Built For Fun: The Best New Features On Your Favorite Cars
Cars are a big-time investment and for the amount of time and ultimately dollars that you have to pour into buying and maintaining a vehicle, it pays to have a vehicle you can trust. It also pays to have one you can have fun in.
It goes without saying that there are cars and manufacturers that pride themselves on adding features that improve the driving experience. These are some of the newest features on cars to get excited about while you're shopping around!
2019 Porsche 718 Cayman
What keeps this luxury car going is the care that Porsche took crafting every beautiful curve. The 718 Cayman is Porsche’s smallest and most affordable car available in the 2019 year but was made and designed with just as much thought and precision as even the most expensive model in the Porsche lineup.
The base 718 Cayman starts at just under $60,000 and buyers have the engine option between a 2.0 or 2.5 turbocharged engine.
2019 Toyota Corolla
Going into its 11th generation, the 2019 Toyota Corolla is a great value that will not only last the driver a long time but will also maintain its resale value.
Over the years, the Corolla has been one of the most popular Toyota models and it is by far Toyota's best selling. One of the new introductions in 2019 is the Toyota Hatchback and a new attractive design on the base model to win over new customers. Buyers interested in buying the Corolla can expect to pay just under $20,000.
2019 Toyota Prius
The classic and dependable Toyota Prius model came out in 2019 with a new futuristic interior and exterior and some new features for drivers to enjoy. Toyota expanded the interior space of the Prius and gave drivers an all-wheel-drive option for those driving in colder climates.
Prius' base models will come standard with a 4.2-inch customizable screen, 6-inch speakers and USB ports to charge up all of your electronics. The 2019 Toyota Prius is available in four trim levels and has a base price of $24,700.
2019 Ford Fusion
A crossover vehicle, the 2019 Ford Fusion comes in 9 different models and has something to offer every driver from fuel-efficient models to speed demons.
One of the biggest features of the new Fusions are the Ford Co-Pilot360 Protect which is now standard on all models and includes rain-sensing wipers and automatic emergency braking. Another is a larger battery for the Fusion Energi which is a plug-in model that now has a pure electric range. Slightly pricier than some of the other models in its range, the 2019 Ford Fusion will start right under $25,000.
2019 Volkswagen Jetta
2019 will mark the 40th year since Volkswagen has been producing the Jetta and it is getting a lot of upgrades in 2019. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta will come with a larger roomy interior, technological upgrades including Apple and Android Smartphone integrations and a brand new Jetta R-Line Model.
On its exterior, the Jetta will maintain its classic and clean lines and the new Jetta GLI will sport a red stripe and 18-inch wheels to mark its difference to the standard lineup.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA
Another entry-level Mercedes, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA provides drivers with class and affordability. The CLA is the least expensive car in the Mercedes-Benz lineup but that doesn't mean that corners were cut as the car still has some of the incredible features that its more expensive counterparts have as well.
One of the most notable features of the 2019 CLA models is their fuel economy which despite the car getting over 200 horsepower still has roughly 37 mpg.
2019 Genesis G70
Joining the larger sedans in the Genesis lineup, the G70 is a brand new car luxury sport car falling right under the G80 and G90 sedans. The 2019 Genesis G70 is the smallest of the sedans offered by the luxury manufacturer and is one of the least expensive. It was made to compete with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Lexus IS.
Under the hood, the G70 has an impressive 2.0T 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 252 horsepower and has smart monitors in place to track and adapt to the driver's habits.
2019 Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is a small and lightweight coupe that gets over 200 horsepower and in 2019, the BRZ got a new special edition model called the Gray BRZ which will have unique Gray Khaki paint, black wheels, and special trim and badging.
The BRZ goes from 0-60 mph in just six seconds and even offers drivers a manual driving option. Some of the other features offered on the BRZ include the LCD Multifunction Display and a performance package that comes with Brembo 4-piston calipers with rotors up front and dual-piston calipers and rotors at the rear.
2019 Chevrolet Camaro
One of the biggest updates that buyers saw in the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro were the new front and rear bumpers and headlights. With a drop of almost $3,000 for the entry-level model and others, what may have at one point been out of reach for a lot of consumers is now more accessible so that more people can enjoy it.
The latest model offers a smaller and more agile body to improve handling and the base models come standard with a 4-cylinder engine that gets 275 horsepower.
2019 Porsche 718 Boxster
A hair quicker than the Porsche 911 Carrera, the 2019 Porsche 718 Boxster is a budget performance car that has a lot of special value. The top of the car can go completely up or down in just a matter of a few seconds and the driver can go from 0 to 60 mph in just under 5 seconds.
