While we’re only a couple of weeks into the new year, some 2021 vehicles might already be in your used-vehicle inventory — or at least soon will be.

Kelley Blue Book recently compiled a list of what analysts think are the 10 best automotive technologies of 2021 to help consumers make sense of what to look for when it comes to the latest and greatest car tech.

Perhaps some units at your store already have some of these features. Here’s the rundown:

Advanced Driver Assist Systems

KBB explained these systems can react to hazards, reduce driver fatigue and even park the car.

Analysts noted that shoppers seeking technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert or reverse brake assist can secure these services as standalone options or in bundled suites, such as Ford’s Co-Pilot360, Subaru’s EyeSight and Toyota Safety Sense, among others.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

KBB pointed out that AEB is a part of many advanced driver-assist systems, and it’s becoming more common.

Often a standalone feature, analysts said AEB can sense a potential accident before the driver does and immediately apply full brake pressure to stop the vehicle quickly, possibly preventing a collision.

Connected Mobile Apps/Digital Key

We do everything nowadays with our smartphones, right?

KBB highlighted that automakers continue to offer the next evolution of connected smartphone apps that can remotely lock and unlock the doors, check the fuel level and tire pressure and even remotely start the vehicle.

Additionally, analysts added that the digital key has extra security measures built in to link individual vehicles to owners.

Teen Driver Technology

KBB said Teen Driver — offered exclusively by General Motors — is designed to serves as a safeguard for new drivers, allowing owners to be notified if the car is driven over a certain speed or if seatbelts aren’t in use, and to set a volume limit on the sound system.

“There is even a report card that will tell parents if safety systems like ABS or forward collision alert have been triggered,” analysts said.

Exit Warning to Protect Cyclists

Sometimes just exiting the vehicle can be tricky.

KBB explained the exit warning alert uses rear-looking sensors to detect approaching bicycles and traffic, ensuring that a passenger doesn’t open a car door as a cyclist passes.

“The most advanced systems will even physically lock the door to prevent it from being swung open into the path of the approaching object,” analysts said.

Wireless Smartphone Charging and Connectivity

KBB acknowledged most late-model vehicles today offer audio connectivity through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Analysts said wireless connectivity allows drivers to stow their phone anywhere within the vehicle instead of tethering it to a USB port. These features can also be enhanced through wireless charging, which typically uses a charging pad that is easy to set up and use.

360-Degree Camera

How about this view?

KBB stressed that a 360-degree camera can change the way drivers park cars by providing increased confidence, visibility and safety.

Analysts explained cameras on every side of the car combine to show a virtual top-down view of a vehicle’s surroundings.

“This enhanced visibility can prevent dents and scratches — and can even reduce insurance claims from low-speed crashes,” KBB said.

Video Rearview Mirror

KBB said a video rearview mirror uses a rear-mounted camera to display the view behind the car in the same position as a rearview mirror, allowing drivers to toggle between the mirror view or the video setting as needed.

“This is particularly helpful for drivers when their view may be impeded by distractions or objects within the car preventing clear line of site,” analysts said.

Stolen Vehicle Tracking Software

Not so fast would-be grand theft auto perpetrators.

With hundreds of thousands of vehicles stolen each year, KBB highlighted that built-in tracking technology can provide a new level of security for vehicle owners.

In addition to its ability to locate a vehicle’s exact location for law enforcement to recover it, this software also can provide diagnostics, concierge and post-crash notifications for rescue services. 

The technology is part of assistance and security systems, such as Subaru Starlink, Kia UVO, Hyundai Blue Link, and GM OnStar.

Blind-Spot View Monitor

Not necessarily new for 2021, but perhaps a feature your already highlights if a used vehicle has it.

KBB recapped that a video-based blind-spot view monitor uses a small camera on either side of the car to display traffic in adjacent lanes, which aide in the prevention of collisions during lane changes.

“Genesis, Kia and Hyundai vehicles each offer particularly easy-to-see displays within the gauge cluster,” analysts said.

After assembling the list, Kelley Blue Book senior managing editor Matt DeLorenzo offered these thoughts.

“In 2021, we continue to be amazed by the incredible advancements made by automakers, as the technology within a vehicle deserves as much consideration as the mechanics under the hood,” DeLorenzo said in a news release.

“Kelley Blue Book prepared this list of technologies to provide car buyers with a handy reference as they evaluate the systems that make their trips safer, more efficient and more enjoyable,” he went on to say.

For additional information on the 10 best automotive technologies of 2021, visit https://www.kbb.com/awards/best-car-technologies/.