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    The 10 Best Heated Car Seat Covers to Buy 2020

    While many luxury car manufacturers provide built-in car seats, owners of economy vehicles also value the comfort of a heated seat on cold winter days. To get the heat of a luxury seat at a budget price point, third party manufacturers make accessory covers that sit on top of a seat and keep you warm on cold days.
    The heated car seat cover market is as strong as ever, and there are options to fit any budget. If you’re looking for a brand that just provides high-quality heating, or if you are simply after a set that can warm up your car in the winter months, this guide has you covered.

    Features to Consider in a Good Heated Car Seat Cover
    The way to determine the best heated car seat covers on the market is to discuss a set of features that include:
    Material and Comfort: This is an important factor when considering a purchase of heated car seat covers. Nobody wants to invest in car seat covers if the material is cheap and uncomfortable to sit on. With this, we examined a range of materials and provided the best and most comfortable on the market.
    Heating Speed: When you obtain a set of heated car seat covers, one aspect you should be looking for is the amount of time it takes to reach the heating temperature you require. If you’re in a freezing climate and want your body to feel warm and cozy quite quickly, the last thing you want to do is invest in a set that takes forever to achieve full heat.
    Intelligent Control: Car seat covers with intelligent control automatically turn off once they reach a certain set temperature, assuring that your car seat won’t overheat.
    Timer: If you’re unable to afford (or don’t want to invest) in a heated seat cover with intelligent control, then alternatively, having a timer is a must as it only increases safety. With this, you have the option to set the time for the heater to switch off.
    Bonus Features: Some, not all, heated car seat covers come with one or multiple accessories that can be relevant to your needs. Such accessories include massagers or phone holders, and these features can make the difference between a great car seat cover and a bad one.
    Safety: This has to be the most important factor to consider when searching for your heated car seat cover – especially if you have children within your family. Car seat covers can reach extremely hot temperatures and can cause fires if not handled correctly. That’s why it’s good to know which brands provide the safest sets, and this guide aims to give you exactly that.

    Top 10 Best Heated Car Seat Covers 2020

    1. Best Overall Heated Car Seat Cover: SNAILAX Massage Car Seat Cushion

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    Why we like it: The Snailax Massage Car Seat Cushion has impeccable heating speed that’s extremely effective in keeping you warm and soothed.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    This heated car seat cover provides the ultimate comfort. With the standard option being soft polyester and the two upgraded options made of a soft plush material, all three have the ability to keep you excessively comfortable during long trips.
    What makes this brand a top recommendation within this competitive market is the level of comfort it provides for muscle aches and soreness. If you or a member of your family suffer from continuous muscle aches, then this set is certainly a number one contender, as it will help alleviate aches and pains. The cushion has 6 vibration motors that seep into your tissue and muscles to help relieve fatigue, muscle tension, and soreness, although it can be pretty loud.
    Timer
    This heated car seat cover does come with a timer and you can set it using the handheld controller that’s added in the package. With this, you can set a timer of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. The controller also gives you many more options like mode indicators and massage regions, as well as different heat settings.
    Heating Speed
    After testing this product, we came to the conclusion that it takes less than a minute to reach a temperature that would make you feel warm and toasty. This makes it one of the faster brands to reach such a temperature, so it’s good to know you’ll be investing your money wisely.
    Bonus Features
    First and foremost, this car seat cover is designed to give you the most comforting feeling during your driving, hence the 6 different vibration motors it comes with. Therefore, you can argue that the heating options are the bonus additions for this product. However, despite this, the heating options are what makes this product a valuable and effective choice on the market. If you suffer from back problems, it’s the heat that condenses onto your back that really helps relieve some of the soreness.
    Safety
    Some of what makes this product truly outstanding are its safety features. Firstly, it’s equipped with overheat protection so that the device can remain at a stable temperature. The heating pad also comes with an auto shut-off feature so that you can set up a time in which you want the heating to vanish. This is effective for two reasons, as it prevents you from trying to turn it off while you drive, and it stops the device from overheating. Lastly, the cover comes with a non-slip rubber bottom and adjustable dual straps to secure it to the car seat and keep it in place.

    Pros

    Comfortable
    Easy to install
    Multiple options for massaging
    Very fast heating time

    Cons

    The vibration can be quite loud

    2. Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This product contains intelligent control that’s unique and effective at monitoring temperature. It also heats up quickly and puts off a consistent heat.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    This product is a cushion that looks and feels extremely soft – making it a highly recommended option for long rides. You can even use 2 at the same time with the same auxiliary outlet, which will keep you and your passenger warm and soothed throughout each journey.
    Additionally, there are breathable holes pierced into the cushion which improve airflow. Less expensive models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion don’t have this feature
    Heating Speed
    Full heat can be achieved under 1 minute, which is a solid and highly competitive time. One of the best aspects of this heated car seat is that there’s an intelligent temperature system that allows you to choose a heat ranging between 86F and 140F.
    Timer
    This Kingleting seat cover comes with a timer option that is incredibly valuable. It allows to turn on the heater for periods of 30, 60 and 90 minutes.
    Bonus Accessories
    The cigarette lighter has two interfaces and is the reason why you’re able to use two cushions at the same time.
    Safety
    This product comes with a variety of safety features. Firstly, it has a protection device that allows the seat to turn off when the temperature is too high. The temperature will be maintained but if it lowers, it will turn back on.
    Secondly, the wiring is anti-freeze so that it doesn’t damage in the winter months. Lastly, the cover has a non-slip rubber backing. This is upgrade quality and is designed to keep your cushion from slipping while you drive. Slippery cushions can ruin your driving angle and are dangerous. Furthermore, there are elastic bands to fasten the cushion to the seat and keep it in place perfectly.

    Pros

    The Rubberized bottom keeps the seat in place
    The interface is an extension that can accommodate two connections at once
    Incredibly safe to use

    Cons

    No side straps

    3. Zone Tech Heated Car Seat Cover

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    Why we like it: The fabric is a fireproof material that uses Far-Infrared technology for added safety.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    This Zone Tech heated seat cover is designed to give you both warmth and comfort. The heating fabric can easily warm your back which helps to keep up metabolism and blood circulation. Furthermore, if you’re ever suffering from tired or sore muscles, this car seat cover will generate a soothing sensation that will help reduce the pain.
    Heating Speed
    After testing this car seat cover, we learned that it takes around a minute for you to feel nice and warm. We’d recommend turning it on while warming up your car.
    Timer
    This device does come with a timer manual where you can adjust the time you want the seat to be heated.
    Once your vehicle is running and your Zone Tech heated car seat cover is switched on, you’ll then be able to adjust the temperature to your liking using the provided indicator. However, the only options you’ll have are the low setting or the high setting. This indicator is a new and improved remote that allows you to choose a temperature as high as 120F.
    Bonus Accessories
    The only bonus feature to this product is that it comes with additional hooks on the bottom of the seat. These hooks allow your cover to be more secure while covering your car seat – so, this could be placed within the safety section, but as it’s a slightly different way to hold down a cover onto a seat, it’s quite necessary to mention it within this category.
    Safety
    The Zone Tech heated car seat cover uses the technology of Far-Infrared. This feature allows the heat to build within the fabric, which subsequently reduces the chance of the wire becoming lumpy – known as unsafe heating.
    The product also has a non-flammable design, and with it being UL approved, you’ll know that you and other users in your family will be safe from experiencing a fire.

    Pros

    Quick heating time
    It has fireproof material that uses infrared technology
    The straps and hooks join together to adjust the cover in place, so it doesn’t move while you drive

    Cons

    It doesn’t come with many temperature settings. Only high or low.

    4. Best Premium Car Seat Cover: Snailax Cushion (3 Levels Cooling + 2 Levels Heating)

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    Why we like it: This Snailax Cushion model comes with revolutionary 3D mesh and fabric materials that are implemented to generate support force and ventilation systems. Additionally, the device comes with a cooling system that is perfect for those hot summer months.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    If you’re looking for a heated seat cover that also has a strong focus on comfort, then take the time to consider this Snailax model. One aspect that stands out is the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric: both revolutionary concepts within this market. The upper and lower side are made out of mesh and the middle section has a unique X90 structure made out of polyester. What this generates is a superb support force and ventilation system. When we tested this product out, this was an impressive and effective feature.
    Heating Speed
    One thing we noticed quickly was the rapid speed in which the heater achieved full heat. We worked out that the cover can reach full heat in just under 2 minutes, which is quicker than  average within this market.
    Timer
    There is a timer with this seat cover, but it’s not as efficient as others placed on this list. With this Snailax model, it only includes a 30-minute auto timer that you cannot change or adjust. For some, this may not be the most ideal feature so do take this into consideration before deciding to purchase.
    Bonus Features
    The obvious bonus feature of this product is the additional cooling system. With this, you could say that this Snailax model is a 2-in-1 system than can be used all year round. If you happen to live in a region with seasons, experiencing all kinds of weather throughout the year, then this seat cover model is perfect for you. You have your heater in the winter, and your cooler in the summer – all with one seat cover.
    Safety
    As many seat covers do, this model comes with a rubber bottom that keeps the cover in place securely. In addition, to keep the cover extra sturdy, there are elastic straps in which you tie around the perimeter of the car seat.
    Additionally, there is built-in UL approval overheat protection thermostats. This serves to keep your temperature at a steady balance that will prevent your cover from burning. This is always a worthy feature to have when considering your next heated car seat cover.

    Pros

    A 2-in-1 system of heating and cooling is perfect for all seasons.
    Revolutionary design concepts include the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric
    Program overheat protection for safe use
    Universal and can be used in the home, car or office

    Cons

    The auto timer can’t be changed

    5. Best Budget Heated Car Seat Cover: Comfier Car Seat Cushion

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    Why we like it: The Comfier Car Seat Cushion goes above and beyond in making sure your device is as safe as it can be.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The outer material is made of faux suede and soft plush which allows you to feel nice and comfortable during your road journeys. With additional high-density foam padding, this car seat cover will give you a luxurious and cozy feel and will last you a long time.
    Another aspect we were impressed with was the hemming of this product. At times, car seat covers can start to wear and tear around the edges. With the excellent hemming of the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, this is why it can possibly last longer than other heated car seat cushions.
    Heating Speed
    As mentioned on the product’s listing, it can achieve a heating speed of 1-3 minutes. Just like the other Snailax product on this list, this heating speed is fast and efficient one compared to others on the market.
    Timer
    This car seat cover does come with a timer, giving you the options of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. You need to also note that it comes with a default timer of 60 minutes – so you’ll always know that the product will shut off automatically when it has heated for an hour. However, if you are in need of longer heating time – not to worry – the device comes with a handheld controller that’s one click away from you adding more time to the heater. Not only is this efficient, but it makes it safe to use.
    Bonus Features
    This car seat cover doesn’t come with any standout bonus features but it is one of the more versatile covers on the market. Not only is this tailormade for your car, but you can also use it at home or in your office. The package will include a UL home adapter, as well as the expected car adapter.
    Safety
    One of the features we liked most about this product was the focus it has on safety for its customers. This always goes a long way when it comes to heated car seat covers as there are many out there than can be dangerous.
    With the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, comes an anti-slip bottom which helps keep your cushion nice and sturdy.
    As previously mentioned, with the auto shut off time of 60 minutes, you know that there’s fire prevention right there. This can be extremely useful if you decide to use the product at home. If you do use if for your chair at home and fall asleep (without setting a timer), you’ll know it will automatically shut off after 60 minutes – preventing the product from overheating.
    An additional safety feature is that it comes with a built-in UL-approved protection thermostat that’s designed to keep your temperature at a stable level. Overall, this car seat cover is one of the safest on the market.