Some of the best new features include the Sport Chrono and the PDK Automatic Transmission. The Sport Chrono allows the driver to switch between 4 different driving modes and the PDK Automatic Transmission is an automatic 7-speed transmission that is popular for those who want to opt-out of manual driving.
2019 Toyota Camry
The 2019 Toyota Camry is considered to be one of Toyota's fast and attractive compact cars. All-new Camry models come with driver-assist and Toyota has made recent changes to the body of the Camry to make it more aerodynamic and easier to drive.
Buyers looking into the V6 models can expect to get up to 300 horsepower and the new 8-speed automatic transmission will make trips on the highway a breeze. Two new features of the Camry are the award-winning Hyrbid option that gets 52 mpg and Toyota Safety Sense, which is a collection of safe driving features such as emergency braking and collision warning that offer a safer ride.
2019 Honda Civic
The 2019 Honda Civic is the golden standard of 4-door compact cars and continues to entice new and existing buyers because of its reliability.
A fun car to drive on a daily basis, the 2019 Honda Civic offers drivers more features including Honda Sensing as well as a collection of safety features like road-departure mitigation and automatic emergency braking. The car also has Apple and Android Smartphone Integration which allows drivers and passengers to seamlessly link their phones to the radio. The newest models of the 2019 Honda Civic will cost $19,750.
2019 Nissan Altima
One of the best selling Nissan models, the 2019 Nissan Altima comes in 5 available models and a new exterior and interior look for 2019. Known as a comfortable, sporty and tech-savvy sedan, the Altima is keeping the same vibe but with a new updated look and more engine options for different buyers.
Two of the new features are the 2.0-L VC-T Engine, a 4-cylinder engine that prioritizes your fuel economy but still delivers a fast ride as well as some updated safety features like rear automatic braking and lane-departure warning.
2019 Mazda3
The Mazda3 is a nimble but powerful compact car that is fuel-efficient and fun to drive. New to the 2019 Mazda3 models are the compact sedan and hatchback trims to give different drivers a chance to fall in love with the brand and to appeal to more drivers.
The Mazda3 is still considered an athletic car and all models will come with a standard 2.5-L 4-cylinder engine that gets just under 200 horsepower. The 2019 Mazda3 will come in four different trim levels and starts at just $21,000.
2019 Acura TLX
A value-based luxury sedan, the Acura TLX is one of the introductory vehicles that you can purchase that will give you all of the space and luxury you can expect out of a sedan for just a fraction of the price that you would normally expect to pay for luxury.
Some of its new features are the Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive which splits the torque in the car between the rear and front tires to improve handling as well Apple and Android Smartphone Integration.
2019 Audi A3
Audi's compact A3 model offers new buyers luxury and performance and delivers on both no matter the trim level or model. Audi equips all of their lineup with the Bang and Olufsen Audio 704 watt speakers so that drivers can jam out to their favorite songs or listen to podcasts.
Unique to Audi is the virtual cockpit which replaces the traditional analog gauges with digital reproductions. Some of the A3’s other standard features include heated mirrors and seats, leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and bi-xenon headlights.
2019 MINI Hardtop 2 Door
The 2019 Mini Hardtop has been a unique entry to the compact car world and its new updates will only help it retain its place as an affordable agile car.
Mini will be offering the 2 in new colors, and it has some new features including new Mini logos, revised wheels, wireless smartphone charging and a new multifunction steering wheel. One of the new features of the Mini that most drivers are sure to love is the convertible roof.
2019 Ford Mustang
Bullitt and GT California Special are two of the special limited edition trims that joined the Ford Mustang lineup in 2019. Already considered one of the best Ford Mustang yet, the 2019 model offers drivers an affordable power-driven car that is not only focused on speed but it also focused on driver comfort and style.
The Mustang's exterior is a combination of new and old design ideas that have been mashed up and put together to show the best of both time periods.
2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Buyers interested in the new Volkswagen Golf can expect a smaller engine and updated safety features including blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.
This GTI model is getting a special Rabbit edition and more fuel efficiency for those with longer commutes. Designed to compete with the Subaru WRX, the Golf GTI is built on the same standard body as the Volkswagen Golf and has an all-wheel-drive option. Starting prices for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI are in the low $20,000's.
2019 Porsche Panamera
Not only is the 2019 Porsche Panamera one of Porsche's flagship vehicles, but it also offers drivers a full size ride for the whole family, without sacrificing any of the performance that you might normally expect from a 2-door model.
