6 little things that make a car enjoyable for me
Over the years of testing cars, I can say with confidence that most cars on the market are similar to each other. And in terms of features, and in terms of comfort, and in terms of options. Of course, there are differences: in design, in price, one is more comfortable, the other is tougher, but in general the sensations are about the same. There is not as much difference between Toyota and Volkswagen as it used to be.
However, some cars are memorable. Unfortunately, they are remembered not by accelerations and handling, because almost everywhere there are cameras and a lot of traffic, but by little things that you remember with warmth when you change to another car and lose them.
Large door pockets
I remember the Peugeot 308 had very large pockets in the doors. One and a half cups of water could easily be placed in them and a lot of other things were placed. Now, when I drive a Focus, in the door pockets of which only a small bottle of 0.33-0.5 liters fits and gets out of there with difficulty, I really miss them.
Refrigerated glove box
A refrigerated glove compartment is not always needed, but when I find myself in a cheap car without one, in the summer I fondly remember the cool water and unmelted chocolate that I always had in the glove compartment.
coasters
I would never have thought that such a trifle could play a huge role in choosing a car. One day I was choosing between a Citroen C4 sedan and a Mazda 3. I liked both cars, each in its own way, but one day I drove a Citroen to McDonald’s and found that I had nowhere to put a glass of Coke. There seems to be a cup holder, but it is very small. In Mazda, there was no such problem and the choice was made.
Smartphone shelf
There are almost perfect cars with ergonomics adjusted to the smallest detail. But, when you start driving every day, you realize that there is nowhere to throw your smartphone. And the frustration from this is greater than the joy of a more spacious trunk than competitors.
Organizers and nets in the trunk
And since we are talking about the trunk, the foam organizer and a pair of plastic hooks or Velcro nets make it much more pleasant and comfortable to use. Once, having enjoyed the order in the trunk, thanks to the organizer under the floor and in the niches on the sides, every time I curse the manufacturers who decided to save on this.
Tailgate handle
How surprised I was when I first met a car that does not have any handle or ledge on the inside so that you can slam the trunk behind it without touching it from the outside (and therefore not getting dirty). What is surprising: for many cars, including the Focus and Corolla of some generations, you have to deal with the collective farm and screw the handle from Hyundai.
