Tested this month WONDER WHEELS COLOUR ACTIVE

DRAPER 6V/12V SMART CHARGER AND BATTERY MAINTAINER

Inevitably, many of us aren’t driving as much as we used to, more’s the pity, so Draper’s new charger could prove pretty useful in making sure your motor is ready to go. Available in 2A, 4A, 6A and 10A options, it feels beautifully made from durable materials and works in temperatures down to -20ºc, something my old unit refuses to do. The large mode button is easy to operate with winter gloves on, and all but 2A models have a bright screen showing you the state of charge. There’s an integrated hook so that you can keep it on the garage wall, too. Thanks to a 10-step process, near-exhausted batteries can be brought back to life with repeated charges using small current pulses. I’ve been so impressed that I now leave my NA MX-5 on permanent trickle-charge. It’s also good value at £36.95, given the quality. WW drapertools.com

These wheel cleaners are all the rage, and it’s easy to see the appeal: spray, wait, and hose off. Not least with the words ‘No brushing required.’ It may be too good to be true. That my wheels are rather neglected might not help, but the difference was negligible, even with a bit of ‘agitation,’ and probably no better than would have been achieved by dipping a brush into the bucket of shampoo at the end of a wash. The warning not to get any on the brakes is as disconcerting as it is impossible, and there was some creaking later. Worth a go at £9 for tidy wheels, perhaps, but don’t expect miracles. Like so often when it comes to cleaning old cars, corners are probably better not cut. JP halfords.com

PLAYMOBIL CLASSIC VOLKSWAGENS

Most of us are still just big kids at heart, so these two new releases from Playmobil are perfect if you’re also a fan of Wolfsburg classics, or have kids that you want to indoctrinate into all things VW. In true Playmobil fashion, the hardy large-scale interpretations are pretty accurate and, although some assembly is required, neither the Beetle nor Type 2 bus was too taxing – for child or adult. With plenty of additional bits and bobs included in each set, such as surfboard, suitcases and boxes, those wishing to indulge in some ‘make believe’ play should be more than satisfied. Importantly, the pairing also looks at home on the shelf of any VW enthusiast or model collector. At £39.99 for the Beetle and £49.99 for the camper (including free shipping), they aren’t bank-breakers, either. And, if you’re familiar with these toys, you’ll know that they’ll withstand exuberant play. MP playmobil.co.uk