Invention Requirements: Essential Functions for Modern Cars

when i grow upmy parents only buy used cars. They are usually in good condition, but since they are older models, they do not have the latest features and technology. I never really knew the difference, so I’m not complaining. My first car was a Toyota Cressida sedan that I had for several years. When it was passed to me, it was already 16 years old (although it did have a hardwired cell phone from the 90s in it).

Before I started reviewing media vehicles, I was happy with the cars I knew about. They don’t have touch screens, massage seats or scent systems, but I felt fine. The most high-tech thing I’ve ever gotten was buying a standalone Garmin GPS unit for my Acura Integra LS sedan. But once I started reviewing brand new vehicles, I became more aware of what the modern car market is capable of. Many of the features, like the high-end sound system, power rear sunshade, and reclining VIP seats with power deployable footrests, are a nice touch, but I could live without them. However, once I started shopping for my own new car, I wanted something a little less ostentatious and more practical, and will be looking for those in my next new car (or new cars).Varied) vehicle.

automatic headlight

There’s definitely a convenience factor to these, but I think they’re more of a safety aid. I had no problem turning the dial on the control stick and making a few clicks. What bothers me is that I might forget to turn on my headlights and become “that person” on the road at night. I thought these had become standard a long time ago, but I was shocked to learn that my wife’s old car, a 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, didn’t have automatic headlights. After I borrowed her car and drove it to work one day, she was surprised to find that I had accidentally left her headlights on for eight hours. oops.

brake hold

Once I got a taste of the sweetness of not having to put my foot on the brake at a stop sign or traffic light, I was hooked. Brake hold or automatic hold or whatever a given carmaker happens to call it adds an element of luxury to even the most budget-conscious vehicles. It reduces the amount of physical work you have to do and once you’re ready to go, all you have to do is refuel. My commute from Peoria, AZ to Scottsdale usually takes 45-60 minutes and occurs during rush hour traffic, so I always use this convenience. It made a heartbreaking and monotonous trip so much more bearable.

Apple CarPlay

I used to think cars with built-in GPS were just for the rich, but thanks to Apple CarPlay, finding my way to a strange new place and seeing turn-by-turn directions on the big screen in front of me requires nothing more than my iPhone (and maybe a USB Wire). No worries about the suction cup holder coming off and taking my phone into one of my footwells. No more putting your phone in the cup holder and taking your eyes off the road to see the name of the street you need to turn on. I even use CarPlay when I’m going somewhere I’ve been before because it tells me how long it will take to get there and occasionally gives me the option to reroute to save time. I don’t consider myself a tech or gadget geek, but I am a big fan of Apple CarPlay.

Multi-level automatic mode

This was the biggest surprise for me. Before I got my Hyundai Sonata, I used to hate the HVAC auto mode in various cars I tested because it seemed to blow too much air and make a lot of noise, which always left me Turn it off. Once I started using the Sonata’s three-level automatic mode, I never stopped. If it’s too cold, I turn the temperature knob to the right. If the fan speed is a little too high, I press the auto mode button to lower the speed. It’s fast and easy, making every drive more enjoyable.

How are you all doing? I know many of you own vintage cars, but what modern car features have you experienced and fallen in love with? Let me know in the comments section below.