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Adaptive suspension adjusts the ride characteristics of a vehicle on the fly through the dampers. Adaptive dampers placed at every corner of the car use sensors to monitor road conditions and adjust the response of the suspension system from rigid to plush based on the driver’s demands. Adaptive suspension settings can be predetermined with selectable drive modes, with names like comfort, normal, off-road, sport, or race, depending on the type of vehicle.

Hill descent control is a safety technology that frees the driver to steer while the vehicle’s computer actuates the anti-lock brakes and traction control to keep the vehicle moving downhill at a pre-set speed. Vehicles with off-road capability frequently feature this capability, where hill descent control can be highly effective.

Auto-leveling headlights are an anti-glare safety measure for a vehicle carrying a heavy load that tips the headlamps’ projection angle. Auto-leveling, or self-leveling, headlights adjust the cut-off line, which is the beams’ farthest boundary, to maintain proper visibility for the driver but avoid blinding other road users.

A proximity key (also called a “smart key” or “intelligent key”) is an electronic fob used for keyless entry and ignition systems in vehicles. Proximity keys pair with push-button starters, enabling drivers to unlock, enter, and start their cars without removing the fob from their pockets or purses.

The “key” transmits low-frequency (LF) radio waves to communicate with a vehicle to lock and unlock doors and start the engine when within a short range. Antennae within the vehicle identify the rolling code radio pulse generator inside the fob.

Heated mirrors use a heating element similar to those used for rear window defrosters to melt snow and ice from your side mirror, helping maintain visibility. They eliminate the need to scrape your exterior side mirrors.

A block heater is an electrical device that warms a vehicle’s engine body and fluids to ensure the engine can start in winter conditions and freezing temps. Preconditioning the engine also puts less stress on the engine for driving through the cold. In such climates, engine block heaters are a popular option among truck buyers.

A limited-slip differential is a set of staggered gears that can divert more torque through the drive axle to the wheel that has more traction, thus limiting the amount of slippage a vehicle experiences driving on slick surfaces.