Top 10 Options to Consider When Buying a New Car

As a road test reviewer, I have driven hundreds of brand new cars over the past few years. Drive after drive, I’ve discovered which options are absolutely necessary, which ones are worth the price and which ones are not.

Here’s my list of top options to consider when buying a new car:

Power Everything! - The most convenient feature ever is power windows, locks and doors. To me, power features should be available as a matter of course on every new car. Still, in my entry-level cars, power windows, locks and doors are not always standard. And, a power driver’s seat is one of the best luxuries of all time. So, when you are thinking about adding power features to your new car, don’t skimp!

Tilt-Telescoping Steering Wheel - Nothing is more annoying than not feeling perfectly comfortable behind the wheel of your car. For some reason, my legs seem to be longer than my arms, so I’m always in need of an adjustable steering wheel. When a car does include a telescoping steering wheel, the drive is just that much more comfortable, especially on long drives.

Keyless Entry - Remember the old days of keys and cars? Today, keyless entry is all the rage and for good reason. Not only is keyless entry more convenient, but it calms your fears on dark nights when you know that red emergency button is handy. Besides, it’s just so simple to beep open your locks whenever you desire.

Audio System Upgrade - One of my most favorite pleasures in the world is driving in a car with a killer audio system. For music lovers, nothing is more pleasurable than rolling up the windows and playing your favorite tunes very loudly while driving down the road. An upgraded audio system with more and better speakers will keep you entertained and fulfill your musical cravings.

Bluetooth Connectivity - Talking on the phone while driving is literally hazardous to your health, so say experts on accident statistics. That’s why buying Bluetooth connectivity for your new car is so important. You will thank yourself day after day that you opted for Bluetooth when you find yourself talking hands-free (even getting work done!) all the time while driving.

Navigation System - Portable navigation systems are just so passé since you can get navigation on practically any mobile phone these days. I’ve found having an in-dash navigation system is a way more convenient option. Navigation features on your mobile device are just great, except when your directions are continually interrupted by phone calls, text message or power outages. When navigation is built into your car, you always know it is there at any time without distractions.

OnStar - It’s too bad OnStar is only available on GM cars. I mean, this indispensable service does so much good. First off, you always know there’s a human being available to you at the touch of a button for accidents or emergencies. Plus, with OnStar, you can also get turn-by-turn directions as well as other information. OnStar is one really good reason to consider buying a GM vehicle.

Rear Entertainment System - Do you really need a rear entertainment system? I mean, some of these systems costs thousands of dollars and seem to be a nuisance while driving. But for those with active children, believe me, rear entertainment systems are worth every penny. What is peace and quiet worth, anyways? Truly, silence is golden (and priceless) when you are a stressed-out parent.

Blind Spot Monitoring - I’ve now road tested several blind spot monitoring systems on a Mazda CX-9 (pictured). Do these sonar systems really help you “see” through your car’s blind spots to prevent accidents? Yes! In fact, on my road test of the aforementioned Mazda CX-9, this luxury vehicle’s blind spot monitoring system helped me miss hitting two cars that just happened to be in the car’s blind spot. Thanks Mazda!

Back Up Camera - I find back up cameras are a really great device for your car. However, my 74-year-old mother believes they are indispensable and wishes every new car was equipped with one. One day, perhaps every car will be installed with a back up camera, but these handy devices are certainly helpful when parking in tight spaces, maneuvering in reverse and for making sure you don’t run over the cat.

Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif. Follow me! @sheryllalexande