Tech followers like us want a automobile that appears like the longer term. Sure, velocity and security are essential, however what actually plucks our coronary heart strings is know-how that makes us really feel like we’re driving one thing not even The Jetsons might think about. That’s why we at CNET have rounded up the most effective excessive tech automobiles for all of the drivers on the market who lust for the most important screens, smartest techniques and coolest options.
And not every little thing on this listing is wildly costly, both. You can get loads of tech for a low value, imagine it or not. Check out our picks proper down under.
Read extra: Your Guide to Vehicle Subscriptions, the Alternative to Leases and Loans
Andrew Krok/Roadshow
Whether you are speaking concerning the cabin tech or the stuff that lives underneath the physique, there’s all types of recent know-how hiding out in Ford’s first electrical Mustang, which simply so occurs to even be a crossover SUV.
Slide into the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E’s cabin and also you’re instantly greeted with a honkin’ 15.5-inch portrait show. This display covers the standard infotainment duties, but it surely additionally hides a wealth of car settings and different associated options that allow you to customise all types of car parameters. It’s additionally Ford’s greatest iteration of its Sync software program to this point.
Ford has given the Mach-E’s underlying tech some modularity, too. Want only a single electrical motor on the rear axle? Great! If you need all-wheel drive, simply slap one other one within the entrance. Want a much bigger battery? Don’t fear, Ford can slap a type of in, too. And with much more variants on the horizon, there’s certain to be a Mach-E variant that can suit your wants — and your efficiency joneses, too.
-Andrew Krok, critiques editor
Mercedes-Benz
Whenever a brand new Mercedes-Benz S-Class hits the scene, it comes with an entire bunch of recent tech. Whether it is a novel infotainment function, an essential new security system or simply some gee-whiz function to impress your passengers, the S-Class by no means ceases to impress. That’s very true with the brand new 2021 mannequin.
For the motive force, the brand new S-Class affords a 3D gauge cluster and an enormous — and I imply large — head-up show. The HUD initiatives the equal of a 77-inch diagonal show onto the dashboard, and has augmented actuality overlays to make sure you’ll by no means miss a difficult flip whereas utilizing the navigation system. There’s additionally a brand-new model of Mercedes’ glorious MBUX infotainment system, with the power to share information between different passengers’ screens, together with the rear occupants. Audio tech extra your jam? There’s an non-obligatory Burmester 4D sound system with 30 audio system. And do not even get me began on the heated, cooling, massaging seats, cabin perfume integration or the door handles that routinely come out as you strategy.
Arguably extra essential is the brand new S-Class’ listing of security tech, which begins with an business first: a rear-seat airbag. This bag deploys from the again of the entrance seat and envelops the rear passenger in a wing-shape cushion, stopping damage within the occasion of a crash. In addition, an entire bevy of driver-assistance goodies come commonplace on each S-Class, together with adaptive cruise management, automated emergency braking, cross-traffic help, automated parking help and extra. Whether your tech preferences encompass luxurious, leisure or security, the 2021 S-Class has you coated.
– Steven Ewing, managing editor
2021 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class raises the bar for luxurious sedans
See all images
Tesla
Want the proper intersection of futurism and performance? For me, that is Tesla. And there isn’t any higher choice lately than the 2021 Model Y. The latest inside refresh of this all-electric crossover SUV does away with lots of the nitpicks homeowners zeroed in on (say “goodbye” to the shiny black middle console and all of the fingerprints that got here with it).
Tesla’s all the time updating its software program with new options; excess of another producer on the market, I’d wager. Those over-the-air updates for this EV embody a very good stability of efficiency tweaks and enjoyable easter eggs. Even although there isn’t any Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the 15-inch infotainment display is loaded with Google Maps and Spotify, so that you in all probability will not miss a lot.
The Model Y has additionally picked up a 5-star safety rating in every category from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, so not solely are you getting a crossover that can proceed to evolve technologically lengthy after it rolls off the meeting line, you are getting one which guarantees to be extremely secure for you and your loved ones. If you like tech, what higher choice than a car that’s tech, from the bottom up?
-Ashley Esqueda, senior video producer, CNET
Nissan
I like low-cost automobiles, as evidenced by my not shopping for a brand-new one since 1993 — huge depreciation is not a function I would like on my spec sheet. But if I had to purchase one thing new, it is likely to be a 2021 Nissan Versa. Starting at $15,930 together with supply, the Versa is a handsome automobile, inside and outside, which neutralizes the standard No. 1 turnoff of low-cost automobiles.
Even on the underside S trim degree, Lane Departure Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking are commonplace. S can also be the one trim that comes with a guide transmission, which I’d welcome, to not make some “gasoline in my veins” assertion, however to hold via the financial and industrial class of the machine. The Versa will get 32 miles per gallon metropolis and 40 mpg on the freeway.