In 2019, Porsche introduced two new models to the Panamera lineup; the GTS and the GTS Sport Turismo. The starting price for the 2019 Panamera is just over $87,000 making it one of the more expensive cars on this list.
2019 Toyota Avalon
The Toyota Avalon is Toyota's larger 4-door sedan. One of its biggest pros is that even its base models come equipped with fancy trims and a luxury car status which means you will always ride in style. New models offer more interior room and a longer wheelbase for easier drivability and steering.
Toyota’s new aggressive body redesign was intended to attract the attention of younger drivers and introduce them to what Toyota has to offer. Starting at a base price of $36,480, the Avalon is a great introductory luxury sedan.
2019 Subaru Impreza
The new 2019 Subaru Impreza is a comfortable, spacious compact car that remains a favorite for first-time buyers and Subaru fans. One of the standard features of the Impreza is an all-wheel-drive that goes in line with Subaru's values to make cars that can safely maneuver on any kind of road regardless of weather or conditions.
One of its new features is the Eyesight Driver Assist which is now available on every Subaru and uses mounted cameras to observe driving conditions ahead and will even stop the car if it starts drifting.
2019 Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra has been one of Nissan's best-selling cars for years and the newest model is expected to bring the same great fuel economy and size at a reasonable price.
Some of the new changes expected on the Nissan Sentra include having Apple and Android Car Play and a new SV Edition model that will come with features including 17-inch alloy wheels, Blind-Spot warning, and Cross-Traffic alerts. The base price of the 2019 Sentra is $18,700 with the more expensive Nismo model costing $26,000.
2019 Honda Accord
A highly awarded vehicle, the Honda Accord is not only a great bargain but it is also a car that comes with a great fuel economy and is also super spacious.
The 2019 Honda Accord got a complete overhaul on its body and style on the 2018 models and some of the new features of the Honda Accord include the 6-speed manual transmission on Sport models. The base price of the Honda Accord starts at just $24, 615.
2019 Volkswagen Passat
The 2019 Volkswagen Passat comes with a new exterior look, good fuel economy, higher safety ratings, and more interior space. Buyers will only have the option to buy the Passat in two different trims, which are the Wolfsburg Edition and the SE R-Line.
As Volkswagen's largest car, the Passat is up to compete against Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry and has recently seen a slowing in sales though the value of the vehicle hasn’t wavered.
2019 Mercedes-Benz A220
In 2019, the Mercedes-Benz A220 got a new redesign but stayed the entry-level model that it is classified as now. Mercedes-Benz took extra measures on the handling and drivability of the A220 by making updates to how it drives on both the all-wheel-drive and 2-wheel-drive models.
A brand new 2019 Mercedes-Benz A220 will cost right under $33,000 and buyers are given the option to add Driver Assist and MultiMedia packages.
2019 INFINITI Q50
The 2019 Infiniti Q50 comes with a revised lineup and with a variety of 2.0-liter and 3.0-liter models and trim levels to choose from.
The 3.0t model comes with a standard V6 engine and comes in at a lower price point than some of its competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The interior of the Q50 is designed to hug the driver and provide them with comfort, especially for longer drives and extra-long road trips.
2019 MAZDA MX-5 Miata
In 2019, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is not only got an update to its outer shape but it is also was given more horsepower, an optional brown soft top and a raised redline.
The Miata is one of the most affordable two-door convertible coupes with an entry price set at just $26,500 with options to buy faster models with additional features. Mazda is introducing the GT-S Package which will allow drivers to use a 6-speed manual transmission, limited-slip rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, and a shock tower brace.
2019 Hyundai Veloster
The Hyundai Veloster evolved into its second generation with a bang with the 2019 model proving the point that the Veloster isn't going anywhere anytime soon.
The new Velosters are larger and more aggressive, the interior has gotten a whole new sleek design and the engine has upgraded as well. With the introduction of the 2019 models also comes a brand new Veloster model, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N which is a sportier more that can get up to 275 horsepower depending on the options you select.
2019 Porsche 911
With a KBB rating of 4.8 out of 5, not only is the Porsche 911 a stunning vehicle to look at, but it's also a reliable vehicle to drive and it will hold its value over time.
For just under $100,000, you can buy the base 2019 Porsche 911 which comes with 370 horsepower or if you have money to spare you can look into the 911 GT2 RS that has over 700 horsepower for just $295,000.
