In our series “Top Car Features We Are Thankful For,” we covered some of the most convenient features cars today offer drivers.  Acura has debuted their Next Generation AcuraLink® connected car system at the Los Angeles Auto show, and it has all the features we would expect – and more!

This new connected car system is cloud-based, and will debut early this year in the 2014 Acura RLX luxury sedan.  AcuraLink® services are now available through embedded technology and web-enabled devices tethered to the car. This brings a whole new level of convenience, media, and security features to the new RLX.

Below are some of the features you can expect to see in the Next Generation AcuraLink®:

•    Connect to thousands of personalized cloud-based news, information, and media feeds from around the world, using an intuitive audio-based interface.
•    Navigation with a real-time traffic service. This includes both updated freeway and for the first time, surface-street-traffic. Not only does this system give you up to the minute updates on    traffic and road conditions, but also allows you to choose the most fuel-efficient route.
•    Vehicle feature guide.
•    Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® mobile phone connectivity.
•    SMS text message function.
•    Email function.
•    Pandora interface.
•    SiriusXM® Radio.

There will be three packages available, all of them subscriber based. The Standard Package will include all of the above listed features. The next level is the Connect Package that will include all of the above, plus an imbedded cellular phone in the RLX. Having this phone leads to several additional features which are certainly worth looking into. Finally is the Premium Package. This package includes a 24/7 live operator concierge service at the push of a button. How’s that for personalized service?

Check out the full press release detailing all the available options and features!

Mattel and Chevrolet have been in a prosperous relationship since 1968, when Mattel first began producing matchbox-sized replicas of the Camaro. At the 2012 SEMA Auto Show in Las Vegas, Chevrolet introduced the first production version of the Chevrolet Camaro to bear a Hot Wheels badge.

Chevy has been embracing the Hot Wheels theme for several years, making Hot Wheels its main SEMA theme. Chevrolet has taken the next big step and actually created a Hot Wheels-themed Camaro. You can have one of these Hot Wheel Editions for a $6,995 upgrade on both the 2013 Camaro and Camaro Convertible. Look for this option to be available early in 2013.

What will the extra $6,995 get you? The Hot Wheels Edition Camaro will come with a bright metallic paint scheme, special graphics, red-lined 21-inch wheels and Hot Wheels flame badges on the fenders and trunk lid.  It will also feature matte-black touches around the hood and taillights. You can expect to see the rear spoiler, front grille, and front splitter that the high-performance ZL1 package currently has. The black leather interior will have Hot Wheels Logos embroidered in black and red on the front seats, and the door interiors will bear the Hot Wheels flames. Finally, Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment package will come standard.

The Hot Wheels Camaro can be ordered either with the Chevy 2LT package ( 3.6 liter V-6), or the 400-hp 2SS package (with a 6.2 liter L99 V-8). The 2SS has a dual-mode exhaust system, and the 2LT will be equipped with a manual gearbox.

Keep your eye out for this unique model. Hot Wheels aren’t just for kids anymore!

Got your hands full with car shopping? The 2013 Ford Escape is designed to lend you a hand!  Great for someone on the go, this roomy SUV has tons of features and accessories. Not to mention it has many eco-friendly options available. This is definitely one of the most convenient SUVs on the market.

Let’s talk about going green. The new Escape has two available EcoBoost engines that are awesomely efficient, getting you 33 highway mpg. Plus the seat cushion and head restraint foam are derived from soybeans and the carpet is produced using a blend of fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. This will help you go green and will save you some gas money, too!

Ready for a full-sized smart car? This one is a genius! With available features like SYNC with MyFord Touch, you can drive at ease. Use voice commands to listen to your favorite songs, take calls, use the Navigation System, and even control the climate in the car. Trouble parallel parking? No problem! Activate the park assist and the Escape looks for a spot for you and then assists you while parking. All you have to do is control the shifting, accelerating, and braking.

If you are always on the go and your hands are full, this SUV is definitely one to look in to. With the push-button start, there’s no need to dig around in your pocket or purse for your keys. As long as the key fob is in the vehicle, you just press the brake pedal and then the start button and you are ready to go. And possibly the best of all, there is a foot-activated liftgate. How many times are you dragging groceries or luggage out to your car and have no extra hands to open the liftgate? With this feature all you have to do is kick your foot under the bumper and the power liftgate automatically opens! Use this easy access to keep your hands full and give your back a break.

The Escape is also great for any road trips and adventures. It has 4WD available to keep you safe no matter if its rain, snow, or shine. Plus, you can fold down the second row seating for tons of storage space. Taking a little trailer or some jet skis with you? The Escape with a 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 engine can tow up to 3,500 lbs. with sway control.

If you are looking to get a new car this year, we think the 2013 Ford Escape is absolutely a top pick! With all of the options and features, there’s an Escape to fit every type of driver and lifestyle.