considerable difficulty in persuading somebody to lend you one.

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    The faster and prettier versions of the Ferrari 250 sit right at the top of the automotive pantheon. But within its family are degrees of specialness, and the short-wheelbase Competizione—faster, sleeker, and lighter, thanks to aluminum bodywork from Carrozzeria Scaglietti—will always be among the most desirable. It’s not quite at the level of the 1962 to ’64 250 GTOs that billionaires fight over—one of which sold for $70 million in 2018. But to land a good original example of one of the 74 aluminum-bodied GT SWBs, you’ll still need a budget that runs into eight figures.

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    GTO Engineering

    Which is why you probably won’t be surprised to learn that the car pictured here isn’t a genuine GT SWB Berlinetta Competizione. This is a near-perfect recreation, built by GTO Engineering in the United Kingdom with almost every detail correct except the provenance that wins big concours prizes. It has been given some non-standard updates and modifications, but only ones that most of the supreme originals have acquired over their long, interesting lives.
    GTO Engineering’s managing director, Mark Lyon, knows plenty about such alterations and also the fine line that divides the heirloom-grade period cars from the replicas. His company frequently works on early 250s alongside its recreations such as this one. Most originals now have replacement engines, especially those that race, with original V-12s carefully preserved elsewhere. “You’d be a little mad not to,” Lyon said, “as one catastrophic failure is going to take 25 percent off the value of a numbers-matching car.”
    GTO’s Revival cars are designed to be driven and used. They take the legal identity of what are normally basket-case Ferraris from the same period, most often 330s or 365s, and are then rebuilt with a new chassis, bodywork, and a fresh V-12 engine. In the case of the GT SWB, that means hand-formed aluminum bodywork, with the big change being an effectively invisible one: GTO Engineering rolls the panels rather than hammer-beating them as Scagletti’s craftsmen did.

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    GTO Engineering

    Buyers can opt for a variety of non-period modifications. Air conditioning is a popular upgrade for those planning long road trips, as are bespoke audio systems for those who don’t regard the sounds made by a high-revving V-12 as sufficiently entertaining. Yet it is also possible to specify a car to be effectively identical to an original and for a sizeable discount. This will be the only time a car with a roughly $1-million starting price gets described as a bargain.
    While most automotive legends grow with the telling, this new-old 250 GT SWB feels every bit as special as its hype would have you believe. The GT Competizione employed a 3.0-liter version of Ferrari’s Colombo V-12, one that made around 240 horsepower. Adjusted for technological inflation, that’s about 1000 horses in 2020 terms. GTO Engineering builds a new-old V-12 for each Revival, which they say takes 300 man-hours apiece, with displacement options of 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0 liters. The buyer of the car we borrowed specified a 3.5-liter engine—a popular and permitted upgrade in some historic racing categories—which bumps the output to 315 horses. That output only has to cope with a lighter-than-Miata mass of 2150 pounds. A claimed six-second zero-to-60-mph time and a gearing-limited 150-mph top speed are impressively brisk for a design more than 60 years old. While it might not be any quicker than a modern hot hatchback, we are entirely certain that nothing sounds as good as a hard-working 250 GT.

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    GTO Engineering

    Ferrari’s old V-12 is special in a way that modern engines just aren’t. The idle is loud and lumpy, with even the gentlest throttle input sending the revs soaring. Our test car’s competition clutch and chunky four-speed manual transmission meant that getting rolling required more revs than finesse, but the engine is surprisingly tractable at sedate speeds, the induction rush and gurgle from the triple carburetors overlaying a mechanical symphony.
    But gentle use is not the point of a car like this. Greater accelerator pressure delivers both instant responses and a dramatic change in sound as the exhaust starts to snarl and bellow. It doesn’t wail like modern Ferraris; the sound is rorty and angrier and utterly compelling. The fury of its top end was savage enough to have us doubting the numbers on the tachometer. Shifting up at 6000 rpm felt daring, and it took most of the half day we spent driving the car to build up to the indicated 7400-rpm redline.

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    GTO Engineering

    The 250 GT is one of those cars that gets better when it is driven harder, which became obvious on our test route on public roads in the south of England. The long-throw shifter of the four-speed manual becomes more accurate when moved firmly and decisively. The four-wheel disc brakes—a first for Ferrari at the time—feel mushy under gentle use but turn solid and forceful when you stand on the pedal. And the Avon tires—impossibly tall and narrow compared to the low-profile rubber of modern supercars—seem happiest at the edge of their adhesion.
    This is not hard to do as grip levels are not high, especially not when we catch a shower of English summer rain. The car we drove had been given a quicker 17:1 unassisted steering rack—another popular modification on original cars—which delivers both impressively quick responses and unambiguous feedback when the front axle runs short on grip. Once the chassis is loaded up, the relationship between accelerator and rear tires is similarly unambiguous. The GT can be powered to the breakaway point of traction, or even slightly beyond it, with ridiculous ease for something so expensive and exotic. We now know why the racing examples were so often photographed in opposite lock with grinning drivers.

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    GTO Engineering

    As you might expect, driving in the real world does bring some issues. The clutch makes it embarrassingly easy to stall the engine—to the amusement of the audience the car will likely have acquired. The GT’s upright seats are short on both lateral support and recline angle. Interior distractions are limited to those provided by the row of gauges atop the dashboard, all of which are labeled in Italian for extra effect. Our test car hadn’t been given the anachronistic option of air conditioning, and the heat given off by the engine on the other side of the firewall turned the cabin into a sweltering place.
    Replica cars are never going to be taken as seriously as those they copy, and that is especially true when it comes to Ferraris. Some will surely view the 250 SWB Revival as heresy, an insult to the brand as egregious as a Fiero-based Testarossa. Yet, barring its price and its lack of qualifications to enter some of the snootier historic racing series, this really does feel like the real thing. If only all tribute acts were this good.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2021 GTO Engineering 250 SWB Revival
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door coupe
    BASE PRICE (EST) $1,000,000
    ENGINE SOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-12, 315 hp, 255 lb-ft
    TRANSMISSION 4-speed manual
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 94.5 inLength: 170.0 inWidth: 63.0 inHeight: 50.0 inCurb weight (C/D est): 2150 lb
    PERFORMANCE (MFR’S EST) 60 mph: 6.0 secTop speed: 150 mph

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    Tested: 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 Grows Up, Gets Better

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    With its raucous turbo four-cylinder and fiery performance, the compact CLA45 started off as the entry-level punk of Mercedes-AMG’s sedan range when it debuted for 2014. But much has changed as it enters its sophomore generation on Benz’s latest CLA-class platform, including the introduction of less-extreme A35 and CLA35 models at the bottom of AMG’s lineup. For the redesigned 2020 CLA45—and its 2021 GLA45 crossover sibling—evolution has allowed it to finally mature out of its adolescent hot-rod phase without losing its sports-car-like abilities.

    HIGHS: Big power with little lag, charismatic engine note, improved fuel economy, greater refinement.

    Keen eyes will notice that an S, which denotes the new 416-hp S model, is not included on our test car’s trunklid badge. While the S is available in other markets, buyers in the United States only get the standard tune for the hand-assembled M133 2.0-liter inline-four, which still benefits from a new twin-scroll turbocharger delivering more boost (30.1 psi versus the previous 26.1), revised internals, and a new port and direct fuel-injection system. Peak horsepower is now 382 at 6500 rpm, up from the previous CLA45’s 375 at 6000 rpm. Torque creeps up from 350 pound-feet at 2250 rpm to 354 at 4750 revs. The standard dual-clutch automatic transmission now has eight speeds instead of seven, and the updated 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system gains a torque-vectoring rear differential to help the car rotate around corners more easily.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    AMG CLA45 S Is a Bonkers Compact Sedan

    2021 GLA45 Shows AMG’s Wild Side

    A new front-axle disconnect allows for tail-out antics on the racetrack, provided you opt for our test car’s $4300 AMG Dynamic Plus package. Along with redundant steering-wheel-mounted controls for the drivetrain, chassis, stability control, and the overarching AMG Dynamics vehicle management system, this comprehensive bundle adds Race and Drift modes to the standard Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual setups. Dynamic Plus also brings a sportier suspension setup with adaptive dampers, larger brake rotors with red-painted calipers, a leather- and suede-wrapped AMG steering wheel, a 167-mph top-speed governor (up from 155 mph), an active performance exhaust and AMG’s Track Pace data-logging system.

    LOWS: No quicker than before, still pricey with options, fussy MBUX infotainment, no S model in the U.S.

