Not everyone can have a Maybach. Sometimes, all a driver needs from a car is four wheels, an engine and, if it is possible, some means to control it.
However, motorists who spend a good amount of time behind the wheels will know the frustration of an uncomfortable seat, which can cause back-aches and numbing.
Fortunately, the car accessory industry has come a long way from the beaded seat covers of the 1980s, with the Laxton DR-6000 aiming to make long haul driving more comfortable whilst keeping a very classy appearance.
Made from perforated faux-leather that can be ordered in a number of colours, the seat cover is very nicely put together and, in many cases, can be made to suit the rest of the vehicles interior well.
However, in addition to looking nice, the Laxton DR-6000 offers a comprehensive selection of massages and heat settings that aim to keep drivers engaged and comfortable whilst behind the wheel.
Whilst I did have to cave in and consult the manual, fitting the Laxton seat cover was a fairly straightforward procedure I managed to do in a couple of minutes.
The most challenging, yet most significant, part of the installation is fitting the two circular clips, which have to be squeezed between the base and back of the seat, which can feel a little like venturing into the abyss.
There is also an elasticated strap that is fitted between the back of the seat and headrest to keep it upright and a couple of smaller clips at the bottom, meaning the cover is very unlikely to slide about once correctly installed.
Compared to the seats in my car, the Laxton feels quite a bit firmer, but certainly not unpleasant to sit on. I did, however, have to lower my seat to get back to the driving position I am used to.
The Laxton’s remote is found in a small pouch in the middle of the seat’s base, not the most convenient area to access however somewhere that discourages drivers from reaching for the settings when they are on the move, something that could land them a significant fine.
Whilst it took me a few moments to notice the power button at the side of the controls, the remote itself is clear to use, offering five different types of massage and two heat settings, any of which can be ran on a 15 or 25-minute timer.
Turning it on for the first time, I was impressed at just how firm the massaging features were in the Laxton DR-6000; it certainly makes a difference!
The cover features no less than 11 different air cells that focus on the driver’s back, hips, thighs and waist at different parts of the process, depending on what the user has set.
I was also impressed with the heating functions. Whilst the 12V socket means it takes a little longer to warm up than a car with built-in heated seats, its dual-stage heat settings of 38 and 43 degrees were certainly very welcome.
In conclusion, the Laxton DR-6000 seat cover certainly makes a difference to a long haul trip, thanks to the sheer number of settings drivers can select.
Whilst it is currently not on sale in the UK, in America the cover retails for $399 (£311). As a result, it is far from the cheapest way to be massaged whilst on the move.
However, where some more affordable alternatives, the Laxton’s fit and finish helps it to stand out from competitors, feeling like a part of the car rather than an accessory.
