Blog Page at Dons Auto Sales in Longview, TX

The Lost Art Of Parallel Parking?

Remember gripping the steering wheel with sweaty palms during your driver’s test, trying to pull off the perfect parallel park? You weren’t alone — it’s been one of the most dreaded parts of the test for decades. And now, with so many cars that can park themselves, you might be thinking: do I even need to know how to do that anymore?

Fair question. But here’s the truth: even in a world of smart sensors and auto-assist features, knowing how to parallel park is still a skill that matters — a lot.

Why We Still Care About Parallel Parking

Let’s start with the basics. Parallel parking is more than just a rite of passage — it’s something you’ll probably have to do eventually, especially if you drive in cities, visit older neighborhoods, or ever need to squeeze into a street spot during a big event. Not every space will be wide open. And not every car — or situation — will support auto-park technology.

Also, let’s not forget the legal stuff. In many states, if you park more than 12 inches from the curb, you can actually get a ticket. Minnesota, for example, enforces this rule pretty strictly. Even with a valid handicapped placard, drivers have been cited for parking just a few inches too far from the curb. It’s not just about looks — it’s about safety and traffic flow.

A Quick Look Back: Where Parallel Parking Came From

Parallel parking became a thing back in the 1920s and 30s, as more people started driving and cities needed ways to organize curb space. It was way more efficient than angled parking, especially on narrow streets. By the mid-1900s, it was baked into driver’s tests across the country.

Fast forward to today, and parking tech has changed the game. Sensors, backup cameras, and full-on automatic parking systems are now available in everything from compact cars to luxury SUVs. But even with all that, the skill hasn’t disappeared completely — and it’s still being taught (and tested) in many states.

What If Your Car Could Park Itself?

Here’s where it gets cool. Lots of cars — both new and used — now offer some form of automatic or assisted parking. That means the car does most (or all) of the work, and you get a stress-free parking experience, even in tight spots.

New Cars with Self-Parking Features (2024–2025)

Used Cars with Parallel Parking Tech (2015–2023)

If you’re shopping for a pre-owned ride, good news — this feature has been around for a while. Here are just a few options that may include it (depending on trim level):

Note: These features are typically available on higher trim levels or as part of optional packages. Always check the vehicle’s specific equipment list.

Just Like Learning to Ride a Bike

Parallel parking might not be something you do every day — especially if your car can do it for you — but it's still a skill worth having in your back pocket. Like learning to ride a bike, it might take practice at first, but once you've got it, it sticks.

You may go months without needing it. Then suddenly you're downtown, traffic’s heavy, and the only open space is a tight one between two cars. That’s when the muscle memory kicks in — and you’re glad you learned it the old-school way.

Master it once, and it’ll stick with you for life — whether your next car parks itself or not.

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When Hindsight Makes You Look Like A Genius

Sometimes, the best features in a car or truck aren’t part of some master plan. They show up as afterthoughts, niche experiments, or even happy accidents. But once drivers get a taste, these features become absolute must-haves.

Here’s a look at some of the most surprising success stories in automotive design—features that weren’t supposed to matter but ended up changing the way we drive.

Car Features That Surprised Everyone

1. The Third Brake Light

What started as a small safety experiment in the 1970s ended up saving lives. When researchers added a high-mounted brake light (now known as the third brake light) to test vehicles, they saw a major drop in rear-end collisions. The results were so convincing that it became mandatory on all cars sold in the U.S. starting in 1986. Drivers didn’t ask for it—but once it was there, it made a huge difference.

2. Cup Holders

Believe it or not, older cars didn’t even have cup holders. But when minivans and Japanese imports started offering them, American drivers quickly let manufacturers know they weren’t going back. Today, cup holder count is practically a selling point—especially for families and road-trippers.

3. All-Wheel Drive in Everyday Cars

Once reserved for rally cars and off-road vehicles, all-wheel drive made its way into everyday sedans and wagons almost by accident. Subaru leaned into it for snowy climates, and buyers loved the improved traction. Now it’s a feature shoppers actively seek—even if they never leave paved roads.

