We Test Out the Go MINI Crew-zers HQ Garage Play Set

The first car my son started 'spotting' when we were driving about was the Mini. It's classic design is unmistakable. It's no surprise that when Go MINI Crew launched he loved them too.

This Christmas the range has expanded to include a three level Go Mini Crew-zers HQ play set that costs around £34.99

There are also a new selection of Stunt Racers, each with their own unique stunt.  Our Minis did donuts and wheelies.

The HQ play set comes in pieces, which is something to bear in mind if Santa is planning on bringing this as a gift. Although saying that, I had it put together in under five minutes. 

 So what's the verdict? It's a good garage play set to opt for if your child is just a little too old for Fisher Price Little People now. The spinning turntable with lights and sound is entertaining, as well as the trapdoor which drops your Mini through a tunnel past a barking bulldog. My son gives it a thumbs up. Another plus is it comes pre-loaded with batteries, and the single cars are all pull back, with no batteries needed. 

He has been playing with it for over an hour solidly now, so it's a positive review from me too. 

The Hot Wheels Triple Track Twister is This Year's Top Car Track Set for Christmas

The new Hot Wheels Triple Track Twister is a triple loop set which has already picked up awards from panels of product testing parents., including the Dad's Choice Awards. We were sent one to play with, it arrived just after tea time bath, much to my son (& husband's) excitement.  

The track is available at good toy shops, costs around £45 & has a unique augmented reality feature.  Place an ipad in the designated holder, open the free downloadable app, and watch the track come to life through the screen. The cars battle robots  and dinosaurs in the central crash zone.

The ipad isn't necessary to play however, my five year old is just as happy firing his shoebox full of  Hot Wheels & Matchbox cars through the loops and double power boosters. 

What do you reckon? Worth asking Santa for? We would be adding it to the list for sure. Michael even took it round to let grandad have a play, the whole family is getting a try!