10 Weirdest Car Features You Had No Idea Actually Exist
Carmakers are always pushing the envelope when it comes to innovation. Whether they want to go faster or they simply want their vehicles to stand out in the crowd, there have been some interesting things to come out of the auto industry. That said, some of those innovative functions have been practical, but others have been downright weird. Here are 10 of the weirdest features that have ever been introduced in any car.
1. BMW’s “Gentleman Function”
BMW added a quirky feature called the “Gentleman Function,” which allows the driver to adjust the front passenger seat from their controls. This feature is particularly helpful when chauffeuring someone or creating more rear-seat legroom. While practical, it’s the name that adds a touch of humor to the innovation. BMW included it in several models, and it’s still a fun conversation starter for passengers. It raises questions like, “Why not just ask the passenger to move their seat?” Still, it’s a peculiar yet thoughtful addition to BMW’s luxury lineup.
2. Tesla’s “Emissions Testing Mode”
Tesla’s infamous Easter egg, “Emissions Testing Mode,” is essentially a high-tech whoopee cushion. The mode lets users trigger fart noises from different seats in the car, adding humor to any drive. While completely unnecessary, it’s a playful nod to Elon Musk’s eccentric personality. It’s also a surprising feature in an otherwise sleek and futuristic vehicle. It’s proof that even in cutting-edge tech, there’s room for silliness. Whether you find it funny or cringe-worthy, it’s undoubtedly one of Tesla’s weirdest quirks.
3. Rolls-Royce’s Starlight Headliner
Luxury meets whimsy with Rolls-Royce’s Starlight Headliner, an option that turns the car ceiling into a starry night sky. Thousands of fiber-optic lights are hand-woven into the roof, creating a celestial ambiance. You can even customize the constellation to match the night of a significant event, such as your wedding day. While undeniably luxurious, it’s also one of the most unusual interior features ever offered. The Starlight Headliner is a pricey add-on, but it’s a hit with Rolls-Royce enthusiasts. This feature takes personalization and indulgence to another galaxy—literally.
4. Mini Cooper’s Disco Dashboard
The Mini Cooper once offered a mood-lighting feature that illuminated the dashboard in various colors. Known as the Disco Dashboard, it allowed drivers to choose from a rainbow of hues to set the vibe. While it added flair, it also seemed more suited for a nightclub than a vehicle. The feature has been toned down in newer models, but it remains a nostalgic nod to Mini’s quirky spirit. It’s a favorite among drivers who like to make every ride feel like a party. After all, who wouldn’t want their commute to feel a little more exciting?
5. Volkswagen Beetle’s Flower Vase
The classic Volkswagen Beetle came with a built-in flower vase on the dashboard. Known as the “blumenvasen,” it was a charming feature that allowed drivers to display fresh flowers or small trinkets. While utterly impractical, it became an iconic element of the Beetle’s design. The vase added a touch of personality and nostalgia to an already distinctive car. Though no longer included in modern Beetles, it’s a beloved feature for vintage car enthusiasts. It’s a reminder that sometimes, car design can prioritize whimsy over utility.
6. Honda Odyssey’s Built-In Vacuum
The Honda Odyssey redefined practicality with its built-in vacuum cleaner, the HondaVAC. Located in the rear cargo area, this feature made cleaning up spills and crumbs incredibly convenient. While practical for families, it’s still a surprising addition to a vehicle. Many wonder why more manufacturers haven’t adopted this idea. It’s a dream come true for parents dealing with messy kids or road-trip snacks. The HondaVAC is a testament to the fact that even the oddest ideas can become game-changers.
7. Subaru Forester’s Dog-Approved Accessories
Subaru is known for catering to pet lovers, and the Forester takes it to the next level. The car comes with dog-focused accessories, including a pet ramp, harness, and rear-seat barrier. There’s even a washable cargo liner to handle fur and muddy paws. It’s an unusual but thoughtful feature that appeals to Subaru’s pet-owning audience. It’s also a clever marketing strategy, emphasizing their commitment to family—including four-legged members. Subaru’s pet-friendly focus sets it apart in the crowded SUV market.
8. Mercedes-Benz’s Perfume Dispenser
Mercedes-Benz took luxury to a whole new level by integrating a perfume dispenser into their vehicles. The system allows drivers to choose from various scents, filling the car with a customized fragrance. While undeniably posh, it’s also a bit excessive for most people. Critics have called it over-the-top, but fans love the added touch of sophistication. The scents are replaceable, so you can switch them up to match your mood or season. It’s a quirky feature that redefines “new car smell.”
9. Citroën’s Rotating Front Seats
The Citroën DS introduced rotating front seats, allowing passengers to swivel around to face the back. While innovative, the feature made little sense for practical driving. It was designed for comfort during breaks or stationary moments rather than while the car was in motion. The quirky design added to Citroën’s reputation for unconventional engineering. While it didn’t catch on widely, it remains a standout feature in automotive history. It’s a reminder of how carmakers once prioritized creativity over convention.
10. Nissan’s “Self-Cleaning” Paint
Nissan unveiled a self-cleaning paint that uses nanotechnology to repel dirt and grime. The innovative coating eliminates the need for frequent car washes, keeping the vehicle looking pristine. While still in experimental stages, it’s one of the strangest yet most practical features ever developed. The paint reacts to water and oils, preventing them from sticking to the surface. Though not widely available, it’s a glimpse into the future of low-maintenance vehicles. Imagine a world where rainstorms are your car wash—sounds pretty weird, right?
Creativity Drives Innovation
Innovation drives the auto industry forward. While some of these features may seem odd, at the time they were creative and unique things that each carmaker believed would set their vehicles apart from others. Of course, some of these features seem absolutely ridiculous, but others could possibly come in handy.
Have you seen any of these weird features in real life?
Read More
- These 6 Things Should Be Part Of Your ‘Everyday Carry’ Kit
- 8 Car Insurance Companies With the Lowest Monthly Premiums
Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.