    Pros

    Incredibly safe
    Excellent heating speed
    Versatile
    Can potentially last a long time if carefully used

    Cons

    Despite the comfort it generates, it does come a little flimsy compared to others listed in this article
    No pouch for the controller. Increases the risk of losing it

    6. Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion

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    Why we like it: The Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is specifically designed to give you the most relaxing experience for your car journeys. We came to the conclusion that it delivers on this promise.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The seat cover is made of soft polyester fabric and is designed to especially give you comfort by massaging your back while you drive. There is a reason why ‘relax’ is in their company name, and it’s because it does exactly that. If you work long hours and want a seat cover that can relax you during your commute home, the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Cushion will have you covered.
    The comfort is generated by six invigorating massage motors that do wonders for your upper and lower back, alongside your thighs. A part of the soothing massage treatment is the heating process. The seat cover has a max limit of 124F, a little lower than products like the Zento Heated Car Seat that can warm up to over 130 degrees.
    Heating Speed
    We found that this seat cover warms quite quickly, but it takes around 7 minutes to actually achieve full heat. In comparison to other brands, this is considered relatively slow, so take this into consideration if you’re looking for one that can reach max temperature more quickly.
    Timer
    This product comes with a useful handheld controller that contains numerous and necessary options. This includes the option of a timer in which you can choose either 15, 30 or 60 minutes.
    When deciding on the key feature of this product, the controller has to be mentioned for this accolade. What’s impressive about this device is that it gives you a range of choices that end up being specific to your needs. For instance, if you just want your back warmed and soothed, then go ahead and just have this option going. There are also different modes you can choose from, including pulse, normal, press and auto.
    Bonus Features
    One additional bonus to the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is the fact that you can use it in the car, home or office. This is not a common theme within the heated car seat industry as many brands tend to stick with producing their products only being available to vehicles. To make this achievable, this product comes with an AC and a DC adapter.
    Another bonus feature is the thick padding in the back and neck area. Although this is considered to relate to the comfort of the cover, this extra padding is not the most common feature when it comes to heated car seat covers – hence the importance of discussing it within this category.
    Safety
    When considering the safety features of this product, it’s apparent that there’s no real emphasis on the safety preventions this product contains. However, that doesn’t mean to say it’s unsafe. After testing the seat cover, we found that the dual straps are completely effective in securing the cushion to a car seat. They’re tough enough to keep the cushion from sliding and they also accommodate a variety of seats – making it a worthy car seat cover for you to enjoy.

    Pros

    Connects via AC + DC adapters – making it versatile
    The handheld controller gives you multiple and thorough options
    There are six different massage motors that target different areas of your body

    Cons

    The heating speed can be much quicker. If you live in a freezing climate and want to rely on a fast and efficient heater to get you warm, this may not be the option for you.

    7. Zento Heated Car Seat

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    Why we like it: The Zento Heated Car seat model is manufactured to give you a long-lasting car seat cover that can last for years.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The Zento Heated Car Seat is stylish and comfortable to sit on. It includes a layer of thick foam padding and is wrapped in super-soft satin that provides the comfort of this product. The predominant material is made of high-quality soft polyester that generates massive comfort for you to enjoy. With the quality of the material, this heated seat cover can last a long time.
    One feature you will most certainly notice is the soothing sensation that the heat will provide. Ultimately, this feeling helps maintain your metabolism and steady your blood circulation. If this appeals to you, then definitely consider the Zento Heated Car Seat.
    Heating Speed
    Immediately, we were impressed by the heating speed of this product, as it was pretty instant before we experienced the highest temperature of 150 degrees.
    Timer
    This product actually comes with an adjustable timer feature where you can choose a time for auto shut off between 30 and 60 minutes. If you don’t set up a timer, then the cover will automatically shut off after 60 minutes anyway. This was formed as another way to keep your safety in tack.
    The timer allows the heat to have a balance and the seat to remain safe when in use. How it actually works? The controller is very on point and simple to use with just a few buttons.
    Bonus Features
    One aspect to discuss here is that it does come with two interfaces that are connectable to one cigarette lighter power source. As this comes as a two-seater cover set, this is perfect for you and a significant other to enjoy simultaneously.
    Safety
    Aside from the automatic shut off timer, this heated seat cover has a small collection of safety features that are good to know. With this, there are elastic straps that hold the cover in place and does do a good job of keeping it that way. As it’s universal, you are able to adjust these straps to most vehicles out there, including cars, trucks, and RVs.
    Furthermore, this Zento product has UL approved wiring that almost guarantees a non-burnable seat cover. That way, you can spend your time feeling the warmth of a heated seat and not have the worry of it beginning to overheat.

    Pros

    It’s considered a safe product after having UL approved wiring
    It comes with the common rubber bottom which allows the cover to stay in place
    The heat reaches a temperature of 150F – which is one of the highest on the market
    There’s a timer to keep you extra safe and the balance of the heat remains intact

    Cons

    We noticed the heat can take a little time to spread across all surfaces of the cover
    The seat cover isn’t breathable

    8. Wagan Soft Heated Cushion

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    Why we like it: The Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is perhaps the comfiest heated car seat cover we have tested.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The main reason why this model makes this list is due to it being perhaps one of the comfiest heated seat covers around. Although the design doesn’t look very exquisite, you cannot overlook the comfort aspect of this cushion. If comfort is the greatest feature you’re looking for, then certainly consider this option.
    The polyurethane foam is the main reason why the Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is as comfortable as it is. The foam also helps in keeping the seat warm with the heat so this will certainly help you feel soothed during those rides through town and outer city.
    Overall, the soft velour cushion has an extremely soft and durable covering. It’s that comfortable, you won’t ever want to take it off your seat.
    Heating Speed
    After testing the product, we came to the conclusion that the seat cover reaches full heat between 2 and 3 minutes. This is considered an average time within the market.
    Timer
    We’ve already given you the best feature of this seat cover model, by explaining just how comfortable it is. However, on the flip side, this is where the other extreme comes into play. This is due to the product not having a timer, so this is why it comes at the bottom of this list. If you’re going to promote the most effective heated car seat cover on the market, then promoting one that includes a timer is absolutely pivotal, especially since so many newer models contain one.
    Bonus Features
    This product makes up for not having a timer by including both the AC and DC adapter. This means you can use the seat cover in your car, home or office. That way, you can take advantage of the comfort in more than one spot.
    Additionally, the product is easy to store as it can be folded very easily. So when summer arrives, you’ll know you can pack it up and store it away.
    Safety Features
    There are 2 rear elastic straps and 4 cinch straps around the bottom to prevent the cushion from moving while you drive. Furthermore, the safety fuse feature allows the wires to remain safe in the heat as well.

    Pros

    One of the comfiest on the market
    Can be easily stored away for the summer
    Proved to be safe for use

    Cons

    Does not include a timer option
    Reaches a max temperature of 114 degrees. Although this is more than enough to keep you warm, there are individuals who may consider this not to be a high enough maximum temperature – as others on the market tend to reach much higher maximums

    9. Sojoy Universal

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    Why we like it: The Sojoy Universal provides of the most universal fits on the market. It fits on almost all types of car seats with its smart multifunctional fit system.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    The Sojoy Universal mat uses a polyester fabric that’s soft and is designed to keep you comfortable while driving.
    Heating Speed
    This product requires three minutes to achieve full heat. This may not be the quickest on the market, but it does come with 3 different settings: low, medium and high. Some users note a faint rubber smell when heating the cover up the first few times.
    Timer
    The product comes with a timer, but the only option is for 45 minutes.
    Bonus Accessories
    This product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories.
    Safety
    This seat cover collection is designed to be non-slip, so this is a safety feature that should be addressed within this section.
    Another safety feature is its 45 minute timer option. This can prevent the cover from overheating and causing fire damage to you and your car. The only concern relating to this product is that there is no controller. If you need to switch the device back on while driving, the only option is for you to reach down to feel for the cord and turn it back on. Clearly, this can be a dangerous action to attempt.

    Pros

    Universal 12V heated car seat
    The power cable has a nice length so that it can be tucked under the car console and be out of sight
    Comes with 3 different settings for you to choose from
    Comes with a timer

    Cons

    It can take up to 3 minutes to achieve full heat (fairly slow in comparison to others we have examined)
    There is a possibility of a burning rubber smell – especially with first-time use

    10. Warmitory Heated Car Seat Cushion

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    Why we like it: This padded pricey heated car seat cushion adds both warmth and comfort to standard car seats.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    The Warmitory Heated Car Seat cushion is made of a high-grade leather combined with a high-density foam to keep you comfortable.
    Heating Speed
    Getting fully up to its 131-degree maximum heat in 5 minutes, the seat is a bit slower than average but slightly more powerful than average as well. It’s expensive price is beat out by cheaper models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion.
    Timer
    A default safety timer is set for 50 minutes and will turn off automatically once it hits that time benchmark or upon reaching a too hot temperature.
    Bonus Accessories
    Although the product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories, it does come with some clever features that help justify its well-above average price point.
    A non-slip coating prevents the cover from sliding around, a problem all too pervasive with cheap, elastic mounted seat covers. The universal plug works with all connectors from 12 volt to 24 volt, meaning this cover can work with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs. It’s also got a 30-day risk free satisfaction guarantee if you run into any problems.
    Safety:
    An overheat protection sensor automatically turns off upon reaching a too-high level of heat, preventing fire, burns, and damage to seat surfaces.

    Pros

    Padded, heated car seat is comfortable and heats up to a toasty 131 degrees
    Non-slip coating prevents from sliding around
    Connector works with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs
    Comes with a default safety timer

    Cons

    No bonus accessories
    Quite pricey

    Guide to Buying the Best Heated Car Seat Cover
    Arguably the most effective way to keep warm while you drive in your vehicle is to invest in a heated car seat cover. These covers were created to do one thing: produce heat in your car seat – with the added bonus of providing some padding to keep you comfortable during your journeys. However, it’s important not to rush into buying such a product, as it’s important to pick the right one for your needs.
    In this section, we will discuss the various features that you need to know about in order to choose the best heated car seat covers:
    Universal Fit Seat Covers
    When deciding on the right heated car seat cover, you need to ask yourself in what vehicle it will be used. If it’s simply just for your car and nothing else, then this feature isn’t going to be too important. However, there are many people who like to use the one car seat cover in another vehicle they may own – like an RV or a truck. For you, you may want to use a heated car seat cover in your home or office, so make sure you lookout for this feature while shopping.
    Most heated car seat covers now come as a universal fit, so it won’t be too difficult to track one down. Investing in a universal fit is a great way to save you time and money as it can act as a versatile option to be used in your car, truck, home or office.
    Safety and Heated Car Seats
    A heated car seat contains a heating element that, when malfunctioning, has a small risk of overheating. There are a few things you can do to minimize risk of a superficial burn or an overheated seat when you install a heated car seat cover:
    Frequent Breaks: We’d recommend taking a break every two hours or so to minimize the probability of overheating. Even if you don’t get out of the car, turn the heated seat off for 10-15 minutes every couple of hours.
    Heating Level: Just because you have a heated seat doesn’t mean it has to be on full blast all the time. Adjust the heating level based on your need and temperature so as to minimize stress on the heating elements.
    Physical Concerns: In studies of accidents with heated seats, many injured users experience lower body numbness. Be especially careful and take frequent breaks if you have conditions that cause lower body numbness.
    User Manual: The most important thing to do to reduce risk of damage is to follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. Misuse is the most common source of malfunctions.
    Dual Interface
    Do you want a heated car seat for yourself? Or, would you also like to keep your partner or any other passenger warm at the same time? If you don’t like the idea of leaving somebody out while you’re getting warm and cozy, then it’s important to consider a heated car seat cover that comes with a dual interface.
    Typically, heated car seat covers rely on a car cigarette lighter to run. The problem with this is that cars usually contain one cigarette lighter which accommodates one seat only. With a dual interface allows a single accessory outlet/cigarette lighter to connect to two heated car seat covers. Therefore, you won’t have that guilty feeling of being warm while you leave your significant other colder in the opposite seat.
    Why Invest in Intelligent Control?
    This may not be the most important aspect of a heated car seat cover, and it may not be very common either. However, it’s certainly recommended, as having intelligent control is undeniably effective.
    If you’re not worried about the extra cost of having this particular feature, then you won’t be disappointed when you get to use it. Using a heated seat cover with intelligent control will give you the option of shutting down the seat heat when the temperature reaches your set preference. Aeration holes can also help, as seen on the Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion. What this does is help maintain the temperature and prevents it from overheating – making it a safe and reliable product.
    Are You Looking for a Way to Manage Muscular Pains + Sores?
    If so, you’ll be glad to know that there are a variety of options that come with massaging features. Tests have proven that heated car seat covers can help your muscular pains and sore via massaging controls.
    If this applies to you, then strongly consider the brands that provide this significant feature. Many people suffer from chronic back or neck pain and driving long journeys doesn’t help this issue. That’s why the invention of car seat covers with massaging control is tailormade for those with such medical conditions. If you are somebody with such medical conditions or you just want to feel extra soothed during your rides, then this may be the most viable option for you.
    Conclusion
    Whether you are someone who is eager to buy a heated car seat cover or someone who is casually considering the option, we hope that this guide helps you in making the right choice for you. If investing in a heated car seat cover is the right choice, then you could be saying goodbye to chilly winters and be driving in the warmth of your car.
    By reading our buyer guide, you can save time and energy on stressing over what model is the one for you. We have broken down a variety of options and examined all of their best and worst features – just so you can come to the most viable option.
    The best part about our choices is that they all match any budget, however, the more features you’re looking for, the more costly the seat cover can be. Therefore, take the time in reading this guide, and perhaps you’ll find the perfect match for you and your car seat. More

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    Tested: 2021 Toyota Supra 2.0 Brings Performance and Value

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    Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

    If you didn’t rush out and buy a Toyota Supra last year, that’s okay. You still can. But now you’ll have to face a real-life game of “Would You Rather?” when it comes to propulsion: Would you rather have the 382-hp 3.0-liter inline-six or save $8000 and go for the new 255-hp 2.0-liter inline-four? For $4000 per extra cylinder, maybe just buy the four, slap some Celica badges on the thing, and own it.