    Our scales say that the second-gen CLA45 put on 180 pounds, thanks mostly to its added features and larger dimensions; it’s two inches wider than before and an inch longer both overall and in wheelbase. Yet, our 3743-pound test car posted roughly the same performance results of the last CLA45 we tested: a launch-control-enabled 3.7-second 60-mph time, 0.99-g grip on the skidpad, and a 154-foot stop from 70 mph. What’s more, despite the weight gain, our observed fuel economy jumped from 20 mpg to 24, and the return on our 75-mph highway test improved from 31 mpg to 34—a solid 5 mpg greater than the CLA45’s EPA estimate. Apparently that extra gear makes a big difference.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    Although the M133 four has a relatively high-rpm torque peak, AMG’s revisions make it impressively tractable and short on lag. Aided by the new transmission, its 5-to-60-mph time (5.1 seconds) is 0.2 second quicker than before. There’s a fair amount of clutch slippage from the transmission when setting off, as well as some clunky downshifts at low speeds around town. But the new dual-clutch box is otherwise ultrasharp and smartly programmed to downshift and hold gears when it should. Launch the CLA45 down the quarter-mile in Race mode and rapid upshifts come with firm kicks to your backside. Just don’t expect to beat an Audi RS3 in the other lane, as the CLA45’s 12.2-second pass at 114 mph can’t match the Audi’s high-11-second run.
    Our test car’s active exhaust produced plenty of snorts and pops when driven aggressively, pinging our sound meter with 90 decibels at full throttle in Race mode, up from the previous model’s 88 decibels. Leave the new car’s system in the standard mode, and it calls noticeably less attention to itself. But it’s way more fun to hit the loud button and take in the sweet growl from the new AMG 2.0-liter. Compared to the flat, buzzy engine note of most four-bangers, including the previous CLA45’s, there’s a pleasing richness to the updated engine’s tone that had us constantly searching out its 7000-rpm redline.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    The CLA45’s maturation is most significant in its chassis, which enjoys increased suspension travel and better isolation from the angry four-cylinder under the hood. Riding on short-sidewall 255/35R-19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires (18-inchers are a no-cost option), AMG’s compact sedan still rides poorly on rough roads when its dampers are in their stiffer settings. But there’s now enough flexibility and ride compliance to traverse smoother pavement without smacking the bump stops. The new CLA45 will relax a little if you want it to, something its predecessor simply never did. Body control through corners remains excellent, and the direct and firmly weighted steering does convey some feel as lateral forces build. Loads of grip from the sticky Michelins results in little of the stubborn understeer in tight corners that we generally expect from transverse-engine sports sedans.
    Take a seat in the CLA45’s firm, heavily bolstered AMG Performance thrones ($2690) and the new CLA’s extra width is as apparent as it is welcome. Along with a more accommodating back seat (although one that is still tight on headroom for taller riders), the overall environment feels much more inviting. No longer does every interior surface vibrate to the thrum of the engine, making it easier to enjoy a cabin fit for an entry-luxury car. You can still get your fill of red accents and contrast stitching, and red seatbelts remain standard. (Black belts are no charge.) But our example’s subdued grey-and-black upholstery and black wood trim looked restrained and sophisticated, complimenting the plentiful brightwork and vibrant 10.3-inch instrument and center displays. Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment system, with its center touchpad and tiny steering-wheel controllers, still requires more involvement to operate efficiently than we’d like. But ergonomics ultimately are not this AMG’s weak point.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    The CLA45’s greatest issue remains its pricing. The second-generation’s improvements and features have increased its entry point by $1700 over last year, to $55,795. However, all of our test car’s performance options—along with the $1700 Driver Assistance package, $1150 embedded navigation system, and more—inflated its window sticker to $73,850. At which point speed junkies will be more satisfied with AMG’s $69,095 C63 sedan and its 469-hp twin-turbo V-8. Stretch and you can land the 503-hp C63 S four-door for $76,695. But go easy on the CLA45’s upgrades and you’ll find that AMG’s punk is now a compelling small sports sedan, one that demands far fewer tradeoffs for its youthful exuberance.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA45 4Matic+
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
    PRICE AS TESTED $73,850 (base price: $55,795)
    ENGINE TYPE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injectionDisplacement 122 in3, 1991 cm3Power 382 hp @ 6500 rpmTorque 354 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
    CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): struts/multilinkBrakes (F/R): 13.8-in vented, cross-drilled disc/13.0-in vented, cross-drilled discTires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, 255/35R-19 (96Y) MO1
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 107.4 inLength: 184.8 inWidth: 72.0 inHeight: 56.3 inPassenger volume: 89 ft3Trunk volume: 12 ft3Curb weight: 3743 lb
    C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 3.7 sec100 mph: 9.1 sec130 mph: 16.4 sec150 mph: 24.3 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.1 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 2.4 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 3.1 sec1/4 mile: 12.2 sec @ 114 mphTop speed (mfr’s claim): 167 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 154 ftBraking, 100–0 mph: 311 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.99 gStanding-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec.
    C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 24 mpg75-mph highway driving: 34 mpgHighway range: 450 miles
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 23/26/29 mpg

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    2021 Callum Vanquish 25 by R-Reforged Updates an Iconic Aston

    The best car designers are undoubtedly great artists, but ones who are closer to sculptors than musicians. They rarely get the chance to revisit past triumphs or to bust out spectacular free-form riffs on earlier themes. Yet that’s what Ian Callum has managed with an updated and heavily revised version of one of his most famous cars, the 2001-2007 Aston Martin Vanquish.
    The process began a few years ago when Callum bought a Vanquish S. Up to that point, he didn’t actually own any examples of his own star-studded back catalog, and Vanquish values in the United Kingdom were rising at a rate that meant they would soon be unaffordable. He started to drive it regularly and was soon thinking, as he puts it, of how to give the car “the facelift it never had.”

    Aston Martin Vanquish

    Aston Martin V-12 Vanquish S

    Such plans were purely personal, but around that same time Callum was contemplating his departure as Jaguar’s design director. He began to discuss setting up a new company with a small group of other JLR veterans, and so the idea of an updated Vanquish gained obvious relevance. Having decided on a name for the new business—Callum—a comprehensive makeover of the Vanquish became its first project, with a plan to build a limited run of 25 cars.
    The original assumption was that well-heeled clients would send their aged steeds to be transformed, but that has only happened in a minority of cases. “For many of the buyers, it’s really not a case of either/or,” Callum’s engineering boss Adam Donfrancesco said. “They are getting one in addition to an existing Vanquish. They love the original car, but they want something a bit more special and more modern as well.” For customers who don’t already own a Vanquish, Callum will source one. The work is done at R-Reforged’s 30,000-square-foot Warwick, England, facility.

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    Callum

    While it is certainly justifiable to question the logic of spending roughly twice the price of a brand-new Aston DBS Superleggera on a restomod version of an older car, the up-close reality of Callum’s demonstrator is pretty stunning. Finished in Roxanne Red—Ian Callum loves ’70s pop-culture references—the car looks both familiar and new. While the core metalwork is unchanged, pretty much every external detail has been altered, from the shape of the grille and the addition of a sizeable rear diffuser (with new bumpers front and rear) to modern projector headlights and LED taillights. The updated car sits 0.4-inch lower than the original, with the wheels pushed out another 2.4 inches. And although the wheels are a very similar design to the original ones, they are larger at 20 inches front and rear.
    Changes in the cabin are more obvious. Callum admits he never liked the original car’s interior, and the alterations are closer to a full remodeling than a redecoration. There is a new carbon-fiber center stack with an integrated touchscreen interface, thus losing the first-generation Jaguar XK HVAC controls of the original car. The seats are new and positioned lower, and the new metal door handles are substantial. A Bremont mechanical watch is mounted to the top of the dashboard—it can be detached to be worn outside the car—and there’s a redesigned steering wheel with a narrower rim. The standards of fit and finish are obviously high, with the “deconstructed tartan” trim referencing Ian Callum’s Scottish roots. But the most exciting change is the presence of a manual gear selector between the seats.

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    Callum

    That’s because the original Vanquish was built with a roboticized automated single-clutch transmission of limited refinement and frequently snappy temperament. Callum is offering Vanquish 25 buyers the option to stick with that, change to a six-speed General Motors torque-converter automatic, or install the same manual conversion that Aston Martin Works has been offering as an approved upgrade for more than a decade.
    The manual gearbox brings both a heavy clutch pedal and a weighty shift action that requires careful aim to select the right gear. But it’s soon clear that accurate selection isn’t especially important given the potency of the naturally aspirated 5.9-liter V-12. The big 12 pulls cleanly from little more than idle and with the linearity lacking in a more modern turbocharged unit, muscle flexing harder as revs increase. Peak output increases by 60 horsepower over the original Vanquish S thanks to freer-flowing intake and exhaust systems and revised engine mapping, with the maximum 580 horsepower arriving at a sonorous 7000 rpm. On an empty, open road there is absolutely no desire to shift anywhere below that point.

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    Callum

    The Callum’s suspension actually feels softer than our distant memories of the hard-riding original Vanquish S, with the idea being to improve refinement while better managing the car’s mass with upgraded Bilstein dampers. Like the original car, this one does without electronically adjustable suspension, but the Bilsteins proved adept at keeping the car’s two-ton mass under tight discipline—even over a test route that included many of the fast but imperfectly surfaced roads frequently used by Aston and JLR’s development engineers. Stability is impressive at speed, which is fortunate because the dull-witted old traction control only intervenes after the rear axle has begun to slide. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires help deliver more grip than the Vanquish ever had, along with more progressive breakaway when you’re playing around at lower speeds. The steering is excellent—direct and bristling with a level of feedback that most modern electric systems seem determined to filter out. The new carbon-ceramic brakes, taken directly from Aston’s current lineup, offer relentless stopping power and good pedal feel. It’s very much an analog sports car.
    You will be unsurprised to hear that, in other areas, a car that was substantially developed during the 20th century is now feeling pretty old. At highway cruising speeds there is a lot of wind noise from the top of the windshield and also more road roar than would reach the cabin of a modern equivalent. Although lowered, the driving position still feels a mite too high, and taller occupants might struggle for headroom. The aftermarket touchscreen interface also lacks in smarts compared to the better OEM systems. We couldn’t stop it from admonishing us every time we transgressed a speed limit, even by a single mile per hour. It was a naggy day.
    The original Vanquish S cost $255,000 when we drove it back in 2004. The reimagined version costs the equivalent of $600,000 without the cost of a donor car, but that steep price hasn’t deterred several United States buyers we’re told have already ordered cars. Of course, you’d also have to pay substantially more to listen to the Rolling Stones live than you would have needed to when “Paint It Black” was freshly written. On that basis, the Callum Vanquish 25 is the equivalent of a personal concert in your own garage.
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    2020 Audi SQ8 Drives like a Discount Lamborghini Urus

    If you know where to look, you can find some great unadvertised deals on luxury and performance vehicles hidden within Volkswagen Group’s vast empire. Want nearly $5000 knocked off the price of an Audi A3? Buy a Volkswagen Golf GTI. The $154,350 Porsche Panamera Turbo does a passable imitation of the $207,825 Bentley Continental GT. And the new $89,995 Audi SQ8 SUV is a sort-of bargain Lamborghini Urus. Equal parts offensive firepower and rolling bunker, Audi’s new war wagon provides 90 percent of the experience of the wild Lambo at a discount of more than $100,000.

