Why 'Cars' Are the Hottest Keyword in Toys Right Now: From Barbie to LEGO Duplo
Lately, a wave of adorable new toys with a 'car' theme has been creating a buzz in toy aisles and across social media. In particular, Mattel's new Barbie with a wheelchair and the latest LEGO Duplo sets are quietly gaining popularity with parents and kids. Our editors have put together a list of the hottest car-themed toys you need to know about.
1. The new face of inclusive play: Mattel HJT13 Barbie Fashionista Doll & Wheelchair
First up is a standout new item from Mattel's Barbie Fashionista line: the HJT13 Barbie Fashionista Doll with Colourful Romper and Wheelchair. This set features a Barbie doll dressed in a bright, colourful romper, and she comes complete with her own wheelchair. The set includes the doll and a well-made, functional wheelchair that rolls smoothly, making it perfect for imaginative play at home. It's a fantastic example of an inclusive toy that reflects our modern understanding of diversity. Not only does it spark children's imaginations, but it also offers a gentle, natural way to start conversations about an inclusive society.
2. Perfect for little hands: LEGO Duplo's 'Car' Range
Next, we're looking at some fantastic car-themed sets from LEGO Duplo, the popular building blocks for kids aged 18 months and up. All the pieces are nice and big, giving parents peace of mind about safety, and making them ideal for families with toddlers.
- 10454 LEGO Duplo Mickey Mouse Clubhouse & Car: A fun set that lets kids play with everyone's favourite Disney character, Mickey Mouse. It comes with Mickey's clubhouse and a bright, colourful car for him to drive, providing endless opportunities for storytelling.
- 10816 LEGO Duplo My First Cars and Trucks: This simple set is perfect as a "first Duplo" toy. It includes a blue car, a red truck, and a few easy-to-build blocks, making it an ideal introduction to the world of building and construction play.
- LEGO Duplo Cargo Train Deluxe Set: This larger set is packed with fun, including cars, trucks, colourful cargo containers, and figures. Kids can load the containers onto the truck or zoom the cars around town – the play possibilities are endless.
These Duplo sets are brilliant for helping little ones develop fine motor skills and cognitive abilities. And because they're all car-themed, they're absolutely irresistible for any child who loves vehicles. Plus, building them together makes for some pretty special family time and memories.
3. Colouring meets numbers meets cars: Color by Numbers - Cars
Colour-by-number activities are having a moment right now, both as apps and in workbooks. A standout is Color by Numbers - Cars. You colour in the picture according to the numbered colour key. It's a fun and satisfying activity for everyone, from kids just learning their numbers right through to adults. Packed with car illustrations, it helps build concentration and colour sense while you're having fun. The digital version is great because you can easily redo pages on a tablet – perfect for keeping little ones entertained on the go.
The bottom line: Car-themed toys make great gifts
So there you have it! The humble 'car' theme spans so many different types of play – from imaginative storytelling with dolls like Barbie, to building and creating with LEGO Duplo, to quiet, focused activities like colouring. These are all toys with real staying power that can grow with your child. Whether you're looking for a birthday present or a gift for the holiday season, any of these would be a fantastic choice.