    HIGHS: BMW’s turbo four, lighter and $8000 less than the six.

    Even down 127 horsepower on the six, the four-cylinder Supra is good fun. Its 295 pound-feet of torque boil up at 1550 rpm, helping the 2.0-liter feel brawny off the line. It’s helped by a curb weight some 170 pounds lighter than the six-cylinder Supra’s, a crash diet that prescribes both the cylinder removal and a smattering of good old-fashioned de-contenting. For instance, the four-cylinder model shares tire widths with the six—255s up front, 275s in back—but it rolls on 18-inch wheels instead of 19s. The front brake rotors are smaller, and the front calipers are single-piston units versus the six’s four-piston clampers. Its seats adjust manually rather than electrically. And Toyota also 86’d—no pun intended—the Supra’s electronically controlled limited-slip diff and adaptive dampers for 2.0 duty.

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    Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

    2021 Toyota Supra Makes Big Gains in Year Two

    Tested: Supra 3.0 Gains Power and Refinement

    At the test track, we measured a 4.7-second time to 60 mph, and the car covered the quarter-mile in 13.3 seconds at 104 mph. That’s a bit slower than the six’s 3.8-second 60-mph dash and 12.1-second quarter-mile time, but the four is quick enough to save face with your ruthless JDM crew. The power deficit does change the way the Supra drives, though—not just in terms of straight-line speed but its handling as well. You’re not going to easily boot the tail out in slow corners for fun like you can do with the 3.0-liter car.

    LOWS: Four-cylinder sound, auto only, isn’t a four-cylinder Supra a Celica?

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    Jessica Lynn WalkerCar and Driver

    Given that the four-cylinder model is visually all but indistinguishable from its six-cylinder kin, it will make a more affordable case for the folks who are keen to start modding their cars five minutes after they get home from the dealer. There’s no aesthetic shame in the Supra’s four-cylinder game. And a typical “stage one” aftermarket treatment (new intake and exhaust and an engine-computer reflash) will likely edge the BMW four’s power output to over 300 horsepower.
    But even in stock form, the 2.0-liter car is a quick, fun rear-driver. As it turns out, a four-cylinder Supra is still a Supra and still a lot of sports car.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2021 Toyota Supra 2.0
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door hatchback
    PRICE AS TESTED $47,430 (base price: $43,945)
    ENGINE TYPE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 122 in3, 1998 cm3Power 255 hp @ 6500 rpmTorque 295 lb-ft @ 1550 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic
    CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): strut/multilinkBrakes (F/R): 13.0-in vented disc/13.0-in vented discTires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport, F: 255/40ZR-18 (95Y) ★ R: 275/40ZR-18 (99y) ★
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 97.2 inLength: 172.5 inWidth: 73.0 inHeight: 51.1 inPassenger volume: 51 ft3Cargo volume: 10 ft3Curb weight: 3179 lb
    C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.7 sec100 mph: 12.1 sec130 mph: 18.8 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 5.8 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 3.2 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 3.6 sec1/4 mile: 13.3 sec @ 104 mphTop speed (C/D est): 155 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 151 ftBraking, 100–0 mph: 302 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 1.02 gStanding-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
     EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) Combined/city/highway: 27/24/32 mpg

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    2020 Buick Encore GX Might Bore Us, but It Does the Job

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    There are two generally accepted schools of thought when it comes to using pies as economic metaphors. In the first, the pie is growing, so there’ll be enough for everyone, and you can achieve your business and financial goals just by going along for the ride. In the second, the pie is the same size as it always has been and always will be, and the only way to succeed is to take more of it for yourself. However, automotive executives in charge of crossover development have long been operating on a third paradigm: the idea that there are new pies being baked all the time and that grabbing a slice of a new pie is paramount.

    HIGHS: Spacious inside, subdued three-cylinder, comfortable ride.

    The 2020 Encore GX is Buick’s slice of a new pie. It shares its name with the tiny Encore, but it’s a different vehicle altogether and plays in a new segment slotted above the old Encore, which continues on, and below best-sellers such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. The GX offers a pair of three-cylinder powertrains, a comfortable interior, and plenty of cargo space. Buick reckons that the GX’s new segment—er, pie—will have 1.5 million customers worldwide.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    A basic front-drive GX with a 138-hp 1.2-liter three-cylinder starts at $25,195, but add all-wheel drive, the 1.3-liter engine, the top Essence trim level, and a few more options, and you can get to our test car’s $35,720 price. Skip a few niceties, though, and it’s easy to come in at less than $30,000 for a well-equipped GX.

    2020 Buick Encore GX Has Three-Cylinder Power

    Buick Reveals More Details of 2020 Encore GX

    2020 Buick Encore GX Priced Starting at $25,000

    The GX isn’t very thrilling on paper. For starters, it’s a small crossover shaped like a potato. And even with the most powerful engine—a 1.3-cylinder with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive—you only get 155 horsepower. It just doesn’t feel like that’s enough, and a 9.3-second run to 60 mph and a 17.0-second quarter-mile time aren’t even close to something we’d call quick. Merging onto a freeway from 50 to 70 takes a long 7.0 seconds, which is significantly slower than the far cheaper Hyundai Venue. At least the three-cylinder is quiet. At full throttle, it only raises its voice to 73 decibels, and a 70-mph cruise is a luxury-car-like 67 decibels, 2 quieter than the Chevrolet Trailblazer, which shares the Encore GX’s underpinnings and powertrains.

    LOWS: Slow, not that much nicer than its less-expensive Chevrolet Trailblazer twin, a general lack of enthusiasm for existence.

    We found ourselves working the tiny engine pretty hard to keep up with traffic. In our hands, it returned a lackluster 22 mpg, short of its EPA estimates of 26 city and 29 highway. It did better on our 200-mile loop at a steady 75 mph, where it hit 30 mpg.

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    Puny engine or not, the GX does shine in a number of areas. For starters, it’s significantly more spacious than the regular Encore. The GX has 24 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, 5 more than the Encore. The load floor can be adjusted up and down. There’s a movable and removable shelf in the cargo area that can make room for tall items. Our bet is most customers will leave that feature alone, but anyone who buys a ladder or moves across town will be grateful for the fold-flat front-passenger seat that allows long items to slide all the way to the dashboard. The GX also has a roomy rear seat, so the active-lifestyle buyer who Buick hopes will buy a GX can offer friends a comfortable ride to the trailhead, but a less Instagram-worthy life of Ubering seems more likely.
    The GX comes equipped with the kinds of driver assistance and tech features that are increasingly expected. Forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and automatic high-beams are all standard. Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic assist, and a smattering of other convenience and safety tech are available. Buick has also partnered with Amazon to bring Alexa features into the car. Drivers who pair their phones via Bluetooth can get directions, make phone calls, and select and play audio using Alexa’s voice-recognition software. “Alexa, find the nearest pie shop.”

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    Michael SimariCar and Driver

    There are plenty of rational reasons to like the GX, but it fails to connect on an emotional level. The GX is boring. The ride is smooth, and the handling is controlled—we recorded 0.84 g of grip from the GX in our skidpad test—but it would never even occur to a GX driver to seek out a twisty road just for the fun of it. The three-cylinder’s torque peaks at 1600 rpm, so it moves off the line with some verve, but the engine’s enthusiasm runs out by about 4500 rpm. The design is entirely inoffensive, but it’s also bland. You’ll never look back at it after you park and think, “Hey, that’s a great-looking crossover.”
    We realize that a lot of people buy boring cars. So we have every reason to believe that the Encore GX will succeed in taking a slice of this new pie. But you don’t have to buy a boring car. It’s okay to want more from your vehicle, even when that vehicle plays in this segment. Having fun and driving a practical crossover don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Just ask Mazda.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2020 Buick Encore GX AWD
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
    PRICE AS TESTED $35,720 (base price: $27,095)
    ENGINE TYPE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC inline-3, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 82 in3, 1338 cm3Power 155 hp @ 5600 rpmTorque 174 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 9-speed automatic
    CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): struts/torsion beamBrakes (F/R): 11.8-in vented disc/10.4-in discTires: Hankook Kinergy GT, 225/55R-18 98H M+S TPC SPEC 3139 MS
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 102.2 inLength: 171.4 inWidth: 71.4 inHeight: 64.1 inPassenger volume: 92 ft3Cargo volume: 24 ft3Curb weight: 3335 lb
    C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 9.3 sec100 mph: 31.2 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 10.1 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 4.8 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 7.0 sec1/4 mile: 17.0 sec @ 80 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 174 ftRoadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.84 gStanding-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
    C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 22 mpg75-mph highway driving: 30 mpgHighway range: 390 miles
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 28/26/29 mpg

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    2021 Mercedes E450 All-Terrain Gives Benz's Wagon a Lift

    While America at large has fallen out of love with the station wagon, a small group of enthusiasts and devotees keeps the genre alive in the United States. It’s a mostly affluent crowd, with the remaining long-roof options coming from the likes of Volvo, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. But even those holdouts have tacitly acknowledged that to sell Americans a wagon, you might need to pretend it’s something else, namely, a crossover. This means adding fender flares, body cladding, and off-road pretensions, as exemplified by the Audi Allroad and Volvo V90 Cross Country. Mercedes, which nobly resisted this trend (in the U.S., anyway), now recasts the faithful E-class wagon as the All-Terrain. Allroad, All-Terrain, all right, let’s bolt on the lift kit.

    2021 Mercedes E-Class Wagon Succumbs to Cladding

    Our Mercedes E450 Wagon Was a Love Story

    The All-Terrain’s been available in Europe since 2017, but since it was diesel only, we didn’t get it in the U.S. The Volkswagen diesel scandal has terrified every German carmaker. Petrified by VW’s plight, Mercedes purged the All-Terrain’s diesels from the order sheets, and there went the car’s chances for a U.S. launch. But now Daimler’s added an attractive gasoline engine to its European lineup, and that’s the one that will be exported to the States. Meet the Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic All-Terrain.
    Compared to the lower version of the E-class—which lives on in the Mercedes-AMG E63 S model—the All-Terrain is distinguished by its increased ground clearance and its unpainted front, rear, and side cladding, which lends it a somewhat rugged appearance. The simulated underfloor protection, which Benz calls a “stylized skid plate” is executed in a mirror chrome finish.

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    Mercedes-Benz

    The E450 All-Terrain is not all show. Its minimum ground clearance is about two inches more than the 3.7 inches afforded by the 2020 wagon, and its air springs can raise the body to a higher level than on the regular E-class. There are two specific off-road drive modes that sense slippery and rough surfaces and react accordingly. While not a true off-roader, this car will be able to travel farther off pavement than most owners will ever dare to go. Dirt roads, mud, and snow can be more easily traversed in this E-class, and that capability could turn it into a favorite in zip codes that combine bad weather with high median income.
    With the exception of the slightly elevated seating position, the All-Terrain’s on-road driving experience is virtually identical to that of the regular E450. The infotainment system and user interface have been significantly upgraded as well, but we have a particular gripe: Unlike the previous twist-and-push scroll knob, the new console-mounted touchpad lacks grace in operation, requiring constant corrections and far more driver attention. At least the central screen is touch sensitive, and you don’t need to learn a car-specific dialect to use the cloud-based “Hey Mercedes” voice command system. But we hear that Mercedes-Benz is contemplating bringing the pre-facelift system back to some markets, and we certainly hope the U.S. is among them.

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    Mercedes-Benz

    While a diesel would perfectly suit this wagon’s attitude, the hybridized inline-six on the E450 All-Terrain is a very appealing powerplant as well. Emitting a silky purr, it cranks out 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque channeled to all four wheels through Mercedes-Benz’s homegrown nine-speed automatic transmission. There’s also a 21-horsepower starter-generator dubbed EQ Boost that fills in low-end torque with an additional 184 pound-feet. All of this translates into quick reflexes and a sprint from zero to 60 mph in an estimated 5.0 seconds, despite the All-Terrain’s crossover-like heft (4600 pounds). Top speed is governed at 155 mph in Germany, but we suspect the inevitable all-season tires will serve as an excuse to keep U.S.-market models to a maximum of 130 mph.
    The standard air springs help make the All-Terrain a supremely comfortable long-distance cruiser. The setup is on the plush side, but this car is happy to play in the corners as well. It’s spacious, too. At 194.8 inches long—half an inch longer than the GLE-class SUV—it offers plenty of space for all seats. Well, except maybe the third row, which faces the rear and folds out from the floor. Those two seats are best used as a perch from which kids can make faces at the driver behind you, in time-honored station-wagon fashion.