    RS Q8 is a Clumsy Name for a 591-HP SUV

    2020 Audi RS6 Avant Was Worth the Wait

    Both posh performance SUVs are powered by twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8s, built on Volkswagen’s MLB Evo architecture and armed with enough high-tech chassis hardware to make a school bus turn a credible Nürburgring lap. Pedants will point out that the upcoming 591-hp Audi RS Q8 gets you even closer to running with Lambo’s 641-hp bull, albeit for another $24,000. We say check your ego and pocket the change. The SQ8’s 500 horsepower and estimated 4.1-second assault on 60 mph will outrun almost anything you’ll line up against leaving the CrossFit parking lot.

    View Photos

    Audi

    The SQ8’s chassis is fortified with standard air springs, adaptive dampers, and rear-wheel steering. If you splurge on the $5900 Sport package that’s only available on the uplevel Prestige trim (and you probably should), Audi also includes active anti-roll bars and a torque-vectoring rear differential. All that electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical wizardry is handling black magic. The electric motors in the middles of the anti-roll bars hold the body flat in corners. By splitting the torque distribution between the right and left rear wheels unevenly, the trick diff can make this roughly 5400-pound ute turn in like a lithe and balanced sports car. It never pushes like the nose-heavy SUV that it is, nor does it ever hesitate to turn in. With front and rear-end grip neatly in sync, the SQ8 feels neither obstinate nor unstable. It simply always feels quick—in corners, on straights, and even when parked. What’s not to like? In Dynamic mode, it feels like the steering wheel resists your efforts to wind or unwind its lock as if the rack is filled with Krazy Glue.

    View Photos

    Audi

    The active chassis aids allow you to switch off the intensity at any time, at which point the SQ8 becomes a pleasantly mild-mannered cruiser, taking bumps and potholes in stride. Comfort mode also makes the steering feel more natural. Inside, the SQ8 is modern and techy with flat, glossy surfaces everywhere you look. However, between the digital instrument cluster and the two touchscreens, the cabin can feel a bit overwhelming if you already spend too much time staring at screens. The no-cost Arras Red leather upholstery and the immaculate diamond stitching on the seats of our test car went a long way in making the cabin feel less sterile.
    Audi makes a point of not calling the Q8 (and this S version) a crossover coupe. The Q8 wears a faster roofline than the Q7 it’s based on, but Audi designers exercised restraint so rear-seat headroom remains mostly intact. You can’t say the same about the BMW X6 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE coupe. The SQ8’s frameless windows seal against the door jams well, with highway wind noise successfully kept in check. If you have more people or a pile of stuff to move, Audi will happily steer you into the $85,795 SQ7, where you can choose between using the third-row of seats or the additional six cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. No matter which one you choose, though, you’re getting more cargo room than you would in the Urus.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2020 Audi SQ8
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
    BASE PRICE Premium Plus, $89,995; Prestige, $95,495
    ENGINE TYPE twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 244 in3, 3996 cm3Power 500 hp @ 5500 rpmTorque 568 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 117.9 inLength: 196.6 inWidth: 78.5 inHeight: 67.2 inPassenger volume: 105 ft3Cargo volume: 31 ft3Curb weight (C/D est): 5400 lb
    PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 4.1 sec100 mph: 10.0 sec1/4 mile: 12.5 secTop speed: 130–155 mph
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 17/15/21 mpg

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    The 10 Best Train Horn Kits to Buy 2020

    Let’s face it: some car horns aren’t loud enough. If your car horn isn’t loud enough, it can be a safety hazard. If you’re in a noisy area and other drivers can’t hear your horn, it can lead to an accident. Many people are quick to write off train horn kits as obnoxious and unnecessary, but they can save your life.
    Shopping for train horn kits can be tricky. First and foremost, train horn kits are commonly known as trumpet horns and air horns. This is because most train horn kits use an air compressor to project a loud sound, and they typically resemble a trumpet. If upgrading your factory-standard horn has been on your mind, read on.

    Factors to Consider When Shopping for Train Horn Kits
    There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for train horn kits. They all have different parts and require different installation processes. There are a few essential factors that tell you a lot about a train horn kit and what it has to offer.
    Voltage
    We’ll start with the voltage. Train horn kits come in a few different voltage settings. Luckily, most train horn kits run on 12-volt car batteries, and most vehicles use 12-volt batteries. Still, some batteries can reach up to 24 volts, so you’ll need a train horn kit that’s compatible. For this reason, you’ll come across products that run on both 12 and 24 volts. Be sure to know the voltage of your car battery before purchasing one of these kits.
    Decibels
    Decibels measure the noise level of a sound. For example, a sound that’s 150 decibels is louder than a sound that’s 100 decibels. This also applies to how far sound travels.
    OEM car horns, excluding commercial trucks, typically have horns that produce around 106 decibels. Train horns, on average, are 150 decibels. This sound level gives them the noise level of a train, which is why they’re referred to as train horn kits.
    Number of Horns
    While most train horn kits come with one trumpet-style horn, this isn’t always the case. You’ll come across train horn kits that come with more than one horn, and two or three horns are often better than one. Why? Because if you have more horns, there can be more bass and a more comprehensive range of tones. While more horns aren’t always louder, they’re better at projecting low and high tone sounds.
    High tone sounds are higher in pitch and travel across a shorter distance more effectively. High tone horns are great for short distances and alerting drivers in your vicinity. Low tone horns produce more bass, which carries the sound further. Low tone horns can also be heard from far away, but they’re not as loud. So, if you have a horn that can do both, it’s more useful than having a horn that produces only a single tone, as you can adapt to the situation you’re in.
    Installation
    Every vehicle is different, which makes it difficult to determine if you’ll be able to install a train horn kit on your own. The good news is that most products come with the parts you need, and they can fit different vehicle types. Still, some train horn kits are harder to install than others. We’ve grouped each train horn kit into one of three categories: beginner, advanced, and expert.
    Beginner
    Beginner horns are simple and straightforward products. Everything you need comes with the train horn kit, so you don’t need to worry about getting particular parts. Beginner train horn kits are also easy to mount and can be attached to different locations. With a beginner train horn kit, you won’t need much help, and it can be done in your driveway.
    Advanced
    Advanced train horn kits are more complicated. The compressor kits might require additional components, and they can take all day to install. Instead of needing an hour or two, advanced train horn kits require more care and attention. Still, advanced train horn kits come with everything you need and instructions, so you can still get it done on your own.
    Expert
    Expert level train horn kits are difficult to install, and if you don’t have automotive experience, it’s a good idea to seek professional help from an experienced mechanic. These train horn kits usually require additional components to install, and they’re more expensive. While they’re difficult to install, they’re often the best train horn kits you can find.
    Price
    Train horn kits have a wide price range. While many products are affordable, some products are expensive. A cheaper train horn kit is often one that doesn’t need an air compressor, and is less loud as a result. A more expensive kit is often better for larger commercial vehicles, but usually has the additional expense of needing extra parts or expert installation. To make your shopping experience more streamlined, we’ve grouped each train horn kit into one of three categories:
    $: Around $30
    $$: Around $75
    $$$ Around $100
    With these factors in mind, shopping for train horn kits should be more straightforward. If you want a more in depth look at the process, we have a full guide below that runs through everything in more detail. Now, we’re going to take you through the ten best train horn kits available and provide you with shopping tips along the way.

    Top 10 Best Train Horn Kits 2020

    1. Best Overall Train Horn Kit: GAMPRO 12V 150db Air Horn

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    Why we like it: The GAMPRO 12V 150db Air Horn is a well-rounded train horn kit that gives any vehicle an aggressive appearance. We love how it sounds as aggressive as it looks.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $
    Decibels: 150db
    Volts: 12V
    Horns: 1
    Installation: Advanced
    The GAMPRO Air Horn is a reliable and robust product. It’s made with high-quality materials, like chrome zinc, which is resistant to corrosion from harsh weather. This coating also keeps the horn safe from premature rusting. The chrome zinc coating can also be found on the compressor. Materials aside, it produces a mighty 150 decibel sound that other drivers can hear, even in noisy environments.
    It comes with everything you need right out of the box. All of the mounting hardware is included, and the installation process is simple. It can be mounted on most vehicles, but it’s more suitable for large trucks than it is for passenger cars or motorcycles.
    What Sets it Apart
    This kit is unique because of the chrome zinc coating. Many train horn kits use chrome horns, but zinc is not standard in less expensive products. So, seeing chrome zinc being used on an affordable train horn kit is nice to see.
    Things to Consider
    Although it’s excellent, it’s too big for motorcycles and passenger cars. It’s impossible to fit the horn under your hood, so you’ll need to mount it on your hood or roof. While this is acceptable on larger vehicles, it makes the horn look out of place on smaller vehicles. Plus, because of the black color, it stands out a lot.
    If you need a smaller and compact horn that can fit under your hood, the Hella Twin Trumpet 12V Horn Kit is a great alternative. It’s not as loud, but it’s better suited for smaller vehicles.
    Who It’s For
    This air horn is an excellent choice for people that live in areas with rough weather. The chrome zinc coating is superior for most situations and can handle snow, rain, hail, and high winds. Also, because of the coating on the air compressor, it can survive high-head conditions under the hood of your vehicle.

