When I was growing up, my parents only bought used cars. They were usually in pretty good shape, but because they were older models, they didn’t have the newest features and technology. I never really knew the difference so I didn’t complain. My first car, a Toyota Cressida sedan, had some years on it; by the time it was passed down to me, it was already 16 years old (it did have a 1990s hard-wired cellphone in it, though).
Before I started reviewing press vehicles, I was fine with cars as I knew them. They didn’t have touchscreens, massaging seats, or fragrance systems and I was just fine. The techiest I got was buying a standalone Garmin GPS unit to use in my Acura Integra LS sedan. But once I started reviewing brand-new vehicles, I became more aware of what features were out there in the modern automotive market. Many of them, such as high-end audio systems, power rear sunshades, and reclining VIP seats with power-deploying footrests, were sure nice to experience, but I could live without them. However, there were some less ostentatious and more practical ones that I wanted once I began shopping for my own new car and will look for in my next new (or newish) vehicle.
Automatic Headlights
There is definitely an element of convenience to these, but I view them as more of a safety aid. I have no problem turning the dial on a control stalk a couple of clicks. What bugs me is the possibility of forgetting to turn on my headlights and being “that guy” out on the road at night. I figured these had become standard equipment a long time ago, but I was shocked to learn my wife’s old car, a 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, didn’t have automatic headlights. She was shocked to learn I accidentally left her headlights on for eight hours after I borrowed her car and drove it work one day. Oops.
Brake Hold
Once I got the sweet, sweet taste of not having to keep my foot on the brake at stop signs or stoplights, I was hooked. Brake Hold or Auto Hold or whatever a particular automaker happens to call it adds an element of luxury to even the most budget-focused vehicle. It reduces the amount of physical work you have to do and, once you’re ready to go, you just gas it. My commute from Peoria to Scottsdale, Arizona typically takes 45-60 minutes and occurs during rush hour traffic, so I always have this convenience engaged. It makes a soul-crushing and monotonous trip a little more bearable.
Apple CarPlay
I used to think a car with built-in GPS was only for the wealthy, but thanks to Apple CarPlay, finding my way around a strange new place and seeing the turn-by-turn directions on a big screen in front of me only requires my iPhone (and maybe a USB cable). No worrying about a suction cup mount detaching and taking my phone with it into one of my footwells. No more putting my phone into a cup holder and taking my eyes off the road to see the name of the street I need to turn on. I even use CarPlay when I’m going somewhere I’ve been before because it tells me how long it’ll take to get there and occasionally offers me re-routing options to save time. I don’t consider myself a tech or gadget guy, but I’m a big fan of Apple CarPlay.
Multi-stage Auto Mode
This was the biggest surprise of all to me. Before I got my Hyundai Sonata, I used to hate the HVAC auto mode in the various cars I tested because it seemed to blow the air too hard and make a lot of noise, which always made me turn it off after a few minutes. Once I started using my Sonata’s three-stage auto mode, I never stopped. If it’s too cold, I turn the temperature dial to the right. If the fan speed is a little too high, I hit the auto mode button to bring the level down. It’s quick and easy and makes every drive that much more pleasant.
What about all of you out there? I know many of you have vintage cars, but what are some of the modern car features you’ve experienced and fallen in love with? Let me know in the comments section below.