4. Backup Cameras

Originally a luxury perk, backup cameras have become a critical safety feature. They help prevent accidents, especially in driveways and parking lots. The unexpected bonus? They also make parking easier and stress-free. Drivers quickly realized this "gimmick" was a game-changer—and now it’s required in most new vehicles.

Truck Features That Started Small—But Took Off Big

5. Multi-Function Tailgates

Once viewed as quirky or overly complicated, today’s advanced tailgates (like GMC’s MultiPro and Ford’s workbench-style tailgate) offer built-in steps, seats, and adjustable loading options. What started as a novelty became a utility feature that working professionals and weekend warriors now depend on.

6. Tailgate Bed Steps

When GM introduced a fold-out step in the bumper to help climb into the truck bed, it seemed like a minor add-on. But for contractors, farmers, and anyone loading gear every day, it turned out to be a back-saving bonus. Now it’s a standard convenience many truck owners wouldn’t go without.

7. RamBox and In-Bed Storage

Ram’s built-in lockable side boxes were originally designed for tools, but buyers found all kinds of uses—from fishing rods to emergency gear to cold drinks for tailgating. It started off niche but has since become a signature Ram truck feature.

8. Power Outlets and Onboard Generators

Power outlets in trucks started as handy extras for campers or job sites. But in recent years—especially during weather emergencies—features like Ford’s Pro Power Onboard generator have kept homes lit and fridges running. A "nice-to-have" suddenly became a lifesaver.

9. Crew Cab Popularity

Once used mostly for work crews, extended cab pickups went mainstream when families realized they could have truck capability and SUV-level comfort. That shift reshaped the truck market—now, crew cabs dominate full-size truck sales.

10. The Return of the Mid-Size Truck

For a while, compact pickups disappeared from U.S. showrooms. But demand for smaller, more affordable, easy-to-park trucks led to a comeback. Models like the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma proved there’s a big market for right-sized capability.

When The Unexpected Makes Everyday Driving Better

Sometimes, it’s not the horsepower or high-end tech that wins you over—it’s the practical, thoughtful touches you didn’t know you needed. From tailgate steps to hidden storage compartments and backup cameras, these “small” features often end up having the biggest impact.

We believe great vehicles are built on smart design—both big and small. Our inventory includes the latest models with the kinds of features that make life easier, driving more enjoyable, and ownership more rewarding.

Stop by and discover how the right little detail can make a big difference.

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Lessons Learned or A Smooth Transaction?

If you're shopping for a used car, chances are you've looked at both dealership websites and online classifieds. While private listings can sometimes offer lower prices, there are a few important things to think about before making a decision — especially when you're dealing with something as important (and expensive) as a vehicle.

Let’s walk through a few key differences that can help you feel confident about where you buy your next car.

Your Time Matters

When dealing with a private seller, you're often limited to a quick look at the car and maybe a short test drive — all while trying to coordinate around their schedule. This usually involves a frustrating string of back-and-forth calls or texts, which can make the process feel time-consuming and inconvenient. On top of that, you may need to share your personal phone number or email just to set up a meeting. While not all private sellers have bad intentions, there’s simply less structure and no guarantees around how the process will go.

At a dealership, you have the chance to take a proper test drive and really see how the car performs. You can listen for unusual noises, check how it handles, and make sure it feels right for you. Being able to test drive multiple vehicles side by side also helps you compare and choose with confidence — something that’s hard to do in a private sale. On top of that, dealerships usually offer a wider selection, so you’re not limited to just one option. Whether you’re figuring out what you like or narrowing down your top pick, it helps to have choices — and a team — available during regular business hours.

Know What You’re Getting

Most dealerships can provide a vehicle history report, so you’ll know if the car was ever in a major accident, how many owners it’s had, and other details that give you a clearer picture of its past. Private sellers might not have this information — or may choose not to share it. And while private sellers can be held legally responsible for knowingly misrepresenting a vehicle, proving that in court isn’t always easy. Most private sales are “as-is,” with little legal recourse if something goes wrong after the sale.

Payment Options and Legal Protections

Coming up with the full cost in cash can be tough, and wiring money to someone you just met online? That’s risky. Dealerships usually offer financing options, and in many states, they also fall under consumer protection laws — including things like lemon law coverage or required disclosures. That means more peace of mind and fewer surprises down the road.

