(June 25, 2014) IRVINE, Calif. — New-vehicle shoppers rank safety and information features like back-up/blind spot cameras, recall advisor, stolen vehicle recovery and collision sensors high among "must have" technologies for their next purchase, reports Kelley Blue Book kbb.com. 

While 43 percent of consumers rate USB/auxiliary ports as the No. 1 "must have" feature, safety-related technologies were predominantly found among the top 10.

"Many car owners are still learning about the high-tech features available in new cars, which makes sense when you consider the average car on the road is more than 10 years old," said Karl Brauer, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.  "But these features will play an increasing role in consumer safety and convenience over the next decade, so educating car shoppers about their functions and benefits should be a top priority for automakers."

KBB.com survey data also revealed 39 percent of consumers choose a model to buy based on its available in-vehicle technology, including infotainment and navigation.

"Although a vehicle's infotainment system is not the main draw for a shopper, it can be the deal maker or breaker," said Arthur Henry, analyst for Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.  "Younger buyers in particular are tech savvy in other aspects of their life, and these shoppers are looking for an infotainment system that complements their expectations."

Top 10 "Must Have" Features Rated by Consumers