When shopping for a new car, visibility is often overlooked. Drivers focus on fuel economy, safety features, and engine performance, but good visibility is crucial for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. Limited visibility can make navigating traffic, parking, and even the simplest maneuvers stressful and downright dangerous. This article explores the factors that affect car visibility and showcases the cars with the best visibility on the market today.
What Makes a Car Have Good Visibility?
Several factors contribute to a car’s overall visibility:
- Window Size and Design: Large, unobstructed windows, including the windshield, rear window, and side windows, are essential for a clear view of the surroundings. A high seating position can also enhance visibility by providing a commanding view of the road.
- Pillars and Blind Spots: Thick pillars, particularly the A-pillars (those framing the windshield) and C-pillars (those at the rear of the vehicle), can create significant blind spots. Design features like thinner pillars, strategically placed windows, and innovative pillar shapes can help minimize these blind spots.
- Mirrors: Large, well-positioned side mirrors and rearview mirrors are crucial for monitoring traffic and eliminating blind spots. Features like blind spot monitoring systems, which use sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes, further enhance safety by alerting the driver to potential hazards.
- Technology: Backup cameras, now standard on most new cars, provide a clear view behind the vehicle when reversing. More advanced systems offer a 360-degree bird’s-eye view, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. Some vehicles also come equipped with head-up displays (HUDs) that project essential driving information, such as speed and navigation directions, onto the windshield, keeping the driver’s eyes on the road.
Car Window Design for Maximum Visibility
Cars Leading the Way in Visibility
While visibility can vary even within car models due to trim levels and optional features, some cars consistently rank high in providing excellent visibility.
SUVs and Crossovers with Great Visibility
- Subaru Outback: Known for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities, the Subaru Outback also boasts excellent visibility. Its large windows, high seating position, and relatively thin pillars offer a panoramic view of the road.
- Honda CR-V: Another popular choice in the SUV segment, the Honda CR-V prioritizes visibility with its large windows and slim pillars. Its standard backup camera further enhances rearward visibility.
- Tesla Model Y: Tesla’s vehicles are known for their technology, and the Model Y is no exception when it comes to visibility. Its expansive windshield, large windows, and high seating position provide a commanding view of the surroundings.
Sedans with Impressive Visibility
- Honda Accord: The Honda Accord consistently ranks high in consumer reports for its all-around performance, and its visibility is a strong point. Its large windows and well-designed mirrors offer a clear view of the road.
- Mazda3: The Mazda3 is lauded for its sleek design and engaging driving experience, but it’s also a top contender in visibility. Its low dashboard and slim pillars maximize the field of vision.
- Hyundai Sonata: The Hyundai Sonata offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, and its large windows and well-placed mirrors contribute to its good visibility.
Driver's View from a Car with Excellent Visibility
Small Cars That Don’t Skimp on Visibility
- Honda Fit: Don’t let its small size fool you—the Honda Fit is surprisingly spacious and offers excellent visibility thanks to its large windows and upright design.
- Kia Soul: The Kia Soul’s boxy design may not be for everyone, but it does provide excellent visibility. Its tall windows and high seating position offer a commanding view of the road.
Tips for Improving Visibility in Your Current Car
- Adjust Your Seating Position: Ensure your seat is adjusted so that you have a clear view over the steering wheel and dashboard.
- Keep Your Windows and Mirrors Clean: This may seem obvious, but even a thin layer of dirt or grime can significantly reduce visibility.
- Check Your Mirrors Regularly: Make it a habit to adjust your mirrors every time you get in the car and while driving.
- Invest in a Blind Spot Mirror: These inexpensive mirrors can be easily attached to your side mirrors to eliminate blind spots.
Choosing a Car with Visibility in Mind
Ultimately, the best way to find a car with excellent visibility is to test drive it yourself. Pay attention to the following:
- How much can you see through the front windshield and rear window?
- How thick are the pillars, and do they create blind spots?
- How large are the side mirrors and rearview mirror, and do they provide a clear view?
- Does the car offer any additional visibility features, such as blind spot monitoring or a 360-degree camera?
Car Dealership Lot with a Variety of Vehicles
If you’re in the market for a new or used car, consider visiting one of the car dealerships on Bessemer Super Highway. By prioritizing visibility, you’ll be well on your way to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
Conclusion
Good visibility is paramount for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. By understanding the factors that contribute to good visibility and considering the models highlighted in this article, you can make an informed decision when choosing your next vehicle. Remember, the car with the best visibility is the one that provides you with a clear and unobstructed view of the road and its surroundings, keeping you and your passengers safe on every journey.
