Features That Do and Don’t Matter in Today’s Car Market

Today’s car shopping looks different. There is a healthy mix of old, new, electric, gas, and just about everything in between sitting on lots across the nation.

The good news is you can truly pick the best option for you. The downside here is that too many options leave you at risk of shark salesmen hunting you down for the newest and biggest, and maybe a price tag you don’t want. We’re exploring the various features that do and don’t matter in today’s car market so that when it’s your turn to shop, you have your head on straight, focused on the road ahead.

Must-Have: Fuel Efficiency

Fuel costs hit household budgets every month, so efficient powertrains deliver real value. Hybrids and turbocharged four-cylinder engines often match or beat the highway mileage of older six-cylinders. The US Department of Energy notes that improving fuel economy by 5 to 10 MPG can save hundreds of dollars annually, depending on driving habits and fuel prices.

Stop-start systems reduce idling waste in traffic. Modern transmissions with more gears or efficient CVTs keep engines in their optimal power bands. Pay attention to real-world owner reports and EPA combined ratings; these metrics indicate what daily driving might look like.

You Can Live Without: Leather Seats

Yep, you really can live without leather seats. High-quality synthetic upholstery has come a long way. Modern alternatives resist stains, clean up quickly, and avoid temperature extremes better than many leather hides. Because who loves getting into a hot car only to burn themselves on even hotter leather?

Many premium trims now feature perforated, ventilated synthetic materials that feel comfortable in all seasons. Shoppers who want easy maintenance and durability can choose these options without sacrificing comfort or style.

Must-Have: Safety Technology

Advanced safety features reduce crash risks and insurance costs. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control create an extra layer of protection on busy roads. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that vehicles with front crash prevention systems experience fewer rear-end collisions.

Clear visual alerts and gentle steering or braking interventions help drivers respond faster to sudden changes. Prioritize models that earn high IIHS Top Safety Pick or NHTSA 5-star ratings, since those scores reflect rigorous, standardized testing. During a test drive, verify that alerts feel intuitive and that settings allow easy customization for sensitivity and timing.

You Can Live Without: CD Players

This is not 2001. You do not need a CD player with car’s today now featuring high-tech Bluetooth technology. Streaming dominates in-car audio.

Most drivers use Bluetooth, CarPlay, or Android Auto for podcasts, playlists, and audiobooks. CD slots waste dash space that manufacturers could use for storage or larger screens. If archival discs still sit on a shelf, rip them to a phone or a USB drive for broader access and better organization.

Must-Have: Intuitive Infotainment

Modern dashboards consolidate navigation, music, and communication. A responsive screen with simple menus matters more than flashy graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto reduce distraction by mirroring familiar apps. Physical knobs for volume and temperature still beat buried touchscreen menus for quick adjustments.

Over-the-air updates keep maps and software current without dealership visits. Clear voice recognition reduces the need to look away from the road. As vehicles add sensors and connectivity, electrical connectors power autonomous vehicles and support advanced driver assistance. Try pairing a phone, loading a route, and switching audio sources during a test drive to confirm ease of use.

You Can Live Without: Oversized Engines

Big displacement no longer equals better performance. Turbocharged fours and hybrid systems deliver strong torque and quick acceleration while sipping less fuel.

Smaller, lighter engines improve handling balance and reduce ownership costs. Towing or heavy-duty use still justifies higher output, but most daily commuters benefit more from efficiency and refinement than V8 bragging rights.

Today’s car market is a sanctuary of choice, but it’s worth cutting through the noise before browsing the car lot. Take a careful and thorough test drive to study the features you do and don’t need, and remember to prioritize your lifestyle above whatever the salesperson is selling you.