Forward Collision Warning
Forward collision warning uses optical or radar sensors to warn you when you are in imminent danger of colliding with the car in front of you. You're typically warned with audible alerts and flashing lights on the dash or windshield.
In some vehicles, such as the 2021 GMC Sierra, the warning can come through a vibrating Safety Alert Seat.
Forward collision warning is only an alert system. It will not automatically apply the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision. It is intended to help prevent rear-end collisions, and the resulting damage and injuries.
You should consider this a must-have function.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Automatic emergency braking (AEB) uses sensors similar to those used for forward collision warning to sense an impending collision. It takes it a step further by automatically applying the brakes in an attempt to prevent a collision or reduce its severity.
When activated, AEB will abruptly and rapidly apply the braking force necessary to stop your vehicle. In many cases, your car will be stopped before you even realize what's happening.
There are two major differences between the automatic emergency braking systems available. Some are only active at the low speeds you'll find in stop-and-go city traffic. Many more are full-speed automatic emergency braking systems, which can operate at a wider range of vehicle speeds. If the systems can't bring the vehicle to a full stop, they will attempt to reduce the crash's severity by slowing your car as much as possible.
Automatic emergency braking systems go by many names, including Smart Brake Support, Collision Mitigation Braking, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Active Brake Assist. The bottom line is: if it applies the brakes for you, it's automatic emergency braking.
There is no regulatory requirement for automakers to include forward collision warning or automatic emergency braking in their new vehicles. Instead, there's a voluntary agreement between 20 of the automakers that sell vehicles in the U.S., the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The agreement requires automakers to equip 85% of the vehicles they sell in the U.S., weighing 8,500 pounds or less, with these systems by the production year that starts September 1, 2022.
Currently, Tesla and Volvo include forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking in 100% of the vehicles they sell in the United States. Ten automakers install the tech in more than 90% of the cars they sell. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles trails the industry with fewer 2021 vehicles projected to include the system than all other automakers.
Read our feature on the best cars with automatic emergency braking to see some of the highest-scoring vehicles in our new car rankings equipped with AEB.
Pedestrian Detection
Many forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking systems now include sophisticated sensors that can identify pedestrians, then trigger alerts and automatic braking. In some vehicles, the sensors can also identify bicycles and large animals.
However, a 2019 study by AAA shows that many pedestrian detection systems don't work when you need them to – particularly at night. They're no substitute for paying attention to what's going on around the vehicle, especially when you're turning.
“Pedestrian fatalities are on the rise, proving how important the safety impact of these systems could be when further developed,” says Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations. “But, our research found that current systems are far from perfect and still require an engaged driver behind the wheel.”
While you should definitely look for cars with automatic emergency braking, not having pedestrian detection shouldn't stop you from buying a car.
Blind Spot Monitoring
Using sensors on the rear corners of a vehicle, blind spot monitoring identifies vehicles in places that aren't covered by your mirrors. It can warn you before you change lanes into the path of another vehicle. The systems typically use warning lights in the outside mirrors or on the windshield pillars.
If you switch your turn signal on when there's someone in your blind spot on that side of the vehicle, most blind spot warning systems will add an audible warning to the alert.
Some vehicles, including the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and 2020 Honda Fit, used camera-based blind spot monitoring systems that display a video image of the adjacent lane on the instrument panel or infotainment screen.
An enhanced version of blind spot monitoring is blind spot intervention. Currently available on far fewer vehicles than blind spot monitoring, blind spot intervention uses braking or steering to try to keep you from moving into the path of another vehicle.
Lane Departure Warning
Lane departure warning systems use cameras to monitor road markers and let you know when you're about to or have crossed out of your lane. They can warn you with visual and audible warnings, plus steering wheel vibrations in some vehicles, before you drift into a head-on crash or drive into a ditch.
They won't alert you if your turn signal is on in the direction you cross the line.
Some vehicles, such as the 2021 Cadillac XT5, use vibrations in the seat to let you know when you drift out of your lane.
If you spend a lot of time on rural highways, lane departure warning is a great feature to have.
Lane Keep Assist
Taking lane departure warning a step further is lane keep assist. Depending on the vehicle, lane keep assist uses steering or braking to prevent you from crossing out of your lane. The corrections are accompanied by audible alerts, warning lights, and often a shake of the steering wheel.
