Thanks, But No Thanks: The Most Useless Car Features of 2023
by AutoExpert | 10 July, 2023
Hello, auto enthusiasts and everyday drivers! The year 2023 has brought us some mind-boggling advancements in car tech. Some of these features have us whooping with joy while others leave us scratching our heads, wondering, "Do I really need that?" So let's buckle up, put the pedal to the metal, and check out some of the most useless car features of 2023 that have us saying, "Thanks, but no thanks!"
Gesture Control
BMW led the pack with gesture control, but do we really need to twirl our fingers to adjust the radio volume? We have to admit, it's cool, but also kind of... pointless? After all, a good old-fashioned volume knob or steering wheel control does the job just as well, without the risk of accidentally skipping your favorite song when swatting a fly!
Massaging Seats
A feature found in luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, massaging seats seem like a great idea until you realize you're in a car, not a spa. Can they be relaxing? Absolutely. But do they add real value or enhance your driving experience? We're not so sure. Especially when that $$$ could be put towards safety features or better fuel efficiency.
Built-In Perfume Dispensers
Luxury automakers are now offering built-in perfume dispensers, and we have to ask, why? Sure, they might keep your car smelling like a summer breeze instead of gym socks, but they also add a hefty cost. Not to mention, what if you or your passengers are sensitive to certain scents? A simple air freshener or a clean car seems like the better (and cheaper) choice here.
Wi-Fi Hotspot
In the age of unlimited data plans and mobile hotspots, do we really need our cars to act as Wi-Fi providers? Unless you’re running a mobile office from your backseat, it’s hard to justify the extra monthly expense, especially when most of us are just using it to stream music or get directions.
The Fifth Door
Some new hatchbacks feature an extra door - on the rear, right in the middle. While this fifth door might seem like an innovative idea, it often ends up being more of a nuisance, blocking your rearview and making the car's design a bit awkward. Unless you're regularly loading cargo into your rear seats, this door doesn't add much utility.
Voice-Controlled Systems
While the idea of commanding your car to do your bidding like some sort of vehicular genie sounds cool, the reality is less than stellar. Most voice-controlled systems are more frustrating than useful, often misinterpreting commands or offering limited functionality. And let's not even start with the arguments when they misunderstand your accent!
These features might seem great on paper (or on a flashy car commercial), but when it comes to practicality and real-world use, they fall flat. Remember, when you're looking for your next car, focus on the features that enhance safety, performance, and your overall driving experience - not just the shiny, cool-sounding add-ons.