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    Mercedes-Benz

    As with the other E-classes, road and wind noise is effectively squelched, and the driving experience is altogether luxurious. The materials are of high quality, but we lament the fact that there’s no interior option that reflects the All-Terrain’s rugged pretensions. We mean, maybe not offer a hose-it-out interior, but surely they could hide a hatchet and a snakebite kit in there somewhere, or set up a collaboration with Jack Wolfskin. Outside, the colors are carried over from the regular E-class as well, and the 15-spoke wheels have about three times too many spokes for a rim that’s supposed to connote rough-and-ready outdoor adventures. It would be good if Daimler offered a few earthy colors and wheel designs that would look a bit more at home in the dirt.
    It’s hard to say whether the E450 All-Terrain will make customers fall in love again with the station wagon. But we think it has a better chance than the regular wagon. And we think it is good enough to get a few GLE customers to reconsider how high they need to ride. We expect pricing to start near $70,000 when the All-Terrain makes it to dealers at the end of this year.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic All-Terrain
    VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 5-door wagon
    ESTIMATED BASE PRICE $69,000
    ENGINE TYPE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injectionDisplacement 183 in3, 3000 cm3Power 362 hp @ 6100 rpmTorque 369 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 9-speed automatic
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 115.7 inLength: 194.8 inWidth: 73.7 inHeight: 58.9 inCargo volume: 35 ft3Curb weight (C/D est): 4600 lb
    PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 5.0 sec100 mph: 12.5 sec1/4 mile: 13.4 secTop speed: 130 mph
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) Combined/city/highway: 24/21/28 mpg

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    2021 McLaren 620R Trades Civility for Quicker Lap Times

    Automakers have long played on often tangential connections between race cars and their roadgoing equivalents, but the similarities are rarely more than skin deep. Not here. The McLaren 620R is very much the real deal, effectively the company’s GT4 competition-spec racer modified just enough to make it street legal. You can even order it wearing factory-applied sponsor graphics.
    Those who have the stamina to keep pace with McLaren’s relentless launch schedule will remember the company already made a track-focused version of the Sports Series: the 600LT. The LT was great fun to fling around a race circuit, but it did so as an enthusiastic amateur. The 620R is a professional, playing in a different league and possibly even a different sport.

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    McLaren

    McLaren 620R Makes Standard Sport Series Look Mild

    The Great Compromise: McLaren 600LT vs. GT

    Not that this is achieved without cost. On road, the 620R is close to terrible in terms of noise and refinement. The cabin is filled with buzz and vibration at even modest speeds—the carpet and glovebox have been removed to save weight, and the residual soundproofing keeps out noise about as well as a screen door would. Beyond the lack of a roll cage, the view from the driver’s seat is essentially identical to that from the GT4’s.
    Even with the 620R’s motorsport-grade adjustable suspension fully softened—something that needs to be done by clicking a valve on the dampers rather than with a button on the console—the ride is punishing. Sitting in the tight-fitting carbon-fiber bucket seat over rough tarmac gives an experience similar to one of the more vigorous massage functions in a luxury sedan. Buyers in the United States will get an integrated roof scoop air intake as standard, one that adds a Darth Vader-ish induction roar to the sensory overload. Full credit to whoever at McLaren had the keen sense of humor to specify the car we drove with the Bowers & Wilkins speaker upgrade, a $4410 option. Beyond 50 mph, a $20 set of headphones would be a better choice.

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    McLaren

    Of course, the 620R is hugely fast but not significantly more so than any of McLaren’s many other hugely fast options. It uses the same 3.8-liter V-8 base engine as the 570S but turned up to produce 612 horsepower—50 more than the lesser car. McLaren says that the 620R will be able to blast its way from rest to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, from zero to 124 mph in 8.1 seconds, and on to a top speed (with the adjustable wing in its lowest downforce setting) of 200 mph. At everyday road speeds the 620R feels as if it has barely woken up, with grip levels from the standard Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires huge enough to preclude any sane attempts to discover their limits. Good thing it’s easy to outpace your fellow motorists, since the vast wing removes a significant amount of rearward visibility.
    Yet once in its natural environment—a racetrack—the 620R becomes truly special. McLaren is offering the option of Pirelli slick tires on the same-size 19- and 20-inch rims as the street-legal Trofeo Rs. This means that, providing they have sent the race tires ahead, owners can drive to a favored circuit, swap their wheels, manually crank up the dampers, and then head straight out. (It is possible to specify the three-stage adaptive dampers of the regular Sports Series in place of the motorsport units, but that largely misses the point of the car.)

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    McLaren

    On track—Norfolk’s fast-but-technical Snetterton circuit—the now slick-shod 620R proves itself to be more of a surgical tool than a blunt weapon. It feels every bit as quick as its raw performance numbers suggest. It actually has considerably more power than the GT4 racer it is based on, which always delivers less than 500 horsepower to comply with GT regulations meant to balance the various manufacturers’ performance. The 620R’s iteration of McLaren’s 3.8-liter V-8 might be the most savage-sounding one so far, loud and animalistic even when experienced through the padding of a helmet. Changes from the dual-clutch transmission are ferociously fast, and the carbon-ceramic brake rotors prove tireless under even the hardest use.

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    McLaren

    The slick tires offer a relatively modest increase in peak performance over the Trofeo Rs (a 4-percent improvement on lateral G, according to McLaren), but they are much more tolerant of prolonged high-speed loadings. Grip felt predictably huge once they had been brought up to temperature, but it was soon clear that the 620R was less than tolerant of mistakes caused by enthusiastic over-driving. Getting on the gas too early in Snetterton’s tighter turns resulted in apexes missed by some embarrassingly wide margins, although traction was tremendous and the stability through faster corners impeccable. Even with the rear wing in its intermediate setting and producing less than its peak 408 pounds of downforce, the additional grip afforded by the aerodynamics was evident.
    Despite its zany decals, the 620R is lacking the sense of fun we’ve found in less single-minded McLarens, a list that includes the well-rounded talents of the 600LT. It’s a car aimed at those who are deadly serious about going quickly, those who would rather have the fastest times at the track day rather than the most fun. But if you want to experience a McLaren race car in the real world without the need to put on flameproof coveralls or those cute little racing boots, this is a lot less expensive than a Senna. You’re more likely to see a Senna on the road, too, as Woking plans to build just 350 620Rs, 150 fewer examples than it plans for the Senna, making this Sport Series one of the rarest McLarens ever.

    Specifications

    Specifications
    2021 McLaren 620R
    VEHICLE TYPE mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door coupe
    ESTIMATED BASE PRICE $280,000
    ENGINE TYPE twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injectionDisplacement 232 in3, 3799 cm3Power 612 hp @ 7500 rpmTorque 457 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
    TRANSMISSION 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
    DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 105.1 inLength: 179.4 inWidth: 76.6 inHeight: 47.0 inCargo volume: 4 ft3Curb weight (C/D est): 3100 lb
    PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 2.8 sec100 mph: 5.9 sec1/4 mile: 10.3 secTop speed: 200 mph
    EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 18/15/22 mpg

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    2021 Ford Bronco Sets Out to Invade Jeep's Turf

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    Marc UrbanoCar and Driver

    Details on the new 2021 Ford Bronco have been trickling out slowly, ahead of the truck hitting showrooms next year. From its initial reveal to the many hidden Easter eggs to Ford’s parade of accessory-laden concepts, anticipation is boiling over—to the point that more than 165,000 hand raisers have already put their name (and $100) down for one. While the hype will surely continue until we actually drive the new Bronco in a few months, we can confirm a new key piece of info after briefly riding in an early pre-production model: It’s going to be as good off-road as we thought it might be.

    New Bronco Is Here—It’s Everything You Hoped For

    Ford Shows New Bronco Adventure Concepts

    Our passenger-seat time was limited, lasting only 10 minutes over roughly two miles of trails and obstacles in southeastern Michigan’s Holly Oaks ORV Park. Our ridealong was in a two-door Badlands model, one of the Bronco’s more dedicated off-road configurations with 33-inch all-terrain tires, electronically locking front and rear differentials, and a hydraulically actuated front anti-roll bar disconnect. An available Sasquatch package with 35-inch mud-terrain rubber looks very imposing. The Bronco’s standard 270-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four with a seven-speed manual transmission got us around. A two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with its standard 285-hp 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed stick serves as the closest point of reference.

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    Marc UrbanoCar and Driver

    The Bronco’s larger dimensions versus the Wrangler are immediately apparent. At 100.4 inches, the two-door Bronco’s wheelbase is 3.6 inches longer than the Jeep’s, and the Badland’s 76.3-inch width is 2.5 inches wider than the Rubicon’s. It’s not full-size-pickup big, but expect to incur some woodlands pinstriping when branches claw into the paint on narrow two-tracks.
    The larger size means more interior space than the Jeep. You won’t feel crowded by the dashboard or rub elbows with the front-seat passenger. However, we did find the sharp-edged lid of the Bronco’s center-console bin to be ideally positioned for whacking your funny bone. Passenger grab handles on the dash and console are welcome if a bit of a stretch to reach. This is a prototype, so it’s not up to production levels of fit and finish, but the Bronco’s switchgear and ergonomic layout are familiar Ford fare, and everything we touched and looked at seemed satisfyingly utilitarian. Smart packaging results in an impressive amount of room to stretch out in the back seat of the two-door, along with a decently sized cargo hold.

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    Marc UrbanoCar and Driver

    From our experience with the latest Wrangler and our ride in the Bronco, it seems like the Bronco is more stable, likely due to its wider stance and independent front suspension. A Wrangler may have a similarly high degree of capability in the dirt, but its solid front axle inhibits ride quality, and its recirculating-ball steering makes for a vague front end. The last two-door Rubicon we drove felt spooky enough at speed to warrant two hands on the wheel and didn’t inspire a lot of confidence when sliding around on dirt roads.
    From the right seat, the Bronco felt planted and composed—and rather comfortable—as the driver tossed it into tight, sandy switchbacks and drifted up hillsides. Granted, the carefully laid-out course at Holly Oaks was no Rubicon Trail, which Ford’s development drivers have already conquered in the Bronco. But the venue did reveal the Badlands’ agility and body control, as well as good bump absorption on hard hits. To drive that home, our driver bounced over a couple of angled concrete slabs.

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    Marc UrbanoCar and Driver

    The controls for the locking diffs and disconnecting anti-roll bar are located on the center stack and within easy reach. The disconnect was only activated once during our stint to highlight the Bronco’s wheel articulation over chassis-twisting ridges, but the rear locker was a boon for traction in the soft sand. The G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) terrain-mode selector dial (with seven settings in the Badlands) is placed on the console behind the shift lever, although our entire trek was done in the Sand mode.
    With 310 pound-feet of torque, the 2.3-liter four has plenty of low-down grunt yet still pulled well at higher revs as we crested steep ascents. We can’t comment yet on the optional 310-hp 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 nor on the available 10-speed automatic, which comes standard with the six and is optional on the four. The most that we could gather about the seven-speed manual is that it seemed to easily slot into gear. The stick’s dogleg first gear serves as an ultra-low “crawler” ratio and works well for slow, technical driving over rocks and ruts.

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    Marc UrbanoCar and Driver

    Ford also let us ride in the Bronco Sport Badlands. For something based on the Escape and without the long-travel suspension and big tires of the big Bronco, the “baby Bronco” surprised us with its sure-footed capability as it tackled some of the same trails as the big truck. Fitted with the optional 250-hp 2.0-liter four and eight-speed automatic, the pre-production Sport had plenty of power. But more interesting was the deep, throaty engine note that played through its stereo speakers and gave the impression of more than four cylinders under the hood. The Ford folks we pressed for an explanation were stingy on specifics but noted that the Sport is closer to production than the prototype two-door we experienced. The prototype’s 2.3-liter four had the buzzy thrum of a four-cylinder Mustang, but it’s likely that it’ll sound better when it reaches production. Here’s hoping the production Bronco sounds as tough as the Sport.
    We won’t be able to verify that until we drive the Bronco ourselves next year. And we won’t know for certain how it compares to the Wrangler until we hit the sand, mud, and trails with them both side by side. But our preview ride did put to rest any doubts that Ford is serious about fighting the Wrangler in the dirt and on the trails.
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    The 8 Best RV Washer Dryer Combos to Buy 2020

    There’s nothing like hitting the open road in an RV—relishing in the comfort of a mobile home while basking in the glory of nature within our spectacular national parks. But at the end of the day, RVing is still camping, and everyday household chores require a lot more effort than they would at home.
    One of your weekly essentials on the road will be washing your clothes, which, unless you have a mammoth wardrobe, will need to be done every week or so. Sure, you could pop into the nearest RV park and use their facilities, but chances are the place will be packed, and you’ll have to keep checking whether the washer is free multiple times throughout the day. And to make matters worse, someone always ends up “accidentally” taking your favorite pair of socks—it’s far from ideal.
    A much better option, if your rig permits, is to install or store a washer dryer combo inside. As the ultimate RV luxury item, a washer dryer combo lets you do your laundry on your own time without having to hustle in line at the RV park or laundromat. We’re going to look at the top eight options on the market after this short introductory guide.