The system doesn't take complete control. If you need to swerve out of your lane to avoid an obstacle in your lane, for example, you can easily override the car's intervention by continuing to turn the steering wheel. Activating a turn signal prevents the system from trying to block your turn.
It's like the bumpers bowling alleys use when teaching kids how to bowl. It won't keep you from drifting to the edge of your lane, but it can guide you back into the lane.
Our guide to lane departure warning and lane keep assist dives deeper into how these systems work.
Unfortunately, many drivers find lane maintenance systems bothersome. They turn them off nearly half the time, according to a 2017 IIHS survey. Still, there's growing evidence that lane departure warning and lane keep assist prevent collisions and injuries.
Lane-Centering Assist
As the name says, the goal of lane-centering assist is to keep you traveling in the center of the lane, between the lane markers. It's no substitute for having your hands on the wheel, but it can guide your vehicle around gentle curves. It's intended as an aid for highway driving.
You can override the assist by simply turning the wheel in the direction you want to travel. Some systems will give you firm feedback, while others are much more subtle. Most lane-centering assist systems cannot navigate sharp turns, and many only work when the car's cruise control is operating. If you take your hands off the wheel, you'll get a warning, followed by the system disengaging.
Lane-centering assist goes by many names, including Lane-Trace Assist and Active Steering Assist. While it's a nice system to have, it's more of a convenience feature than a safety system.
Driver Drowsiness Monitoring and Attention Monitoring
The goal of driver drowsiness monitoring and driver attention monitoring systems is to ensure that you remain engaged and alert as you travel down the highway. The systems aim to prevent crashes stemming from drivers falling asleep at the wheel or getting distracted while driving.
Some, such as the DriverFocus system available in the 2021 Subaru Forester, use a camera to look at the driver's eyes and head position. Other systems employ steering-wheel-mounted sensors to analyze driver movements and alert them when signs of fatigue become apparent.
You'll typically be alerted with audible and visual warnings. In the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, for example, you get a picture of a steaming cup of coffee, along with the statement "Take a Break!"
Driver drowsiness monitoring is an excellent feature to have if you spend hours upon hours on the road. If you just use your car to commute, it's less valuable.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Standard cruise control keeps you traveling down the highway at a preset speed. That's great, unless there are other vehicles on the road traveling at varying speeds. When you encounter slower traffic, you have to disengage your cruise control, then resume your desired speed once you pass.
Adaptive cruise control maintains your preset speed, until you approach vehicles ahead traveling slower than you in your lane. At that point, it slows the car to maintain a set distance. In most cases, it will just reduce the throttle a bit. Some systems will gently apply enough braking to slow the car further. You can adjust the distance between the lead car and yours, depending on road conditions and your comfort level.
Cameras, lasers, or radars in the front of your car are used to sense the other vehicle. Adaptive cruise control systems are designed for use on the open road where traffic is light to moderately busy. While some adaptive cruise controls can bring your car all the way to a stop, many will disengage once they slow to a certain speed.
Adaptive cruise control was first employed by high-end luxury cars. Today, you can find it throughout the marketplace. In fact, it's standard equipment on the 2021 Toyota Corolla. Our guide to the cheapest cars with adaptive cruise control highlights some of the most affordable models available.
You can read more about the technology in our article that explains how adaptive cruise control works.
Adaptive Cruise Control With Stop-and-Go Functionality
Stop-and-go functionality enables adaptive cruise control to operate in a broader range of traffic conditions. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality uses the throttle and brakes to manage the vehicle's speed in fast highway driving or slow urban traffic.
It can also bring the car to a full stop when necessary and keep it stopped. You have to tap the accelerator pedal or the cruise-control "resume" button to get the car moving again with many systems. More advanced systems automatically proceed once the car in front of yours starts moving.
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability goes by different names depending on the brand.
Head-Up Displays
Looking down at the instrument panel can take your attention away from the road ahead. A head-up display puts information into the driver's line of sight by projecting it either onto the windshield or another glass panel between the driver and the windshield.
Basic head-up displays use a single color and only provide essential information, such as speed or forward collision warning alerts. More advanced head-up displays are multi-color and can display the vehicle's speed, tachometer, safety alerts, navigation cues, and even infotainment information.
The all-new 2021 Buick Encore GX is an example of a vehicle that offers a small, glass head-up display panel that sits atop the dash. The 2021 Lexus LS uses the windshield to reflect its massive 24-inch, full-color head-up display.