Paperwork Without the Headache

Buying from a private seller means you're responsible for all the paperwork — title transfer, registration, taxes, and more. That can take up time and energy you didn’t plan for. At a dealership, the paperwork is handled for you. It’s a smoother process from start to finish.

When a Deal Seems Too Good to Be True…

It’s not uncommon to see a listing that looks almost too good — a newer model at a price that seems way below what others are charging. Sometimes, that’s a red flag. Scammers will use fake listings or ask for upfront payments, then disappear once the money’s sent.

Some even go as far as posing as actual dealerships. There have been real news reports of fake websites using stolen business names or phony inventory to trick people into wiring money for cars that don’t exist.

Visit in Person, Buy With Confidence

One of the best ways to protect yourself is simple: go see the car in person. When you visit a dealership, you know the business is real, the car is on the lot, and the staff is there to help. It’s a level of transparency and accountability you just don’t get with a stranger on the internet.

If you're ready to shop with peace of mind, take a look at our used car inventory. You’ll find a variety of options, and we’re here to help you choose the one that fits you best.

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Why Convenience Features Matter More Than You Think

Ever tried opening your car’s trunk with a bag of groceries in one hand, your phone in the other, and a coffee tucked under your arm? It’s a juggling act no one asked for. That’s where the hands-free liftgate comes in—and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

So What Is a Hands-Free Liftgate?

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a power-operated rear hatch that opens when you wave your foot under the bumper (as long as your key fob is nearby). No buttons. No fumbling. Just pop the trunk, load your gear, and go.

Where Can You Find It?

This feature isn’t limited to high-end vehicles. Hands-free liftgates are now available in a wide range of categories like:

• Midsize and large SUVs

• Crossovers

• Minivans

• Luxury vehicles

• Select hatchbacks

Many models offer it as part of convenience or tech packages, especially in mid to upper trims.

More Than Just the Liftgate: Doors That Work With You

Minivans take convenience even further with hands-free sliding side doors—just kick your foot under the side panel and the door opens for you. It’s a game-changer when you’ve got kids, bags, or both.

Combine that with Sliding or Stow ‘n Go seating, and you’ve got the ultimate family setup:

• Sliding seats give kids more room or allow easier access to the third row.

• Stow ‘n Go seats fold completely into the floor, turning your family hauler into a cargo king in seconds.

These features let you adapt the vehicle’s interior to whatever life throws your way—whether it’s sports gear, a Costco run, or an impromptu road trip.

Small Features, Big Upgrade

These kinds of thoughtful features aren’t just about bells and whistles. They’re about making your daily routine easier. Whether you’re running errands, loading up for a trip, or just trying to get the kids in the car without a meltdown, having a vehicle that works with you makes a huge difference.

Need a Vehicle That Fits Your Life?

Our used cars inventory changes regularly, with options across SUVs, vans, and crossovers that offer smart features like hands-free liftgates, sliding doors, and flexible seating. If we don’t currently have the perfect fit, we’ll help you find it—fast.

Contact us today and let us help you drive away in something that makes life a little easier.

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Think Your Commute is Challenging? Let’s Make It Better.

Commuting is a daily reality for millions of Americans, and it comes in all shapes and sizes. Maybe you’re clocking long hours on the highway, or perhaps you’re navigating just a few miles of stop-and-go city traffic. Whatever your commute looks like, one thing is certain: it can feel like a grind. But what if the right car could make your commute something you actually look forward to?

Let’s explore how commutes vary across the U.S. and how modern vehicles (and our dealership!) can help you make the most of the journey.

Commutes Across the U.S.: Long Miles, Short Jams

Did you know the average one-way commute in the U.S. is about 27 minutes? That might not sound too bad, but for some, it’s much longer—and for others, it’s not the distance but the traffic that’s the real issue.

• Long Commutes: If you’re in cities like New York or Los Angeles, you’ve likely spent over an hour each way navigating traffic.

• Short but Congested: Places like Boston and San Francisco prove that even a short commute can feel like forever when you’re stuck in gridlock.

• Quick and Easy: Then there are states like Wyoming and South Dakota, where the average commute is under 20 minutes—lucky them!

