The automotive industry has changed dramatically over the past couple of decades. Technological advancements now influence nearly every aspect of our vehicles, improving some experiences while complicating others.
Numerous new features have emerged, and although many may seem dispensable, a few have undeniably become indispensable in modern cars.
While some of these features have been around for quite some time, others are relatively new additions to the automotive landscape.
These features enhance safety, comfort, and the overall driving experience, making our time on the road easier and more enjoyable than ever.
While many of us appreciate the simplicity of an analog sports car with just air conditioning and a radio, it’s hard not to enjoy the convenience of vehicles equipped with the latest innovations.
We’ve compiled a list of ten features that we feel are now essential, some of which have become so beneficial they are now required by law. While this list doesn’t cover every must-have, we believe it includes the key ones.
1. Adaptive Cruise Control
Traditional cruise control was a groundbreaking feature when it first appeared, but adaptive cruise control takes it to the next level by allowing the vehicle to adjust its speed automatically when it detects slower traffic ahead.
This eliminates the need for drivers to manually disengage and re-engage the system, making it a huge relief, particularly when navigating busy highways.
While it’s still possible to abuse the system by over-relying on its abilities, it’s clear that advanced features like lane-change assist are starting to showcase just how close we are to truly autonomous vehicles.
That said, referring to these systems as “Full Self-Driving” would be a misconception, as they still require human oversight.
2. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Imagine a world where the interface of your smartphone perfectly integrates with your vehicle’s system.
This was realized a decade ago when Google and Apple launched their respective platforms, allowing drivers to enjoy seamless access to their favorite apps through their car’s screen.
Whether it’s navigation, music, or messaging, everything works flawlessly. As if that wasn’t convenient enough, wireless functionality has become the norm in many vehicles, eliminating the need for physical connections altogether.
Unfortunately, some manufacturers, like GM, have opted to replace these systems with proprietary software, restricting users’ control over their data.
While Apple and Google have their share of concerns, their offerings are still the best, making these decisions all the more frustrating.
3. Backup Camera
Though the first backup camera appeared in the 1950s, it only became widespread in recent years. This simple yet invaluable technology provides drivers with a live feed from behind the car when reversing, eliminating the need to strain their necks.
Many models now include proximity sensors, further improving safety by alerting drivers when they’re too close to obstacles.
The backup camera has saved countless lives and prevented damage, which is why it became a requirement for all new cars in the U.S. starting in 2018.
Today, these cameras have evolved into 360-degree systems, offering a complete view of a vehicle’s surroundings and making it easier to spot potential hazards, especially in larger vehicles.
4. Wireless Phone Charging
In a world increasingly dependent on technology, keeping our devices charged has become a necessity. While most cars offer a limited number of charging ports, wireless charging provides an elegant solution.
Simply place your phone on a designated charging pad, and it will charge as you drive. It may seem like a minor convenience at first, but over time, it proves to be indispensable, eliminating the hassle of tangled wires while ensuring your phone remains charged and accessible.
5. Heated and Ventilated Seats
Heated and ventilated seats have become a standard luxury in modern vehicles, providing unparalleled comfort in extreme weather conditions.
On a chilly morning, the warmth of a heated seat can be a welcome relief, while on a scorching summer day, the cooling effect of ventilated seats is a blessing.
These features have become so popular that they are now considered a necessity in many cars. However, automakers have recently experimented with subscription models for these features, as seen with BMW’s attempt to charge extra for heated seats.
While the backlash led to the reversal of this decision, it’s likely that other manufacturers will test similar approaches in the future.
6. Hands-Free Tailgate
Anyone who has ever struggled with opening the trunk while carrying groceries, luggage, or other items will appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of hands-free tailgates.
With a simple wave of your foot beneath the rear bumper, the tailgate opens automatically, making loading and unloading much easier. This feature is a small but significant convenience that quickly becomes a must-have after experiencing it.
7. Driver Assistance Features
Driver assistance technologies encompass a wide range of systems, such as blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
These systems make driving safer by actively helping drivers avoid potential accidents. Lane-keeping assist, for example, can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane if it detects drift, while forward collision warning can provide alerts to prevent a crash.
As more automakers make these features standard, it’s clear that they are transforming the driving experience, offering an extra layer of protection on the road.
8. Head-Up Display
A head-up display (HUD) projects vital information such as speed, navigation directions, and warnings directly onto the windshield, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road while accessing critical data.
This technology significantly enhances safety by eliminating the need for drivers to glance down at their dashboard.
While it may seem like an unnecessary luxury at first, many drivers who have experienced it refuse to go back to the traditional setup due to how much it improves their driving experience.
9. Remote Start
Remote start is a lifesaver for those living in areas with extreme temperatures. The ability to start the car remotely allows drivers to heat or cool the interior before even stepping inside, making their vehicle more comfortable and cutting down on wait times.
It’s a convenient feature that many drivers quickly come to rely on. However, it has also been exploited by thieves in some cases, so it’s important to be cautious about where you store your keys at night.
10. Auto-Hold Function
The auto-hold function is a game-changer for those who frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic or long stoplights.
This feature automatically holds the brake when the vehicle is stopped, allowing drivers to take their foot off the pedal without worrying about the car rolling forward.
This is particularly useful in hilly areas, where the risk of rolling backward when taking your foot off the brake is higher. It’s a simple but effective technology that makes driving in certain situations much less stressful.