If I approached the average stranger on the street and asked what they thought car companies were good at making, it stands to reason they’d say “cars.” Which is a more robust response than I get from women in bars when I ask the same thing and wink suggestively. Anyhow — the point is some automakers are so on top of their game that their non-car products — “lifestyle accessories” aimed squarely at fanboys and fangirls in target demographics — are special. Some of that merch is actually desirable on its own, while some is so opulent as to elicit a wide-eyed laugh. Regardless, what follows is a list of the best of it all.
Volkswagen: Bus Tent
Your parents “traveled the world” in their VW bus, wearing roughly one pair of bell bottoms between them for up to four months at a time. You may not have enough time in your schedule for free love and wildflowers, but when you kick back at a campsite some weekend you can at least pay homage to your folks and their patchouli-fueled road trips.
Land Rover: Driving Coat by Barbour
Land Rover is two things: very bad-ass and veddy British. So when you’re on your next ultra-proper overlanding expedition, look the part. Heavy Oban waxed cotton fends off the wet, and Barbour’s signature high-quality detailing abounds, from the corozo buttons to the sit-down corduroy collar. Inside, a jacquard and wool lining keep you looking smart and feeling good.