While head-up displays are fairly new to cars, they come from the aviation world, where they've been used in jet fighters and other high-performance aircraft for decades. Head-up displays are certainly nice to have, but they're not essential for most drivers.
Parking Sensors
According to NHTSA data, more than 188,000 crashes in 2015 occurred while a vehicle was backing up. Parking sensors aim to prevent many of those incidents, which cause injuries, significant vehicle damage, and millions of dollars in auto insurance claims each year.
Parking sensors employ short-range radar or sonar to detect people, pets, or other objects that the driver either can't see or hasn't noticed. Most systems will trigger audible and visual alerts. Some systems use the infotainment screen or instrument panel display to show where the object is.
Rear parking sensors are standard or available on most vehicles. Unlike the images from rearview cameras, which are now required on all vehicles sold in the United States, the screech of rear parking sensors is hard to ignore. Front parking sensors are available on fewer models. They are useful when maneuvering into tight parking spaces, where the vehicle's hood may hide curbs, posts, and other objects.
If you frequent urban areas or crowded parking lots, parking sensors are a must-have.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Ever had the experience of being parked between two SUVs that block your vision as you try to back out of a parking space? Most drivers just creep backward, hoping that oncoming traffic will stop. If they don't, there's a good chance of a collision.
Rear cross traffic alert uses sensors at the rear of your car to watch for traffic coming from the sides.
If there's a car approaching from either side as you back up, it will sound an alert. In many vehicles, the audible alert will be linked with a visual warning, letting you know the direction the other vehicle is coming from.
Rear Automatic Braking
A relatively new safety and crash avoidance feature, rear automatic braking uses parking and other sensors to detect objects behind the vehicle and automatically apply full braking to stop your car. It's a standard feature on a growing number of models, including the 2021 Nissan Rogue.
In some cases, rear automatic braking works in conjunction with rear cross traffic alert to prevent you from backing into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
Automatic High-Beam Headlights
Many of today's new vehicle headlights are masterfully designed, creating dynamic looks and reinforcing brand identities. Unfortunately, many don't really light the road very well. The IIHS has tightened its headlight standards over the last few years, prompting many automakers to adopt automatic high-beam headlights.
Automatic high-beam headlights use a windshield-mounted camera to look for oncoming headlights and taillights of cars traveling in the same direction as you. If the sensor sees none, it will switch on your high-beams to better illuminate the road ahead. Automatic high-beam headlights only operate above certain speeds and don't typically recognize cars waiting to turn from side streets.
While the technology has gotten better over the last few years, you still need to pay close attention and be ready to switch to your low-beams. Sometimes, the systems will fail to lower your headlights when you're required to do so.
Adaptive Headlights
Another technology automakers are employing to meet the new testing standards is adaptive headlights. They monitor the angle of your steering wheel and respond by swiveling the headlights or activating cornering lights to better illuminate your path around corners.
When you're going straight, so are your headlights. When you turn, they pivot to light the way.
The 2021 Mazda3 is an example of a mainstream car that's available with adaptive headlights.
Traffic Sign Recognition
Have you ever been traveling down the road and find you don't know what the speed limit is? The road may not be well-marked, or you may have missed seeing the speed limit sign. While some navigation systems display the speed limit, the information may be out of date or incorrect.
Traffic sign recognition aims to help you out in the latter situation by using a forward-looking camera to capture many types of traffic signs. It can warn you as you approach school zones, for example. The traffic sign information is typically displayed on the instrument panel and head-up display.
In some cases, a vehicle's adaptive cruise control can respond to seeing a new speed sign by changing its set speed.
While more and more cars are equipped with traffic sign recognition, it's still more common on luxury models than mainstream vehicles. The redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 is one of the newest vehicles to offer the technology.
Surround-View Cameras
A surround-view camera system merges the images of several cameras on the exterior of a vehicle to present an image that looks like it was taken by a drone hovering a dozen feet above its roof. Surround-view cameras are great for close-quarters maneuvering in parking lots.
Nissan was one of the first mainstream automakers to offer "Bird-View" camera systems, and they continue to offer it on many of their vehicles. It's also found on the options list of many luxury cars and SUVs.
A growing number of pickups and SUVs offer sophisticated camera systems that offer multiple views around their vehicles. Some use remote cameras that can be fitted to trailers, providing views that drivers haven't had before.