    Features to Consider
    Before you start sifting through our eight recommendations for RV washer dryer combos, you need to wrap your head around the concept of mobile laundering. The best machine is subjective; what works for your buddy won’t necessarily be the best option for you. Take the following things into consideration before purchasing an RV washer dryer combo from our list.
    The Type of RV Washer Dryer Combo
    RV washer dryer combos come in three main forms:
    RV Single-Drum Washer Dryer Combo: these have a single drum that does both the washing and the tumble drying.
    Stackable RV Washer Dryer: these have two drums stacked on top of each other, one for washing and one for tumble drying.
    Portable RV Washer Dryer: these aren’t permanently installed into your RV and have one drum for washing and one drum for spin-drying.
    See our section on the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which type is best for your needs. Note that portable models can only spin-dry your clothes; you’ll still have to hang them up to get them properly dry.
    Non-portable models are either vented (faster and more efficient, but require an exhaust pipe to the outside) or non-vented (slower and less efficient, but does not need an exhaust fan). Skip ahead to our section on Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos to learn more.
    How Often Do You Use Your RV?
    Are you a weekend warrior, or are you living in your RV full time? The more time you spend inside your great mobile home, the more money you should spend on decking it out to make life as comfortable and convenient as can be.
    Fulltime RVers would be wise to splash out on a top of the line model with a high load capacity and a low power draw (especially if they’re using it off-grid). Occasional adventurers, however, could settle for a cheap option that covers the bare basics.
    Will You Be Using It Off-Grid?
    If you plan to do your laundry while boondocking (camping off-grid in a remote location), then energy and water efficiency must take the utmost priority. After all, you’ll need to supply power through solar panels/batteries plus water through your freshwater tank. And getting a super-efficient machine will mean less drain on those precious off-grid resources.
    Another crucial factor to consider is your inverter. Is it beefy enough to handle the wattage of your power-hungry washer dryer combo? Boondockers will need a mighty strong inverter, a massive battery bank, and a marvelous solar set up to run a single-drum or stackable washer dryer combo off the grid. Portables have much lower resource requirements, so they’re worth considering if your RV isn’t fully decked out.
    If you’re planning on using your machine via shore power—plugging into the 120V grid and water hook up at your nearest RV park—then energy and water efficiency aren’t relevant, unless you’re environmentally conscious. For most, you’ve already paid for the electricity and water upfront, so there’s no harm in using a smidgen more.
    Want to learn more about the art of washing while boondocking? Then skip ahead to Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid.
    The Load Capacity
    How often do you plan on laundering your clothes? How many times are you happy to wear the same t-shirt before chucking it in the wash?
    Load capacity refers to the total weight of the clothes you can wash in one go. Note that RV washer dryer combos have a much lower load capacity than their household counterparts because they’re designed to fit into a smaller space.
    The Dimensions
    There’s no point buying an RV washer dryer combo that’s too big for the available space, so it’s essential you carefully measure the dimensions before committing to a purchase.
    Aside from width, length, and height, you may also want to consider the weight. If your RV is already approaching the limit of its Gross Vehicle Mass (the maximum permitted weight as specified by the vehicle manufacturer), then you need to be very careful not to exceed that amount. Not only will your overburdened RV fail to make it up steep hills, but you will also be in breach of your registration. And let’s not forget that heavier RVs consume more miles per gallon on each trip.
    Furthermore, weight is especially crucial for portable washer dryers if you plan on moving them around the RV or using them outside.
    It’s a complex choice, but those are the basics you’ll need to choose the right washer/dryer combo for your RV. If you want a more in-depth analysis as well as some other things to consider with your purchase, or you’re new to life on the road and want some basics, check out our full guide below.

    Top 8 Best RV Washer Dryer Combos 2020

    1. Best Overall RV Washer Dryer Combo: Giantex Portable Washing Machine

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    Why we like it: It’s simple, affordable, and takes up a tiny amount of space.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 11 lbs / spinning 6.6 lbs
    Wattage: Washing 300w / spinning 110w
    Dimensions: 31 x 27 x 16 inches
    Weight: 28 pounds
    Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    The portable washer dryer combo is the option of choice for countless RV enthusiasts around America, and the Giantex Twin Tub Washing Machine is the cream of the crop. This wildly popular unit can be found on small and big rigs alike from Florida to New Hampshire and everywhere in-between.
    The secret to Giantex’s success is simple: create an affordable product that works. While other portable washer dryer combos are notoriously fickle, Giantex has built a reliable piece of equipment that gets the job done—and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
    The dimensions here are relatively petite, so most RVers will have a cupboard somewhere to stash the machine until its time to clean. And with a modest 300W for washing and 110W for spinning, you won’t need an epic battery bank to run this little wonder off the grid. And even though it’s famously quiet and easy to use, the Giantex still manages to coax out even the most stubborn of stains.
    Like most portable options, it’s a twin tub, so you’ll need to transfer the laundry into the spinner by hand. Furthermore, the spinner holds half the capacity of the washer, which means double the work.
    Nonetheless, given its low price point, effective wash/spin cycles, and tiny dimensions, this product is certainly our #1 pick overall.

    Pros

    Low price point
    Simple interface
    Small and lightweight
    Extremely popular and well-known

    Cons

    Spinner capacity is half that of the washer

    2. Best Premium RV Washer Dryer Combo: Splendide WD2100XC

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    Why we like it: Set it and forget it: this vented single-drum machine lets you throw in a load then go do something else until it’s done—easy peasy!
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Single-drum
    Vented: Yes
    Load Capacity: washing 15 lbs / drying 11 pounds
    Wattage: 1300W
    Dimensions: 23.5 x 22.6 x 33.12 inches
    Run Time: Washing 40 mins / Drying 45 mins
    If you’ve got the space to slip a single-drum washer dryer combo into your RV, then the WD2100XC Splendide is…well…splendid. This wonderful machine takes all the effort out of washing your clothes on the road—simply configure the desired settings then go explore the great outdoors while it does its thing. The entire washing and tumble drying process takes about an hour and a half, just enough time to grill a few juicy steaks on the BBQ as you admire those epic alpine views.
    At well over a thousand bucks, the WD2100XC Splendide costs a fortune compared to the cheaper portable washer dryer combos on our list. Nonetheless, that’s money well spent for the full-time RVer who wants a machine to tumble dry their clothes until they’re all toasty warm.
    Although it kind of looks like a household washer dryer combo, the reality is the load capacity is much lower than what you would expect at home. Having said that, it’s still way higher than any of the portable washing machines out there. Furthermore, you don’t have to manually switch your laundry between a washing and a spinning tub, or have to hang it all up on the line afterward. Consequently, the whole laundering process becomes super easy—just like at home.
    Rest assured Splendide built this model specially for RV and marine use; it’s super sturdy and won’t breakdown as you traverse all those bumps on the road.
    There are a couple of things you need to be aware of before you bash that ‘buy now’ button, though. First, the washer dryer combo uses a whopping 1300W, which will require a big battery bank and inverter if you plan to use it off the grid (connecting it to the mains is no problem, however). Second, this model is vented (find out more about the differences here), which means you need to have an exhaust pipe leading to the exterior of your RV. If you’re A-Okay with these two conditions, then the WD2100XC can’t be beaten.

    Pros

    Single-drum design doesn’t require moving laundry from washer to dryer
    Saves you lots of time and hassle
    Vented to the exterior for faster drying

    Cons

    Expensive
    High wattage

    3. SUPER DEAL Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine

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    Why we like it: In terms of cleaning and speed, it outperforms most portable washer dryer combos on the market.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
    Wattage: 240 W
    Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 26 inches
    Weight: 26.4 pounds
    Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    You’ll pay a little more for the privilege, but the Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine from SUPER DEAL is still one heck of a super deal. The reason we reckon it’s so great is simple: the powerful machine runs at a whopping 1300 RPM, which lets it finish it’s wash and spin cycle much quicker than the other portable combos out there.
    And despite the fact it runs quick, the machine does an excellent job of washing and spin-drying your clothes. Expect to get a wrinkle-free pile of fresh laundry with every load, sans those annoying detergent stains.
    Plus—and this is a big plus—you can run the washer and the dryer at the same time, which makes the whole laundry process much easier to manage. So, despite the fact it costs about double that of our cheapest recommendation, it’s money well spent for the time-poor RVer.
    Another cool feature is its translucent plastic tub, which lets you watch your washing in action (handy if something gets stuck). Although you might associate plastic with being cheap, it’s beneficial in the portable washer dryer world because it means the machine isn’t prone to rust.
    On the downside, the load capacity here is rather low, so don’t expect to wash and dry a big pile of laundry at the same time. You might have to purchase a new hose connection, too, as the included ones don’t fit every faucet.

    Pros

    Runs at 1300 RPM (more than other models)
    Has a compact, lightweight design
    The plastic body isn’t prone to rust

    Cons

    More expensive than other portables
    Low load capacity

    4. Best Choice Products Portable Laundry Machine & Spin Cycle

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    Why we like it: It washes and dries in record speed and is a cinch to use.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts:
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
    Wattage: 300W
    Dimensions: 23″ x 13.5″ x 26″
    Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Weight: 23 lbs
    Best Choice Products do one of the best portable washer dryers on the market. The product is a hit among American consumers for its rapid washing and spinning time and its simple, user-friendly interface. The device washes in 15 minutes and spin dries in five, which is notably quicker than other options out there—and the fact you can perform both functions at once makes everything so much easier.
    Another awesome feature is the filtration system that stops lint, hair, and other nasty gunk from clogging up the drain. That means you won’t have to waste time cleaning your washer dryer after every use—a definite bonus on our book!
    It’s about on par with its competitors in terms of weight and size, although the unit is a little more power-hungry than other portables, something to consider if you’ve got limited juice. It’s also a tiny bit noisier than other options, so think twice about putting on a load late at night in the RV park.

    Pros

    Easy to use
    Washes and spin-dries at the same time
    Fast and effective
    Superb filtration system

    Cons

    Uses a bit more power than others
    Quite noisy

    5. Best Budget RV Washer Dryer Combo: COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine

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    Why we like it: This tiny little unit does the job with gusto and fits into the smallest of spaces.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: 7 lbs
    Wattage: 200W
    Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 14 inches
    Weight: 13.95 lbs
    Run-time: Washing 10 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Weighing in at a meager 14 pounds, the COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine is the lightest washer dryer combo on our list and is little enough to lift with one arm. Forget about busting your back by trying to lug a heavy combo machine out of the closet every time you need to clean your clothes. This model gives portability a whole new meaning.
    Naturally, the downside is it can’t wash a big load of clothes at once; there’s a minuscule load capacity of just seven pounds to play with. Nonetheless, if you’re happy to wash often and want something petite and cheap, COSTAWAY delivers the goods.
    Using the thing is super simple, too: fill it with water, set the timer, and away you go. Ten minutes later, it’ll have finished its wash cycle, and five minutes after that, it’ll stop spin-drying.
    One thing we don’t love about this model is you have to stand there and watch the water fill to the brim—there’s no automatic mechanism to stop it overflowing. Also, if you don’t load it correctly with even weight distribution, the spin cycle will force the machine to shake like mad and make an awful racket (that causes additional wear and tear as well).

    Pros

    Small and light
    Affordable
    Easy to use

    Cons

    User needs to monitor the water level when filling
    Spin cycle is problematic without proper weight distribution

    6. ThinkGizmos Portable Washing Machine

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    Why we like it: It’s a solid mid-range option that does an excellent job of cleaning your kit.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 4.4 lbs
    Wattage: Washing 230W/ spinning 100W
    Dimensions: 23 x 14 x 27 inches
    Weight: 27 pounds
    Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Happy campers who are prepared to spend a bit more on a decent portable washer dryer combo might consider this excellent option from ThinkGizmos. It costs about double the price of the cheapest portable on our list, but that’s money well spent if you’re passionate about wearing spotlessly clean clothing at the campground. Put simply, ThinkGizmos is more effective at removing stains and nasty odors than its portable competitors.
    The model is on par with other portables in terms of weight, size, and wattage, although it will take slightly longer to finish a full run (20 minutes all up). A built-in lint filter succeeds at keeping the fluffy stuff from sticking all over your fresh, clean clothes.
    Be warned, though, if you overfill it or don’t get the weight distribution right, it’ll shake itself around the room and make an annoying amount of noise.

