12 Unexpected Features You'll Find in Today's Most Innovative Cars

9. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The best phone-connected infotainment no longer demands plugging in a tangle of cords. Now, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard or optional in a huge range of models—from Kia and Hyundai to Ford and Mercedes-Benz. Just start the car, and your favorite maps, music, and messaging apps spring up instantly on the dashboard display. The real magic is the seamless experience: no cables to fuss with, and passengers can connect their phone in seconds, too. Want to change playlists or answer a call? It’s all just a tap or voice command away. This upgrade may look simple, but it changes how you use tech on the road—making every drive friendlier and closer to your digital life, minus all the mess.

10. Personalized Ambient Lighting Effects

Step into a new car at night, and you might be surprised by the glow—personalized ambient lights are everywhere. You can pick your favorite color, set the brightness, and sometimes even sync the lights with your music or driving mode. The result? Even an affordable sedan or SUV starts to feel like it’s got its own personality. Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, and BMW all offer multi-color setups, and some let you change lighting patterns depending on who’s behind the wheel. Beyond looking cool, ambient lighting makes late-night drives feel cozy instead of stark. It’s an upgrade you’ll instantly notice and, once you have it, you probably won’t want to give up.