Night Vision
Still a niche technology limited to a few luxury cars, night vision uses a specialized camera to see well-ahead of the area illuminated by a vehicle's headlights.
The available night-vision system in the 2021 Audi A8, for example, uses an infrared camera to sense the area in front of the car. It displays a thermal image in the center of the car's instrument panel, with pedestrians and large animals highlighted. Night vision is also offered on the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and 2021 Porsche Panamera.
Rear-Seat Reminder Systems
Every summer in America brings the tragedy of children left behind in hot cars. Rear-seat reminder systems are aimed at preventing deaths and injuries from occurring. Most automakers use systems that sense when the rear doors have been opened, while a few have sensors designed to identify pets and people.
Most of the systems display a reminder when you turn the car off to check the back seat. Some, such as the system available on the 2021 Hyundai Palisade, will flash the vehicle's lights, honk its horn, and send the owner a smartphone message if it senses movement inside the vehicle. The advanced Hyundai system uses an ultrasonic sensor to sense motion.
GM was a pioneer in equipping its vehicles with rear-seat reminder systems. Today, most Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac models employ the technology. Many other automakers are following their lead – fitting the system to more and more models. Most new vehicles are expected to employ the technology by 2025.
If you frequently carry young kids or pets, a rear-seat reminder system can be a literal lifesaver.
Door-Opening Warning Systems
It's called "dooring," and it's near the top of urban cyclists' worst fears. It happens when a car parallel parks and someone opens a door into the path of an approaching cyclist or other vehicles. Likewise, the idea of kids opening a rear door into traffic can strike fear in parents.
Door-opening warning systems, such as Hyundai's Safe Exit Assist and Mercedes-Benz's Exit Warning Assist, alert the driver of vehicles approaching on the street side of the parked vehicle. Hyundai's system uses a vehicle's electronic child safety lock to prevent a child in the rear seat from opening a door until no vehicles are approaching.
The systems use the blind spot monitoring system's sensors to identify approaching vehicles.
Semi-Automated Driving Systems
Despite some automakers' pronouncements, there are no self-driving cars available for sale today, and there won't be any time soon. What we do currently have is the fusion of several of the technologies on the previous pages into high-tech packages that can aid drivers. Remember: they're driver assists, not driver replacements.
By melding advanced adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability with lane-centering assist, automakers can offer an integrated system that can manage braking, acceleration, and steering in certain conditions. A few can perform lane changes on multi-lane highways. These packages are intended to help drivers, not relieve them of their responsibility to maintain control over their vehicle.
The systems can be affected by road, weather, traffic, and lighting conditions. However, the sensors never get distracted or tired, making them excellent teammates on long drives.
These semi-automated driving packages go by several names, including Nissan ProPilot Assist, Cadillac Super Cruise, Tesla Autopilot, Kia Traffic Jam Assist, and Volvo Pilot Assist.
Learn more about semi-automated driving systems and how close we are to self-driving cars in our guide on these features.
Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay is a technology that uses your vehicle's infotainment system to stream information to and from a connected Apple iPhone. Not only does it provide the look and feel of your Apple smartphone, but it also makes many of its functions available, legally, while you drive.
In most cars, you simply plug your iPhone into one of the vehicle's USB ports and tell the phone it's alright to connect. The familiar icons, such as calling, streaming music, maps, texting, and more, appear on the car's infotainment screen. By pressing the icons or using Siri voice control, you can then operate your phone just as you would if you were holding it in your hand. Many functions, such as web browsing, aren't supported while driving. Several third-party apps work with Apple CarPlay, including Google Maps, Waze, Pandora, and Zoom.
Our article titled What Is Apple CarPlay explains the technology in more detail. Unlike built-in infotainment and navigation systems that are rarely updated, CarPlay is a part of the Apple iOS on your phone and is frequently updated with new features. It's important to remember that information streamed through your iPhone uses its data plan.
Some newer cars don't even require you to plug your phone in to enjoy your smartphone's benefits. Wireless Apple CarPlay connects via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing you to hop in your car and automatically get connected.
One benefit built-in navigation systems have over CarPlay is that they don't need to have a cellular connection to display data. If you're trying to navigate in an area where there isn't cell phone service, Apple CarPlay won't display updated maps.
You may still find some cars that use Siri Eyes-Free technology to help you make phone calls. Instead of using the car's voice recognition system, it employs the Siri voice assistant to perform basic tasks. In most of today's vehicles, Siri Eyes-Free has been replaced by CarPlay.