No matter what your commute looks like, one thing is clear: the right vehicle can make all the difference.

Turn Your Commute Into “Me Time”

Commuting might not be your favorite part of the day, but it doesn’t have to be wasted time. Modern vehicles are packed with features that can make your drive more enjoyable, productive, and relaxing.

Here’s how:

• Entertainment on Demand: Infotainment systems make it easy to enjoy your favorite podcasts, audiobooks, or music playlists during long drives.

• Stay Comfortable: Heated seats, customizable climate controls, and even massaging seats can help you feel relaxed, even when you’re stuck in traffic.

• Stress Less in Traffic: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic braking take some of the pressure off during busy highway drives.

• Stay Connected Safely: With hands-free calling and smartphone integration, you can stay productive without taking your eyes off the road.

Whether your commute is long or short, these features help turn it into a little slice of “me time.”

Find Your Perfect Commute Companion

We understand that your car isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s a space where you spend a big chunk of your day. That’s why we’re committed to helping you find a vehicle that fits your commute and your lifestyle.

Whether you need:

• A fuel-efficient model for long-distance highway drives, or

• A tech-savvy ride for managing urban traffic with ease,

we’ve got options for every kind of commuter.

Browse our inventory today and see how we can help you upgrade your daily drive.

Wherever You’re Going, We’ve Got You Covered

Commuting might always have its challenges, but with the right vehicle, those challenges become opportunities. Whether you’re traveling miles of open highway or just navigating a few busy city blocks, the right car can make the difference between a frustrating trip and a great one.

Let us help you turn your commute into something better. Visit us in person or explore our inventory online to find your perfect ride today.

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Why Traditional Guided Tours Leave Us Wanting More

Have you ever been on a guided tour and felt a little stuck? Maybe you were rushed past a landmark you wanted to explore or stuck listening to a lecture about something you didn’t find interesting. Group tours often feel cramped, inflexible, and tied to someone else’s schedule. They’re packed with fascinating information—but wouldn’t it be better if you could explore at your own pace?

A Glimpse Into the Future of Travel

Imagine this: a car that not only drives itself but also acts as your personal tour guide. It suggests detours to hidden gems, narrates stories about your surroundings, and adapts to your schedule. Want to stop for a photo? Take your time. Ready to skip ahead? You’re in control.

Self-driving cars promise a future of completely personalized travel experiences. But while that future isn’t here just yet, there’s good news—you don’t have to wait to start enjoying the benefits of personalized guided tours.

How Guided Tour Apps Bring Freedom to the Journey

Thanks to innovative apps, you can already bring guided tours to your fingertips. These apps make your car the centerpiece of an unforgettable journey, combining storytelling, navigation, and freedom to explore on your terms.

GyPSy Guide acts as your virtual tour guide, providing fascinating commentary synced to your GPS location. It’s like having a historian, storyteller, and navigator all in one.

Shaka Guide is perfect for scenic destinations like Hawaii or Utah, blending cultural storytelling with music to enrich your experience.

Roadside America uncovers quirky roadside attractions you never knew existed, from giant statues to offbeat museums.

VoiceMap offers customizable audio tours worldwide, perfect for urban adventures or remote scenic drives.

Imagine driving through Yellowstone as GyPSy Guide points out a hidden trail where bison roam freely, or cruising the Big Island of Hawaii as Shaka Guide shares the legends of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. These apps let you explore at your own pace, giving you the freedom that traditional guided tours simply can’t.

Making Your Car the Ultimate Travel Companion

These apps address common frustrations with traditional tours. There’s no more rigid schedule—you can pause, skip, or replay commentary whenever you want. You can avoid large crowds, take spontaneous detours, and spend as much time as you like at the places that interest you most. And because they offer offline capabilities, they’re perfect for remote destinations where cell service is unreliable.

Of course, the apps are only part of the equation. The right car makes all the difference in how much you enjoy these tools. Modern vehicles with advanced infotainment systems and features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto make it easier to use these apps seamlessly. Be sure to check your car’s compatibility to maximize your experience.

If you’re shopping for a new vehicle, look for cars with cutting-edge driver-assist features or enhanced connectivity that make travel even more enjoyable. Ask about these options to ensure you’re ready for the future of guided travel.