    Pros

    Loud 150 decibel sound
    Sleek black color
    Durable chrome zinc material
    Air system and mounting parts are included

    Cons

    Not suitable for passenger cars
    Not suitable for motorcycles

    2. Best Train Horn Kit for Passenger Cars: Hella Twin Trumpet High/Low Tone 12V Horn Kit

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    Why we like it: The Hella Twin Trumpet 12V Horn Kit is a great product that allows passenger cars to benefit from a loud train horn. We love
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $
    Decibels: 110
    Volts: 12
    Horns: 2
    Installation: Beginner
    The Hella Twin Trumpet 12V Horn Kit is an excellent set of twin trumpet horns. This train horn kit is designed for passenger cars, light trucks, vans, and other automotive 4-wheel vehicles. The reason this horn kid works well for smaller vehicles is because it can be mounted in a few different places. One example is how they can be mounted right in the engine bay.
    It is also compact, but still produces a loud sound. The low tone and high tone horns blend well, making a unique sound that other drivers can recognize. This train horn kit also comes in a few different color options, so if you are mounting them on your grille, you can create some interesting combinations.
    What Sets it Apart
    This kit is unique because it can be used on passenger cars. Sure, any horn can be mounted to any vehicle, but these horns are compact enough to fit under the hood of most vehicles. This is important for passenger cars because large train horn kits can look out of place.
    Things to Consider
    Although it’s a great product in many ways, the sound is lackluster. Both horns only produce 110 decibels of sound, which pales in comparison to full-size train horn kits. Still, for passenger cars, there aren’t a lot of options in this regard without having to mount it to the hood.
    If you have a larger vehicle or a commercial truck, a full-size train horn kit is a better alternative. A great example is the VaygWay Air Horn. While it produces a sound on-par with full-size train horn kits, it’s small enough to mount on passenger cars.
    Who It’s For
    This train horn kit is an excellent choice for people that own passenger vehicles. While they work well for most makes and models, they’re best suited for smaller cars.
    This train horn kit is also an excellent product for shoppers that don’t want to worry about air compressors. This train horn kit can replace your OEM horn and runs off of your car battery, with no need for air.

    Pros

    Fits under the hood of passenger cars
    Excellent low and high tone sound
    Different color options to match your vehicle’s paint
    Corrosion-resistant materials
    Durable copper wires

    Cons

    Not as loud as full-size train horn kits
    Relies on two horns instead of one

    3. Best Premium Train Horn Kit: MPC M1 3-Trumpet Train Air Horn Kit

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    Why we like it: This is one of the best train horn kits you can find. It comes with three horns that offer multiple tones, and a full-size compressor is included.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $$$
    Decibels: 150db+
    Volts: 12
    Horns: 3
    Installation: Expert
    MPC M1 3-Trumpet Train Air Horn Kit is an excellent train horn kit that comes with everything you need. It has three powerful horns that produce enough bass to be heard even in the loudest environments. The train horn kit also comes with brackets, mounting equipment, and an air system. While there are a lot of parts, it’s not difficult to install in your driveway, but you will need some automotive knowledge.
    It’s made with high-quality materials. You get 12 feet of 10 gauge wire, making it easy to install on larger vehicles. There are also a handful of assorted clamps and fuse protectors to make sure your vehicle doesn’t get damaged, even if you make a mistake.
    What Sets it Apart
    What really sets this apart is the air system it comes with. While it’s common to see smaller train horn kits come with an air system, larger products usually don’t. This train horn kit comes with an air system that runs up to 110 PSI, so you don’t need to worry about buying one separately.
    Things to Consider
    The MPC M1 3-Trumpet Train Air Horn Kit comes with everything you need, but it’s expensive. The high cost is based on the air system it comes with, so if you already have one, you should consider a different product like the Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn.
    Who It’s For
    The MPC M1 3-Trumpet Train Air Horn Kit is a great product for people that need a complete and premium train horn kit. Large train horn kits don’t usually come with air systems, so this is a great choice for people that don’t want to shop for additional parts.

    Pros

    Comes with three powerful horns
    Full-size compressor is included
    Corrosion-resistant material

    Cons

    Expensive
    Not suitable for passenger vehicles

    4. Best Budget Train Horn Kit: Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn

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    Why we like it: This kit is very impressive for its price. We love how you get high-quality materials at a bargain.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts:
    Price: $
    Decibels: 150
    Volts: 12
    Horns: 1
    Installation: Beginner
    The Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is a simple train horn kit that’s well-made. The horn is made with stainless steel and coated to prevent elemental damage. Even in blizzard-like conditions, this horn can be used without needing to worry. This train horn kit is also easy to install. It comes with everything you need right out of the box, and you can do it in your driveway.
    While the Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn performs well, it also looks beautiful. It’s big enough to look good on larger vehicles. The compressor comes in a shiny red color, and the horn is chrome.
    What Sets it Apart
    The Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is unique because it’s portable. A portable train horn kit sounds strange, but it’s helpful if you have more than one vehicle. A great example is if you have a vehicle you plan to leave in the garage for cold winter months, and another one you use in that period. Since the kit gives you everything you need, it can be switched to a different vehicle in less than an hour.
    Things to Consider
    The Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is a great kit, but it’s too big for passenger cars or motorcycles. Sure, the horn kit can be attached to any vehicle, but it looks out of place on smaller cars.
    If you like the trumpet-like design but need a smaller horn, the VaygWay Air Horn is a great alternative. It’s as loud as bigger trumpet horns, but it has a compact design that fits well on motorcycles and passenger cars.
    Who It’s For
    The Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is a great choice for anyone that needs a budget-friendly train horn kit for a commercial or light truck. It’s as loud as other horns for a lower price, and it fits well on vehicles of all sizes.

    Pros

    Durable chrome materials
    Weather-resistant
    Comes with a compressor
    Comes with wires, mount, and required hardware

    Cons

    Too big for smaller vehicles

    5. Zone Tech 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn

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    Why we like it: Zone Tech did a great job with this train horn kit. While it’s difficult to install, it works as well as expensive train horn kits for half the cost.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $$
    Decibels: 150d
    Volts: 12
    Horns: 1
    Installation: Expert
    This is a high-quality horn that has a subtle shine to it. The chrome material is resistant to most weather conditions and doesn’t dull or rust. This train horn kit can also fit most vehicles, including trains, trailers, motorcycles, vans, boats, trucks, and commercial vehicles. Unfortunately, it’s too big to fit on smaller passenger cars.
    The Zone Tech 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is also easy to install. All of the parts you need come in the box, including the compressor and mounting parts. As long as you have the tools, it can be done in your driveway. While it’s a simple product, it performs as well as top-tier train horn kits.
    What Sets it Apart
    This is an excellent product because the compressor is on-par with more expensive train horn kits. One of the first things to go on most train horn kits is the air system, but Zone Tech made a durable and affordable compressor. While it’s small, it gets the job done and lasts a long time.
    Things to Consider
    It’s not perfect though. While the compressor and horn work well, the horn is difficult to install. Most single-horn products take less than an hour to install, but this train horn kit is time-consuming.
    If you like this horn but need one that’s quicker to install, the Zento is a great alternative. It’s almost identical to this train horn kit, but it’s easier to install.
    Who it’s For
    The Zone Tech 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is a great product for people that need a high-quality train horn kit for a low price. You’ll have to spend a lot of time getting it installed, but if you’re patient, it’s worth the time and money. It performs as well as premium train horn kits.

    Pros

    Powerful and loud full-size horn
    Durable materials resistant to corrosion
    Fits most vehicles

    Cons

    Not a great fit for passenger cars
    Difficult to install on most vehicles

    6. Cobra Tuni Air Horn Kit

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    Why we like it: The Cobra Tuni Air Horn Kit caught our attention because of its safety features. We love how there are copper wires, fuse protectors, and brass pins to prevent battery damage.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $
    Decibels: 150db
    Volts: 12V
    Horns: 1
    Installation: Beginner
    The Cobra Tuni Air Horn Kit is simple and powerful. It has a good sound range that travels a great distance and comes with everything you need. The train horn kit includes an air system, mounting brackets, nuts, and bolts. This makes it an easy product to install in your driveway, and it shouldn’t take more than one hour.
    It’s also made with high-quality materials. The stainless steel parts are resistant to high winds, rain, snow, and even hail. The horn is also small enough to fit well on light trucks, vans, and motorcycles.
    What Sets It Apart
    It’s unique because it comes with high-end features for its low price. It comes with a built-in fuse protector to make sure you don’t blow a fuse and damage your vehicle. All of the connections are also made with high-quality copper wire and brass pins that are safe for your vehicle’s battery. It’s one of the most reliable train horn kits you can use.
    Things to Consider
    The Cobra Tuni Air Horn Kit uses high-quality parts, but it’s not big enough for large trucks or commercial vehicles. When used on larger vehicles, it looks out of place, and the lack of bass causes engine noise to drown out the sound of the horn.
    If you’re shopping for a commercial vehicle, or diesel truck, the Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn is a great alternative. The price isn’t too much higher, and you’ll need your own air system, but it’s better for commercial vehicles.
    Who It’s For
    This is a great product for people that need an affordable and reliable train horn kit. The copper wire, brass pins, and fuse protector make it safe to use and install on most vehicles. For the price, it’s unique to see these types of safety features implemented. It makes the installation process less of a headache, even if you make a mistake.