An S trim Versa has a 7-inch touchscreen central show, but it surely does not supply CarPlay or Android Auto. Being an Android consumer, I will not really thoughts since my cellphone OS has a automobile mode that primarily turns the cellphone into an automotive head unit, a operate that CarPlay does not supply. Once I get a high-quality cellphone mount for my Versa I’ll have a $16,000 automobile with trendy streaming, navigation, communication, and the most effective voice interface on the planet. (For these of you who need embedded CarPlay or Android Auto, you may must pony up for one of many Versa’s larger trims.)
-Brian Cooley, editor at massive
Antuan Goodwin/Roadshow
Ford’s F-Series pickup is America’s best-selling new car of any type, be it truck, automobile or SUV. It may not appear significantly intuitive {that a} beast-of-burden pickup truck may additionally be considered one of America’s greatest high-tech fashions, however on this case, it’s — handily so.
One of the most effective issues concerning the redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 is its accessible PowerBoost hybrid choice, which piggybacks atop the engine vary’s top-dog 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6. By including an electrical motor to the prevailing six-cylinder engine, the Blue Oval has created a extra fuel-efficient powertrain whose 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque can tow 12,700 kilos.
In addition to nice tech options like Sync 4 infotainment with wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android auto, together with bumper-to-bumper OTA updates. Plus, there is a trick energy folding shifter that creates a big, desk-like work floor and first-class lay-flat seats for naps on the job website. That’s all properly and good, however the F-150’s Killer App function is its accessible Pro Power Onboard built-in generator. This in-bed energy station generates as much as 7.2kW of energy — sufficient juice to energy many job websites, or probably even your own home in a blackout.
-Chris Paukert, govt editor
2021 Ford F-150 King Ranch PowerBoost matches hybrid smarts with Western aptitude
See all images
Porsche
The trendy Porsche 911 is all the time an interesting mixture of digital and good ol’ common mechanical engineering. It’s an train in bending physics to your will and it is also a flagship car for one of the engineering-focused automobile corporations on the market. In brief, it is a tech-geek’s playground.
The 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 is mechanically fascinating in quite a few methods, but it surely’s laborious to get round its unbelievable 4.0-liter flat-six engine that revs to 9,000 rpm whereas making properly over 100 horsepower per liter. It does this whereas providing a guaranty and assembly emissions necessities. Also superb is the inclusion of tech that only a decade in the past would have appeared nearly like science fiction. This consists of stuff like four-wheel steering that operates nearly transparently, insanely quick-shifting PDK dual-clutch gearbox and extra. This Porsche is as fastidiously thought-about and finely fettled as a Swiss watch, and there are few automobiles that come near it.
From an electronics standpoint, the 992-generation 911 does not disappoint, both. It affords a beautiful inside the place its massive infotainment display is superbly built-in. The display is sharp, and the system operating on it’s many-layered and granular, but simple to make use of and really responsive. Beyond that, the instrument cluster does an excellent job of taking the 911’s iconic five-dial gauge and bringing it thoughtfully and cleanly into 2021. This is completed by maintaining the huge, central analog tachometer — one thing that gives a visceral connection to the automobile’s drivetrain and surrounding it with multi-information shows. I might go on and on about Porsche Active Suspension Management and this automobile’s electronically managed engine mounts and the like, however you get the concept. The 911 GT3 is a real deal with for the technologically inclined.
-Kyle Hyatt, information and options editor
Daniel Golson/Roadshow
I needed to choose an EV for this one, as a result of they’re simply inherently extra interesting to those that prefer to be on tech’s innovative. But which one? There are literally loads to select from proper now, and extra shall be in the marketplace by the top of the yr. But, with regards to the options I would like in a automobile, Android Automotive is a giant one, and the 2021 Polestar 2 is among the few locations to get it.
Android Automotive takes Android Auto to the subsequent degree by baking Android proper into the automobile. Now, as a substitute of your cellphone driving the expertise, every little thing runs natively, counting on the automobile’s information connection. Google Maps is constructed proper in, as are issues like YouTube Music and a bunch of different apps — not sufficient but, but it surely’ll get there. It makes for an intuitive, seamless expertise on this Polestar. That is, at the very least, assuming you are an Android consumer. Apple CarPlay assist is coming, I’ve been promised.
But it goes past infotainment. The Polestar 2 has the trendy feel and appear that resonates with me. It drives as sharply as an EV ought to and may even be configured with adjustable Ohlins suspension. Love fidgeting with issues? It’s good.
-Tim Stevens, editor in chief
Jeep
Why the hell is a Jeep Wrangler on this listing, with its antediluvian ladder body and a suspension that is anchored by a pair of iron logs? Well, the reply is straightforward: Not all know-how must be digital.
