Beyond the Gimmick: Practical Quirks
Automakers have long utilized creative incentives to transform browsers into buyers. From simple branded merchandise to elaborate factory-installed add-ons, the goal is often to stand out in a competitive market. However, every so often, an accessory lands that is more than just a sales tactic—it is genuinely useful. We’ve highlighted seven unique car accessories that provided real value to their owners.
1. The Honda CR-V Picnic Table and Portable Shower
The first-generation Honda CR-V is legendary for its hidden trick: a rear cargo floor panel that doubled as a picnic table. By removing the cover typically used for the spare tire well, owners gained a sturdy plastic table with folding metal legs, perfect for impromptu roadside dining. While Honda has revisited this concept in modern SUVs, another feature from the 90s hasn't returned: the 12-volt portable shower. Designed to attach to the tailgate, it allowed outdoor enthusiasts to rinse off after hikes or beach trips using water from a dedicated tank.
2. Ford's Integrated Chainsaws
In the late 1960s, Ford sought to bridge the gap between rugged utility and comfort. To emphasize the "workhorse" nature of their trucks, they offered branded chainsaws manufactured by Ohlsson and Rice. Remarkably, one design could be stored in a special compartment under the hood, just ahead of the front fender. It remains the only instance of an automaker offering a chainsaw as an official vehicle accessory.
3. Rolls-Royce Door Umbrellas
Luxury is defined by convenience. Since 2002, Rolls-Royce has integrated umbrellas directly into the doors of its vehicles. Housed in a spring-loaded compartment, these umbrellas are accessed from the door's outer edge, allowing a chauffeur to provide instant protection from the elements, ensuring passengers never have to step into the rain unprotected.
4. The Pontiac Aztek Camping Suite
The Pontiac Aztek is frequently cited for its polarizing design, yet it was a pioneer of the crossover segment. Its most innovative feature was a factory-catalog camping package that included a custom-fitted tent and air mattress. The tent attached to the rear of the vehicle, effectively turning the cargo area into an extension of the living space—a feature that arguably predated the modern overlanding craze.
5. Mobile Fax Machines for Executives
In the early 1990s, the "mobile office" dream was peak technology. BMW and Mercedes-Benz offered integrated fax machines in their flagship sedans. Whether tucked into the glove box, mounted to a seatback, or hidden within a rear armrest, these devices allowed high-powered executives to conduct business at high speeds on the autobahn, even if the analog cellular networks they relied on have long since gone dark.
6. The Fiat 500L Espresso Maker
Fiat leaned into Italian culture by offering an in-car espresso machine for the 500L. The setup featured a dedicated docking station between the front seats for a Lavazza-branded brewer. Utilizing disposable pods and a 43 psi pressure system, it allowed users to prepare a fresh cup of coffee while on the move, provided they had the focus to manage a hot beverage while driving.
7. The Land Rover Range Rover Gun Locker
Reflecting its heritage of British countryside estates, the Holland & Holland edition of the Range Rover featured a bespoke, secure gun locker. Designed to store high-end hunting rifles or shotguns, it catered to a specific segment of the luxury market. The package also included a slide-out seating area in the tailgate, providing a comfortable place for enthusiasts to prepare for the day's activities.