Your Next Adventure Starts Here

While the future of fully autonomous guided tours is on the horizon, the tools to make every drive more enriching are already here. With the right car and the right apps, you can transform even a simple drive into an unforgettable experience.

Start exploring today by downloading one of these apps, and if you’re in the market for a vehicle upgrade, We'd be glad to help. you to find a used car that matches your needs. Your next adventure is waiting!

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Why Consider Buying a Used Car at Christmas?

The holidays are a time for giving, and what better gift to yourself (or a loved one) than a reliable used car? While it might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, the end of the year can actually be a great time to snag a deal. Here's your guide to navigating the used car market during the festive season:

• Dealers Want to Meet Year-End Quotas: Salespeople are often eager to reach their targets by the end of the year, which can lead to better deals and more room for negotiation.

• Trade-Ins Increase: Many people trade in their old cars for new models at the end of the year, increasing the inventory of used vehicles.

• Potentially Lower Prices: Demand can sometimes be lower during the holidays as people focus on other expenses, which can translate to lower prices.

Tips for Buying a Used Car During the Holidays

1. Do Your Research: Before you even set foot in a dealership, know what kind of car you want, its fair market value, and any common issues it might have. Websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds are excellent resources.

2. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is crucial regardless of the time of year. A qualified mechanic can identify potential problems that might not be obvious to the untrained eye.

3. Check the Vehicle History Report: A Carfax or AutoCheck report can reveal important information about a car's past, such as accidents, repairs, and ownership history.

4. Negotiate Smartly: Don't be afraid to haggle. Be prepared to walk away if you're not getting a fair price. Remember, dealers are often more willing to negotiate at the end of the year.

5. Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicles: CPO cars come with manufacturer-backed warranties and have undergone thorough inspections, offering added peace of mind.

Don't Get Carried Away by the Holiday Spirit

While the holidays can present opportunities for good deals, it's essential to stay focused and avoid impulsive decisions. Don't let the festive atmosphere pressure you into buying a car you don't truly need or can't afford.

"The best time to buy a car is when you need one, but the end of the year can offer some added advantages for savvy buyers."

- A Wise Car Buyer

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can find the perfect used car this Christmas and drive into the new year with confidence.

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Laughing All the Way Into Your Driveway

We’ve all seen them—those holiday car commercials where someone surprises their partner with a shiny new car topped with a giant red bow. Sure, it might be a bit over the top, but there’s no denying its effectiveness. Why? Because in that moment, you’re not just looking at a car—you’re picturing yourself in that scene, with the keys in hand and the driveway moment unfolding.

And that’s the brilliance of great car ads. They make you laugh, smile, or dream about the possibilities, all while quietly planting the idea that this car could be yours. Whether it’s a pint-sized Darth Vader trying to summon the Force or Joe Isuzu making outrageously funny claims, these ads aren’t just about entertainment—they’re about sparking your imagination and showing you a car you can’t stop thinking about.

So, let’s take a look at some of the funniest and most memorable car commercials—and how they’ve helped put your own dream car in your driveway.

The Early Days: Jingles and Smiles

In the 1950s and ’60s, car commercials were simple and cheerful, focused on connecting with families and evoking adventure. They might seem quaint today, but they were doing the same thing modern ads do—getting people to think, “That could be us.”

• Chevrolet’s “See the USA in Your Chevrolet”: This iconic jingle was pure Americana, promising freedom and adventure. It wasn’t just about selling a car; it was about selling the idea of where that car could take you. And it worked—families across America flocked to dealerships to make that dream a reality.

Humor Takes the Wheel: The Rise of Funny Ads

By the 1980s, car commercials started leaning on humor to stand out. But even as they made us laugh, the goal remained the same: sparking enough curiosity to make us take a closer look.

• Joe Isuzu: The King of Exaggeration: Joe Isuzu, with his over-the-top claims (“This car gets 94 miles per gallon!”), didn’t just make viewers laugh. He made them think, “What’s the real story?” That curiosity led many to check out Isuzu’s lineup for themselves—and often, they left with a car.

