Skip to content

When should you get your annual flu shot? AARP has advice for you.

Search
  1. Home & Family
 

The Latest High-Tech Car Features

From essentials to indulgences, here’s what to look for

by David Dudley, AARP The Magazine, Dec. 2014/Jan. 2015 | Comments: 0

  • Courtesy Volvo

    Blind-Spot Monitoring and Cross-Traffic Alert

    En español | Sensors keep an eye on rear blind spots and peer up and down the street for traffic before you back out.   Verdict: Essential

    1 of 13
  • John F. Martin for Cadillac

    Backup Cameras/Parking Sensors

    All new cars must have backup cameras by 2018; parking sensors warn when you're approaching obstacles.   Verdict: Essential     

    2 of 13
  • Courtesy Volvo

    Collision-Avoidance System

    Most systems use radar and cameras to detect an imminent crash and apply the brakes; some can bring the car to a full stop.   Verdict: Essential  

    3 of 13
  • Courtesy GMC

    Lane-Departure Warning/Lane Centering

    If you drift out of your lane, the car sounds an alert and even nudges you back on track.   Verdict: Essential  

    4 of 13
  • Courtesy BMW

    Heads-Up Displays

    By projecting speed, navigational directions and other dashboard info directly onto the windshield, HUDs help drivers keep their eyes on the road.   Verdict: Useful but optional  

    5 of 13
  • Courtesy Ford

    Inflatable Seat Belts

    Ford and Mercedes are leading the way with this technology, which helps cushion the torso during a crash.   Verdict: Useful but optional  

    6 of 13

  • AARP Offer: Get and Stay Connected

    Explore Home & Family for tips on family, relationships, technology and more   Join AARP today for great ways to save and stay connected to family

    7 of 13
  • Courtesy Volvo

    Self-Parking

    Hate parallel parking? This feature can do the job for you.   Verdict: Useful but optional  

    8 of 13
  • Courtesy Chevrolet

    Adaptive Cruise Control

    Sensors detect traffic ahead and match your speed. Tesla's Autopilot can also read signs, follow lane markings and change lanes automatically.   Verdict: Useful but optional

    9 of 13
  • Courtesy Kia

    Heated Steering Wheel

    Snow-belt drivers might find this a cozy amenity. Or, you know, wear gloves.   Verdict: Handy indulgence

    10 of 13
  • Courtesy GM

    Built-In Wi-Fi Hot Spots

    In-car wireless lets you surf en route (if you're not driving).   Verdict: Handy indulgence

    11 of 13
  • Courtesy BMW

    Hands-Free Trunk/Liftgate Release

    Just wave a foot or stand behind the car to open the trunk automatically.   Verdict: Handy indulgence

    12 of 13

  • More Home & Family Slideshows

    Member Discounts! Great deals and savings on your automotive needs.

    13 of 13

Join the Discussion

0 | Add Yours

Please leave your comment below.

You must be logged in to leave a comment.

AARP Membership

Discounts & Benefits

See All

GO TO THIS ARTICLE