A recent survey conducted in the United States explored what drivers consider to be the most useless features in modern cars.
Among the 606 respondents, a clear majority—33.5 percent—identified paddle shifters as a feature that rarely adds real value in everyday driving. The finding highlights a common gap between theoretical appeal and practical utility for most ordinary trips.
paddle shifters
Paddle shifters enable manual gear changes without needing to operate a clutch. In theory, the feature promises greater control and a sportier feel. In practice, however, many drivers seldom use them. For the average commuter, the automatic transmission already handles shifting smoothly and efficiently, leaving paddle shifters with limited relevance outside of specialized driving scenarios or for those who enjoy a more hands-on driving rhythm.
Automatic doors
Automatic doors drew 23.6 percent of the anti-rating votes. While they project a high-tech image and convenience, actual experiences often reveal clunkiness and occasional delays when entering or exiting a vehicle. A simple tug of the handle remains faster for many users, and reliability can matter more than the novelty of automatic operation.
Sunroof
Twenty-one percent of respondents indicated they do not need a sunroof. With most cars featuring multiple windows, a seventh opening overhead can feel superfluous to practical needs such as ventilation and visibility. For many buyers, the sunroof becomes more about aesthetics than function.
Electric mirrors
Electric side mirrors collected about 15 percent of the anti-rating votes. The convenience of adjusting mirrors from inside the cabin is undeniable, but some drivers report that manual adjustment feels quicker or more intuitive. Preferences vary, and simplicity often wins in day-to-day use.
Dynamic control
The dynamic control feature drew roughly 6.4 percent of responses. Industry experts might expect it to be universally valued for enhancing low-speed maneuverability, stability, and performance in adverse conditions. Yet a portion of drivers still question its necessity for typical driving on familiar roads, especially if they prioritize straightforward operation over technological complexity.
In reflecting on these results, it becomes apparent that what feels advanced in a showroom can translate into minimal practicality on the road for many owners. Features that sound impressive in theory may not provide meaningful benefits for everyday driving, while they can add cost, weight, and potential maintenance concerns. The survey underscores a key insight for manufacturers and buyers alike: real-world usefulness often trumps novelty when selecting essential equipment for daily travel.
All figures originate from SlashGear’s national survey of American motorists, which shed light on preferences across the driving public and helped illustrate which conveniences resonate in common commuting and errand-running scenarios. The insights offer a useful lens for shoppers evaluating feature sets, and for engineers aiming to align product design with practical user needs rather than marketing hype.