Accessories for Your New Vehicle

In today's competitive market, options and packages for new vehicles is greater than never before.  Although a lot of consumers buy a "plain vanilla" automobile and customize it with after market accessories, many people have no desire to tinker with their cars, and opt to buy the many packages available.  This article discusses the many options and packages for your next new vehicle.

Probably the most popular option available today is the comfort and convenience packages offered on many models.  It is noted that these options generally are only available on the higher end models. 

They include:

• Customizable climate-control systems
• Heated mirrors
• Navigational systems
• Power locks and windows
• Remote keyless entry
• Seating options and choice of upholstery materials

Sound and entertainment systems are available in many different packages.  A CD player is almost standard in automobiles today, but a multi-disc option, allowing for up to 6 CD to be loaded, is available.  Most car manufacturers offer excellent sound systems, with high powered amplifiers, multiple speakers, and sound systems from high end audio manufacturers.  Cadillac has the option to have Bose speakers mounted in the seat back, putting stereo right in your listening environment. 

Satellite radio, such as XM and Sirius, are being offered in a large variety of autos and pickups.  Although there is a monthly fee, you have a choice of over 100 channels of news, music and sports commentary.  A number of manufacturers are also offering an MP3 package, which allows the owner to plug in the popular iPod and run them through the car stereo system.

DVD systems are available today, geared towards the people who own minivans and have young children to be entertained on long drives. Even some SUV's and station wagons now have this option.

Factory installed hand's free phone systems are now being offered, due to many states now banning cell phone use while driving.  You are even able to get internet and email access that will only operate when the vehicle is parked.

Navigation systems are now available for many models.  GM's popular OnStar application, which used to be only available on high end models, has now become available for many mid-priced vehicles.  Some foreign models also offer OnStar, such as Acura, Audi, Lexus and Subaru.  Offered now are back up monitors, which gives the driver the ability to have a TV monitor in the cockpit to see what is behind them when backing up. 

Safety options are high on the list of options the consumer wants.  The new Xenon headlights are excellent for night vision, but can be a hazard to oncoming traffic.  Although dual front seat airbags are now required on all passenger vehicles and some light trucks, side impact and side curtain airbags are now available.  Some models in the higher end come with these air bags and curtains as a standard feature. 

Optional braking systems are available.  Antilock braking systems used to be standard, but now are an option.  People living in areas of the country that don't generally drive on slippery road surfaces have no need for ABS.  An electronic braking system is available, and along with ABS, making driving on slippery roads a breeze.  This system keeps a driver in his own lane during slippery conditions, helping to avoid head on and rollover accidents.

Traction control systems are available that allow the vehicle to maintain traction and stay on course when moving forward under heavy acceleration. Intelligent cruise control utilizes radar to determine the distance between yourself and the car ahead of you.  It will adjust your speed accordingly, thus helping to avoid rear end collision.

Many appearance options are to be had today.  Pinstriping, custom wheels, special chrome features, special paint, and even gold toned exterior trim are available today in the after market.  Car manufacturers are beginning to capitalize on these features today.  Many times the options are made available at car dealerships.  The most notable manufacturer is DaimlerChrysler, who offer on the popular PT Cruiser flame accents and a chrome package.  They also offer two-tone interior design.

Performance option on new cars gives the consumer a wide choice of packages.  The widely popular Dodge Hemi is a prime example of what is available today.  V-8 engines are manufactured, but generally only available on more expensive models.  Volkswagen offers up to four different engine options on certain models.

Other performance options include sports suspensions, which are firmer than the average car.  Wider tires are readily available.  Towing packages and hitches is an advantage for SUV's and pickups that tow campers and trailers.  Many SUV's offer off road performance packages today.

A vehicle today offers many options to please almost every buyer of a new car.  It pays to shop around, though, because some manufacturers offer these items as a package, and this can be costly.  Do your own due diligence, and you will end up with the car of your dreams.