The small, convex plastic mirror flips down from the ceiling near the rearview mirror and provides the perfect angle to quickly check in with your back passengers — no head turning or rearview mirror adjustment necessary. Sometimes all it takes is a quick, sharp look from Mom or Dad to settle the circus in back, and the mirror is the perfect tool for it.
I’ve found this feature in obvious places, like minivans and larger crossovers such as the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, but it’s also popping up in more unexpected places. The Honda CR-V compact crossover features one, as does the new-for-2014 Fiat 500L, the stretched hatchback version of the compact 500 coupe.
This may seem like a minor feature, but what parent wouldn’t want eyes in the back of their head?
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.