Top 10: Auto Add-Ons We Crave!

Taking online quizzes that tell you the kind of car buyer you are is fun. Are you a girly girl who wouldn't dream of letting the wind whip through your hair? Do you shop the sales or are you a hotel heiress - in your mind, anyway? Viola, here's your car!

The problem with the surveys is, of course, reality. Sure, a sports car sounds great, and may well be a great fit for your personality... but what about for your life! Where will the kids sit? Will the neighbors picket your house if you park a super-sized truck in front?

So instead we've rounded up a list of our favorite comfort and safety upgrades available in current models so you can determine what options are out there that you may want to explore (or simply daydream of your perfect next car). Here are the ten add-ons we simply love:

Gentle Liftgates: When lugging a bag of groceries in one arm and a child in another, it's nearly impossible to raise some older style, heavy liftgates. The Nissan Quest is one of the new breeds of minivans that eliminate the heavy hassle.

Dual Audio and Video. It's especially helpful to have two rear monitors so fights don't ensue among the young passengers. If this is a "must have," you likely want a mini van such as the Chrysler Grand Voyager.

Electric Pedal Extenders: Ford has some models including its popular F-150 Trucks that are easy to fit with pedal extenders. The feature is especially popular with shorter drivers who don't want to sit too close to their steering wheels in case of airbag deployment...and because it just feels silly. For women who tend toward trucks, electric extenders are especially attractive.

Seating Options. Up, down, some up, some down. The automakers understand that one seat position doesn't fit all, especially in the models with three rows. Look for options. Also, note how flat the seats really fold down and the mechanics of the process. Who wants to stand in the hot sun fumbling with a back seat while the kids scream because they can't get in? The Toyota Sienna gets high marks for seating and plentiful storage.

Refrigerator/Freezer. You might think this option sounds frivolous, until you're sitting in traffic with a child who can't finish an ice cream cup but wants to save it for later. As it melts into the upholstery you may feel your opinion changing.

Supportive Seating. It seems like a no-brainer, but all cars and minivans don't have the same seat options. If you don't think that matters, ride in one with lumbar support such as the Ford Flex. The firm "hug" of the seat and multiple options can soothe a tired back and allow you to concentrate more fully on driving.

Drowsiness Detection. Saab is pioneering this advanced technology on the Saab 9-3 SportCombi. Basically, cameras keep an eye on your eyes and can tell if you begin to doze or if your attention is taken away from driving. The system then sounds audio alerts.

OnStar: Anyone with a television has no doubt seen commercials for General Motor's OnStar System that connects drivers via audio to staff. Now the OnStar system not only allows for navigation and hands-free calling but automatically senses if you car was in a crash; emergency personnel are automatically dispatched to your locale.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle Monitors. GM, Ford, and other major automakers are routinely including systems that alert drivers to objects that are near their cars. Depending on the vehicle that could mean everything from a car coming to close to yours on the highway to a bicycle in the driveway.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Who hasn't come close to losing control on a slick road? In 2012 ESC will be standard on all cars thanks to a mandate by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The safety conscious will want to look for it now; many safety experts call the technology the single most important safety equipment available.

For more info on how to spend less, get more and sweeten your life keep exploring all the info, updates, deals and coupons on RedPlum!

Related Articles:
Could Your Older Car Use a Decor Boost?

Don't Believe the Hype: Ford Flex is a Family Car!