Top 10 Models with the Best User Experience in 2020
The integration of driver-assistance technologies, connectivity, digital displays, voice-activation systems, intuitive controls and infotainment can make or break a new car in the minds of potential customers. A few weeks after publishing its list of the best interiors of 2020, WardsAuto magazine has unveiled the cars and SUVs offering the best user experiences in the industry.
The winners were chosen from a field of 18 nominated all-new or redesigned vehicles (of course, last year’s winners are still excellent vehicles). Four of the ten represent German brands, two come from Japan, another two from South Korea and the remaining two from the U.S.
Here they are in alphabetical order…
Audi Q7 (starting at $71,300)
Highlight: The new digital operating concept incorporates two large touchscreens. They provide haptic and acoustic feedback when clicking on the touch controls. When off, the top display slots almost invisibly into the large, black decorative surface.
BMW X7 (starting at $94,000)
Highlight: Mated to an excellent driving assistant, the seventh-generation iDrive infotainment system offers gesture control and always stays fresh with over-the-air updates.
Chevrolet Trailblazer (starting at $23,698)
Highlight: The safety features and modern technologies inside are not normally found at this price. Here, Chevrolet’s user-friendly infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration plus the Amazon Alexa voice assistant.
Ford Escape (starting at $28 549 $)
Highlight: This vehicle is a sure draw, particularly for the richness of its displayed imagery, from navigation maps to gauge readings to the high-definition back-up camera. Also, Sync 3 is easy to use and compatible with available features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Ford+Alexa and Waze navigation.
Hyundai Sonata (starting at $26,999)
Highlight: The user experience value proposition is simply stunning. The centre display is magnificently integrated and easy to use, too.
Kia Seltos (starting at $22,995)
Highlight: Ergonomics are basically flawless, while the multimedia system (with 8- or 10.25-inch screen) ranks among the most intuitive on the market.
Mercedes-Benz CLA (starting at $43,000)
Highlight: This entry-level luxury car is available with an augmented-reality navigation system and 64-colour ambient lighting. The MBUX interface remains one of the sharpest and most attractive in the industry.
Subaru Legacy (starting at $26,395)
Highlight: The Outback won last year and now it’s the Legacy’s turn to shine. It has the same updated Starlink multimedia system with a tablet-shaped, high-resolution, 11.6-inch touchscreen and over-the-air updates.
Toyota Highlander (starting at $39,990)
Highlight: The new Highlander also boasts one of the 10 best interiors according to WardsAuto. The available 12.3-inch centre display is the largest in the segment, yet Toyota has retained several physical buttons underneath. Bonus points for the head-up display.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (starting at $38,995)
Highlight: There are five USB ports in this vehicle as well as 12V and 110V power outlets in the centre console—everything you need to stay connected and fully charged. Voice command and phone pairing work great, too.