    Pros

    Low price
    Corrosion-resistant
    Quick installation
    Comes with everything you need

    Cons

    Too small for large trucks and commercial trucks

    7. Loudest Train Horn Kit: Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn

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    Why we like it: The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn comes with a lot of horns that produce a distinct sound. We love how loud this train horn kit is and how quickly it commands attention.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $$
    Decibels: 150db
    Volts: 12V and 24V
    Horns: 4
    Installation: Expert
    The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn is a powerful and premier train horn kit. It comes with four horns that produce a loud sound with great bass. The horn kit is also made with high-quality steel parts. From the mounting hardware to the horns, every piece of steel is resistant to harsh weather conditions. High winds and blizzards won’t come close to damaging this horn.
    The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn also comes with most of what you need to install it. You’ll need your own onboard air system, but all of the mounting hardware and screws are included. The installation can also be done in your driveway. Naturally, it’s quite a bit harder than single trumpet horns, but it’s possible.
    What Sets it Apart
    The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn is unique because of the number of horns it comes with. It’s common to see train horn kits that come with 1-3 horns, but with this kit, you get four. An extra horn doesn’t seem like much, but it provides additional base and more sound protection over greater distances.
    Things to Consider
    The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn is great, but it doesn’t come with an air system. This means you’ll need to find one yourself if you don’t have one already. So, while the cost of the horn kit is low, this product can end up costing additional money as compressors are expensive.
    If you like the sound quality of this train horn kit, but don’t have your own compressor, the MPC train horn is a great alternative. While it only has three horns instead of four, it comes with an air system.
    Who It’s For
    The Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn is a great horn kit for expert shoppers looking to upgrade. If you’re already running an air system, you’ll have everything you need to install the horn. If you already have a train horn kit installed, but it’s not loud enough, this product is worth it.

    Pros

    Comes with four powerful horns
    Sleek black style
    Louder than most train horn kits
    Compatible with more than one battery type

    Cons

    The air system is not included
    Not suitable for small vehicles
    Difficult to install

    8. Best Train Horn Kit for Commercial Vehicles: Grand General Chrome Train Horn

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    Why we like it: This kit looks as nice as it sounds. It boasts an impressive three horns and can run on multiple PSI settings.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $$$
    Decibels: 140+
    Volts: 12V
    Horns: 3
    Installation: Expert
    The Grand General is an impressive train horn kit. It comes with three trumpet style horns that project a powerful sound. Unlike most single trumpet horns, you can customize the sound however you want. The additional horns provide a range of bass to project low tones, and you can change how loud the horns are because it operates between 70-140 PSI.
    The kit is also made with commercial-grade materials. The horns are made with stainless steel that’s resistant to rust, and the chrome-brass horns work in all weather conditions. This train horn set also comes with most of the parts you need to install it in your driveway, except for the air compressor and hoses.
    What Sets it Apart
    It’s unique because you have a lot of choices. Many train horn kits rely on one blaring sound, but you can choose the noise level and bass level. This is a great feature if you’ll be driving through congested metropolitan areas in the day and long highways at night, giving you a chance to adjust it to produce the sound you need.
    Things to Consider
    Overall, this is an excellent train horn kit, but it’s not easy to install. To make matters worse, it doesn’t come with everything you need to use it. The air compressor is not included, and you’ll need to use your own hoses.
    If you’re looking for a simple train horn kit that comes with everything you need, the Zone Tech 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn is a great alternative. It has a similar sound output but is far easier to install and needs no extras.
    Who It’s For
    The Grand General 69991 Chrome Heavy Duty Train Horn is a great choice for people with commercial vehicles. Heavy trucks and 18-wheelers are loud vehicles, so you’ll need a horn that other drivers can hear over the roaring diesel engine. While it can work on passenger cars and light trucks, it looks and feels out of place.

    Pros

    Comes with three powerful horns
    Shiny chrome finish that’s Corrosion-resistant
    Perfect for commercial vehicles

    Cons

    Only suitable for commercial vehicles
    No air system included
    Difficult to install

    9. VaygWay Air Horn

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    Why we like it: The VaygWay Air Horn is impressive because of the noise it produces from its compact size. We also love how straightforward the installation process is and how inexpensive it is.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $
    Decibels: 150db
    Volts: 12V
    Installation: Beginner
    The VaygWay Air Horn is an affordable and straightforward train horn kit. It comes with everything you need to install it right out of the box. While it’s affordable, the sound and quality is on-par with more expensive brands. It produces up to 150 decibels of sound and uses high-quality materials that are resistant to the elements.
    The VaygWay Air Horn is also compact and designed for any vehicle that uses a 12-volt battery. So, the horn can be used on cars, light trucks, heavy trucks, motorcycles, vans, busses, and more. Overall, it’s an excellent product that offers great value.
    What Sets it Apart
    The VaygWay Air Horn is unique because of its price and compact size. The low price makes it appropriate for any budget, and the small size helps it fit most vehicles. Even if you use it on a passenger car or motorcycle, it doesn’t look out of place.
    Things to Consider
    The VaygWay Air Horn is excellent for its price, but there are a few drawbacks worth noting. First and foremost, it’s not as durable as more expensive train horn kits. While it’s still fairly durable, plastic parts simply don’t last as long as steel or stainless steel. The other issue is the need for a 12V battery. Some train horns rely on either a battery or compressor, but you’ll need both for this product.
    If you’re looking for a train horn kit that has better parts, the GAMPRO Air Horn is a great alternative. It’s similar in price but uses chrome zinc instead of plastic.
    Who It’s For
    The VaygWay Air Horn is a great train horn kit for casual shoppers. It’s a great item to experiment with to determine if a train horn kit is a good fit. Plus, if you have a smaller vehicle, you can still find value in this horn kit because of its compact size.

    Pros

    Compact size
    Suitable for most vehicles
    Corrosion-resistant materials
    Quick installation with everything in the box
    Low price

    Cons

    Not as loud as other train horn kits
    Not as durable as other products

    10. Carfka Air Train Horn Hit

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    Why we like it: We like the Carfka Air Train Horn Kit because it’s easy to install and affordable.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Price: $
    Decibels: 150db
    Volts: 12V
    Installation: Beginner
    The Carfka Air Train Horn Kit is a unique train horn that’s big, loud, and easy to install. It’s made with durable chrome zinc materials that don’t succumb to rust easily, and it’s loud enough to be heard in noisy areas. The train horn kit also comes with all of the parts you need to install it. It comes with mounting parts, copper wires, fuses, and an air system.
    While the Carfka Air Train Horn Kit comes with a lot of parts, nothing is particularly complicated to install. As a result, the installation can be done in your driveway, as long as you have a few tools handy.
    What Sets it Apart
    The Carfka Air Train Horn Kit is unique because it comes with enough parts to be able to mount it anywhere on your vehicle. It can be mounted underneath your car, under the hood, on the roof, on the side of a motorcycle, or even on your door. While it’s large, it’s a versatile train horn kit.
    Things to Consider
    The Carfka Air Train Horn Kit performs as advertised, but some of the features are useless. While it can be installed anywhere, that doesn’t mean it should be installed everywhere. For example, it looks funny under the hood of passenger cars or on the side of motorcycles.
    If you drive a smaller vehicle and want a more compact train horn kit, the VaygWay Air Horn is a great alternative. It’s small enough to fit under the hood of passenger cars, and it’s as loud as larger train horn kits.
    Who It’s For
    The Carfka Air Train Horn Kit is a great choice for shoppers that need a cheap and reliable train horn kit. While some of the materials are cheap, it gets the job done without breaking the bank. Still, it’s best suited for large trucks, commercial trucks, and boats.