This rough-and-tumble SUV affords an abundance of helpful options that improve its off-road functionality and make it extra fulfilling to drive. Some of the Wrangler’s admittedly low-tech facilities embody simply detachable doorways and a folding mushy prime so you’ll be able to delight in nature’s glory whereas out on the path. This off-roader additionally affords a two-speed switch case for mountain-goat climbing skill, the accessible EcoDiesel V6 delivers locomotive ranges of torque for simple drivability and Rubicon fashions even function a disconnecting entrance sway bar, which gives higher suspension articulation, in addition to locking differentials at each ends for most traction in even probably the most making an attempt circumstances.
Yeah, the Wrangler is completely old-school, and far of its know-how is, properly, fairly historical, however these items is nonetheless tremendous helpful. If, nonetheless, you completely should have max circuits and software program, this Jeep does not disappoint. A spread of electrified mild-hybrid powertrains is obtainable, together with a new-for-2021 4xe plug-in hybrid mannequin. Plus, you may get a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch display and assist for each Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus all types of recent digital driving aids can be found, together with blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, trailer-sway management and even adaptive cruise management, to call a number of. Thanks to options like these and its sledgehammer off-road functionality, the Wrangler is an unexpectedly techy car.
-Craig Cole, critiques editor
Steven Ewing/Roadshow
General Motors is hell-bent on democratizing electrical automobiles within the US, and whereas the primary Chevrolet Bolt EV felt like a half-step, the new-for-2022 Bolt EUV feels prefer it strikes the goal much better. And tech? The Bolt EUV is chock stuffed with it.
The spotlight of all of it is Super Cruise — the primary time the hands-free freeway driving assistant shall be supplied in a Chevrolet. So far, the know-how that really allows you to take your arms off the steering wheel has been a Cadillac-only ordeal. Loads of consideration focuses on Tesla and its Autopilot system, however Super Cruise is really a hands-free system in the fitting circumstances, and it is able to roll on over 200,000 miles of US and Canadian roads.
Not to say, the Bolt EUV incorporates a typical slew of know-how that can fulfill a technophile’s goals. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are each commonplace, and run on a big 10.2-inch touchscreen. Outside of Super Cruise’s smarts, there is a candy of different driver-assist and energetic security features. And an non-obligatory rearview digicam mirror is a cherry on prime. Seriously, you will not miss a typical mirror. With all of the tech talked about right here, you are additionally taking about an EV underneath $40,000. Not solely is it a very good purchase for tech lovers, it is an reasonably priced buy if you happen to’re desperate to go completely electrical.
-Sean Szymkowski, information editor
Antuan Goodwin/Roadshow
If you are like me, being a fan of tech means having the liberty to improve, build-it-yourself and modify. Shiny new tech and mega screens are good, however every little thing ultimately turns into out of date. The 2020 Toyota 86 started its life as a Scion — a model born with customization and personalization at its very core. Now, half a decade after Scion’s demise, the admittedly low-tech-for-starters Toyota 86 — and its doppelganger, Subaru’s BRZ — persists as one of the customizable and simply upgradable new automobiles you should purchase. That makes it ultimate for tech-loving tinkerers and performance-loving modders.
Most new automobiles function deeply built-in dashboard tech that’s usually tough to improve. Pop the radio out (if you happen to even can) and, who is aware of, possibly the flip indicators cease working? Maybe you lose all entry to local weather controls? The 86 is considered one of a handful of recent automobiles that also options an trustworthy to goodness, easy and standard-sized double-DIN dashboard receiver. That implies that when its tech will get outdated otherwise you simply need one thing new, upgrading is as simple as swapping in an aftermarket unit. No different important parts will cease working; no costly adapters or dashboard rebuild kits are required. Feeling bizarre and need to construct your individual tech powered by an outdated Android pill or a Raspberry Pi? No drawback, simply punch out the Toyota unit, seize your soldering iron and get to modding. Ironically, being comparatively low tech makes the 86 and automobiles prefer it good for those that favor a hands-on strategy to tech.
The upgrades do not must cease within the dashboard, and the 86 can also be a great candidate for modders who like to show wrenches. This rear-driver’s well-sorted chassis and off-the-lot efficiency will get the motive force’s automobile fundamentals proper whereas leaving simply sufficient on the desk for you to find and personalize with suspension, traction and power-adding mods of your individual. Whether seeking to construct a observe toy or simply hone the efficiency and magnificence for the streets, if “constructed, not purchased” is your lifestyle, you may discover loads to like within the 86’s distinctive system. (Note: While the 86 is a 2020 mannequin yr holdover, loads stay at sellers.)
