When did you get your first car? What was it? Was it a brand-new McLaren for your first birthday? Your third birthday? Was it in your dreams or on a wishlist for the day you win lotto or sell everything but the kitchen sink to buy one? Well, thanks to Minicars this dream has become a reality for many kids in New Zealand who now are the proud owners of their very own four-wheels in the garage, it just happens to be a bit smaller than the real thing…
Imagine being free to zoom around on adventures in their house and garden. It’s exciting not just for the kids but for the adults too, and a perfect gift for any special occasion – hint, hint, Santa! These cars really do prove that great things can come in small (car-shaped) sizes. When kids aren’t zooming around the house in these cool sets of wheels, they can relax and unwind listening to a few tunes or even watch movies in the incredible infotainment systems installed.
But there is more to it than just another toy, it is a perfect way to help them learn and develop key motor skills. The team at Fennec and Friends have compiled a list of reasons every kid needs to own their own car and the ultimate ride-on cars available, in case you needed convincing.
- It’s great for developing fine and gross motor skills.
- Having a ride-on car can encourage social and emotional development.
- Helps develop spatial awareness and intelligence. Parallel parking here we come!
- Encourages and fosters independent play and confidence which is really important as they grow.
- Gets kids out of the house or away from screens.
So, what should you buy? Here are our top picks!
Ford Ranger Ride-On – 4WD 2-Seater
The real Ford Ranger is the best-selling car in NZ, so it should come as no surprise that it would be in the mini version too. This ride-on will go anywhere, from the beach to the farm, grass, dirt and gravel. Going into town? This big little car goes from 2WD aka ‘town use’ to 4WD for rough terrain at the switch of a button. It is fully licensed by Ford and comes with self-drive and remote control options.
Other features include:
- Anti-whiplash start
- Seatbelt
- 2-seater
- Battery and Charger included
- 4WD – 4 motors 3-speed plus reverse
- Speed approximately 3-7kph
- Runs for approximately 1-1.5hrs non-stop 8-10kms
- Horn and start-up sounds
- Built-in Music
- MP4 Touchscreen Media Centre
- LED headlights
- LED driving lights
- Rear suspension
- Opening doors, hood and tailgate
- Key start
- Leather seats
- EVA rubber tyres
Mercedes X Class Truck 2-Seater
When the ordinary ride on car or jeep won’t do. This ride is perfect for sharing due to the size and power of this car. It has the same body styling as the real deal! This beautifully finished truck is available in black only.
Other features include:
- Fully licensed by Mercedes
- Self-drive and remote control
- Anti-whiplash start
- Seatbelt
- 2-seater
- 2WD 12v battery and charger
- 3-speed plus reverse
- Speed approximately 3-8kph
- Runs for approximately 1-1.5hrs non-stop 8-10kms
- Horn and start-up sounds
- LED headlights
- Rear suspension
- Opening doors and tailgate
- EVA-rubber tyres
According to many sources, the VW Amarok 2-Seater is the Swiss army knife of ride-on cars. This pint-sized pick-up is just like the adult version and it is licensed by VW, so you know you’re getting a top-quality ride-on with all the bells and whistles.
Other features include:
- Adjustable bucket seats
- Seatbelts
- Self-drive and remote control
- Anti-whiplash start
- 12v battery 10amp (longer playtime)
- 2 motors 3-speed plus reverse
- Speed approximately 4-8kph
- Runs for approximately 1.5-2hrs non-stop 6-8kms
- MP3 Player and built-in music
- Horn and start-up sounds
- LED headlights
- 4-wheel suspension
- Opening doors, doors and tourniquet
- Removable battery for easier charging
- EVA-rubber tyres
McLaren – a master piece from the famous New Zealand racing car driver himself, Bruce McLaren has become available to the younger generation of supercar fans to ride at home. Beautifully finished, this toddler ride-on toy will not disappoint! McLaren wanted it to be as authentic as possible to the adult car itself. It inspires younger McLaren enthusiasts and future car owners everywhere as the most accessible version of the Ultimate Series icon.
Other features include:
- Fully licensed by McLaren
- Self-drive and Remote Control
- Anti-whiplash start
- 12v battery
- Twin motors 2-speed plus reverse
- Speed approximately 3-8kph
- Runs for approximately 1.5-2hrs non-stop 6-8kms
- Built-in music
- MP3 player
- Sports sounds
- Horn
- Opening door
- Suspension
- Single-seater
- Seatbelt
- LED lights
- EVA-rubber tyres
Want to be the talk of the neighbourhood? This incredibly authentic Mercedes is one stylish ride. It is well balanced and looks just like the real thing. Top quality build and beautifully finished.
Other features include:
- Fully licensed by Mercedes
- Self-drive and Remote Control
- Electric self-centring power steering
- Anti-whiplash start
- 12v battery
- Twin motors 2-speed plus reverse
- Speed approximately 3-8kph
- Runs for approximately 1.5-2hrs non-stop 6-8kms
- Built-in music
- MP3 player
- Horn and start-up sounds
- Opening doors
- Opening boot
- Suspension
- Single-seater
- Seatbelt
- LED lights
- EVA-rubber tyres
This little pocket rocket is new to New Zealand and is a real life ‘Barbie’ car. The eye-catching appearance is just one of the highlights. It also provides a fun and engaging driving experience for your little one. Crafted with attention to detail, it matches the full-scale version.
Other features include:
- Licensed by Maserati
- Self-drive and remote control
- Anti-whiplash start
- Seatbelt
- 12v battery and charger
- 3-speed rear wheel drive plus reverse
- MP3 Player
- Speed approximately 3-7kph
- Runs for approximately 1-1.5hrs non-stop 8-10kms
- Horn and start-up sounds
- LED headlights
- Suspension
- Opening doors
Need to test drive one first? Sure, thing! The head office is located in Tauranga, and the team have a range of assembled ride-on toys for you to view and buy at their showroom in Maungatapu. Viewing by appointment only, please email info@minicars.nz or call 0508 MINICARS.
Due for a service? No worries! Minicars.nz have minicar Service Centres around the country and keep a large number of parts on hand if and when needed! Their after-sales service is second to none!
And just in case, here are some top tips for maintenance.
All of their cars come with a standard three-month return to base warranty and can be upgraded to twelve months.