    Pros

    Low cost
    Loud sound
    Easy to install
    Comes with everything you need for installation

    Cons

    Some of the materials are cheap
    The horn feels flimsy

    The Complete Guide to Train Horn Kits

    When you have the best train horn kits in front of you, it’s easier to make a decision. Still, you need to be careful when selecting a train horn kit. You want to make sure you know all of the facts and what works for your vehicle. So, we’re going to take you through a handful of shopping tips to help you narrow your options down.
    Choosing the Right Train Horn Kit for Your Vehicle
    The best place to start when you’re shopping for a train horn kit is with your vehicle. Before you decide on a product, it’s essential to know which train horn kits are compatible. There are a few different types available, so we’re going to take you through a few examples.
    Motorcycles
    We’ll start small with motorcycles. Motorcycles are small vehicles, so you’ll need a compact train horn kit. While motorcycles are small, their engines produce a lot of noise. For this reason, many motorcyclists rely on train horns. Unfortunately, this makes shopping for one tricky because you need the sound of a full-size train horn in a small package.
    If you have a motorcycle, hope is not lost. The VaygWay Air Horn is an excellent choice because of its size and volume. It’s smaller than most train horn kits, so it won’t look ridiculous on your motorcycle, but it creates the same level of noise.
    Passenger Cars
    Many people believe that train horns are reserved for trucks, but that’s not the case. Everyone can benefit from a train horn kit, even if you drive a coupe or sedan. Your options are limited because most products won’t look right on a small vehicle, but some train horn kits can be mounted under the hood or on your grille.
    The Hella kit is a great choice because it comes with two loud horns that fit under the hood of any vehicle.
    Pickup Trucks
    Pickup trucks are a fan-favorite for train horn kits. Their size makes them appealing because they can mount most products on the roof, and it adds to a truck’s aggressive look. Plus, some pickup trucks are diesel, so they need a louder horn.
    If you have a pickup truck, there are a lot of options. You can go with a train horn kit that’s affordable and easy to install, like the Cobra Tuni Air Horn Kit or a more complex product like the Vixen Horns VXH4124B Train Horn.
    Commercial Vehicles
    Commercial vehicles rely on loud engines that create a lot of noise. For this reason, commercial trucks typically have train horn kits to make sure other drivers hear them. Still, some commercial vehicles don’t come with loud enough horns.
    If you’re shopping for a commercial vehicle, you’ll need a loud and capable train horn kit. While most train horn kits are noisy, a product that has more than one horn is more suitable. The Grand General Chrome Heavy-Duty Train Horn is a great choice. It comes with three stainless steel trumpet horns that can survive any weather condition and be heard in all environments.
    Finding a Train Horn Kit You can Install at Home

    If your current horn is damaged, or you’re not looking to spend all day installing a train horn kit, getting your hands on one that’s easy to install is essential. What counts as easy-to-install depends on your technical know-how, so we’re going to take you through the best horns for each difficulty level.
    Beginner Level
    If you’re not great at working on cars, don’t sweat it, there are plenty of train horn kits that are hassle-free to work with. Still, you’re going to need some tools and the courage to assemble a product. You’ll also want to look for products that don’t require an air compressor because they make things complicated.
    A great beginner level horn to start with is the Hella kit, because it doesn’t require an air compressor to function.
    Advanced Level
    Advanced level train horn kits are the most common products you’ll find. Advanced train horn kits can be done in your driveway, but you’ll need to connect an air compressor. This makes the installation process difficult, so you’ll want to look over the instructions carefully.
    The most straightforward advanced train horn kit to install is the Zento Deals 12V Single Trumpet Air Horn. While it uses a compressor, it comes with everything you need and easy to read instructions.
    Expert Level
    Expert level train horn kits sound intimidating, but they can still be done at home if you have the parts you need. What makes these train horn kits challenging to install is their lack of an air system or complicated installation process.
    Luckily, there is one horn that comes with everything you need right out of the box. The MPC M1 3-Trumpet Train Horn Kit is an excellent example of an expert level product that’s still relatively easy to install.
    FAQ
    Are there Laws for Train Horn Kits?
    Train horn kits are loud, and the United States government has taken steps to reduce the public’s exposure to loud noise levels. Some U.S. states have laws in place to keep horns below 110 decibels, but every state is different. Luckily, every state has its noise codes available online. Usually, you won’t have any problems if you use your horn correctly.
    What is a Safe Decibel Level?
    If you’ve ever had your eardrums ring, you know that some noises are too loud. This makes train horn kits dangerous if you blast the horn for too long because they’re 150 decibels. Luckily, short bursts typically won’t cause you or anyone else harm.
    How Loud are Train Horn Kits?
    Train horn kits are very loud products. OEM horns are typically 106 decibels, but train horns reach up to 150 decibels. So, what does 150 decibels sound like? Think of a jet taking off. Not only is that loud, but it’s loud enough for people within 200 yards to hear you loud and clear.
    Is a Train Horn Kit Necessary?
    If you’re looking to upgrade your factory car horn, you’re probably wondering if train horn kits are necessary. While some people view them as obnoxious, they can keep you and other drivers safe by commanding attention. Also, if you drive a vehicle with a loud engine or exhaust, a train horn kit can make sure drivers know you’re honking the horn.
    Final Thoughts
    Finding the right train horn kit is not always easy. There is a lot to consider. You want to make sure that you have the know-how to get the job done and that it’s loud enough for other drivers to hear. Luckily, after reading this guide, you know everything you need to know about train horn kits.
    Always be sure to shop based on your needs and vehicle. While some train horn kits work for some, it might not fit your vehicle. As long as you shop carefully and keeping your needs in mind – and know what to look for – finding the best train horn kit is a breeze. More

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    The 10 Best Car Interior Cleaners to Buy 2020

    Do you remember the very first time that you got behind the wheel of your car? Whether you bought new or used, the interior of your car was likely clean, polished, and awaiting your arrival. Though, over time, it’s more than likely that your car’s interior has transformed into a mess of fast-food wrappers, loose papers, and this morning’s coffee receipt.
    It’s about time you prioritize the cleanliness of your car’s interior, though. Not only will keeping your car clean make for a more enjoyable drive for both you and passengers alike, but it will also improve the longevity of your car’s interior.
    Fortunately, there are an endless number of car interior cleaners on the market. Not all car interior cleaners were created equally, though. If you’re on the hunt for the best products to keep things spick-and-span, check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide, which also covers all of the tips and tricks you need to keep the interior of your car cleaner than ever.

    The Complete Guide: How to Keep Your Car’s Interior Clean
    We have sorted through the bestsellers and forever favorites to find the best car interior cleaners of 2020. Check out our top picks below!
    Picking the Best Car Interior Cleaners of 2020
    When it comes to choosing the best car interior cleaner for your car, there are several things to consider. Not only should you think about how often and what types of messes you anticipate cleaning, you must also think about the cost of a product, what it does, and how easy it is to use.
    Versatility
    Some car interior cleaners are more versatile than others. While some cleaners are made specifically for cars, others can also be used on boats, planes, and even on indoor surfaces in your house. From leather cleaners to plastic cleaners, the best car interior cleaners are the ones that can be used in a multitude of ways.
    Ease of Use
    Cleaning the interior of your car shouldn’t be complicated. The products you use to clean the interior of your car shouldn’t be complicated either. When buying a car interior cleaner, consider how it must be used. Is it a simple disposable wipe? Or does the cleaner require you to have additional tools on hand?
    Protection
    Several car interior cleaners not only clean the interior of your car but also provide it with lasting protection after you’ve given it a thorough scrubbing. Such cleaners can also help to ensure the longevity of your car’s interior, making them a particularly valuable product.
    Affordability
    Even if you’re a car enthusiast, you likely don’t want to spend more than you have to when purchasing car interior cleaners. Fortunately, today’s market offers several options to pick from, all of which range in price. Whether you’re currently pinching pennies or are ready to treat yourself, you’ll be sure to find a car interior cleaner that doesn’t break the bank.

    Top 10 Best Car Interior Cleaners 2020

    1. Best Overall Car Interior Cleaner: CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit

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    Why we like it: There’s a reason CarGuys has dubbed this car interior cleaner as a super cleaner. This all-purpose cleaner is for use on multiple surfaces and even comes with its own microfiber towel.
    Editor’s Rating:

    The CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit isn’t like other car interior cleaners. Instead, it’s better. Using the latest advancements in nanotechnology, this multi-surface car interior cleaner effectively lifts away dirt and grime without requiring the use of additional solvents or tools. Not to mention, the CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit can be used on different types of surfaces, including fabric upholstery, leather, vinyl, plastic, and more.
    Versatility
    When it comes to versatility, this car interior cleaning kit knows just how to please. Because this car interior cleaner uses the newest advancements in nanotechnology, it’s able to effectively clean a variety of surfaces, although if you need a specific product for every surface, check out this full cleaning kit.
    Ease of Use
    This car interior cleaner is remarkably easy to use. First things first, vacuum all loose dirt and debris from your vehicle’s interior. Then, spray the cleaner directly onto the included cleaning cloth and wipe down the interior of your car. For surfaces with more grime, spray the cleaner directly onto the surface and scrub with the cleaning cloth. When you’re ready to dry, simply turn over the cleaning cloth and buff dry.
    Protection
    There aren’t many downsides to the CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit until it comes to protecting your car’s interior from future grime. While some car interior cleaners offer a layer of protection against accumulating dirt, the CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit does not.
    Affordability
    The CarGuys Super Cleaner Kit comes with one 16 ounce bottle of cleaner and one microfiber cloth. Though the kit does come with two products, some might consider it costly. As effective as this cleaner may be, it’s more expensive than other products.

    Pros

    Comes with towel
    Cleans multiple surfaces
    Leaves clean finish
    Easily removes stains

    Cons

    Pricey
    No protective coating

    2. Best Kit for Cleaning the Interior of Your Car: Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit

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    Why we like it: For new and seasoned car owners alike, this car care kit makes taking care of your car easier than you could have ever imagined.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Not everyone wants to spend a considerable amount of time researching the products they use to clean their car. There are also those who don’t have the time to spend finding the perfect mix of products to use on their car’s interior. For those in need of an all-encompassing car cleaning kit, Meguiar has got you covered. This kit includes 12 premium car cleaning products, each of which will clean and protect the interior of your car.
    Versatility
    Seeing as this kit comes with 12 products, you can count on it achieving a 10/10 when it comes to versatility. Use the Quik Detailer to clean the inside of your car’s interior, then opt for the PlastX Clear Plastic Cleaner & Polish to revitalize the plastic in your car. No need to buy a separate liquid cleaner with your microfiber towels.
    Ease of Use
    Each of the products included in Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit is fairly easy to use. Most of the products included in the kit are sprays, and only require that you use a microfiber towel. Always be sure to read through a product’s directions before using it, as some of these products can damage materials that they’re not intended for.
    Protection
    This car cleaning kit boasts several products designed to protect your car’s interior. Not only do the wax bricks help to protect your car’s interior from blemishes and discoloration, but many of the included cleaning sprays are also able to quickly remove the contaminants taking up residence in your car’s interior.
    Affordability
    This car cleaning kit does come at a price. Though considering this kit boasts 12 premium car cleaning products, it’s easy to understand why Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit is more expensive than other car interior cleaners on the market.