If you are an Apple iPhone user, Apple CarPlay should be considered a must-have feature.
Android Auto
Android Auto channels the basic features of your Android smartphone into your car's infotainment system. It allows you to use selected apps, make phone calls, stream music, use navigation, send text messages, and more. The smartphone integration system replaces your car's voice recognition with its own excellent capability.
Once you have the Android 5.0 Lollipop or later operating system and the free Android Auto app downloaded and installed from the Google Play store on your phone, you just plug it into one of your car's USB ports, then follow any prompts.
Because the Android Auto function is part of your smartphone's operating system, it's updated whenever you update your phone. Unlike your car's built-in infotainment system, which is rarely updated, the information Android Auto sends to it will always be current. It does use information from your phone's data plan, so it's important to monitor your usage.
If you do most of your driving in places with cell phone service, having Android Auto eliminates the need to have a built-in navigation system. However, it does not work in areas without coverage. Our guide to Android Auto takes you on a deep dive into the smartphone connection technology.
A growing number of new cars are outfitted with wireless Android Auto. You can just leave your phone in your pocket or purse, and it will automatically connect when you get in the car.
Android phone users should consider Android Auto a must-have feature.
Amazon Alexa Auto
Much like sitting in your living room and asking the Amazon Alexa voice assistant to perform tasks, you can do the same while in your car. Amazon Alexa Auto allows you to use Alexa skills to stream music from several providers, access turn-by-turn navigation cues, find sports scores, and much more.
You can also access home automation devices to, for example, turn on your lights or air conditioning before you arrive home. Unlike Apple's Siri, whose commands are strictly limited while you're driving, Amazon Alexa can access information and answer most questions without you needing to stop the car and operate your phone.
More and more cars are equipped with Amazon Alexa Auto. If your's doesn't offer it, Amazon offers a low-cost accessory that gives you the capability in a small box you can move from car to car. If you are considering a car that has integrated Amazon Alexa, be sure to look at what is and is not supported by that specific vehicle. Not all Alexa skills are supported in all cars.
Our guide to Amazon Alexa Auto is the place to learn more about the new technology. Since you can add it to most cars with an inexpensive portable device, you shouldn't consider it a must-have when buying a new vehicle.
Automatic Climate Control
It's annoying to constantly adjust a car's heating and air conditioning to ensure that everyone's comfortable. Though it's not the world's biggest problem, automakers have devised a solution that's standard or available on most new cars.
Automatic climate control allows you to set the cabin temperature, then let the car make adjustments to keep it steady. The most common systems are dual-zone setups that allow the driver and front-seat passenger to set temperatures that suit their own comfort levels. Many SUVs and minivans have tri-zone systems that add a setting and temperature sensor for rear-seat passengers.
Some luxury cars and SUVs, such as the 2021 Lexus LS, offer a quad-zone system, with separate temperature settings for each side of the rear row.
If you and your spouse or children constantly bicker over being too hot or cold, multi-zone automatic climate control is a great feature to have.
Automatic Windshield Wipers
When it's raining just a little, or starting and stopping, it can be hard to find just the right speed for your windshield wipers. Automatic wipers strive to eliminate the annoyance by sensing how much rain is on the windshield and adjusting the frequency of the wipers swipes accordingly.
Some systems only have one automatic setting, while others offer a range of sensitivities. Their level of quality varies, with some systems performing admirably and others being distracting than helpful. It's a nice feature to have if it works well, and annoying to have if doesn't.
There's another advanced wiper technology that provides an important safety benefit. Offered on relatively few cars, "wipers on/lights on" automatically switches the headlights on when you activate your windshield wipers. Ford offers the feature across their lineup. If you have your automatic headlights on, your headlights will come on within 10 seconds of switching on the wipers.
In many states, it is illegal to drive using your windshield wipers without your headlights on.
Automatic Parking
Not everyone is an expert at parallel parking. For some drivers, the thought of maneuvering into a parking place is terrifying. Fortunately, several automakers offer high-tech solutions that use sensors around the car to automatically parallel or perpendicular park. The capabilities of these systems vary considerably.
In its most basic form, an automatic parking system will identify a parking space that the car will fit in, then prompt you to shift between "drive" and "reverse" as it handles the steering to get you into the spot. More advanced systems also manage braking and shifting to automate the process further.
