More than just Maps
For many of you, this – Google Maps – may well be the only app you use in your vehicle. If that's so, then you're missing out.
An increasing number of cars have apps specifically designed for them, handling everything from entertainment to remote unlocking, and we've rounded up the best of them here.
There are also a growing number of apps that will work in any car, adding functionality, helping you track engine performance and, of course, getting you from A to B with soothing voice directions and high-resolution maps.
Google Maps does lead the way here, with Google now using the data from your device to feed back smart traffic information so the app can plan routes around traffic. Further recent updates enable the app to alert you to traffic issues on a planned route, and offer alternatives with a tap of the screen.
Google not only offers accurate maps and navigation, for free, but also Street View for an advance look at the location you're heading to – great for scouting parking spots if you're heading to an unfamiliar area.
Google Maps is available across Android and Apple iOS, and as far as possible we've selected apps that work across both platforms for this list. If you're after an app specifically for your BMW, Nissan, Ford or Fiat, they're at the back of this gallery.
Hudway
A heads-up display (HUD) in the car is something we've wanted ever since the days of Top Gun.
It's still an expensive option on a brand-new motor, but if you want it in your car now we have a solution – or at least Hudway does.
The app uses your smartphone screen to project information onto the windscreen of your car. The result is a seriously cool display that also aids safer driving, as your attention stays focused in front – where the road is.
Information displayed by the app includes your speed, the distance to the next sharp bend and when it's advisable to slow down. Also on offer is verbal assistance, with a virtual co-driver grading corners so you know how sharp the next bend will be.
Designed primarily for fog, rain, dark and snow situations where extra caution is needed, Hudway is ad-supported and initially free, so it's worth a try.
Petrol Prices Pro
Up-to-date fuel prices at your fingertips, direct from the oil companies, supermarkets and even from smaller filling stations. With a total of 11,000 petrol stations in the UK covered, the idea is that everyone can pick and choose their ideal station to get the cheapest fuel.
Prices are compared locally as well as against the national average, and you can also see the highest and lowest prices across the country.
If you want to feel like you're getting a good deal without having to drive around comparing prices yourself, then three quid a year for this app should keep you happy.
XLR8
We can't all afford to rev around the streets like a Saudi prince in cars that cost more than many people's homes. But thanks to the XLR8 app (pronounced 'accelerate') at least we can sound like that's what we're doing.
The app connects to your car stereo via cable or Bluetooth, and plays the revving and tire burning sounds of a supercar as you speed off.
The app is able to use your phone's accelerometer and GPS to determine movement and match it with the appropriate sound, the recordings of which are 'Hollywood-quality', apparently.
Car recordings available include a classic V8 muscle car, plus paid-for extras including a Ford GT40, Ferrari sports car, Lamborghini supercar and Nascar engine.
Yes, okay, this is a stupid idea. Shoot us.