Cars, trucks, and SUV’s are coming jam packed with technological features these days. Every model year seems to outdo its predecessor touting the latest and greatest technology available on the car market. From rear backup cameras and lane departure warning cameras to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the technology and hi-tech gadgets in your vehicle keep on coming. With all the new hi-tech features out there, which ones are really worth the price tag?

When it comes to safety features on your vehicle, the price tag is worth it. Life saving features like forward collision warning, automatic braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot detection can save your life and those of others on the road. Backup cameras and cross traffic detection are also great features to spend a little extra money on.

Features like navigation, you may be able to live without. Especially since most smartphones come equipped with navigation and map features. You can also do without most CD players these days since most cars come equipped with features like Pandora, Sirius/XM radio, bluetooth/MP3, and auxiliary plug in for devices that can contain more music than an average CD holder.

If you are looking at paying extra for bluetooth, do it. Bluetooth and handsfree is worth the money, keeping your eyes on the road. Infotainment systems really vary. Some are worth the price tag and some are not. This really comes down to preference and functionality. Do your homework on infotainment systems. Your smartphone may be able to duplicate many of its features, saving you money.

With all the tech features available in vehicles today, it really comes down to need if you have to justify price. Do you need that heated steering wheel? If you live in cold parts of the U.S. you just may need it (or really want it.) If you live in Arizona, you don’t really need it. Self parking cars are nice to have, but not really a necessity, unless you live in a large city like New York, parking is sparse, and you really suck at parallel parking. When you are looking into a new vehicle, do your homework and make sure the car you choose meets your needs, and maybe some of your wants too.