I’m not sure they asked any of us here in Texas, but it is what it is. Automakers may be spending billions of dollars developing autonomous driving technology, ever-larger infotainment screens and sophisticated connected-car features, but when shoppers are asked what they really want in their next new vehicle, something considerably simpler comes out on top: heated seats. According to WardsAuto, automotive research and consulting firm AutoPacific’s newly released 2026 Future Vehicle Planner found heated seats were the most-wanted vehicle feature among prospective new-car buyers. The study surveyed more than 19,000 licensed drivers who intend to acquire a new vehicle within the next three years and asked about more than 160 different vehicle features and technologies. Heated seats were selected by 47% of respondents, narrowly beating front and rear parking sensors at 45%. Rear automatic emergency braking was third at 44%. After that, several features clustered closely together, showing buyers are putting a premium on comfort, convenience and safety rather than simply chasing the newest technology. AutoPacific’s top 15 most-wanted features for 2026: One newcomer to the top 15 this year is Auto Park. AutoPacific described the feature to survey participants as technology that allows a vehicle to park itself in a space selected by the driver, with the driver either inside the vehicle or standing nearby. Nine of the 15 leading features were either new to the list or returning after being absent, while six repeated their top-ranking status from 2025. AutoPacific also measures something slightly different from overall popularity: how important a desired feature is to the people who want it. In that “must-have” category, all-wheel drive and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto were among the leaders. The distinction is important. While only 39% of all respondents included AWD among their 15 most-wanted features, those shoppers who want it