Top Features Aussies Want in Their Next Car | Ultimate Guide

Introduction: Aussie Drivers Are Getting Smarter About Their Cars

Australian car buyers in 2025 are no longer just looking for four wheels and an engine. From young tech-lovers to growing families, buyers want cars that fit their modern lives—with features that provide comfort, convenience, connectivity, and peace of mind.

Gone are the days when cruise control and central locking were wow factors. Today, Aussies want features like wireless Apple CarPlay, 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, ventilated seats, and even panoramic sunroofs—often in cars priced under $40K.

So, what features really matter to Aussie buyers? Let’s break down the top choices that are shaping purchase decisions across hatchbacks, SUVs, utes, and EVs alike.

1. Smart Connectivity & Infotainment – Non-Negotiable in 2025

Modern buyers expect their cars to feel as intuitive as their smartphones.

🔌 Top Connected Tech Features:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Almost a must-have for every buyer today.

• Voice Assistant Integration: With many cars now offering voice-activated commands via Google Assistant, Siri, or in-house AI.

• Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Especially in electric vehicles, allowing manufacturers to update your car’s software remotely.

• Built-in Wi-Fi & App Support: Some premium and mid-range cars now offer Wi-Fi hotspots and downloadable apps.

Popular in: Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Corolla Cross, Tesla Model 3, Ford Ranger, BYD Atto 3

Aussie Insight: Buyers now actively ask, “Does it have wireless Apple CarPlay?” before even checking engine specs.

2. Advanced Safety Tech – Peace of Mind Comes Standard

The Australian market has seen an explosion in standard safety features—even in entry-level cars.

🛡️ Most Desired Safety Features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross Traffic Alert

• Driver Attention Monitoring

• 360° Cameras & Rear Sensors

Many of these features now come standard in models like the Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, and even MG ZS EV—making safety no longer a premium-only game.

Hot Pick: Subaru’s EyeSight system is especially well-regarded for real-world reliability.

3. Interior Comfort – Because Daily Drives Matter

Gone are the days of basic fabric seats and clunky climate controls. Aussies now demand interiors that feel premium regardless of budget.

🛋️ Interior Features Aussies Love:

• Dual-zone climate control (or tri-zone in family SUVs)

• Ventilated and heated seats

• Leather or leatherette seating

• Electric seat adjustment with memory function

• Panoramic sunroofs for an airy cabin

• Ambient interior lighting

Seen in: Mazda CX-60, Kia Sportage GT-Line, Hyundai Kona, VW Golf, Toyota RAV4

Why it matters: Comfort leads to satisfaction and longer ownership. Aussies are spending more time in their cars, especially for weekend trips and commutes.

4. Performance Features That Add Practicality

Even daily drivers are demanding more control and responsiveness.

⚙️ Performance-Oriented Features:

• Drive mode selectors (Eco, Sport, Comfort, etc.)

• Paddle shifters (even on CVTs!)

• All-Wheel Drive or switchable 4x4

• Adaptive suspension in high-end SUVs

• Hill descent control – a bonus for 4WDs and soft-roaders

Standout Models: Subaru Outback, Ford Everest, Kia EV6 GT-Line

Pro Tip: Families are increasingly choosing AWD for better safety and wet-weather traction, not just for off-roading.

5. Clever Practical Features & Accessories

Aussie drivers love features that just make life easier.

🧠 Smart Utility Features:

• Power tailgates (with foot sensor)

• Wireless phone charging

• Digital keys or phone-as-key systems

• Rear air vents – non-negotiable for family buyers

• Storage cubbies, phone slots, and adjustable cup holders

Bonus Picks: Skoda’s umbrella-in-door trick and Kia's sliding cup holders win fans!

Most surprising trend: Pet-friendly accessories like built-in dog barriers or rear air-conditioning zones.

6. Fuel Efficiency & Green Features – Not Just for EVs

With rising fuel prices, fuel efficiency remains a top feature.

💡 Efficiency Features in Demand:

• Hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems (HEVs & PHEVs)

• Start-stop systems

• Regenerative braking (common in EVs)

• Eco driving modes and coaching features

• Battery preconditioning (in EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 6)

Top Fuel Savers: Toyota Camry Hybrid, Haval Jolion Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Hyundai Ioniq 5

Even petrol and diesel buyers now expect 7L/100km or less from non-performance models.

7. Premium Audio & Multimedia – Road Trip Ready

For music lovers and podcast junkies, sound matters.

🎵 Audio System Must-Haves:

• Premium sound systems (BOSE, Harman Kardon, JBL)

• Multiple USB-C & USB-A ports front and back

• Rear-seat entertainment screens (in large SUVs)

• Touchscreens 10 inches or larger

• Integrated satellite navigation (still appreciated in rural Oz)

Best-in-class: Genesis GV70, Mazda CX-60, Lexus RX, Ford Everest Platinum

8. Value-Adding Packs & Personalisation

Aussie buyers now want customisation—without being upsold at every step.

🧩 Feature Packs Popular in Australia:

• GT-Line, Sport, or N-Line packs for sporty styling

• Tech/Comfort Packs that add value for around $2–3K

• Towing & Roof Rail kits for adventurers

• Interior trims and ambient lighting themes to reflect lifestyle

Nice Touch: Ford Puma ST-Line and Toyota Corolla ZR trims offer affordable ways to level up your car’s feel.

9. EV-Exclusive Features Aussies Are Discovering

EV buyers in Australia are also becoming more educated.

⚡ EV-Specific Desirables:

• Vehicle-to-load (V2L) power outlet function

• Battery preconditioning for fast charging

• One-pedal driving

• Intelligent route planning (with charging stops)

• Dedicated EV platforms with flat floors

Popular in: Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, MG4, Tesla Model 3 Highland

Note: Even budget EVs like the BYD Dolphin offer features previously seen in premium cars.

10. What Features Are a Turn-Off for Buyers?

Not everything is desirable.

🚫 Features Some Aussies Don’t Want:

• Fake engine sounds – divisive, even in sports models

• Overcomplicated touchscreen-only controls – physical knobs are still loved

• Subscription-based features – like BMW’s heated seats paywall

• Bulky driver monitoring systems – seen as intrusive

11. Feature Priorities by Buyer Type

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families:

• Rear vents, large boot, power tailgate, safety suite

• Fuel economy + child seat anchor access

🧍‍♂️ Urban Buyers & Singles:

• Wireless CarPlay, parking sensors/cameras, compact size

• Premium sound + sunroof in small packages

🌄 Adventurers & Tradies:

• AWD or 4WD, roof racks, trailer towing tech, durable interiors

• UHF radio mounts, recovery hooks, and 12V outlets

12. Final Thoughts – It’s All About Smart, Safe & Comfortable

Whether you're buying a $25,000 hatchback or a $75,000 SUV, Aussie drivers in 2025 expect more.

✅ Smart infotainment
✅ Essential safety tech
✅ Comfortable interiors
✅ Fuel and power efficiency
✅ Practical accessories
✅ Optional luxury touches

Our advice? Test drive with a checklist, avoid gimmicks, and focus on what makes your daily drive smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.