2019 Toyota 86
Part of Toyota's Racing Development lineup, the Toyota 86 pays homage to the 1980’s cult version of the Corolla. The 86 is a light, agile limited edition sports car that some drivers may find similar to the Mazda Miata.
Because of its modest horsepower and easy steering, the 2019 Toyota 86 is an ideal car for someone who is just learning how to drive a sports car and wants in on the action at a more affordable price. There are estimations that less than 1,500 units will be made in 2019 and each will come at a base price of $27,375.
2019 Hyundai Elantra
New exterior styling came to the Hyundai Elantra in 2019 with upgrades to the front end, fenders, trunk, and taillights. Hyundai designed the Elantra to be a sophisticated ride that places emphasis on luxury, safety and one of the best powertrain warranties in the market.
It comes with a 2.0-liter Atkinson 4-cylinder engine and gets 147 horsepower. Buyers have the option to drive the Elantra Eco which is a more Earth-Friendly option and gets over 30 mpg. The 2019 Hyundai Elantra starts at just under $18,000.
2019 Honda Fit
The 2019 Honda Fit is a good choice for people who want something that is compact, fuel-efficient, reliable and also fun to drive. Some of the new 2019 features for the Honda Fit include Honda's safety Honda Sensing package, new high beam headlights and a new paint option called Platinum Pearl.
Driving the Honda Fit is both enjoyable and easy thanks to its lightweight design, agile build, and overall responsiveness. The interior of the Honda Fit is where Honda’s creative design comes into play as it can hold large adults as well as cargo in a tiny confined cabin.
2019 Kia Optima
Some of the biggest changes that came in 2019 to the Kia Optima are centered around making the ride safer for both the drivers and passengers.
Kia will continue to offer a variety of models and body styles to the Optima so that it can be still remain appealing to a variety of buyers and budgets. Buyers can expect the 2019 Kia Optima to start at $23,000 with the option to buy a fully loaded Optima at $38,000.
2019 BMW 230i
Drivers looking for something that is small and prestigious might find that the 2019 BMW 230i is exactly what they could use. A more compact luxury car, the 230i is getting some safety updates in its 2019 model that include front and rear parking sensors, forward-collision mitigation and lane-keeping assistance just to name a few.
For those looking for more power behind the engine, BMW offers the 230i in both a 2.0-L or a 3.0-L turbocharged engine.
2019 Volvo S60
The 2019 Volvo S60 is a completely new vehicle getting introduced to the Volvo lineup and incredibly exciting. Its a midsize luxury sedan that comes available in three powertrains; two turbocharged engines and one supercharged engine all offering a horsepower range of 250 to 313.
The S60 is longer than the previous S60 model which gives it more space on the inside where it houses updated technological features including the 9-inch Sensus screen which displays maps and music.
2019 Dodge Challenger
In 2019, the Dodge Challenger was given a brand new trim and a new faster model called the Hellcat Redeye which gets 797 horsepower and instantly beefs up Challenger lineup.
Built on the same platform as the Dodge Charger, the Challenger is a coupe that is built for muscle and power. Dodge will keep the Challenger's retro boxy style the same but buyers will notice upgrades made to the interior including a larger and updated uConnect touchscreen.
2019 Kia Forte
Kia is completely overhauled from the previous Forte models to make room for the new and improved 2019 Kia Forte. Now including the Atkinson cycle, the Kia Forte will get up to 41 mpg making it more fuel efficient even though the engine has remained the same.
Taking styling cues from the Kia Stinger, the Forte also slightly resembles the Alfa Giulia and Lexus IS. Standard in all 2019 Kia Forte models is the 8-inch touchscreen which has Apple and Android Smartphone Integrations.
2018 MAZDA MAZDA6
Mazda's midsize family sedan got a huge upgrade in 2018 with a heavily revised exterior and engine, an 8-inch infotainment display, and even a 360-degree-view monitor.
The Mazda6 can be bought in 4 different trim levels and starts at just $22,500. A notable feature of the Mazda6 is its 5-star award-winning safety rating which has earned it the title of Top Safety Pick+. Another new feature of the Mazda6 is its radar cruise control with stop and go which will apply the brakes for the driver in heavy traffic conditions.
2019 Toyota Yaris
The newest Toyota Yaris models come with an updated grille design, are available in three trims and still manage to come out as Toyota's most affordable vehicle.
The Yaris borrows its body style from the Mazda 2 platform and some of its new features include a 7-inch touch screen menu and a low-speed pre-collision system that is effective at bringing your car to a full stop when the driver is going under 18 mph.