Underrated Car Features You Didn’t Know You Needed

Published on January 3, 2025

by Andrew Maclean

When it comes to buying a car, we often prioritize features like fuel efficiency, safety ratings, and technology advancements. However, there are many underrated car features that we often overlook, but can greatly enhance our driving experience. These features may not be as flashy or promoted as much as others, but once you understand their benefits, you’ll wonder how you ever drove without them. In this article, we’ll explore the top underrated car features you didn’t know you needed.Underrated Car Features You Didn’t Know You Needed

The Power of Automatic Start/Stop

Many car manufacturers have started incorporating an Automatic Start/Stop feature in their vehicles. This feature automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a complete stop, and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal. While this may sound like an inconvenience, it actually can save you a significant amount of fuel. In fact, studies have shown that this feature can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%, making it a great investment for those who frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic.

Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter

Cruise control is not a new or underrated feature, but the addition of an adjustable speed limiter takes it to a whole new level. This feature allows you to set a maximum speed limit and prevents you from exceeding it, making it easier to maintain a safe and legal speed while on the road. This is especially useful for drivers who may have a tendency to speed unintentionally, or those who frequently drive on highways with varying speed limits.

Intelligent Emergency Braking System

Safety is a top priority for all drivers, yet we often underestimate the importance of having a reliable braking system. Enter the Intelligent Emergency Braking System, a feature that uses forward-facing sensors to detect and avoid potential collisions. This feature can apply the brakes automatically if it senses that a collision is imminent, reducing the likelihood of accidents and giving you peace of mind while driving.

360-Degree Camera View

Parallel parking can be a stressful task for many drivers. That’s where the 360-degree camera view comes in. This feature uses multiple cameras to provide a complete view of the vehicle, making it easier to maneuver into tight parking spots. It also eliminates blind spots, making it easier to navigate through busy streets. This feature is especially helpful for new drivers or those who struggle with depth perception.

Automatic High Beams

Driving at night can be challenging, especially when it comes to adjusting your high beams to avoid blinding other drivers. Enter the automatic high beams feature, which can automatically switch between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic. This feature not only makes it safer for other drivers but also ensures that you have maximum visibility while driving at night.

Heated Windshield Wipers

If you live in an area with harsh winters or frequently drive in heavy rain, you’ll appreciate the convenience of heated windshield wipers. This feature helps to melt light snow and ice from the wiper blades, making it easier to clear your windshield and improving visibility while driving. It’s a small but effective feature that can save you time and effort during those cold and icy mornings.

In Conclusion

Next time you’re in the market for a new car, make sure to pay attention to these underrated features. They may not be the most talked-about or flashy features, but they can greatly enhance your driving experience and provide added safety and convenience. Remember, sometimes it’s the small and underrated features that can make all the difference.