The best automotive news of 2016

“Siri, tell me how the best innovations in automotive technology will change the way we drive in 2016?” It is clear that we no longer just drive cars, we drive computers. How will this change the overall driving experience?”

“OK. Let me have a look. I found a lot of information about automotive innovations in 2016. Now there are cars that slow down for you at intersections; cars that sync an Apple or Android phone with a display in the dashboard; low cost trucks rolling through hotspots; cars that follow how you drive; and cars that warn you if they think you're tired and need a rest."

Synchronization without eyes

In December 2015, Ford announced that Apple's almighty travel assistant, Siri, would be available in vehicles with Ford Sync software. To use the Siri Eyes-Free feature, drivers only need to connect their iPhone to the car, and Siri does the rest.

Using Eyes-Free, drivers will be able to do all the things they would expect, such as making and receiving calls, listening to playlists, and getting directions. Drivers will also be able to navigate their apps as usual or use voice commands, keeping everyone safe.

What's really cool about it? Ford and Apple say the Eyes-Free technology will be backward compatible with Ford vehicles released in 2011.

Android and Apple in Kia

Kia Optima is the first car to support both Android 5.0 phone and iOS8 iPhone. Kia comes with an eight-inch touchscreen. You can also control functions with your voice.

The trip computer will also help parents manage their teen drivers with apps that track activities such as geofences, curfews and driving grade alerts. If the young driver crosses the set boundaries, the geofencing application is triggered and the parents are notified. If the teen is out of curfew, the machine will notify the parents. And if a teenager exceeds the set speed limits, mom and dad will be alerted.

Practically the best

At the Consumer Electronics Show, Audi introduced a virtual showroom where customers can experience any of Audi's vehicles up close and personal using VR goggles.

Customers will be able to customize cars based on their individual tastes. They can choose from a range of interior options such as dashboard styles, sound systems (which they will hear through Bang & Olufsen headphones) and seats, as well as choose body colors and wheels.

After making their choice, customers can take a virtual tour of the car, check the wheels, and even look under the hood while wearing HTC Vive glasses. The first version of the virtual showroom will be presented at the flagship dealership in London. The Oculus Rift, or seated version of the virtual showroom, will hit other dealerships later this year.

Is BMW about to raise the bar?

Hybrids and electric vehicles aren't new or innovative, but more companies will enter the market in 2016. For years, the Toyota Prius dominated the hybrid car market, but the BMW i3 is now doing its best to hit the road. The BMW i3 is great for commuting to and from work, as well as for exploring the city.

Comparing the two, the Prius gets over 40 mpg in combined city mode, while the BMW i3 gets about 80 miles on a single charge.

BMW is believed to be working on a more powerful battery that will increase the range of the BMW i3 to 120 miles in a single replacement.

At the super-high end of the electric vehicle spectrum is the high-performance Tesla S, which goes nearly 265 miles on a single charge. And speaking of performance, the Tesla S hits 60 mph in less than 4 seconds.

Shift lanes

It is probably fair to say that among all drivers, those who drive trucks have not embraced technological advances as quickly as others. However, there is a new Ford F-150 equipped with a lane keeping system. The driver is monitored by a camera mounted on the back of the rearview mirror. If the driver veers out of or leaves their lane, they are alerted both on the steering wheel and on the dashboard.

Lane Keeping Assist only works when the vehicle is moving at least 40 mph. When the system detects that there has been no steering for some time, it will alert the driver to take control of the truck.

The iPad in me

Jaguar has changed the navigation system in the Jaguar XF luxury sedan. Now installed on the dashboard, the device looks and works like an iPad. On the 10.2-inch screen, you can swipe left and right, as well as zoom, just like on a traditional iPad. You can use voice commands to make calls, send text messages, or play your playlist.

Braking in oncoming traffic

This summer, Volvo will begin shipping its XC90 model, which will look for oncoming vehicles as you turn. If your vehicle senses that an oncoming vehicle may be in the path of a collision, it will automatically brake. Volvo claims to be the first manufacturer to implement this technology.

New smartwatch app

Hyundai has introduced a new smartwatch app called Blue Link that works with the 2015 Hyundai Genesis. You can start your car, lock or unlock the doors, or find your car using the smartwatch app. The app works with most Android watches. However, there is currently no app for the Apple Watch.

Computer eyes on the road

Sensors are everywhere. There are sensors that make sure you're driving between lanes and sensors that look ahead while you're busy turning. Subaru Legacy takes sensors to the next level. EyeSight in Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, WRX and Crosstrek models. Using two cameras mounted on the windshield, EyeSight monitors traffic and speed to avoid collisions. If EyeSight detects that a collision is about to occur, it will sound a warning and brake if you are not aware of the situation. EyeSight also monitors "lane sway" to make sure you don't stray too far from your lane into another.

4G Hotspot

If you want Wi-Fi capabilities in your car, you'll probably have to pay a little, because data plans can be expensive. If you're in the market for a mobile hotspot and are looking for an inexpensive truck, check out the new Chevy Trax with a built-in 4G signal. The service is free for three months or until you use 3 GB, whichever comes first. Trax owners can then choose the plan that suits their data needs.

Nissan Maxima asks if you want coffee

The 2016 Nissan Maxima also tracks your movements. If it notices that you're rocking or pulling too hard to the left or right, a coffee cup icon will appear asking if it's time to take it off and get some rest. If you continue to overcome fatigue and start rocking again, the machine will beep and remind you to be careful.

XNUMXWD slip predictor

All-wheel drive systems are triggered after a wheel slip. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is more foresighted about slippage. The CX-3 can detect when the vehicle is moving in harsh conditions such as cold temperatures, road conditions, and engages all-wheel drive before problems occur.

Advances in technology seem to remove the dangers of driving. Cars that follow how you move along the lanes; trucks move in hot spots; badges nudge if it's time to take a break; and cars will slow down even when you don't see danger, seemingly making driving easier.

But it's not. You're still driving a £2500 to £4000 car that's mostly metal. Technology is great, but relying on it is not a good idea. Technology is built into your car to keep you going, not the other way around.

Until, of course, someone builds the first self-driving car. Once this hits the mass market, you can go back to asking Siri questions and answering emails while someone else takes control.