State-of-the-art self-parking systems can park, and un-park, themselves without anyone in the car. The Tesla Model 3 can be fitted with a "Summon" mode that allows it to pull out of a parking space and travel up to 200 feet to the driver's location.
Self-parking is purely a convenience feature. You can skip it unless it's included in an option package that's filled with features you do want.
Read our guide to the best self-parking cars to learn more.
Four-Wheel Steering
By using all four wheels to steer, a vehicle can maneuver better in tight spaces, handle better on twisty roads, and make smoother lane changes. While the idea of steering with all four wheels sounds simple, it comes with significant engineering challenges.
In most four-wheel steering systems, the front and back wheels will turn in opposite directions at slow to moderate speeds to aid maneuverability. The rear wheels only pivot a fraction as far as the front wheels, so the vehicle's back end doesn't swing too far out. At high speeds, the front and back wheels turn in the same direction, so the vehicle makes stable lane changes.
Four-wheel steering is typically only offered on high-end vehicles, such as the 2021 Audi Q7.
Torque Vectoring
As you can imagine, any discussion of a feature that has the words "torque" and "vectoring" in it can get geeky fast. It's easy to put it in simple terms, though: torque vectoring uses engine power or slight braking to help a vehicle steer better.
By pushing power to the outside wheels, or reducing the amount the inside wheels have, the vehicle gets pulled tighter into a corner, with less chance of understeer. In most cases, the effects are subtle enough that you won't even feel them happening. You'll just think that the car handles great.
The systems available on some models, such as the 2021 Lexus RC F sports car and 2020 Honda Ridgeline pickup, use sophisticated, computer-controlled differentials to send extra power to the outside wheels. Other vehicles, including the 2021 Mazda3, use both an electronically controlled differential and light braking pulses on specific wheels to improve stability when entering and exiting corners.
Selectable Vehicle Dynamics
In today's computer-dominated vehicles, automakers can offer drivers control over how the car drives. These vehicle dynamics settings can be as simple as an "Eco" switch, or as sophisticated as menus in the infotainment system that give you finite control over every major vehicle system.
The most common selectable vehicle dynamics controls are buttons or dials that let you switch between modes such as Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow. By selecting one setting, the car configures its throttle response, steering effort, suspension response, transmission shift points, and more. Some vehicles even change the force required to press the accelerator when they're in fuel-economy-improving Eco mode.
Many high-performance models, like the 2021 Dodge Challenger, provide drivers with finite controls over every individual function, allowing you to change your setup from a sedate commuter car to a racetrack-ready missile, with super-firm suspension and transmission shifts that trigger calls to a chiropractor.
Some SUVs have vehicle dynamics controllers that let you change settings based on road and weather conditions. If you're going to be driving through sand, for example, you can adjust the throttle response so you're less likely to get stuck.
Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission
Most car shoppers are probably familiar with manual transmissions, which use a clutch and stick shift to allow gear changes, and automatic transmissions that do the shifting for you. Increasingly common today is another type, called a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It's operated like a standard automatic, but there are key differences that we'll delve into below.
CVTs are designed to provide better fuel economy than traditional automatic or manual transmissions.
The difference between a traditional automatic and a CVT is how many gear ratios are available to send power between the engine and wheels. A normal automatic uses a specific number of differently sized gears with various gear ratios. The automatics used in today's cars typically have between five and 10 forward speeds.
On the other hand, CVTs use belts or chains to create an infinite number of drive ratios. That improves its ability to operate with the most efficient gear ratio possible.
Early CVTs were, in a word, awful. Over the past decade, the CVTs used in many modern cars, like the 2021 Honda Civic, have improved greatly. Many drivers won't notice much of a difference between driving a traditional automatic and a CVT.
Dual-Clutch Transmission
Despite its name, a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) does not have a clutch pedal. The name reflects the transmission's internal workings. They are operated just like an automatic in most vehicles.
A dual-clutch transmission is essentially two transmissions in one, with one handling even-numbered gears and the other managing odd-numbered gears. By anticipating which gear will be needed next, a DCT can shift gears much faster than a traditional automatic or manual transmission. That's one of the reasons DCTs are often found in high-performance cars.
The Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (or PDK, as it's commonly known) transmission found in the 2021 Porsche 911 is an example of a dual-clutch gearbox. It's not only sports cars that use the technology, though. The 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line uses an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
You'll also see dual-clutch transmissions called twin-clutch transmissions.
