16 Car Features That Were Considered Luxurious (and Now Standard)
Explore 16 car features that were once exclusive to luxury models but are now standard in most vehicles.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Automotive technology has evolved dramatically over the years. Features that were once considered luxurious, like heated seats, adaptive cruise control, and ambient lighting are now common. Discover how these innovations have reshaped our driving experiences and what they signify for the future of car design.
1. Reversing Cameras
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Once a premium feature, reversing cameras are now standard in most vehicles, enhancing safety and ease of parking. They provide drivers with a clear view of obstacles behind the car, reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Adaptive Cruise Control
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Once exclusive to luxury models, adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. This feature enhances driving comfort, especially on long journeys.
3. Heated Seats
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Initially found in high-end vehicles, heated seats are now a common comfort feature in many cars. They provide warmth during cold weather and enhance overall driving comfort.
4. Ambient Lighting
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Ambient lighting, once a hallmark of luxury interiors, is now prevalent in various car models. It creates a pleasant and customizable cabin atmosphere for drivers and passengers alike.
5. Touchscreen Infotainment Systems
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Touchscreen infotainment systems have transitioned from luxury to standard, offering drivers easy access to navigation, music, and vehicle settings, enhancing the driving experience.
6. Keyless Entry
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Keyless entry systems, once a luxury convenience, are now widely available. These systems allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without removing the key fob from their pocket or bag.
7. Lane Departure Warning
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Lane departure warning systems alert drivers when they unintentionally drift out of their lane, a feature that has become standard in many vehicles to enhance road safety.
8. Blind Spot Monitoring
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Blind spot monitoring systems, once exclusive to luxury cars, are now common. They provide drivers with alerts to vehicles in their blind spots, thereby preventing potential collisions.
9. Automatic Emergency Braking
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Automatic emergency braking systems detect potential collisions and apply brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time, a feature that has become standard in many modern vehicles to enhance safety.
10. Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers
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Rain-sensing windshield wipers automatically adjust their speed based on the intensity of rainfall, a convenience feature that has become standard in many vehicles.
11. Automatic Climate Control
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Automatic climate control systems maintain a set cabin temperature without manual adjustments, a feature that has transitioned from luxury to standard in many vehicles.
12. Wireless Charging
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Wireless charging pads for smartphones, once a luxury feature, are now commonly found in various car models. They offer convenient device charging without cables.
13. Panoramic Sunroof
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Panoramic sunroofs provide expansive views and natural light, a feature that has moved from luxury vehicles to become standard in many modern cars.
14. Hands-Free Tailgate
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Hands-free tailgate systems allow drivers to open the trunk with a simple foot gesture, a convenience feature that has become standard in many vehicles.
15. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were once found only in premium trims but are now standard in most new vehicles. They let you mirror your smartphone on the car’s screen for navigation, calls, and music. It brings a familiar interface to the dashboard, making it easier and safer to stay connected on the road.
16. Built-In GPS Navigation
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Built-in GPS navigation used to be a pricey add-on but is now a default feature in many models. It helps drivers find routes quickly without relying on mobile data or separate devices. Updated maps and real-time traffic make it more reliable for daily commutes and road trips.