    Pros

    Great price
    Easy to use
    Includes everything

    Cons

    Takes up space
    Bottles can leak

    3. Best Budget Car Interior Cleaner: Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant

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    Why we like it: Boasting a wallet-friendly price tag and multiple uses, this car interior cleaner is a great pick for budget shoppers.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Chemical Guys know what it takes to create an effective car interior cleaner. Not only is the Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant able to effectively remove dirt, dust, and oils, but it’s also designed to protect the interior of your car from UV rays, dust, and dirt.
    Versatility
    The Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant is the ultimate car interior cleaner. Formulated using a unique set of conditioners, this car interior cleaner is meant for use on dashboards, door panels, steering wheels, shift knobs, seats, glass surfaces, and LCD screens. Furthermore, consider that this spray is able to not only clean but protect your car’s interior, and it’s safe to say that Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant was created with versatility in mind.
    Ease of Use
    Much like other car interior cleaning sprays, the Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant is very simple to use. First, grab a clean microfiber towel and spray it two to three times. Then, wipe down the interior of your car to remove dirt, dust, and body oil. Once you have finished wiping down the interior of your car, use the other side of the microfiber towel to buff out excess product.
    Protection
    If your goal is to maintain the original appearance of your car’s interior, look no further than the Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant. Equipped with premium sun blockers and UV reflectors, this car interior cleaner not only cleans but also protects your vehicle’s interior from damaging sunlight. Meanwhile, enzymatic odor eliminators put a stop to unpleasant orders, replacing them instead with the fresh scent of baby powder or pineapple. Keep in mind that for some, these scents can come on strong, so sensitive noses beware.
    Affordability
    For budget shoppers, Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer and Protectant is a great option. The product is available in multiple sizes, each of which is affordably priced. To really get the most bang for your buck though, opt for the 1-gallon container. Although if you just need a quick clean, you might prefer a smaller bottle of liquid cleaner.

    Pros

    Excellent UV protection
    Quick and easy to use
    Lifts and removes dirt
    Anti-static technology repels dust

    Cons

    Strong scent

    4. Best Leather Cleaner for Leather Car Interiors: Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Complete Leather Care Kit

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    Why we like it: This car interior cleaner is pH balanced, making it the most effective for cleaning leather car interiors. It’s also formulated to preserve your car’s leather interior while so it continues to look as fresh as the day you picked it up from the dealership.
    Editor’s Rating:

    The Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Complete Leather Care Kit aren’t like other car interior cleaners on the market. Instead, it was dutifully crafted with leather car interiors in mind. Proper cleaning is absolutely crucial to keeping your car’s leather interior in pristine condition, making this car interior cleaner a valuable addition to your car care kit.
    Versatility
    Since this product is exclusively for leather, if you’re the proud owner of a sedan outfitted with fabric upholstery, this car interior cleaner just isn’t for you. Unless you have a boat outfitted with leather seating or have a house full of leather sectionals, you won’t get much use out of the Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Complete Leather Care Kit unless you have a car with a leather interior.
    Ease of Use
    Using the Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Complete Leather Care Kit does take a considerable amount of time and effort. To get started, you need not only the leather cleaning kit, but also a leather cleaning brush, a microfiber towel (we’d recommend these) and a microfiber pad.
    Spray the leather cleaner directly on to the bristles of the leather cleaning brush. Then, scrub the interior of your car. Once you have finished, use a microfiber cloth to wipe up excess product. After you’ve wiped away any extra product, use a microfiber pad to evenly spread the leather conditioner over the interior of your car.
    Protection
    If you want to keep the leather interior of your car in top-notch condition, it’s important to choose car interior cleaners that were created with leather in mind. While the leather cleaner lifts and separates dirt and grease taking up space within the pores of your car’s leather interior, the leather conditioner replenishes essential nutrients like Vitamin E that are regularly depleted by harsh elements like the sun. Use the Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Complete Leather Care Kit and your car’s leather interior will feel clean, look great, and be protected from everyday wear and tear.
    Affordability
    This car interior cleaning kit comes with not one, but two bottles: a leather cleaner and a leather conditioner. Fortunately, the kit is affordably priced, particularly when you consider each product has been formulated in such a way that you can get expect to get several uses out of each bottle. Consider that this car interior cleaner will also help ensure the longevity of your car’s interior, and this leather cleaning car interior kit becomes an even better buy.

    Pros

    pH balanced
    Lifts and suspends dirt and oils
    Reduces UV damage

    Cons

    Requires extra tools
    Time-consuming to use
    Strong smell

    5. Easiest Car Interior Cleaner to Use: Armor All Car Cleaning and Leather Wipes

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    Why we like it: Armor All Car Cleaning and Leather Wipes are convenient, affordably priced, and made to keep your car’s interior clean.
    Editor’s Rating:

    If you’re chasing after that freshly detailed look but aren’t ready to bog yourself down with a laundry list of different car interior cleaners, then consider the Armor All Car Cleaning and Leather Wipes. Made for those looking for an easy-to-use car interior cleaner, these wipes make keeping your car’s interior clean an absolute breeze.
    Versatility
    While the cleaning wipes remove dirt and grime, the leather-specific wipes are primarily meant to clean, condition and protect the leather interior of your car. Though the cleaning wipes can be used on multiple surfaces, the leather wipes are truly meant for leather surfaces only.
    Ease of Use
    Using these wipes is as easy as opening the moisture-locking lid, grabbing a wipe or two, and wiping down the interior of your car. Once you’ve finished having done so, simply dispose of the wipe and you are good to hit the road.
    Protection
    These wipes provide minimal protection. Unlike other car interior cleaners on the list, these wipes are made to clean the interior of your car, and not much more. Though the leather cleaning wipes can help protect against spills and stains, they won’t provide nearly as much protection as a leather-specific car interior cleaner would.
    Affordability
    With two containers and 30 wipes per container, Armor All Car Cleaning and Leather Wipes seem like a great deal. To really determine their cost though, it’s worth considering how often you plan on cleaning the interior of your car. Though these wipes are definitely on the cheaper side, it’s going to take more than one wipe to clean your car’s interior, meaning that you could polish off these car interior cleaning wipes within just a few cleanings.

    Pros

    Convenient to use
    Remove dirt and grime
    Safe for delicate surfaces
    Outfitted with moisture-locking lid

    Cons

    Doesn’t offer protection
    Takes several wipes to clean

    6. Most Versatile Car Interior Cleaner: Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer

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    Why we like it: Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer is an all-in-one car interior cleaner that uses built-in antimicrobial technology to clean the interior of your car while also preventing unpleasant bacteria growth on the surface of your car’s interior.
    Editor’s Rating:

    If you’re in the market for an all-in-one car interior cleaner that’s as affordable as it is versatile, Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer makes for a good choice. This car interior cleaner uses Microban protection to prevent dirt, grime, and bacteria from building up in your car’s interior while also using powerful odor neutralizers to keep your car smelling fresh. It contains special UV blocking agents, odor neutralizers, and anti-static additives to really ensure that it’s getting the job done properly too.
    Versatility
    We said it before and we’ll say it again, this product is versatile. Though it was formulated to clean your car, it also provides continuous protection from bacteria, protects against sun damage, and prevents static from overtaking your car’s interior.
    Ease of Use
    Much like other car interior cleaning sprays, Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer is very easy to use. Spray Adam’s Interior Detailer with Microban onto the surface of your car’s interior, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior of your car, and then use the clean side of the cloth to remove any residual cleaning fluids. Watch out though, the sprayer on this bottle can malfunction, leading to inconvenient leaks and poorly distributed product. To get the most out of Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer, consider having a second spray nozzle on hand.
    Protection
    From its antimicrobial technology to its UV blockers, Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer makes nary a compromise when it comes to protecting the interior of your car. Count on this car cleaning solution to not only clean up messes but also prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
    Affordability
    Considering the many uses this one-step car interior cleaning solution has to offer, its price really isn’t too bad. Spend less than $20 to enjoy a full 20 ounces of this car cleaning solution.

    Pros

    Built-in antimicrobial technology
    Features powerful odor neutralizers
    Safe to use on multiple surfaces

    Cons

    Sprayer can malfunction

    7. Best Car Interior Cleaner for Plastic Surfaces: Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant and Polish

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    Why we like it: The plastic surfaces in your car deserve just as much care as leather and fabric. Fortunately, Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant and Polish is more than capable of getting the job done.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Your car is likely outfitted with a considerable amount of plastic. Though spraying that plastic with a blast of universal cleaner might sound enticing, household cleaning products are not formulated with your car’s interior in mind. Instead, opt for a car interior cleaner that was designed specifically to clean and protect the plastic surfaces throughout your car’s interior.
    Versatility
    Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant, and Polish was originally developed for the aviation industry. Clearly, its use extends well beyond the aviation industry. The product can be used on any plastic surface. Use it to clean vinyl windows, laminated surfaces, and even computer screens such as the navigation system of your vehicle.
    Ease of Use
    Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant, and Polish comes outfitted with a convenient aerosol applicator and takes minimal effort to use. Simply point the canister at the plastic surface you would like to clean, spray, and wipe away the spray using a microfiber cloth.
    Protection
    Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant, and Polish isn’t just for cleaning the interior of your car. It also provides long term protection for plastic surfaces and will help to ensure your car’s interior holds up for miles to come. By sealing the pores of the plastic surfaces throughout your car’s interior with a micro-thin layer of protective wax, this car interior cleaner helps plastic resist damage caused by debris, oil, and scratches.
    Affordability
    We won’t beat around the bush, the Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant, and Polish is expensive. For budget-conscious shoppers, the price of this car cleaning solution may have your jaw hitting the floor. However, if you’re committed to keeping the interior of your car clean and protected, this product is well worth the spend.

