4 Outdated Car Features That Still Sneak Into New Models
Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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Most things that outlive their usefulness get permanently replaced. However, with cars, it’s a little different. Some older features still show up in new models, and not for the same reasons.
Sometimes it’s nostalgia, sometimes it’s practicality, and sometimes, it’s just what buyers or automakers prefer.
CD Players
If you enjoy music on compact discs, there’s still time to get a new car with a CD player. One example is the 2025 Subaru Outback Touring Model, which includes a CD player in the center console. Additionally, a couple of 2025 Lexus models — the IS Sedan and RC Coupe — come with a dashboard CD player, according to The Drive. But don’t expect that trend to continue.
Manual Windows
It’s still possible to find a recent vehicle model that has manual windows, but if you want this feature in your next new car, truck or SUV, it’s doubtful you’ll find it.
According to the Automatic Transmission Service Group, the Jeep Wrangler JL, which it called “the last car in America with crank windows” ditched its manual windows for 2025. Before that, power windows were an option on some of Jeep’s models, but now, they’re standard.
Physical Buttons
Physical buttons have never stopped making their way into new models, like the Toyota Camry and the 4Runner, and they’re going to be making a big comeback with some car manufacturers who went all digital in recent years. Volkswagen is leading the charge.
Earlier in the year, Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen’s design chief said that every car they design going forward will have physical buttons below the touchscreen for essential functions, such as volume, heating, fan control and hazard lights, as reported by Autocar. This move is prompted by the realization that having to operate a touchscreen to find certain features while driving is incredibly distracting, per Wired.
Oil Dipsticks
Believe it or not, as vehicles become more and more advanced, the oil dipstick may become nothing more than an artifact in years to come. Currently, there are many makes and models that don’t have a dipstick — a move that started happening more than 15 years ago, according to Jalopnik.
Instead, the owners rely on digital oil level measurements. Of course, there are still makes and models that have an oil dipstick, including 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks.
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