Crazy media kits: USB drives from automakers

Lasting impression: Easy to forget where it came from, we typically copy the contents on a computer then hand the drives out at Halloween.

Lasting impression: The Ford logo looks good, and the slight bulkiness of the drive makes us less likely to reuse it, keeping Ford's media materials intact.

Lasting impression: Chrysler was in dire economic straits when we got this kit, so we couldn't help thinking this stripped chip was one way to save money. Its minimalist nature does seem to highlight the electric car materials it holds.

Lasting impression: The fine materials around this drive serve as a reminder of the beautifully built cockpits of Ferrari cars. No reuse for this one, it goes in a display case with all other Ferrari paraphernalia we've acquired.

Lasting impression: This says to us that Lexus is all about the well-accoutered businessman. We'll put it next to our cuff links and bottle of Drakar Noir.

At first, we thought this simple black USB key was plain and a little boring. Closer inspection revealed that this little drive is actually rather well-constructed with slim profile design with a sturdy integrated strap loop, a simple chrome band, and a rubberized finish.

Lasting impression: It seems that Bentley is attempting to depict understated luxury, which would make sense if this were an Audi promo item. We'd expect more chrome, wood, and leather from the brand that just unveiled a $300k ultra luxury land yacht.

Although we typically associate LaCie with Porsche (the automaker has collaborated with LaCie in the past), this LaCie iamakey came tied to a kite as part of a promo for Audi's Electricity Untamed campaign. It's made almost entirely of aluminum and uses a low profile design that makes its total thickness half as deep as most USB ports.

Lasting impression: Like most Audis, this key is so well engineered that it's actually a little dull. However, there's no mistaking the quality. It feels like it was machined out of a solid hunk of metal. Put this one on your keychain and use it on a daily basis.

Lasting impression: While we would expect a little luxury in Mercedes-Benz's kit, the company took a different tack, clearly putting the car first to mind. Picking up this kit makes us think we are about to go out for a drive, with all the attendant Pavlovian drool.

Lasting impression: Making a car-shaped leaf will go down in history as the most overt green car metaphor of all time. If you lose the cap, you're stuck with an abstract shape that says, "TOYO." But that shouldn't be a problem, as this USB key is way too thick to be carried daily.

Lasting impression: Lexus wanted to draw parallels between the "sustainable luxury" of its hybrid models and the eco-friendliness of this bamboo used in this peripheral. Unfortunately, all we can think of is how incredibly fragile this thing feels.

Lasting impression: As a representative of the Kia Soul, this wristband is clever, evoking that car's youthful character. But we just can't bring ourselves to go out in public with it on our wrist.

Lasting impression: Its sheer weight makes it feel solid, and therefore a good representative for Caterpillar. But where's the safety yellow paint job? Chrome makes us think Cadillac rather than Caterpillar.