If you’re in the market for a new ride with cutting-edge tech, you may feel you need exactly that—a new car. But you don’t have to choose a showroom-fresh model to get some of the latest and greatest advanced features. Today’s used car market offers preowned models packed with advanced tech, delivering convenience, connectivity, and futuristic features at a fraction of the cost of new vehicles. From advanced driver aids and infotainment features to autonomous driving capabilities, buying a used car does not mean passing up innovation.
Driver Assistance Technologies: Revolutionizing How You Drive
Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) may seem like recent innovations, but their roots date back decades. The introduction of anti-lock brakes (ABS) in the 1970s was a revolution that prevented wheels from locking up during braking to help drivers maintain control. By the 1990s and 2000s, features like reverse cameras, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and night vision started making their way into vehicles, setting the stage for contemporary driver-assist technology.
Nowadays, ADAS are far more sophisticated, offering features that are designed to enhance your behind-the-wheel confidence and make driving less stressful. Many used makes and models include or offer available systems such as:
Adaptive cruise control
Forward collision warning system
Adaptive headlights
Backup camera
Reverse backup sensors
Blind-spot monitoring
Parking assist
Lane departure warning
Steering assist
Rear cross-path detection
Heads up display
With these technologies, used cars give you the benefits of ADAS at a lower price than new cars. Whether you’re parking in tight spots or driving on the highway, these features can enhance your ride.
Here's what CarMax customers have to say:
“Adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist in my 2017 Honda Accord are an absolute game changer in daily driving and take so much stress out of even short drives.” – Alex, Arlington Heights, Illinois
“I love the blind spot coverage in my 2018 Toyota RAV4, as it helps detect cars next to you. The lane departure alert is very useful, and the automatic braking system helps with cars ahead. The backup camera provides excellent coverage for both the back and sides.” – Renette, Henderson, Nevada
“I absolutely love the cameras in my 2022 Nissan Rogue that offer multiple views, especially the bird’s eye view from above. This is great when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. Plus, chimes will sound if you are getting too close to something, and the SUV offers automatic braking, which you can set.” – Beezus, Lake Forest, Illinois
Infotainment and Connectivity: Seamless Entertainment on the Go
The ability to stay connected and entertained on the road is no longer a luxury but an expectation. Infotainment systems have come a long way from their humble beginnings in the early 2000s when car dashes started to include displays for music playback and basic GPS navigation. Features like USB slots and Bluetooth® connectivity followed, enabling drivers to fill the cabin with their own music. By the 2010s, in-car systems became more sophisticated, supporting apps, voice commands, and available Wi-Fi hotspots.
Fast forward to today, and many preowned vehicles are equipped with infotainment systems that keep up with those in brand-new models. From seamless smartphone integration to built-in navigation, these used car features make driving more enjoyable and convenient:
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity
Available built-in Wi-Fi hotspots
Touchscreen navigation systems
Voice control for hands-free operation
Wireless charging pads
USB-C ports
Rear-seat infotainment system with DVD player
Choosing a used car can often give you access to the same exciting features as a new model. In fact, you don't have to buy a new car to enjoy modern conveniences like smartphone connectivity, built-in navigation, and rear-seat entertainment while staying within your budget.
See what other CarMax customers are saying:
“I love having Apple CarPlay in my 2020 Ford Explorer. Adaptive cruise control is amazing, and there are plenty of places to plug in and charge my devices.” – Monica, Kirkland, Washington
“With OnStar® functionality, which, when activated, includes an available Wi-Fi hotspot in my 2020 Chevrolet Equinox, everything I need is right at my fingertips.” – Vicki, Kodak, Tennessee
“I love the touchscreen in my 2017 Hyundai Sonata. It’s easy for me to see my Google Maps while driving.” – Rebekah, White Pine, Tennessee
Autonomous Driving Features: The Future is Now
Autonomous driving technology has come a long way, evolving from a futuristic concept in movies and television to an exciting inclusion in modern vehicle features. It began with early advancements like lane-keeping assistance, introduced in luxury cars in the 2000s, which used sensors and cameras to help drivers stay centered in their lanes. By the 2010s, semi-autonomous systems became more advanced and widely available, incorporating automated steering, braking, and acceleration to assist driving.
Today, semi-autonomous technology is no longer limited to new cars. Many used vehicles now offer standard or optional advanced systems to help reduce driver fatigue and improve convenience. These include:
Adaptive cruise control
Lane-centering assistance
Automatic emergency braking
Parking assistance systems (may be available in certain trims, apps, or packages only)
Semi-autonomous features in used cars allow you to drive something that feels innovative, without the price tag of a new model. These advanced systems enhance your driving experience, proving that cool car technology does not have to cost as much as a new model.
Read what these CarMax customers have to say:
“Autopilot in my 2018 Tesla Model 3 is absolutely fantastic.” – Raymond, Georgetown, Delaware “My 2021 Mercedes-Benz E350 is fully loaded with easy-to-use car technology. The self-parking feature can be a little intimidating at first, but it’s such a fun addition.” – Bejay, Denver, Colorado
“With my 2020 Tesla Model Y, I can control several car features through the app, like unlocking the doors, adjusting the air conditioning, and managing the security system. With Autopark and Summon, it can even park itself or come pick me up at the push of a button!” – Fred, Gilbert, Arizona
Final Thoughts
Finding standout tech in used cars is no longer a pipe dream. Many preowned vehicles come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, cutting-edge infotainment, and semi-autonomous capabilities. Some come as standard, while others might be optional or require an additional cost or subscription. Keep in mind that manufacturers can give these features different brand names, so it's a good idea to check a manufacturer's website to understand the systems and know what feature you're looking for.
Don’t feel you have to buy new when looking for futuristic features. Choosing a used car means accessing cutting-edge innovation and high-tech features while staying within your budget.
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Michelle Bogle started her career in the car industry nearly two decades ago as a writer for an American multinational automobile manufacturer. Since then, she has expanded her expertise as an automotive journalist, covering vehicle reviews, news, and buying advice to help consumers feel informed and excited about the car-buying process.