    Pros

    Cleans better than most portables
    Has an effective lint filter
    Comparable in size and weight to other portables

    Cons

    Has a slightly longer cycle than most
    Problematic when overloaded

    7. Best Non-Vented Single-Drum Washer Dryer: Splendide WDC7100XC

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    Why we like it: It’s perfect for RVers who want a powerful single-drum machine without vents.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Single-Drum
    Vented: No
    Load Capacity: Washing 15 lbs / drying 11 lbs
    Wattage: 1300 watts
    Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 22 inches
    Weight: 145 pounds
    Run-time: Washing 30 mins / Rinsing 30 mins / Drying 150 mins
    Non-vented single-drum washer dryer combos require more power to run and take longer to dry than their vented counterparts. However, as these don’t need an exhaust pipe to the exterior of the vehicle, they’re the only viable option for RVers who don’t have such a pipe yet still want the raw drying power of a proper tumble drier. And Splendide does the best non-vented model on the market with its flagship WDC7100XC.
    The load capacity of 15/11lbs doesn’t compete with a domestic washer dryer, but it’s pretty good for a mobile home and easily outperforms any portable options on the market. And although the drier might not be as quick or effective as our favorite vented model, the Splendide WD2100XC, it still gets your clothes all toasty warm and dry with minimal fuss.
    The total run time drags on for 3.5 hours (2.5 hours just for tumble drying), but the fact you can ‘set it and forget it’ makes up for the wait.
    Sadly, much like other non-vented washer dryer combos, the construction is a bit fickle and prone to breakdown, so expect to have to repair it sooner or later. Also, the included plastic necks that sit between the hose and couples have a nasty tendency to crack, leaving a swamp of soapy water in its wake. Thankfully, it’s an easy situation to remedy by buying quality stainless steel replacements from your local hardware store.

    Pros

    Non-vented models can tumble dry without an exhaust pipe to the exterior
    Set it and forget it—no need to swap clothes between drums for drying
    Does a great job of washing and drying

    Cons

    Non-vented models take a long time to dry
    Machine occasionally breaks down
    Some stock parts are low quality (can be replaced)

    8. Best Non-Electric RV Washer Dryer Combo: WOAIM Portable Washer/Dryer

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    Why we like it: The machine doesn’t require any electricity at all to wash and dry your clothes.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts:
    Type: Non-electric portable
    Load Capacity: 4.4 lbs
    Dimensions: 16 x 13 x 15 inches
    Weight: 9 pounds
    Don’t have an inverter in your RV? Then you need a washing and drying solution that doesn’t require any electricity at all! Introducing the Portable Washer/Dryer from WOAIM, a wonder device that washes and cleans your clothes without a single watt. There is a catch, of course: you have to do all the hard work yourself.
    Rather than relying on an electric powered motor, WOAIM has you spinning the drum of the washer-dryer through your arms. You’ll have to yank a cord up and down, again and again, until your clothes are finally clean and dry enough to hang up on the line. It’s backbreaking work, but there’s no denying the concept is eco-friendly, and you could certainly save on your membership at the gym.
    The lightweight design and small dimensions mean you could also stash this away in a small storage space and retrieve it when needed. Do note, however, it has a minuscule load capacity of 4.4 pounds, meaning you’ll be tugging away at those cords for an eternity if you need to clean and spin dry a big load.
    And it well over a hundred bucks, it hardly seems terrific value when there’s plenty of cheaper portable electric models out there. Nonetheless, if you like the idea of washing your clothes with your own raw effort, then go ahead and grab this one to stow in your RV.

    Pros

    Doesn’t require electricity
    Good exercise
    Eco-friendly concept

    Cons

    Hard work to use
    Small load capacity

    RV Washer Dryer Combo Buyer’s Guide
    RV washer dryer combos vary significantly from your typical domestic machines, and there’s quite a lot to learn about the art of washing your clothes on the road.
    In this section, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about RV washer dryers and outline the pros and cons of each type. That way, you’ll have the necessary knowledge at hand to make an informed purchase and can enjoy the benefits of your mobile washing machine for years to come.
    Why You Should Buy An RV Washer Dryer Combo
    Sure, you could get by without an RV washer dryer combo, but the marvelous machine will make your life on the road so much easier. By having your very own washing facilities onboard, you can bypass the queue at the RV park and skip the line at the laundromat.
    Traveling in an RV already entails a whole host of annoying domestic chores: washing your clothes and bed linen, filling up your fresh water tank, emptying your grey water tank, disposing of your black water, refueling your gas tank, and ensuring your batteries have plenty of juice. Having a washer dryer combo at the ready makes laundering a breeze, giving you more time to focus on these other tasks or—better yet—relaxing in the great outdoors.
    The Pros & Cons of Each RV Washer Dryer Type
    Are you confused about the different types of RV washer dryers on the market? Here, we’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you decide what works best for you.
    Single Drum RV Washer Dryer Combos
    As the name suggests, these machines have one single drum that washes then tumble dries your clothes at the push of a button (manufacturers may refer to them as RV Washer Dryer Combos or Combination RV Washer Dryers). Single drum models are the most popular type of non-portable RV washer dryers as they don’t require much space (under 25 x 25 x 35 inches), have modest energy and water requirements, and you don’t need to take your clothes out of the washer and put them into the drier (unlike the stackable model).
    The Good:
    Compact design is easy to fit into your RV (many new RVs have slots where you can plug them in yourself)
    Vented and non-vented models available
    Uses less electricity than stackable models
    Tumble drying will full dry your clothes
    One button washing and drying—set it and forget it
    The Bad:
    Can’t do large loads of laundry at once (up to 15 pounds)
    Longer total laundering time than stackable washer dryers
    Uses quite a lot of water (20-25 gallons per load)
    Sound tempting? Our favorite single-drum washer dryer combo is the fantastic Splendide WD2100XC.
    Stackable RV Washer Dryer Combos
    Stackable RV washer dryer combos work with two drums; the tumble dryer is stacked on top of the washer. Although the maximum load per drum is only around 12 pounds, give or take, the beautiful thing is you can run both drums at the same time—perfect for families with large washing requirements. In fact, stackable RV washer dryers have a comparable load capacity to dual-drum domestic units, so you can get away with washing just about anything you like.
    As for the dimensions, you need a bit more available width and depth than the single-drum variety (up to 30 inches wide by 30 inches deep). But as you’d expect, they’re much higher, usually reaching 70 inches or so. Folks who own a big rig with plenty of extra space may prefer these models as they allow you to churn through a massive pile of laundry quickly, despite the fact you need to transfer your clothes between each drum manually.
    Portable RV Washer Dryer Combos
    Although these machines are called “portable,” that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easy to cart around—some weigh as much as 100 pounds, although 15 to 25 is the norm. The term “portable” refers to the fact they don’t need to be installed into your RV; simply plug them into an electrical outlet, fill them with water, and your good to go.
    The major downside to portable combos—and it’s a doozy—is they spin-dry rather than tumble dry. Spin-drying leaves your clothes damp rather than soaking wet, so you’ll still need to hang them up on the line before slipping them on.
    Portable RV washer dryer combos come with a hose to get the greywater down the drain (don’t forget to hook it up or you’ll flood your floor). Some models don’t even require electricity — you pull a cord repeatedly instead — which is perfect for the RVers with a modest battery bank who wants to launder off-grid.
    As they’re small and portable, the load capacity is low, rarely more than 8 pounds. Consequently, these aren’t ideal for families or travels with high laundry requirements. The entire process is rather quick, however, with each load taking less than half an hour, including the time it takes to put the washed clothes on the line.
    The Good:
    Don’t require installation
    Many models don’t need electricity
    Very reasonably priced
    Each load gets washed and dried quickly
    Doesn’t need much water
    Can easily be moved between RVs
    The Bad:
    Can’t be fixed in place
    Can only wash minimal loads
    Many models require manual work
    Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid
    While most RVers will plug into the shore power (the electrical grid at an RV park or home) to use their washer dryer combo, those with more advanced electrical setups may be able to run their machine while boondocking. Non-portable (single-drum/stackable) washer dryer combos have high power requirements, however, so if off-grid laundering with these is a necessity, you need to ensure your rig is up to the challenge. Portables, on the other hand, work well with more primitive setups.
    The Wattage
    The first thing you need to consider is the wattage (W), or in other words, how much power the machine uses. RV washer dryer combos typically run between 150 and 1500 watts. If laundering off-grid, you need to ensure your inverter is capable of inverting the required wattage from your 12-24V (DC) battery system to the 120V (AC) system that runs most of your appliances.
    Inverters are rated with a maximum peak wattage; examples include 1000W, 1500W, 3000W, and 5000W; be sure the wattage of your washer dryer is much lower than your inverter. However, the maximum wattage of the inverter needs also to be higher than all the appliances you will be using at the same time—factor in your toaster, kettle, fan, TV, etc. And finally, you’ll generally need a pure sine wave inverter for a washer-dryer, as the other types could damage the complex electrical system.
    The Battery Bank
    The second key thing to consider is your battery bank, which is measured in Amp Hours (ah). As washer dryer combos draw quite a lot of power, they’re going to drain your batteries fairly quickly. If your batteries rarely have much juice to spare, then you should look at expanding your battery bank before trying to run a non-portable washer dryer off-grid. Mighty Max makes superb AGM deep cycle batteries, while SHUNBIN does superb lithium batteries (you can’t mix and match the battery types, so go with the same variety you’ve already got installed). Before buying these, consult an auto-electrician to determine whether it’s feasible to install more batteries in your RV.
    Keeping Your Batteries Charged On the Road
    You’ve got three options for keeping your batteries charged up on the road:
    A DC to DC charger uses your vehicle’s alternator to charge your batteries as you drive (REDARC make a good option)
    Solar panels and the associated controller will draw power from the sun to recharge your battery bank. However, they aren’t especially useful when it’s overcast, or you’re parked in the shade (Renogy are a well-regarded brand).
    A generator will charge your batteries and can even power your 120V system while boondocking. Opting for a high wattage model will let you run your air conditioning, washer dryer, and other power-hungry appliances in the remote wilderness. Still, it’s proper RV etiquette to consider how the noise pollution may affect your neighbors (Champion make a great wattage generator that doesn’t make too much noise).
    Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    Non-portable RV washer dryer combos fit into two categories: vented and non-vented. Every seasoned RVer knows the vented machines are ideal; however, it may not be possible to install one on your rig.
    Note that portable washer dryers don’t have vents because they don’t have a tumble dry function; they use spin-drying instead.
    Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    These systems draw in air from the RV, heat it up, and tumble it through your laundry before sending it out of an external exhaust pipe into the open-air. Although the process is fast, easy, and energy-efficient, there’s one major caveat: you need to have someone drill a hole for the exhaust pipe if there isn’t already one there. There might not be a suitable place to install an exhaust vent on your rig, and even if there is, you’ll still need to pay a technician to set it up for you.
    The Splendide WD2100XC is our favorite single-drum vented washer-dryer.
    Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    The non-vented varieties, on the other hand, heat the air within the drum to tumble dry your clothes. As a result, a considerable amount of steam forms within the drum, which the machine cools using cold water on the outside. The excess water from the steam is pumped into your RV’s grey water tank.
    The drawback here is non-vented systems take much longer to perform the same task and require more electricity and water to run.
    The Splendide WDC7100XC is our top pick for a non-vented RV washer dryer.
    Installing an RV Washer Dryer Combo
    Can you install an RV washer dryer combo yourself, or do you need to get a professional involved? It depends on the type.
    Installing A Single Drum Washer Dryer Combo
    If you’ve got a late-model RV, you might be able to hook up a single-drum washer dryer combo yourself if the water and electrical connections are already in place. Just be sure to follow the manual carefully and remember to bolt the machine down to the floor. If the electrical and water hookups aren’t in place, you’ll need a professional to sort it out.
    Installing A Stackable Washer Dryer
    Stackable Washer Dryers are usually custom-fit into larger RVs, so the layman won’t be able to set these up on their own. Of course, if you happen to be a skilled plumber/electrician, then you might be up to the task.
    Installing A Portable Washer Dryer Combos
    These don’t require installation at all, which helps keep the costs right down. Just plug them into your electrical hookup, fill them with water, and you’re good to go.
    How to Winterize Your RV Washing Machine
    If you plan on storing your RV in an area where the temperature dips below 32F, then you must winterize your washer-dryer machine. Otherwise, it will get destroyed when the water expands into ice (you’ll also need to do this for your RV’s water system). In a nutshell, the process involves pumping anti-freeze into the system, then flushing it out again when you’re ready to use it in spring. However, as all washer dryer combos are different, you’ll need to consult your manual to see the precise steps.
    Alternatively, a professional RV servicing company like Lazy Days can do the whole thing for you for a couple of hundred dollars.
    Handy Tips for Doing Laundry in Your RV
    Doing laundry on the road isn’t quite as simple as at home and may require a little extra planning and preparation to pull off. The following handy hints should help lighten the load (pun intended).
    Avoid doing the heavy-duty stuff yourself
    Washing your blankets, comforters, jackets, and other bulky items can be a hassle in an RV, especially if you’ve got a small portable machine. Veteran travelers prefer to save these for the RV park washing machine.
    Ensure everything is hooked up properly
    One loose nut or a stray grey water hose will result in an awful soapy mess all over your lovely carpet. Double-check everything is as it should be and enlist the help of an expert if you’re unsure.
    Read the instruction manual
    Although RV washer dryers aren’t particularly hard to operate, it’s worth reading through the manual to get the gist of their inner-workings.
    Washers work as a dirty clothes hamper
    Store your smelly laundry inside the washing drum to save space. And when it comes time to wash, it’s already there waiting to go.
    Electricity and water don’t mix
    Make sure your hands and any clothes are completely dry before playing around with a live current.
    Use high-efficiency detergent
    Look for the HE (high efficiency) label on your laundry detergent as the regular stuff won’t cut it on an RV washing machine.
    The Best RV Washer Dryer Combo: Final Thoughts
    The best RV washer dryer combo depends on your laundering requirements, budget, and the existing layout and features of your rig. Today we’ve covered the three main types—single-drum, stackable, and portable —plus provided a wealth of information on how to launder off-grid, how to install a washer dryer in your RV, and and the key points to consider before making a purchase, among other things.
    Keep the information contained in this guide in mind and carefully consider your existing setup and laundry requirements before selecting one of the options on our list. That way, you’ll find the ideal washer dryer combo for your rig and enjoy years of hassle-free washing to come. Happy road-tripping, folks. More