• Dodge’s “That Thing Got a HEMI?”: With its simple humor and unforgettable catchphrase, this campaign didn’t just sell trucks. It sold the power and excitement of Dodge’s HEMI engine. And once you’d laughed at the ad, you were hooked on the idea of someone asking you the same thing. Yes it does!

The Viral Era: Cars Meet the Internet

As car ads went viral in the digital age, they became even more focused on building an emotional connection—and getting viewers to take the next step.

• Volkswagen’s “The Force”: A pint-sized Darth Vader using the Force to start a Volkswagen Passat? It was funny, relatable, and downright adorable. But beyond the laughs, it made viewers think about the Passat’s features (like remote start) and how those might fit into their own lives.

• Kia’s Dancing Hamsters: Kia took the Soul from practical to playful with their quirky hamster campaign. Those jogging-suit-clad rodents didn't just dance, they made them a must-have part of your wardrobe right alongside your new car.

• Honda’s “Cog”: This mesmerizing ad turned Honda’s engineering into art, with car parts playing an elaborate game of dominoes in a Rube Goldberg machine. It was so absurdly precise, you might have thought, 'If they can do that with a muffler, imagine what they could do with a whole car.

Modern Laughs: Humor Meets Technology

Today’s car ads use humor and cutting-edge tech to make you smile—and to remind you how much fun life can be with the right car.

• Toyota’s “Sheep Choir”: A herd of sheep singing Queen’s “Somebody to Love” while riding in a Tacoma’s truck bed? It was hilarious and weird, but it also showcased the Tacoma’s ruggedness and versatility.

• Subaru’s “Dog Tested, Dog Approved”: These lovable canine-driven ads weren’t just funny; they spoke directly to pet owners, reminding them that Subaru vehicles are built for the whole family—four-legged members included.

The Lasting Power Of A Good Laugh - And An Even Better Experience

Let’s face it—funny car commercials aren’t just there to make you laugh. They’re there to make you remember. When you see a pint-sized Darth Vader using the Force or a hamster rocking a tracksuit, it’s not just entertainment—it’s a subtle nudge. You’re not just watching an ad; you’re imagining that car in your world. The remote start becomes your morning magic trick. The HEMI? Your ticket to unstoppable power. And that compact SUV with all the personality? It’s practically begging for a road trip with your dog in the backseat.

Humor works because it makes cars relatable, aspirational, and just a little more fun to imagine in your driveway—giant red bow included (or not, your call).

Great car ads know how to stick with you, and that’s exactly what we strive for, too. We want to earn your business with an experience that’s as smooth and memorable as your favorite ad—but way more personal. Whether it’s finding the perfect ride or making the process stress-free and enjoyable, we’re here to be the real deal you can count on—not just today, but every step of the way.

Our inventory changes faster than a hamster in a Soul, which means there’s always something exciting waiting for you. Take a look at our quality used cars and find the one that’s just right for you. After all, finding the perfect car is only the start of your journey. The rest comes from having a team that’s ready to help make it yours—every mile of the way.

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Car Names That Make You Do a Double Take

Have you ever met someone whose name just didn’t fit them? Cars are no different. Some models have names that leave you scratching your head—or laughing out loud. From quirky choices like the AMC Gremlin to overly descriptive ones like the Isuzu GIGA 20 Light Dump, these cars prove that branding can be a bumpy ride. Let’s explore some of the most mismatched names in automotive history.

1. Quirky or Silly Names

Some car names sound like they were meant for something other than a car—maybe a pet, a drink, or even a household chore. These names are as puzzling as they are funny.

• AMC Gremlin: A compact car from the 1970s with a name that practically begged for jokes. It’s hard not to picture little gremlins tinkering under the hood, especially after the Gremlins movie came out in 1984, cementing the connection between the car and chaotic mischief. Coincidence? Maybe, but the name certainly didn’t help its reputation for reliability.

• Plymouth Duster: A sporty coupe with a name that sounds more suited for cleaning shelves than burning rubber. It’s hard to imagine someone saying, “I’ll take the Duster!” without thinking about a household chore.

• Suzuki Cappuccino: Cute, compact, and zippy—just like a shot of espresso. But imagine pulling up to your friends and saying, “I just bought a Cappuccino!” They’d think you went to a café instead of a dealership.