Virtual Dashboard
Throughout much of the history of the automobile, mechanical cables were used to link the car's drivetrain with needles on the speedometer and odometer. Some years ago, the gauges became electronic, but retained their traditional needles.
A growing number of today's cars are dispensing with the traditional analog dash altogether. Replacing it is a fully customizable digital display. Drivers can decide what information they want to have displayed and how it is presented. The digital display can show a plethora of data, from basic digital speedometers to navigation, performance, and infotainment messages. The instrument panels can be as simple or complicated as the driver wants.
Audi pioneered the technology with the Audi Virtual Cockpit in their vehicles, including the 2021 Audi TT. For 2021 several other automakers are offering the technology. Kia recently announced that a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel will be offered on the 2021 Kia Sorento.
In-Car Wi-Fi
Just as the Wi-Fi in your house can share the internet with multiple devices, the onboard Wi-Fi now common in many SUVs, minivans, sedans, and pickups lets your passengers access information and entertainment when you're on the road. They just wirelessly connect to the vehicle with their devices, and they're online.
By using the car's onboard Wi-Fi, you can preserve your phone's data plan.
The Wi-Fi isn't as fast as home Wi-Fi, as it uses a cellular connection to reach the internet. If you're in an area with limited or no cell phone service, you'll lose your connection. Most car's data connections, however, are better than those you'll get with your phone.
In order for the Wi-Fi to work, your car requires its own cellular data connection. It essentially becomes another device on your cell phone plan, or another bill if your cellular provider isn't the same one that's affiliated with your car's brand. For example, the 2021 Honda Odyssey's cellular connection is supported by AT&T. If that's where your cell phone plan is from, it's just another device. If not, you have to set up an account with AT&T for your van to have service.
There are more benefits to your car having a data connection. Many cars can download important updates while you're on the go, so you don't have to visit the dealership. Some connections support mobile diagnostics, so a dealer's service department can look for problems without the car ever leaving your driveway.
You can get in-car Wi-Fi in other ways, such as a portable hot spot or using your phone as a hot spot. If the car you're looking at doesn't have it, it shouldn't be a deal-breaker.
Wireless Charging
Having a pile of phone chargers, USB-A, USB-C, and Lightning cords in your car is a pain. Wireless charging eliminates the clutter with a pad you simply put your phone on. When the car's on, your phone charges. Most wireless chargers installed in today's cars use the Qi charging standard.
Most of the wireless chargers are on the center console or at the base of the dash. When paired with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can completely eliminate the need for cables.
Wireless chargers do have some limitations. If your phone has a thick case or any metal on the outside of the case, it may not connect to the charger, or it could get very hot when it does. Loose papers or coins on the charging pad can likewise get hot if they're caught between the pad and the phone. Many phones charge faster with a wired charger, rather than a wireless pad.
Phone-As-Key
When most of us leave our houses or apartments, we grab our phone and our car keys. Phone-as-key technology eliminates the need to carry your car keys or keyfob. You simply use your phone to open your car and get it started.
Don't worry about your phone going dead and preventing access to your car. Automakers have developed backup systems, including number pads on the vehicle and RFID cards that can also be used for valet parking. The technology is included on a growing array of cars, ranging from the luxurious 2021 Lincoln Corsair to the 2021 Hyundai Sonata. It's a feature that's expected to show up on many more new cars in the next few years.
A related technology is Jaguar's Activity Key, which isn't a key at all. It's a wristband that carries a tiny transponder that can open your car and allow it to start. It's great for runners and other outdoor enthusiasts who don't want to carry a traditional keyfob. It's also available as the Land Rover Activity Key. The activity keys can be used on many of the companies' models, including the 2021 Jaguar F-Pace and 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport.
Enhanced Navigation
Early automotive navigation systems had their maps stored on DVDs that weren't updated more than about once a year. Later systems skipped the disks for SD cards, though they too had infrequent updates. Many of today's navigation systems are augmented with information downloaded over the vehicle's data connection.
A common use of the technology is streaming information about traffic speeds and collisions, which is overlayed on the vehicle's map. Depending on the car, the data can come over its data connection, over-the-air on an FM radio frequency, or from satellite radio provider SiriusXM.
