The Car Features Drivers Say They Can’t Live Without – Do You Agree?

Modern cars are packed with technology, comfort upgrades and clever design touches. But while brochures often focus on big-ticket items like engine power and fuel economy, it’s usually the everyday features that make the biggest difference.

The team at Drive.com.au recently shared the car features they simply couldn’t live without — and we couldn’t help but reflect on how many of these are now standard across the range at Tynan Motors.

From Apple CarPlay to adaptive cruise control, here are the must-have features drivers say make life behind the wheel better.

Apple CarPlay & Smartphone Connectivity

Unsurprisingly, Apple CarPlay was one of the most mentioned features.

For many drivers, seamless access to:

• Navigation (Waze, Google Maps)
• Calls and messages
• Music and podcasts
• Voice commands

is now non-negotiable.

Whether you’re commuting from Kirrawee to the CBD, driving through Miranda traffic, or heading down to Wollongong, having intuitive smartphone integration makes every journey smoother.

The good news? Most new models at Tynan Hyundai Kirrawee, Tynan Kia Sutherland, Tynan Subaru Sutherland & Albion Park, Tynan Mitsubishi Kirrawee, Tynan Jeep, RAM, LDV and MG offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard or available features.

Adaptive Cruise Control (With Stop & Go)

Another standout feature? Adaptive cruise control.

Drivers love it for:

• Highway driving
• Traffic jams
• Long-distance road trips
• Reducing fatigue

Advanced systems with stop-and-go and lane-centring functions make daily commuting far less stressful — especially in busy NSW traffic.

Many modern SUVs and utes available at Tynan Motors now include this technology as part of their advanced driver assistance systems.

Good Old-Fashioned Practical Storage

Cupholders might not sound exciting — but get them wrong and you’ll notice.

Drivers highlighted:

• Properly sized cupholders
• Large centre consoles
• Smart dash storage
• Practical door bins

For families in SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester or Mitsubishi Outlander, thoughtful storage makes school runs and weekend trips far easier.

Sometimes it’s the simplest features that improve daily usability.

Tinted Windows & Cabin Comfort

Tinted windows were another favourite — especially in Australian summers.

Benefits include:

• Reduced cabin heat
• UV protection
• Added privacy
• Less glare

Pair that with effective air conditioning and you’ve got a must-have for Sutherland Shire heatwaves.

Of course, any tint should comply with NSW regulations — something our team at Tynan can always advise on.

Sunroofs & Natural Light

For some drivers, a large panoramic sunroof transforms the driving experience.

It adds:

• Natural light
• A more open cabin feel
• A premium touch

Available across select Hyundai, Kia, Subaru and Jeep models, a sunroof can genuinely change how a vehicle feels inside.

Proper Seat Support

Long commutes demand comfort.

Features like:

• Adjustable lumbar support
• Extendable under-thigh cushions
• Multiple seat adjustments

can reduce fatigue and make a noticeable difference on longer drives.

This is especially important for NSW drivers travelling between Sydney and the Illawarra regularly.

Automatic Folding Side Mirrors

One underrated but practical feature mentioned? Automatic folding mirrors.

If you park on narrow suburban streets — common across Miranda, Engadine and Caringbah — mirrors that fold automatically when locking the car can prevent accidental damage.

It’s a small touch that can save costly repairs.

Customisable Driver Assist Settings

Some drivers appreciate being able to personalise driver assist systems — adjusting sensitivity levels or turning certain alerts on or off.

Modern vehicles increasingly allow drivers to tailor these systems to suit their preferences, striking the right balance between safety and comfort.

Why These Features Matter

When choosing a new car, it’s easy to focus on:

• Engine power
• Towing capacity
• Fuel economy

But day-to-day convenience features often have the biggest impact on ownership satisfaction.

At Tynan Motors, we encourage customers to think about:

✔ Your daily commute ✔ School runs and family life ✔ Weekend trips ✔ Parking situation ✔ Long-distance driving comfort

The right combination of features can make every drive more enjoyable — and safer.

Find Your Must-Have Feature at Tynan Motors

Whether you're considering:

• A Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe
• A Kia Sportage
• A Subaru Forester
• A Mitsubishi Outlander
• A Jeep SUV
• A RAM ute
• An LDV work vehicle
• Or an MG family SUV

Our team can walk you through the features that matter most to you.

Visit tynan.com.au or drop into your nearest Tynan dealership across the Sutherland Shire and Illawarra to explore the latest technology in person.

What’s the one feature you couldn’t live without?

From adaptive cruise control to cupholders done right, the little things often make the biggest difference.

At Tynan Motors, we’re here to help you find the vehicle that fits your life — not just your driveway. 🚗