In our revolutionary age, where technology is infinitely evolving, car manufacturers have the privilege of being able to equip new models with the latest features and gadgets available in the market.
So what bells and whistles do Australians desire the most in their cars?
In 2009, Roy Morgan Research surveyed 15,000 national drivers on their motoring attitudes. An overwhelming 79 per cent ranked fuel economy higher than performance. In our current economic climate with fuel prices reaching a 30-month high, it is no wonder Australians are looking for cars offering greater fuel economy.
It’s safe to say that steering wheel controls are now featured in every medium- to high-end car model. They’re so popular, even budget models have adapted them. Drivers love the convenience of not having to move their hands off the wheel to change a CD track, radio station or jump between CD and radio modes. With 69.8 per cent of national drivers voting safety as their number one priority when purchasing a car, steering wheel controls are popular because they encourage drivers to maintain attention on the road.
Bluetooth and a car stereo is a match made in heaven. That’s why Bluetooth-enabled and Wi-Fi friendly cars are sought after to go hand-in-hand with Bluetooth mobile phones. As a nation that prohibits the use of talking on the phone while driving, Australians have two choices: wear a hands-free or Bluetooth headset, or take advantage of Bluetooth speaker facilities via your stereo.
iPod docks are a quick way to carry around your music in one compatible device. They also save drivers the hassle of burning CDs. Some glove box and centre console compartments are now fitted with refrigeration facilities; an ideal feature for those who drive long distances. Even little things like delay function lighting are desired. They help drivers find their key slots more easily.
Built-in satellite navigation systems are still in demand. Not only do they assist drivers with directions, but they take away the burden of worrying about theft. Thieves target portable navigations that are left visible in parked cars. Since built-in satellite navigation systems are installed in the actual car console, the vehicle itself needs to be stolen if a person wants to take the navigation system.
Most car specifications account for good buying sense. Other features such as paint coats, reading lights and driver seat tilting are just plain window dressing to sell cars.
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