MODERN cars are outsmarting their owners, according to new research that flies in the face of studies that suggest car buyers want plenty of advanced technology.

A survey of 1,000 car owners carried out by BookMyGarage.com found that 73% of people don’t understand how to use all of the high-tech gadgets in their car. That comes despite 54% saying that they bought their car on the strength of all the technology it featured. Tyre pressure monitoring systems, cruise control, stability control and paring sensors are among the facilities that have put drivers’ heads in a spin.

Of the many technologies available to them, 45% of the drivers questioned said they regularly use between three and four. Almost one in five people only use one or two of the driver aids their car boasts.

According to the survey, cruise control was the gadget most likely to cause confusion – and is therefore left alone the most.

Special eco-settings were a solid second, with Bluetooth connections also called confusing. And 48% said that simply not understanding them was the main reason for not using their cars’ capabilities. Karen Rotberg, director at BookMyGarage.com, said: “With advanced vehicle technology on the rise, it’s important that people are aware of the features their car offers as they can make the difference both financially and in terms of safety.

“What is particularly interesting from the findings is that so many car owners claim they specifically chose the car they did because of its features, yet lots haven’t got to grips with them or don’t use them – which is a shame considering a car is one of the biggest investments an adult will make.”