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    The 10 Best Floor Mats to Buy 2020

    While most drivers use the carpet mats that come stock in their car, a set of aftermarket floor mats can provide huge benefits. Along with sprucing up the look of your vehicle, new floor mats can protect your car floor, improve its resale value, and make it easier to clean. And while aftermarket floor mats have a reputation of being pricey, you can typically get a full, high-quality four-piece set for well under $50.

    The Main Factors to Consider ins a Floor Mat
    There are tremendous variations in floor mats, with some simply designed to replace old mats at the lowest possible price and other premium models meant to hold up to intense use and long driving miles. When shopping for a floor mat for your vehicle, consider the following features:
    Fitment
    While new cars usually come with a custom-fit floor mat, aftermarket car floor mats are typically manufactured in a universal size that can be trimmed down to fit your own vehicle. If you’re buying a universal mat, measure the rough footprint of your floor to make sure that whatever you purchase can be properly trimmed down to size.
    Less commonly, floor mat manufacturers will design a mat for a specific model or series of models. Before purchasing this type of mat, double-check that it will fit your exact car make, model, and model year. When choosing from Amazon, it will provide a drop down menu where you can input the make and model of your car to see if it’s compatible.
    Pieces
    A set of floor mats can be categorized based on how many separate mats it contains.
    Two-Piece Set: The most common and least expensive set of floor mats only outfit the two front seats. For budget variations, these can be usually purchased for well under $30.
    Three-Piece Set: A three-piece set outfits each of the front two seats with individual mats and the middle row seats with one mat that extends across the whole vehicle.
    Four-Piece Set: A four-piece mat set typically works with cars that have middle bucket seats, with one mat for each of the front four seats.
    Five-Piece Set: Five-piece floor mat sets place one mat per seat in the first two rows, and one long mat in the back bench seat. These sets are normally the most expensive. Some five-piece sets also include a trunk liner.
    Material
    Most cars come outfitted from the factory with carpet mats. These floor mats are custom fit to the car but aren’t waterproof and, therefore, are susceptible to wear, staining, and even mold. Aftermarket carpet floor mats, especially all-weather floor mats, are most commonly made out of rubber, although occasionally other materials are used. On cheaper mats, traditional synthetic rubbers are used, but as you move up in price, proprietary rubber materials with unique properties can be purchased.
    That’s an overview of the basics, we go into more detail in our full guide, but now it’s time to check out some great floor mats you can get for your car.

    Top 10 Best Floor Mats 2020

    1. Best Overall Floor Mat: Armor All Black 3-Piece Floor Mat

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Famed car accessory outfitter Armor All delivers a mid-range and smartly designed set of durable floor mats targeted and SUV and truck owners.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Rubber
    Famous car brand Armor All’s Full Coverage Floor Mats are a near-flawless offering for a particularly economical price. The standard weather-proof rubber material is deeply grooved so as to channel dirt and water away from the edges, making for easy cleaning.
    Rinsing the mats is easy, just a quick hose-down will wash away dirt, grime, and stains. Interesting to note is that Armor All doesn’t use a proprietary material for their mat, probably to cut costs, although we have no complaints with the simple synthetic rubber they use.
    Patent-pending plastic nubs called Carpet Claw Technology dig into the carpet floor of the vehicle, anchoring the mats tightly to the floor. Since these mats include the traditional rubber nibs seen on other floor mats, these mats stay perfectly in place. This improves safety and ease of use, as a fixed mat won’t sneak under pedals or require adjustment while driving.
    The mats are trimmable with a thinner material towards the borders making the product easier to customize. The back mat, which extends across the full second row, is thinner than average, making its fitting more universal but worsening its durability. The mats come in Tan, Black, and Grey versions, meaning that Armor All probably offers a color that perfectly matches your car’s interior.

    Pros

    Carpet Claw Technology helps these mats dig into the floor, preventing sliding
    Tan, black, and grey colors available
    Thin mat helps with fitting to nearly any vehicle
    Deep grooves help channel dirt and water away from carpeted surfaces
    Simple synthetic rubber is effective and inexpensive

    Cons

    Thinner mat construction is less durable
    No proprietary rubber material

    2. FH Group Black Rubber Floor Mat

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Manufacturer FH Group’s plain black floor mats are simple but durable, inexpensive, and can be trimmed down to size to fit almost any vehicle.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Synthetic Rubber
    In a market that’s flooded with model-specific products and expensive brand names like Weathertech and Husky, it is refreshing to see a manufacturer like FH Group making a simple and generic floor mat that performs competitively at a low price point.
    This set includes four floor mats (two front and two rear) for under $50 compared to the premium manufacturers’ $150-plus price points. Made of a similar rubber, the mats are both stain proof and water-resistant, while the edges have elevated borders that stop dirt and liquids from spilling onto your carpet. Short but effective nib technology keeps the mats from sliding around.
    While all of these features so far are on par with premium models, our personal favorite part of this product is the fact that these mats are trimmable. While front mats start with dimensions of 30 by 17 inches and rear mats have dimensions of 18 by 18 inches, each individual mat can be cut down to size to fit your vehicle. This means that the FH Group mats are some of the most versatile in our lineup, fitting everything from big SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and the Chevy Equinox, all the way down to compacts like the Toyota Corolla. All in all, these mats are durable, effective, versatile, and inexpensive.

    Pros

    Durable rubber mats can be cut down to size
    Edges have elevated borders to stop water from leaking onto your carpet
    Versatile mats fit everything from big SUVs to small compacts
    Simple and generic floor mat is competitive in both performance and price

    Cons

    Relatively simple mat doesn’t use advanced rubber technology

    3. Motor Trend FlexTough Contour Liners

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: A solid set of car floor mats are made even better by their multiple color options, odorless construction, and grooved non-slip surfaces.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-universal trim-to-fit
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Odorless EVA Rubber
    With six distinct color variations, it is not hard to find an option that perfectly matches the interior of your vehicle. That said, the most popular color of these Motor Trend Flex Tough Contour liners is a universal black that goes with everything. The deep grooves in the rubber help contain water in wet conditions until you can clean the mats. A high sidewall prevents water and dirt from spilling over the edge and onto the carpet floor of your vehicle.
    A couple of clever and often-overlooked features make us love this mat. You get the normal characteristics we’ve come to expect like no-slip nibs and a flexible yet durable material. Yet we particularly appreciate the odorless rubber, as some mats tend to stink up the car with an unpleasant smell during the first month of use. Also appreciated is HEPA compliance, which reduces the quantity of airborne chemicals in your vehicle after installation.
    Other than that, this is a pretty typical mat, with trim-to-fit sizing, grooves for traction and water channeling, and a large single mat for the back seat. The products fit in a wide variety of vehicles, but they’re smaller than other mats. This lessens the need for trimming but also lowers the amount of protected floor surface area.

    Pros

    Six distinct colors match can match any interior
    Odorless manufacturing and HEPA compliance reduces odor and chemical load
    No-slip nibs keep the flexible rubber material in place
    Grooves for traction and water channeling

    Cons

    Small size reduces the amount of protected floor surface area

    4. Best Budget Pick: AmazonBasics Four Piece Heavy Duty Car Floor Mat

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A generic, sturdy, and inexpensive four-piece set manufactured by Amazon rivals more expensive brand names, but at half the price.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Rubber
    While Amazon’s in-house brand AmazonBasics normally gets mixed reviews on their car products, we’re impressed with their effort on these ultra-economical floor pads. Made of a thick, padded, waterproof rubber, these all-weather mats are sturdy and have minimal branding which makes them fit for nearly any vehicle.
    Part of the reason these mats are cheaper is the fact that they simply use less material than other manufacturers, and a 20-inch by 28-inch size for the front mats yields a footprint almost a full square foot smaller than Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats.
    While these mats are technically trimmable, cutting them down to size is a bit trickier than with other models, again, thanks to that ultra-thick construction. It’s a double-edged sword, and although they’re tricky to trim, that design choice means it’s difficult to wear through the mat. Amazon, probably thanks to this thick format, does provide a full year warranty.

    Pros

    Ultra-economical floor pads are made of a thick, padded waterproof rubber
    Thick rubber is resistant to wear
    Full-year warranty from the manufacturer
    Trimmable construction helps customize the fit

    Cons

    Smaller footprint than other floor mats
    Thick construction means they’re hard to trim down to size

    5. Motor Trend Black Deep Dish Rubber Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Motor Trend’s ‘Deep Dish’ design extends up the sides of the footwells, protecting the car floor from splashes and keeping things watertight. They’re also trimmable.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
    With a large surface area and an adaptable footprint, Motor Trend’s universal mats will fit almost any vehicle, and they’re relatively inexpensive as well – coming in at under 50 bucks. This makes them a good pick for a budget-oriented shopper.
    A small of number nibs do a great job of keeping the mat in place, which is sometimes an issue with some options that are trim-to-fit. These mats have a large footprint that extends further across the floor, giving a larger contact patch that also improves waterproofing. Sidewalls create a barrier against spillage, while grooves channel water towards the center of the mat.
    One of Motor Trend’s innovations on these floor mats is its Performance Rubber Polymer Technology, which is designed to be permanently flexible against all shapes of car floors. Since these mats are designed to fit a wide range of cars, they have to be more flexible, but still durable. Their proprietary rubber technology does a terrific job of walking this fine line. They’re also trim-to-fit to further refine the shape, but you’ll never get a truly custom fit due to these mats’ universal design.

    Pros

    Large surface area and adaptable footprint make this mat fit on most vehicles
    Big contact patch improves waterproofing
    Proprietary rubber technology is rubber but still durable
    Priced well under $50

    Cons

    Universal design means it’s hard to get a custom fit

    6. Best Premium Floor Mat: Ford F-150 WeatherTech Floor Liners

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Meant for the mid-sized Ford F-150, these expensive mats are specifically designed for the contours of Ford’s geometry, leading to a perfect fit (and expensive price tag).
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Ford F150 SuperCrew (2015-2018)
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Patented High-Density Tri-Extruded (HDTE) material
    Well-known brand WeatherTech has a hard-earned reputation: with ads in every major auto publication and a presence on the shelves in nearly all auto parts stores, the company is renowned for its wide product line and excellent attention to detail.
    In this case, a patented HDTE (High-density tri-extruded) rubber makes up the material, leading to a durable, cushioned, weather-proof mat that repels water. Fit is perfect, and while this specific version is compatible with Ford F150s from 2015-2018, the company also offers slightly different versions meant for pre-2015 F150s as well as models compatible with the newest F150s, a testament to their commitment to the production of custom products.
    A WeatherTech mat is simply a perfect fit, every time. It’s also backed by a lifetime guarantee, known to be one of the best warranties in the industry alongside Husky’s lifetime warranty.
    So while these mats have just about everything we could ask for, a great fit, durable proprietary materials, and a warranty still can’t make up for an astronomical price (much of which goes to WeatherTech’s large marketing budget). If money is no object, these mats are well worth consideration, but for everyone else, a universal fit set of floor mats like Armor All’s Full Coverage Set will be nearly as good at about one-tenth of the price.

