Top 10: Girl-Power Meets Horsepower Features

More and more, automakers are taking the needs of women and families into account when designing features for new models. It's usually about the 100th time your child plays the latest Hannah Montana hit on your car stereo that you start to regret not considering some of those extras that wouldn't break the budget but could, very possibly, save your sanity. Consider some of these female and family friendly features automakers have designed that can make your life just a little easier during your drives around town:

• High quality yet environmentally friendly, interiors. Most women determine quality through touch but who wants to ruin the environment? Ford, Honda, and Toyota are among the auto leaders with "Eco Plastic" and other renewable products such as soy-based foam, that look and feel great but are kind to the earth.

• Fewer airborne chemicals. It seems like the kids are always hacking but there's only so much you can do about allergens outside the house. While that may have been true at one time, some automakers are reducing the nasty stuff in the car materials (called in-cabin volatile organic compounds or VOCs) that lessen air quality. Ford is a leader in this area, but Toyota and Honda are close behind.

• Fold down back seats. We all know that while these seats are common, they sure aren't created equal. Do you have to be a weightlifter to unlock and pull down the seats? Do they lay flat enough so you can store gear or are they going to pop up enough to be annoying? Try them out.

• Automatic unlocking hatchbacks and trunks. These were clearly made with busy moms who routinely juggle packages and kids in mind. And we say bravo.

• GPS. It might seem like a sexist statement to say that carmakers install GPS more for women than for men. Consider all of the side trips moms make for quick food stops, bathroom breaks and other family needs and it's clear why GPS is needed more for women than men. We're not less talented directionally, we simply have more challenging needs!

• Gentle liftgates. You know when your kid started yelling, you turned, and the liftgate hit you in the chin? Enough said.

• Cargo nets. Pay a little extra and get these. The cost is more than worth the annoyance of hearing $300 in groceries rolling around and bruising themselves into uselessness in the back.

• Stereo and CD systems with dual controls/headphones. Enjoy the same music and movies as your kids? Want the kids fighting about what to watch as you negotiate jam-packed streets during rush hour? These helpful systems can alleviate those pains.

• Heated seats. Anyone who thinks they're a luxury hasn't tried to negotiate icy streets while a child whines about cold. In fact, they may be required safety gear.

• Coolers. Need to keep a baby bottle cool? Want to keep a bottle of water chilled as you drive around town on errands. It's amazing how any of us can get along without these.

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