• Subaru Brat: Rugged and capable, but calling a car “Brat” seems like a strange branding choice. Did it really want to be seen as annoying or spoiled?

• Daihatsu Charade: A name that unintentionally suggests it’s faking being a real car. Not exactly confidence-inspiring!

2. Overly Descriptive or Too Corporate

These names sound like they came straight out of a spec sheet—or a boardroom. They’re so literal or formal that it’s hard to imagine anyone saying them with a straight face.

• Nissan Friend-ME: This concept car feels like a social media plea in car form. “Friend-ME” might’ve aimed to connect with millennials, but it just ended up sounding awkward.

• Chrysler TC by Maserati: The name makes sure you know it’s fancy, but in trying so hard to impress, it feels more like a corporate memo than a car.

• Isuzu GIGA 20 Light Dump: This truck’s name is so literal, it’s comical. Imagine saying, “I drive a Light Dump.” Yeah, no.

• Mazda Titan Dump: Another truck name that sounds more like construction equipment than a vehicle for the road.

• Nissan Big Thumb: was a heavy-duty truck introduced in the early 1990s. It was designed for commercial use, particularly for long-haul and freight applications. 

3. Names That Tried Too Hard

Sometimes, car names aim for big ideas but fall short—or worse, give off completely the wrong impression.

• Chevrolet Citation: This name might’ve been aiming for authority, but all it did was remind people of speeding tickets. Not a great association for a car.

• Ford Probe: A sporty coupe with a name that sounded more clinical than exciting. Let’s just say it didn’t inspire visions of the open road.

• Hyundai Scoupe: A mash-up of “sporty” and “coupe” that ended up as clunky as the car’s design.

• AMC Pacer: Practical, yes, but the name lacked excitement. It sounds more like a piece of exercise equipment than a car.

• Triumph Mayflower: Historical, but not exactly thrilling. It’s hard to imagine the Mayflower inspiring speed or adventure on the road.

4. Cultural or Linguistic Missteps

Sometimes, a name works in one language but misses the mark—or gets completely lost—in another.

• Chevrolet Nova: The classic example of a name that didn’t translate well in Spanish-speaking markets, where “no va” means “it doesn’t go.”

• Mitsubishi Minica Lettuce: Yes, lettuce. Naming a car after salad ingredients isn’t exactly inspiring.

• Toyota Deliboy: A practical delivery van, but the name sounds more like a sandwich mascot than a vehicle.

• Nissan Cedric: Great for an uncle, not so much for a car. It’s hard to imagine anyone saying, “Check out my new Cedric!”

• Subaru FF-1 Star: Too technical and forgettable, this name didn’t do much to spark excitement.

• Yugo Florida: A random geographic name that didn’t add much appeal to a car that needed all the help it could get.

What’s in a Name?

To borrow a line from Shakespeare: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” But would a car by any other name sell as well? Probably not. After all, it’s hard to picture anyone rushing to buy a “Friend-ME” or proudly telling their friends, “I drive a Big Thumb.”

From the mischievous Gremlin to the frothy Cappuccino, these names prove that branding matters—sometimes more than the car itself. While they might not have lived up to their names, they’ve left a legacy of laughs and head-scratching moments.

Thankfully, car names have come a long way, often reflecting the personality and purpose of the vehicle. Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, practical, or bold, today’s options are designed to fit your lifestyle seamlessly. Explore our full inventory to find one that’s perfect for you—name and all.

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Somebody Thought These Were Great Ideas - You Decide

Automakers have always been full of creative surprises. Some ideas were clever solutions to real problems, while others left drivers wondering what the engineers were thinking. From hidden gas caps to swiveling seats, here’s a look at 9 quirky car features that actually made it to production—and left their mark on automotive history.

1. Hidden Gas Caps (1960s Dodge Charger)

Ever pulled up to the pump and thought, Where’s the gas cap? If you were driving a 1960s Dodge Charger, it might take you a minute to figure it out. The gas cap was tucked behind a rotating panel that blended so perfectly into the car’s body that some owners felt like they were playing hide-and-seek. It might not have been the most practical design, but it looked great—and today’s flush-mounted cameras and handles show that the streamlined vision of the Charger lives on.