    Pros

    Patented HDTE material is cushioned, durable, and waterproof
    Wide product line means a truly custom fit
    One of the best warranties in the industry
    Company has a renowned attention to detail with their products

    Cons

    Ultra-expensive price point

    7. Husky Liners SuperCrew WeatherBeater

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: An expensive model of car floor mats uses all the design bells and whistles, fits Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras perfectly, and includes a lifetime warranty.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Weather-proof Proprietary Rubber
    Review
    The best part of these mats, simply put, is the fit. Designed to perfectly position against each and every contour of a Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra, the floor mats slide into place like a glove. High sidewalls mean that the nibs holding the mats in place are practically unnecessary, and these mats won’t move around at all during operation.
    The downside to this is that they’re only usable in two vehicle models, the Chevy Silverado and its GMC companion, the Sierra. Specifically designed grooves and traction pads are placed strategically on the mat, with more traction on high-use areas (near the pedals) and less where traction isn’t as needed (the back seat).
    While a particularly high price tag turns some potential buyers off to these products, Husky backs up these mats with incredible durability, customer service, and a lifetime warranty. The proprietary rubber technology can last longer than your car itself, and if for whatever reason it doesn’t, Husky will replace your floor mats no-questions-asked. Still, though, at up to four times the price of budget mats, it’s a tradeoff that is difficult to make.

    Pros

    Construction uses a proprietary weather-proof rubber material
    High side walls prevent the mat from moving around during operation
    Great durability and lifetime warranty
    More traction in high-use areas near pedals

    Cons

    Price much higher than budget car floor mats

    8. BDK ProLiner Original Universal Fit Heavy Duty Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Using a specially designed matrix of rubber nibs to keep the mat in place, this mat uses big sidewalls and a proprietary rubber that can hold up to years of use.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable (Front 27” x 18” / Rear 17” by 54”)
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
    BDK is a California-based importer that mainly deals in inexpensive car floor mats, with this model being their most popular for good reason. Utilizing a proprietary advanced-performance rubber polymer, it is particularly durable and will hold up to many miles of wear and tear.
    Elevated sidewalls prevent water and debris from spilling out over the edge of the mat, although the edges have a low profile, much smaller than the walls of mats like Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats. A shorter height makes them slightly more prone to spilling. Construction also includes a grid of ergonomic grooves that help keep the foot in place while driving.
    The most clever part of the construction, however, is the matrix of rubber nibs on the bottom side of the mat. These nibs are highly concentrated in the most important areas, leading to a mat that stays in place practically as if glued. The product, although it’s sized to be semi-universal right out of the packaging, is trimmable for a more customized fit with just a simple pair of scissors. A pro tip—place your original mat on top of the new one before trimming to perfectly copy the shape of the originals.

    Pros

    Matrix of rubber nibs keeps mat in place
    Size is customizable with a pair of scissors
    Grid of ergonomic grooves help keep the foot in place
    Semi-universal sizing fits most vehicles without being cut down

    Cons

    Low-profile walls are slightly more prone to spilling water

    9. Motor Trend DualFlex Two-Tone Rubber Car Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Motor Trend’s performance-oriented mats are available in exotic colors and work perfectly on sports cars and other performance vehicles.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable (27” by 17”)
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Advanced Performance Rubber Polymer
    Review
    At a slightly higher price point and with some more performance-oriented features like a rubber pattern optimized for traction, Motor Trend goes after a more premium customer with these floor mats. Loud accent colors match more exotic sports cars; red and blue are on offer as well as the more-sedate tan and grey options, although we wish they would have offered a plain black color.
    The trimmable mats have a relatively large footprint with dimensions of 27 by 17 inches, meaning that the mats might not fit on ultra-compact sports cars. While technically trim-to-fit, these mats don’t have as much room for customization as other mats, with only about 3 inches of the trimmable border before you’ll run into the thick, water-blocking sidewall that can’t be cut.
    An advanced rubber polymer is used in the mat to keep things flexible and grippy even after many years and exposure to water and sunlight. These mats don’t crack, split, or deteriorate over time, backed up by a satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team.

    Pros

    Performance-oriented design is great for sports cars
    Trim to fit design can be customized
    Satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team
    Loud accent colors match exotic vehicles

    Cons

    No plain black mat on offer
    Not as much room for sizing customization as other car floor mats

    10. FH Group Universal Fit Carpet Floor Mat

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: These ultra-generic and ultra-inexpensive mats are cheap but lack the weather-proof features and custom fitting of other options, although they’re good for use in mild climates.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal (Front: 25″ x 18″ / Rear: 18″ x 12″)
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Carpet
    Review
    These carpet FH Group mats are available in all of the most common colors, from classic black and grey to the slightly-less-common beige. For those looking for a more custom look, exotic colors are also available. Do note, which colors are available at any given time rotates with stock availability.
    The mats are made of a tight-knight carpet with faux leather accents. The top layer connects to a thin bottom layer of rubber. The driver’s side mat has a rubber heel pad to minimize wear while driving.
    While these mats are right alongside the most economical all-weather mats in terms of price, they lack an important feature—waterproof construction. This isn’t a deal-breaker for those who live in mild, dry climates, but for other shoppers, we’d recommend a product that’s a bit more sturdy.
    Our biggest issue isn’t with the material, though, it’s with the sizing. Due to their material, these mats aren’t trim-to-fit like many of the all-weather rubber mats, and for this reason, they count on a ‘semi-universal’ fit that hypothetically works with a wide variety of cars. In some cases, this works acceptably, but on other vehicles, mats bunch up, don’t install correctly, or worse, slide around. Make sure you measure your vehicle before purchasing these mats to minimize unpleasant surprises.

    Pros

    Semi-universal fit works in a wide variety of vehicles
    Rubber heel pad minimizes wear
    Exotic colors for those who want a custom look
    Faux leather accents

    Cons

    Need to measure vehicle before purchasing to ensure a good fit
    Carpet construction means these are not waterproof
    Not trim-to-fit

    Guide to Buying the Best Floor Mats for 2020
    Buying parts and accessories for your vehicle is a big deal: for most people, a car is a deeply personal purchase, and modifying your car is no different. Floor mats are an important vehicle customization that can greatly improve your driving experience, but due to the huge amount of sizing options and types of mats available, it can sometimes be a challenge to pick the right product. Read on to clear up some common questions of car floor mat buyers, and later we’ll go over some cleaning tips to keep your footwells pristine.
    Frequently Asked Questions
    With hundreds of options available for purchase, it’s sometimes tricky to find the right floor mat for your vehicle. Below are some of the most common questions we get regarding all-weather, OEM, and aftermarket floor mats.
    Who Should Buy Aftermarket Floor Mats?
    A few types of car owners are best served by purchasing a new set of floor mats. Those who often drive in poor weather conditions may want a new set of floor mats to make the interior of their car more weather-proof. Drivers who have issues with their stock floor mats should consider purchasing new floor mats, and those who frequently use their car for work may want to consider new floor mats to help protect the floor of their vehicle from heavy wear.
    What Is An OEM Floor Mat?
    OEM stands for ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’ and refers to the products that come stock with the vehicle. If you’re shopping for new floor mats and you want to get the exact same floor mat, look for a product with labeled ‘OEM’ for your car’s make and model. Otherwise, a non-OEM all-weather mat can present an opportunity to upgrade.
    How Often Should I Replace My Floor Mats?
    As with most car parts that wear out, when you should replace your floor mats depends on multiple factors. Floor mats can last for 50 years if you take off your shoes before driving, or they can last for a single winter on a work truck where roads are heavily salted. As a general recommendation, there are two key moments when you should consider replacing your floor mats:
    Visible heavy wear: If your floor mat is threadbare, has holes, or the sides of the mat begin to curl up, it’s time to purchase a new one. These visible wear indicators aren’t only unsightly, but they can also be dangerous and interfere with the operation of the pedals.
    Slipping: If your mat becomes slippery enough to slide around, it is vital that you replace it immediately. A mat that slips around on the floor can get caught in the pedals and cause you to be unable to brake, potentially causing an accident.
    Do I Need All-Weather Floor Mats?
    While all-weather floor mats can be used in any vehicle, they’re commonly purchased for car owners that often drive in inclement weather. Water, road salt, and dirt are the biggest enemies of carpet floor mats, and rubber all-weather floor mats perform better in bad conditions.
    If you live in an area with minimal snow and rain, a carpet floor mat will hold up pretty well compared to a rubber floor mat. If you’re in an area with severe winters or severe rains, purchasing an all-weather mat will pay off over time.
    What Are The Best Floor Mats?
    The best floor mat is the one that fits your car: if you buy a floor mat that isn’t compatible with your vehicle, you won’t be able to use it. Other than that, we’d recommend a mid-range all-weather mat like Armor All’s Universal 3-Piece Set for a typical road user. While more expensive, ultra-durable mats are great for drivers that are hard on work vehicles and need a custom fit, whereas a less-expensive all-weather mat is just fine for the typical user.
    Do I Need Tools To Install Floor Mats?
    No, you don’t need any tools to install floor mats. If you buy the correct size of floor mats, you can simply replace them by sliding them into the floor. For the best performance, we’d recommend a quick vacuum clean of the car floor before installation to minimize slipping. We have an article about car vacuums if you haven’t got one and are interested. If you have a trimmable mat, customize it by layering your stock mats over the new product and drawing an outline for a perfect fit.
    Will Floor Mats Stay in Place?
    Floor mats have to pass legal safety standards to make sure they stay in place during operation. As floor mats are considered a piece of safety equipment, they undergo testing to make sure they’ll stay sufficiently in place during driving so as to not interfere with the operation of the pedals.
    Cleaning Floor Mats
    Let’s look at how to go about cleaning the various kinds of floormats so that your new purchase will continue to look great over time.
    Cleaning Rubber/All-Weather Floor Mats
    Along with being waterproof and protecting your floor from heavy weather, aftermarket all-weather floor mats are an upgrade from factory carpet mats because they’re easy to clean. To clean rubber mats, simply remove them from your vehicle and give them a rinse with water. For stains from salt or heavy dirt, a sturdy brush can go a long way.
    Cleaning Carpet Floor Mats
    Cleaning carpet floor mats is a bit trickier than cleaning all-weather rubber mats. Since dirt, salt, and water permeate the carpet, deep stains require attention and car-specific cleaning products to be removed.
    To clean a carpet floor mat, first remove it from the car and suck up dirt and other particulates with a vacuum. After the major dirt is gone, apply a car-specific mat cleaner (although a carpet cleaner can do in a pinch), and give it a hearty scrub. With deep stains, completely removing discoloration might take some elbow grease. Follow the instructions of your specific cleaning product, as sometimes you should rinse down the mat, but sometimes the cleaner should be left in the mat as a carpet conditioner. Finally, lay the mat out in the sun to dry.
    Benefits of Floor Mats
    The purchase of floor mats has a benefit that goes well beyond personal ease of use and comfort while driving. Generally, purchasing a set of floor mats improves three things:
    Ease of Cleaning
    Carpet floor mats are flawed: they are not waterproof, stain-resistant, or easy to clean. While some drivers prefer the look of a carpet floor mat, most who upgrade to an aftermarket mat will purchase an all-weather floor mat.
    All-weather floor mats are slip-resistant, weather-proof, and stain-proof due to their impermeable rubber construction. To clean, simply remove the floor mat from your car and give it a rinse down. No more vacuuming, carpet conditioning, or perpetually-wet floor mats.
    Resale Values
    Purchasing a replacement mat can have positive benefits on the used sale price of your car, increasing the value of your car should you decide to resell it or trade it in.
    Protecting Your Interior: With stock factory mats, water seeps underneath, causing unpleasant odors, discoloration, and sometimes even rust or mold. A weather-proof mat prevents this, protecting the floor of your car.
    Improving Aesthetics: Aftermarket floor mats simply look better in your vehicle, adding a premium and custom look to the interior.
    Safety
    As floor mats wear out, they can become more slippery, which slightly increases the risk of an accident. Floor mats should solidly grip and fit the floor or your vehicle so that they don’t slip under the pedals, preventing safe operation. Manufacturers have recalled floor mats that are unintentionally prone to slipping under the pedals. For this reason, periodically checking floor mats is a vital part of routine maintenance.
    Wrapping Up
    A floor mat is one of the best, and cheapest, ways to upgrade your vehicle. Along with upgrading the look of your car’s interior, there are also performance and safety benefits. A sturdy floor mat will perform better in poor weather and slip around less, improving safety. An aftermarket replacement mat can also keep your car in better condition, improving its resale value.
    For a purchase that typically costs well under $100, some aftermarket floor mats are an option for any vehicle owner to improve their driving experience, whether that’s to improve resale value, upgrade your interior, or simply to increase your comfort while driving. It’s fair to say buying a floor mat for your vehicle is worth the price, so enjoy browsing our list and finding one that’s right for you. More