    Pros

    Protective wax seals plastic
    Leaves plastics vibrant
    Convenient aerosol applicator

    8. Best Microfiber Towel for Cleaning Your Car: Chemical Guys Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels

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    Why we like it: Every car owner should have a set of high-quality microfiber towels on hand. Not only do these towels come in multi-packs, but they’re also extremely absorbent.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Cleaning your car with a roll of paper towels isn’t only wasteful, it can also scratch interior plastics and screens. That’s why we recommend stocking up on microfiber towels for cleaning your car. Fortunately, these microfiber towels from Chemical Guys are more than capable of handling the job. Whether you’re wiping down leather or plastic, these microfiber towels will be sure to please even the choosiest of car enthusiasts.
    Versatility
    Chemical Guys Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels are capable of handling multiple surfaces, whether that means cleaning the interior of your car or using them to wipe down your computer screen. Choose these wipes and we can promise you’ll find yourself using them around the house faster than it takes to get from 0 to 60 mph behind the wheel of your favorite sportscar.
    Ease of Use
    Using these towels really comes down to what type of product you’re using them with. Before cleaning the interior of your car, be sure to understand how best to use microfiber towels alongside of the car interior cleaners you will also be using.
    Protection
    This may surprise you, but these towels do offer a considerable amount of protection in the way that they resist scratching car parts. Outfitted with silk banded edges and featuring premium microfiber materials, these towels are scratch and lint-free. Remember to tag the tag off the towel before using it. Forget, and you could risk compromising the scratch-free nature of this microfiber car towel.
    Affordability
    These towels definitely cost more than your average hand towel. Though, that shouldn’t really come as a surprise. Do you really want to wipe down your car’s interior using a subpar towel you dug out of the clearance bin at Walmart? No, probably not. That’s what makes these towels well worth the price. Sure, they may be expensive, but they’re also banded with silk, lint-free, and able to withstand multiple cycles in the washer.

    Pros

    Extremely absorbent
    Comes in a pack of 3 or 6 towels
    Silk edges mean scratch-free results
    Able to pick up dirt

    Cons

    Requires laundering
    The tag can be problematic

    9. Best Car Interior Protectant: 303 UV Protectant Spray

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    Why we like it: This car interior cleaner features powerful UV blockers, repels dust and stains, and can be used on multiple different surfaces.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Imagine it’s a sunny day. You throw on your shades, get behind the wheel and you’re good to go. What about the interior of your car, though? Is there such thing as protecting your vehicle’s interior from the sun’s harmful UV rays? You betcha. Originally engineered for aerospace and aviation, 303 UV Protect Spray is designed to protect your car’s interior from harmful UV rays. Not to mention, this spray is formulated to repel dust and stains too and can be used on vinyl, fiberglass, carbon fiber, rubber, plastic and finished leather surfaces.
    Versatility
    If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, get ready to put 303 UV Protect Spray at the top of your shopping list. Not only is this car interior cleaner able to protect your car’s interior from UV rays, but because it’s water-based, it can also be used on athletic equipment, patio furniture, and more.
    Ease of Use
    Using 303 UV Protect Spray is as easy as spraying your car’s plastic surfaces down and then wiping them completely dry. Keep in mind that this car interior cleaner does not air dry and that additional buffing with a dry cloth can increase the longevity and effectiveness of the dry.
    Protection
    Protectant is in the product name, so you better believe 303 UV Protect Spray was formulated to take care of your car’s interior. This car interior cleaner is not only able to protect against fading, discoloration, and cracking caused by UV rays but it’s also formulated to keep dust and stains at bay.
    Affordability
    When it comes to pricing, 303 UV Protect Spray is costly. Though it comes with 32 ounces of UV protectant spray, it does so for a price. For those looking to save their pennies rather than spend them, 303 UV Protect Spray can be a pricey option. It’s not necessarily a bad value, though, as it will help to ensure the longevity of your car’s interior.

    Pros

    Provides UV protection
    Repels dust and stains
    Leaves matte finish
    Non-toxic
    Easy to use

    Cons

    Expensive
    Does not air dry

    10. Best Portable Vacuum for Car Interiors: Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner: High Power Corded Handheld Vacuum w/16-foot cable

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    Why we like it: Not everyone has the time to visit the local car wash for a quick vacuum, so a quick once-over with a portable vacuum can really clean things up.
    Editor’s Rating:

    There’s something about sitting in your car, opening a bag of potato chips, and then proceeding to drop that bag on the floor in front of you. Just imagine, heaps upon heaps of potato chip crumbs taking up residence in your car’s interior. That’s what makes having a portable car vacuum cleaner on hand so convenient. Fortunately, this one comes with a convenient carry bag and doesn’t need an external power source.
    Versatility
    This vacuum cleaner can really suck up just about anything. From tiny crumbs to clumps of dog hair, you can count on this vacuum cleaner to rid your car’s interior. Don’t overlook the multiple attachments that this vacuum cleaner comes with, either. Multiple nozzles and a built-in LED light will allow you to vacuum all of the hard to reach nooks and crannies in your car as well.
    Ease of Use
    Using this car vacuum is as simple as plugging it into the 12V lighter port of your car and turning it on. With 16-feet of cable, this vacuum cleaner also makes cleaning the entirety of your car’s interior quick and easy. The only trouble with this vacuum, really, is deciding where to put it as it is somewhat bulky. Our tip? Leave it in the garage.
    Protection
    Though this vacuum doesn’t offer long-lasting protection, there are many reasons to vacuum your car’s interior on a regular basis. In doing so, you’re removing dust and debris from the interior of your car. Not only does that help keep your car clean, but it also helps to ensure the longevity of soft surfaces like carpets and seats.
    Affordability
    This Portable Vacuum Cleaner costs about what you expect. Though it’s certainly not dollar-store-cheap, its price in no way rivals that of a Dyson. Unfortunately, though, you’ll still have to buy additional products like this cleaning kit to take care of the hard surfaces in your vehicle.

    Pros

    Comes with carrying bag
    Plugs into 12V lighter port
    Built-in LED light
    Multiple nozzles

    Guide to Buying the Best Car Interior Cleaners
    In this section, we will review what you should consider when choosing the best car interior cleaners for your vehicle.
    Tips for Cleaning the Interior of Your Car
    Cleaning is less of a chore when you know how to do it well. Be systematic with your car cleaning and follow these tips to help save time and energy.
    Before using a new product, always do a patch test. Test the product in an inconspicuous area of your car’s interior to confirm it doesn’t negatively impact the fabrics or plastics in your car.
    Car interior cleaners vary when it comes to application. Get in the habit of reading the directions before cleaning the interior of your car. Remember to pay attention to specific techniques mentioned in the directions too.
    Before you go through the trouble of bringing out your cleaning supplies, make sure your car is free of trash, debris, and your everyday items. Doing so will not only make cleaning your car faster but will also prevent you from losing track of items in your car.
    Having multiple microfiber towels on hand is very important. Use them to distribute car cleaning solutions throughout the interior of your car and to wipe away excess products.
    If you’re having trouble reaching a particular space in your car, try using a thinner vacuum nozzle to clear out dirt and debris.
    Consider cleaning your car at regular, scheduled intervals. Making a habit out of car cleaning makes it easier.
    Frequently Asked Questions
    What Types of Messes are You Cleaning?
    There’s a benefit to understanding what types of messes you expect to clean up in your car. If you work with your car and anticipate having to clean the interior of your car throughout the day, a product like Armor All Car Cleaning and Leather Wipes may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you’re a parent and regularly anticipate having to track down crumbs, a portable vacuum cleaner might be the best option for you. Regardless, understanding the types of messes you expect to clean up allows you to buy products that are designed to fit your exact car cleaning needs.
    How Often Do You Plan on Cleaning?
    If you plan on cleaning your car multiple times per month, keep in mind how much a product costs versus how much product you get and just how far that product goes. If you plan on cleaning the interior of your car regularly, it might be worth it to buy something with all of the products you need like Meguiar’s Full Cleaning Kit. It shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg, but it should last for a decent enough period of time so that you’re not regularly robbing your savings account on the quest to keep your car clean.
    How Much Time Do You Want to Spend Cleaning?
    For a car enthusiast, cleaning your vehicle’s interior can serve as a moment of zen. For others, cleaning their car is a chore. While car enthusiasts may not be opposed to using multiple types of interior cleaners when cleaning, others might prefer an all-in-one product like Adam’s Microban Interior Detailer because of its ability to clean and protect simultaneously.
    Wrapping Up
    Cleaning a car’s interior is an inconvenient chore that’s made much easier by having effective products at your disposal. Whether you require a full cleaning kit, a liquid cleaner, or you just need some microfiber towels, the right tools for the job will have you spick-and-span in no time. More