6 Features to Look For When Buying a Car
Photo: Honda
Whether you’re purchasing your first car or looking to replace your old set of wheels, there are certain features that you should look for when purchasing a brand-new car. Here are six to consider.
1. Bluetooth and USB functions
Bluetooth and USB functions allow you to listen to your favorite music or use your phone hands-free. These are functionalities that you’re likely to find built into newer models like a quality sports car, but when it comes to older models, this may not be the case. This is why ensuring that your new car has a good Bluetooth and USB installed is key. Bluetooth will enable you to make phone calls without averting your attention, plus let you to play music from your devices on your car sound system. A USB port lets you charge your devices on the road, which is handy for long drives or simply when you’re in need of a quick charge.
2. Five star safety rating
Safety is of utmost concern when it comes to driving any car, which is why it is imperative that your new car has a five-star safety rating. Do ensure that you check that your car has at least six airbags, as some five-star rated cars may only contain four. When purchasing a car, it is important that you also check that your rating has been awarded by the Australasian NCAP as they tend to have stricter criteria for safety than cars awarded five stars by Euro NCAP.
3. Navigation system
One of the most important features for any car in modern times is a reliable navigation system. The latest in GPS navigation systems now offer a touch screen solution, making it that much easier for you to navigate around any area you’re driving in. Having built-in navigation prevents you from fumbling around with your phone when looking for the correct directions to your destination. Most navigation systems also offer turn-by-turn voice prompts, meaning you don’t have to be staring at the navigation screen all the time, and can instead keep your eyes on the road.
4. Cruise control
Cruise control is a very popular option for car owners and is a fantastic feature to have when travelling long distances. If your long drive consists of highways and interstate roads, cruise control allows you to set your vehicle to go a certain speed without you needing to do anything besides signal and steer the wheel. Cruise control is great in assisting you to stick to a certain speed limit where necessary and can reduce fuel consumption by avoiding sudden acceleration and deceleration.
5. Auto headlights
Another fantastic feature to look out for when purchasing a new car is auto headlights. Auto headlights allow you to leave your headlight switch in an automatic position and will turn on when you enter a tunnel, then turn off when you exit. Similarly, in low light situations, your car will turn headlights on immediately, ensuring that you never forget to do so yourself.
6. Quality airbags
Last but not least, and possibly one of the most important features that any car should have, is quality airbags. When it comes to airbags, you want to look out for side-impact curtain airbags that offer your head and torso protection in the event of a side-impact collision. You should also look out for adaptive front airbags that take into account your seating position to determine the force needed to deploy the airbag. Safety is of utmost importance, and airbags are something one should never skimp on.
This is a collaborative article.
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.