Best gifts for young petrolheads

No matter what the occasion, the junior motoring enthusiast in your family will be waiting expectantly as you peruse the best gifts for young petrolheads. Younger children seem to be naturally drawn to the fun to be had with toy cars and trucks. They may have been given a gift of a toy car and been captured by how it can move in all directions, spinning the wheels, making engine noises and the fact that most toy cars can fit comfortably in a child's hand. Sometimes the interest in toy cars wanes, sometimes it doesn't and progresses to a more rounded interest, perhaps even developing a keen interest in the wider motoring world, and that's when you know you need to start looking for gifts for young petrolheads!

That interest in cars and vehicles, in general, can turn into a lifelong hobby or even lead to gainful employment in the motoring or motor-related industries.

Best gifts for young petrolheads at a glance:

Editor's choice: Playmobil Porshe - Buy now from Amazon UK

Best gift for young gamers: Forza Horizon 4 - Buy now from Amazon UK

Best actual driving experience: Junior sports car experience - Buy now from Buyagift

There is a whole generation of young petrolheads who want to enjoy cars, and car-themed gifts are the perfect way to let their passion grow and bond with them, too. Avoid the bad knock-off die-cast cars and get them something seriously cool with our guide to gifts for young petrolheads.

Best gifts for young petrolheads

Some more ideas to give you some inspiration:

Inspiring a young child's interest in cars can be a fun and educational endeavour. Here are some gift ideas that might help spark their fascination with cars:

Toy Cars: Start with a collection of toy cars that vary in size, type, and model. Hot Wheels, Matchbox, and die-cast models are great choices.

Car Books: Picture books and storybooks about cars, car races, or car adventures can capture a child's imagination.

Car Themed Puzzles: Jigsaw puzzles featuring car scenes or car-shaped puzzles can be both entertaining and educational.

Remote-Controlled Cars: RC cars come in a variety of sizes and styles. They can introduce a child to basic engineering concepts and provide hours of entertainment.

Model Car Kits: Age-appropriate model car kits can be a great way to teach children about assembly, detailing, and the inner workings of cars.

Car Coloring Books and Art Supplies: Coloring books featuring cars and art supplies can encourage creativity and a love for automotive design.

Car-Themed Clothing and Accessories: T-shirts, pyjamas, or backpacks with car designs can make a child feel connected to their interest.

Car Museums or Car Show Tickets: Take them to a local car museum or a car show where they can see a variety of cars up close and learn about their history.

Ride-On Cars: Battery-powered or pedal-powered ride-on cars can give kids a taste of what it's like to drive a car and can be a lot of fun for outdoor play.

Trip to a Go-Kart Track: Taking them to a go-kart track for a fun and safe driving experience can be an exciting adventure.

Remember to consider the child's age and interests when selecting gifts to ensure they are appropriate and engaging. By providing a variety of car-related experiences and items, you can help nurture their curiosity and passion for cars.

Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for CAR, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. With an MA in Automotive Journalism, when he's not testing buckets he can be found looking at old Porsches.

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