2. Swiveling Seats (1970s Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme)

Imagine pulling up to a party in the 1970s, opening your car door, and gracefully swiveling your seat outward to step out—no awkward climbing required. It was a small luxury that made getting in and out of the car feel like an event, even if the clunky mechanism added a bit of weight. It was futuristic, fun, and ahead of its time.

3. Refrigerated Glove Boxes (2000s Rolls-Royce and Bentley)

Because keeping your water bottle in a regular glove box is so pedestrian, Rolls-Royce and Bentley decided to add refrigerated compartments to theirs. Suddenly, your luxury car wasn’t just transporting you—it was keeping your champagne chilled, too. A drink on the go never sounded so glamorous.

4. Dashboard Record Players (1956 Chrysler Highway Hi-Fi)

Vinyl lovers, this one’s for you. Chrysler once offered a dashboard record player so drivers could listen to albums while cruising. Unfortunately, every bump in the road made the needle skip, turning the feature into more of a novelty. Cadillac even leaned into the idea with a 1957 commercial featuring a record player in the back seat to show how smooth their ride was—proof that quirky features could double as marketing brilliance.

5. Built-In Vacuum Cleaners (2014 Honda Odyssey)

Honda knew what parents really needed in a minivan: a way to clean up crumbs and dirt after soccer practice or road trips. Enter the HondaVAC, a built-in vacuum cleaner that made tidying up on the go ridiculously easy. It wasn’t flashy, but it was genius, and so practical that competitors quickly followed suit.

6. The Swing-Away Steering Wheel (1961 Ford Thunderbird)

Sliding into the driver’s seat just got a little more elegant in 1961, thanks to Ford’s Thunderbird. Its steering wheel pivoted to the side when parked, letting you step in and out without squeezing or twisting. It might not seem like a big deal now, but at the time, it was like a little magic trick that made the T-Bird even cooler.

7. A Cozy Fireplace on Your Dashboard (Tesla)

Leave it to Tesla to bring the unexpected. In some models, you can switch your dashboard screen to display a cozy, flickering fireplace. Add in the crackling sound effects, and suddenly your car feels more like a cabin retreat. Sure, it’s not useful, but it’s definitely charming—and sometimes, a little whimsy is all you need.

8. Mazda Miata’s Flip-Up Lights with "Winking" Feature (1990s)

Pop-up headlights were already cool, but the Mazda Miata added an extra dash of personality with its "winking" feature. Drivers could raise just one headlight, giving their car a cheeky, playful vibe. It didn’t serve any practical purpose, but it gave the Miata its signature charm.

9. BMW’s Scent Dispenser (2006)

In 2006, BMW thought: Why stop at leather seats and wood trim? Let’s make our cars smell amazing, too. Enter the scent dispenser, a feature that let drivers pick a fragrance to diffuse throughout the cabin. Over-the-top? Maybe. But it showed just how far automakers would go to make the driving experience feel personal and luxurious.

Honorable Mentions: More Quirky Features from the Past and Present

• Hydrophobic Windows (1990s Nissan Primera): Windows that repelled water without wipers.

• Rain-Sensing Wipers (1950s Cadillac): Early attempts at automating wipers based on weather conditions.

• Vacuum-Operated Wipers (Pre-WWII Ford Model T): Wipers that frustratingly stopped working when you pressed the gas.

• Checker Marathon’s Folding Jump Seats (1960s-80s): Taxi staples for cramming in extra passengers.

• Saab’s Night Panel (1990s): Reduced dashboard lights to improve focus during nighttime driving.

• Honda Element’s Washable Interior (2003): Perfect for muddy adventures or pet owners.

Modern Features You’ll Actually Love

While you won’t find a car with a built-in record player or winking headlights today, modern vehicles are packed with innovative features designed to make your life easier, safer, and more comfortable. From advanced driver-assistance systems to premium sound setups and luxurious interiors, today’s cars have something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a car that’s equipped with the latest technology—and maybe a few surprises, check out our current inventory. Whether you’re after practical features or the latest in luxury, we’re here to help you find a car that fits your needs perfectly.

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