– Antuan Goodwin, critiques editor
Hyundai
If you are wanting for an reasonably priced compact sedan chock stuffed with know-how goodies, look no additional than the 2021 Hyundai Elantra. New-for-2021, this wildly styled four-door sports activities a wholesome listing of infotainment and security gear that make it a tech standout within the aggressive phase. Available in commonplace, Hybrid and higher-performance N-Line guise, the Elantra checks loads of bins for loads of patrons.
In the cabin, a ten.2-inch customizable LCD gauge cluster is accessible on mid-grade SEL variations and comes commonplace on the range-topping Limited trims. Handling infotainment on most Elantras is an 8-inch touchscreen with wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, Bluetooth and an accessible Bose audio setup. Hyundai’s Digital Key system is accessible enabling homeowners to unlock and begin their Elantra via a cellphone app with out the important thing.
An spectacular listing of ordinary security tech comes on the Elantra together with ahead collision warning with automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross visitors alert, lane-keep help, lane-following help and Safe Exit Alert. Adaptive cruise management and pedestrian detection are choices.
-Jon Wong, critiques editor
Steven Ewing/Roadshow
If you are a fan of screens and superior driver’s aids, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade SUV needs to be on the prime of your listing. The cabin is dominated by three curved particular person OLED panels measuring greater than 38 inches throughout. The colours and graphics on these screens are sensible and the system is lightning fast, with no lag even when utilizing pinch-to-zoom. Navigation will get a bump with accessible augmented actuality, overlaying directional arrows on a video feed displayed within the gauge cluster, so you may by no means miss a flip once more.
In addition to screens galore, this full-size and super-lux Cadillac SUV could be had with Super Cruise, a hands-free driving know-how that makes use of cameras and GPS information to maintain the Escalade rolling down the highway underneath sure circumstances. This system solely works on highways which were 3D mapped, however the North American community is in depth and it is seemingly your commute is roofed. The system can change lanes by itself as properly. Of course, you may must preserve your eyes up and listen (a driver-facing digicam ensures you do), however Super Cruise is among the solely hands-off driving applied sciences at present accessible in the marketplace. We favor it to Tesla’s Autopilot, and so does Consumer Reports.
The Escalade’s OLED screens are commonplace on all trims, however if you need Super Cruise you may have to begin with the Premium Luxury trim after which add nearly $9,000 in choices, placing the worth at $93,140 together with $1,295 for vacation spot. Look, no one mentioned know-how was low-cost.
-Emme Hall, critiques editor
Best SUVs, vans and automobiles for tech lovers for 2021
Category
Name
Powertrain Options
Killer Tech
Base MSRP (together with supply)
Crossover SUV
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Electric
EV powertrain, Sync 4 infotainment
$43,995
Sedan
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Gasoline/Hybrid
EQ Boost hybrid, OLED screens, Burmester audio
$110,850
Crossover SUV
2021 Tesla Model Y
Electric
EV powertrain, Autopilot, MCU infotainment
$51,100
Sedan
2021 Nissan Versa
Gasoline
Low value, commonplace ADAS
$15,930
Truck
2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost
Hybrid
Hybrid, ProPower Onboard
$43,485
Coupe
2022 Porsche 911 GT3
Gasoline
PCM infotainment, PASM
$150,000 est.
Crossover SUV
2021 Polestar 2
Electric
EV powertrain, Android Automotive
$61,200
SUV
2021 Jeep Wrangler
Gasoline/Diesel/Hybrid
Powertrain variety, customizability
$29,970
Crossover SUV
2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Electric
EV powertrain, Super Cruise
$33,995
Coupe
2020 Toyota 86
Gasoline
Plug-and-play customizability
$28,055
Sedan
2021 Hyundai Elantra
Gasoline/Hybrid
BlueHyperlink infotainment, wi-fi AC/AA, phone-as-key
$20,655
SUV
2021 Cadillac Escalade
Gasoline/Diesel
OLED screens, AR navigation, Super Cruise
$77,490
How we made our listing
We drove these automobiles, vans and SUVs! Roadshow’s new-car testers and editors are continually on the highway, evaluating all kinds of autos in all circumstances and conditions (to not point out different gearhead necessities like storage heaters, ground jacks, instrument units and extra). It’s our collective expertise and a long time of data that guides the selections that flip into these greatest lists.
The autos seen right here signify our favourite new SUVs, vans and passenger automobiles for tech lovers of all stripes. Whether you are somebody who desires an EV full of the most recent cabin conveniences and superior driver help techniques; a low-cost DIYer who relishes personalizing your journey with your individual brought-in options, or simply somebody who desires an reasonably priced on a regular basis automobile with commute-easing tech, the CNET Cars group has you coated.
