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For the longest time, high-end luxury features were exclusive to, well, luxury vehicles, and the rest of us just had to dream about them. Good news! Recently, advancements in technology and increasing competition in the automotive industry have changed all that. Today, even the most economical of economy cars offer a range of high-end features that were once reserved for those luxury brands. If you’re looking to treat yourself without breaking the bank, you’re in luck! Here’s a look at some of the top luxury features available now in economy cars.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is a priority for all drivers, and advanced safety technology has traditionally been a hallmark of luxury vehicles. However, many economy cars now come equipped with cutting-edge safety systems, providing drivers with peace of mind at an affordable price.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
It’s available in cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, and so many more.
Product Recommendation: Check out AutoTrends ACC Add-On Kit a highly-rated ACC system compatible with older vehicles lacking this feature. It’s perfect for Canadian drivers looking to enhance their safety without upgrading their car.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Systems like those in the Mazda3 and Hyundai Elantra alert drivers if they unintentionally drift out of their lane.
Product Recommendation: Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 offers an affordable way to pair lane departure alerts with high-quality video recording.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
It’s found in vehicles like the Nissan Sentra and Kia Forte.
Product Recommendation: The Mobileye 630 system offers AEB technology for older cars, adding this high-end feature to your vehicle’s safety arsenal.
Touchscreen Infotainment Systems
Gone are the days when a basic radio was all you could expect in an economy car. Today’s affordable vehicles come equipped with intuitive touchscreen infotainment systems that rival those in luxury models.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
It’s standard in cars from Honda and Hyundai, which even offers wireless connection in many of their vehicles.
Product Recommendation: The Pioneer DMH-1500NEX infotainment system offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving you the ability to integrate these features into almost any vehicle.
Large Touchscreen Displays
Economy cars like the Nissan Versa and Chevrolet Spark — despite being discontinued in Canada — feature 7-inch or larger touchscreen displays.
Product Recommendation: The Atoto A6 PF Double-Din head unit is a great upgrade option for drivers wanting a larger screen and smoother interface.
Voice Commands
Available across the lineup many Ford and Toyota vehicles.
Product Recommendation: Add the Echo Auto to your car for voice-command functionality, connecting via your phone’s Alexa app to control everything from calls to smart home features.
Heated Seats and Steering Wheels
Luxury cars have long been known for offering supreme comfort, particularly during harsh winter months. In Canada, where cold weather is a major concern, heated seats and heated steering wheels are game-changers. What was once a luxury-only feature is now found in many economy vehicles, allowing drivers to stay warm without paying for a premium model.
Heated Front Seats
Many economy cars offer this option, though you may need to bump up to higher trims for some models. Some vehicles even offer heated rear seats.
Product Recommendation: The Homedics Heated Seat Cushion is an affordable option for drivers of older cars who want heated seat comfort during Canada’s chilly winters.
Heated Steering Wheel
Now standard in many cars like the affordable Nissan Kicks.
Product Recommendation: The Zone Tech Heated Steering Wheel Cover is a quick and easy solution for older vehicles without built-in heated steering wheels.
Keyless Entry and Push-Button Start
Keyless entry and push-button start systems have long been associated with luxury vehicles, providing convenience and a sense of sophistication. These features are now becoming standard in many affordable cars, offering a seamless experience for drivers who want a taste of luxury without the high price tag.
Keyless Entry
Standard in cars from Honda, Toyota and Mazda.
Product Recommendation: Viper 5305V 2-Way Car Alarm includes a remote starter and keyless entry, making it perfect for Canadian winters.
Push-Button Start
Available in economy cars such as the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra.
Product Recommendation: The Start-X Remote Starter Kit can add this high-end convenience feature to most vehicles with automatic transmissions.
Premium Sound Systems
Audiophiles rejoice! Premium sound systems are no longer reserved for luxury vehicles. Economy cars are now equipped with high-quality audio systems that deliver an immersive listening experience, allowing you to enjoy your favourite tunes with crisp, clear sound.
Bose Sound Systems
Though it may not be offered on lower trims, optioning up to higher trims will allow for premium systems in vehicles like the Mazda3 and Nissan Sentra.
Product Recommendation: Upgrade to JBL GTO609C Premium Component Speakers, which offer excellent sound clarity and depth, making them ideal for any car audio upgrade. For a budget-friendly upgrade, try the Pioneer TS-A1670F speakers, which deliver superior sound quality without breaking the bank.
Leather Upholstery
Leather seats have long been a symbol of luxury in the automotive world. While they used to be a premium upgrade, leather upholstery is now available in many economy vehicles, providing drivers with a stylish and comfortable interior.
Synthetic Leather Seats
It’s offered in economy cars like the Kia Soul and Hyundai Venue.
Product Recommendation: Try Leader Accessories Faux Leather Seat Covers for an affordable way to get the leather look and feel in your vehicle.
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheels
Available in economy vehicles, even the Honda Civic.
Product Recommendation: Upgrade your steering wheel with the SEG Direct Black Microfibre Leather Steering Wheel Cover for a luxurious feel without the cost of an entire vehicle upgrade.
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Dual-zone climate control, allows both the driver and front passenger to set their own preferred temperature settings. This feature is definitely becoming more common in economy cars, adding an extra layer of comfort and customization to the driving experience.
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Available in cars like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla.
Product Recommendation: For vehicles without this feature, the Zone Tech Dual-Zone Heater and Cooler offers a convenient aftermarket solution for climate customization.
Rear Vents for Passenger Comfort
Found in the Hyundai Elantra.
Product Recommendation: Add the Wagan EL6214 mini fridge/heater for rear-seat climate comfort during long drives.
Sunroofs and Panoramic Roofs
A panoramic roof or sunroof adds an element of open-air luxury to any vehicle, and it’s no longer a feature exclusive to high-end models. Economy cars are now offering this option, allowing drivers to enjoy a bit of extra light and fresh air.
Panoramic Sunroofs
Available in economy SUVs like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-3.
Product Recommendation: Although you can’t add a sunroof to most vehicles after purchase, WeatherTech SunShade keeps the interior cooler for those with sunroofs, protecting the cabin from harsh Canadian sun. OxGord Sunshade Combo Kit is a great option for panoramic roofs, offering UV protection while maintaining the open-air feel.
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