Modern Cars: More Tech, More Annoyances?
Today’s vehicles are packed with technology designed to make driving easier and less stressful. However, many Aussie motorists are finding that these new features are, in fact, pushing them toward the brink of frustration.
Take the Lexus LBX, for example. The interior door handles are so small that a precise two-finger grip is needed to open the door. Every passenger struggles to open the car door. It is one of those design choices that make you wonder if automakers even tested it themselves.
Several car manufacturers are including annoying features in their vehicles. Some, like Tesla, have opted for flush exterior handles. While the look is futuristic, many drivers simply want their standard door handles back.
Beep, Beep, Beep: The Symphony of Annoyance
Beyond the door handles and design quirks, one of the biggest complaints is the overwhelming number of audible alerts. The constant beeping, dinging, and chiming can feel like a techno remix, causing more distraction than assistance.
The BYD Sealion 6, for instance, beeps for every action: reversing, lane drift, driver distraction – even if the driver looks tired. While safety alerts are important, the sheer volume of beeps turns a simple drive into a guessing game: “What’s beeping now?” Many drivers find themselves spending more time deciphering the sounds than focusing on the road.
Fashion Statement Keys and Subscription Services
Keys are also becoming another source of annoyance. The Deepal key, for example, resembles a space rock. It lacks a spot to connect house keys and is bulky.
Another trend is the introduction of paid subscriptions for features. Ford Australia’s connected navigation service, for example, now requires a subscription, and BMW offers its M Adaptive suspension as a subscription on some models, despite the hardware being present as standard.
Spare Tires and Repair Kits
The disappearance of spare tires is another point of contention. Many vehicles have replaced them with repair kits, supposedly for weight reduction. This seems like a great idea until you are stranded on the side of the road due to a shredded tire.
The automotive innovations are often more about cost-cutting and outsmarting competitors than improving the driving experience. Many drivers, myself included, would welcome a return to basic features and more straightforward designs.
