With technological advances in the fields of in-car technology, as well as fuel efficiency, the list of features consumers might come to expect when in the market for a new car continues to grow. That said, it seems that an age-old concern is still at the front of car shoppers’ minds.

According to a survey conducted by marketplace of in-process vehicle leases Swapalease.com, at the top of car-shopping consumers’ needs is still safety. In fact, more than 60 percent of Swapalease.com users chose safety as the most important consideration in choosing a new car, outranking style and appearance (30 percent), luxury and convenience (12 percent) and electronic features (9 percent), officials shared. 

"Safety has long been high on the list for prospective car buyers or lessees, and our survey shows that changing times don’t always change people’s priorities," said Scot Hall, executive vice president of operations, of Swapalease, which is an online marketplace of in-process vehicle leases.

"Thanks to today’s technology, we have an ever-growing list of features that make cars safer than ever before,” he continued.

And what safety features are consumers most concerned with?

Specifically, survey responders showed a particular interest in blind-spot warning systems, giving it 32 percent of the vote for most important safety elements.

Following close behind were hands-free calling and a back-up camera, the company added.

"It’s interesting to note that people are so interested in the blind-spot warning system. It’s the very latest in safety technology, and I know from personal experience that it’s a wonderful feature," said Hall.

"It’s also currently priced at a premium, so whether consumer will put their money where their opinions are remains to be seen,” he continued.

Next up, for those who chose electronics as a crucial element to consider when in the market for a new vehicle, a navigation system was of utmost concern, taking more than half the vote.

The company also noted that the majority of other technology features mentioned fell into the “entertainment category,” such as iPod/MP3 player compatibility.

Moving along, in the luxury and convenience category, heated/cooled seats were by far the most desired features, officials shared.

Memory settings for things like seat and steering wheel placement; rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a heated steering wheel, were also important to survey responders.

Lastly, upgraded interior trim and upgraded wheels took the top spots for style needs.