In the digital age, cars are coming with more sophisticated technology serving varying purposes, from safety to entertainment. Even when it seems like a tech feature is merely a gimmick, there is usually a purpose behind its development and inclusion. Traditionally, new features were only sourced from motorsport, like ABS brakes and traction control; however, these days, many features are developed for production cars only.
But before we jump into our list of cars that have some of the best tech, and you search for new or used vehicles on AutoTrader here with that tech, remember that you can sell your car quickly and easily on our website here.
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1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes packed with the latest safety, comfort and entertainment tech. We recently had the opportunity to get up and close with the newcomer, and a few items really set it apart. However, for us, the technology that really stood out was the new MBUX infotainment system, more specifically, the optional MBUX multimedia system Premium Plus with the passenger display.
Stepping inside the new E-Class, you are greeted with a glass fascia that goes from A-pillar to A-pillar. This is filled with touch-sensitive screens, which all seamlessly integrate and are made up of a sophisticated LCD pixel structure that, with the means of apertures, displays different perspectives to different eyes with autostereoscopy.
Not only does this give occupants a realistic depth perception when looking at the screens, but while the passenger can watch dynamic content such as YouTube videos, the driver cannot see the content and won't be distracted. The built-in cameras can also be used for selfies and more productive services, such as attending a Zoom meeting while the vehicle is stationary.
2. BYD Atto 3
While the exterior of the BYD Atto 3 is classy and understated, it s on the interior where things get interesting. Not only might you appreciate the fluid-like design of the fascia and door trim, but details such as the "guitar cords" over the door speakers are a nice aesthetic touch. But it is with the 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that things get very interesting.
The screen can be vertically or horizontally oriented by the user. It is not just the display; the entire physical screen rotates so that users can take advantage of the entire screen's real-estate. Now, you might wonder what the practical reason for this is. The answer is for third-party applications that are used with either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto that are optimised for verticle layouts, such as Spotify or YouTube Music.
Related: BYD Atto 3 Extended (2024) Video Review
3. BMW i5 M60 xDrive
The new BMW i5 M60 xDrive is not only impressive in its design but spend just a few minutes behind the steering wheel, and you will quickly gain an appreciation for the electric model. One area in which the Bavarian automakers excelled with this new model was noise insulation. Almost no sounds from the exterior or even from the electric motors intrude into the cabin which makes it very quiet inside.
But that brings us to the tech, which we think was pretty impressive. But first, have you ever driven a piece of road and wished that a composer could make you a soundtrack for the experience? Well, in the i5 M60 xDrive, the driver can choose between up to six driving modes. This not only alters the driving characteristic of the car but also changes the ambient lighting on the interior.
Now, if you activate the "Iconic Sounds" functionality, in each of the modes, a different sound plays, and it changes based on the throttle input and vehicle speed. And guess what? These sounds were composed by Hans Zimmer, an award-winning movie score composer.
4. KIA Seltos
The new KIA Seltos has just landed in South Africa, and it looks pretty impressive. Depending on the trim level selected, the interior will come fitted with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system ready to run Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Perhaps you have a favourite playlist lined up for your trip home from the office, or maybe you have a podcast you like to listen to.
But what if you just want to relax and not have to focus on the lyrics or conversation? KIA has you covered as installed into this premium infotainment system is a feature called the "Sounds of Nature". From the home screen, press on the media icon and select "Sounds of Nature." In this menu is a series of ambient scenes, from the sounds of a lively forest to a warm fireplace that can be played to relax and set the mood.
Related: Kia Seltos (2024) First Drive Review
5. Audi e-tron Sportback 55 quattro S line
In 2022, we got access to the all-electric Audi e-tron Sport 55 quattro S line. At the time, very few electric cars were featured in South Africa, and as such, the entire vehicle was quite something to behold. Audi did well in creating an SUV that wasn't too far removed from what a typical SUV owner wants and expects from their car, but at the same time, it had a powerful electric powertrain as well as a few tech options that are still considered futuristic.
One such feature was the optional Virtual Mirrors. Instead of the typical door mirrors you find on almost every production car, Audi offers customers a compact camera and a high-definition OLED screen built into the door card. While it did take a little time to get used to, it is a very impressive tech feature indeed.
Related: Audi e-tron Sportback 55 quattro S line (2022) - The EV that doesn't feel like an EV