The most robust and detailed data is provided by mapping systems supported by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For example, Google Maps shows not only where electric car chargers are, but also whether they're operating or occupied. The Waze app can tell you about traffic jams, objects or animals in the road, and speed traps. The information Waze uses comes from various sources, including travelers ahead of you on the same road.
Off-Road Technologies
Old-school off-roaders will tell you they just need four-wheel drive, good tires, and a gas pedal. Today's most off-road capable SUVs and trucks use a bit more finesse and more technology than ever to maintain traction and control. Sophisticated traction management systems can make even novice drivers look good.
One of the most common off-road technologies is hill descent control. By independently managing each wheel's braking, hill descent controls allow you to avoid locking any of your wheels and sliding or losing control.
Crawl control is like off-road cruise control that manages the power that goes to each wheel. It can keep you from losing traction, or help get you unstuck. The electronic sway-bar disconnect on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon allows extra suspension travel for extreme off-road conditions.
Most Land Rover vehicles, including the 2021 Range Rover Sport, feature electronic Terrain Response off-road vehicle dynamics controllers. In auto mode, the system will analyze conditions and put itself in the right mode for maximum performance. You can manually select Mud, Sand, Rock Crawl, and Grass/Gravel/Snow modes. In the all-new 2021 Ford Bronco, the selectable vehicle dynamics settings are called G.O.A.T. modes.
Many off-road-oriented SUVs are now available with sophisticated camera systems that allow you to see obstacles that aren't visible from the driver's seat. Some allow you to see each wheel or simulated overhead views.
Trailer-Towing Technologies
Automakers are striving to make trailer towing simple with several new technologies. Not only can today's full-size pickups and large SUVs tow considerable loads, but they can also do so more safely and easily than before. The technologies include integrated trailer brake controls, special transmission modes for towing, and more.
The Pro Trailer Backup Assist found on the 2021 Ford F-150 pickup and 2021 Ford Expedition SUV lets you back your trailer precisely where you want it at the twist of a dash-mounted dial. The truck takes care of all the steering required to make you look like a trailering expert. A similar system is available on the 2021 Ram 1500.
Advanced camera systems can allow you to see the area behind your vehicle as if a trailer wasn't even there. Remote cameras can be installed on both the inside and outside of your trailer, so you can, for example, keep an eye on the horses in a livestock trailer.
Avoiding vehicles in your blind spots can be especially tricky when towing a trailer. Some truck makers now adjust the sensitivity of their truck's blind spot monitoring systems to cover the length of the trailer, as well as the truck.
Getting hooked up to a trailer is a multi-step process. Some automakers now offer a checklist on their truck's instrument panel, so you can be assured you're ready to go. Several trucks, including the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, have a camera aimed at their hitches to make it easier to line up with the trailer.
More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report
A great place to learn more about the high-tech features included on different models is our new car rankings and reviews. They're designed to answer the questions shoppers tell us are critical when they're trying to find the perfect vehicle.
We know that not every buyer is looking for a high-tech wonder. We've developed a guide to the best cars for technophobes to help you if you're looking for a ride that's a bit simpler.
What's better than finding the right car? It's finding a great deal on your new ride. You can explore the best offers in the automotive marketplace by exploring our new car deals, which lists special financing and cash back offers, and our lease deals page. If you're thinking about a certified used car, our used car deals page is the place to find special used car financing offers.
You can save even more of your hard-earned dollars by using the U.S. News Best Price Program. We'll connect you with local dealers offering pre-negotiated prices. In this age of the Covid-19 pandemic, we've updated the program to help shoppers find dealers with easy online sales processes and home delivery options.
An important part of buying a new car is getting the right car insurance. Our auto insurance hub is the place to find the coverage you need, the best car insurance companies, and money-saving discounts.
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Your Guide to the Latest New-Car Technology
Today's new cars are loaded with technologies to keep you and your passengers safe and comfortable. Navigating the vast array of newly available features and their descriptions is a challenge – especially if you haven't purchased or leased a new car in a few years.
In this guide, we'll explain the value of many of today's most advanced automotive technologies, how they work, and whether they're must-have, might-want, or don't-bother features. In many cases, multiple technologies are bundled into one package or trim level. If you want one item, you'll have to buy them all.
Making your purchase decisions even more difficult is the issue that various automakers call similar technologies by different names. Several organizations, including AAA, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and the National Safety Council, are fighting for automakers to use a common set of names for the features.
We'll try to cut through some of the marketing lingo to help you make an informed decision.