Modern cars are starting to feel more like smartphones on wheels. Some features that used to be included in the sticker price are now locked behind paid monthly upgrades. Automakers say this approach gives drivers flexibility while critics say it creates  unnecessary fees. Either way, subscription-based features are becoming more common, and these examples show how wide the trend has spread.

Below is a look at eight cars and brands that offer features through subscription plans. Some of these are optional upgrades that add convenience while others require monthly payments to unlock performance or services that drivers once expected to be standard.

1. BMW

BMW has explored the idea of software locked upgrades in several markets. Heated seats were briefly offered as a subscription, although the company later pulled back after widespread criticism. Other paid features are still available, such as certain driver assistance functions and live map updates. BMW remains one of the most well known examples of subscription based vehicle features.

Typical Subscription Features: High beam assistant, traffic camera alerts, driver assistance upgrades.

2. Tesla

Tesla may have the most established subscription model in the industry. Full Self Driving can be activated monthly instead of paying a large upfront fee. Premium Connectivity, which includes satellite view maps and streaming features, also becomes a paid upgrade once the trial ends. Tesla drivers are already familiar with the idea of hardware that gains new abilities through software.

Typical Subscription Features: Full Self Driving, Premium Connectivity.

3. Ford

Ford’s BlueCruise system allows hands free driving on certain highways. Many models include the necessary hardware, but the feature becomes inactive when the subscription expires. Some drivers see value in paying only when they need it, while others object to safety related features being tied to recurring fees.

Typical Subscription Features: BlueCruise hands free driving.

4. Toyota and Lexus

Remote start, safety telematics, and vehicle locator services are part of subscription plans on some Toyota and Lexus models. These features rely on cellular networks, which is the reason the brands often give for requiring ongoing payments. Drivers have questioned why certain convenience features are not included without a subscription.

Typical Subscription Features: Remote start, Safety Connect, vehicle locator, emergency services.

5. Volkswagen

Volkswagen has looked toward software defined upgrades, especially in electric models. Some regions have offered pay to activate improvements like faster acceleration or additional comfort features. The concept is similar to downloadable content in video games. The hardware is already installed but the extra capabilities stay locked until the owner pays.

Typical Subscription Features: Acceleration boosts, navigation upgrades, comfort features.

6. Mercedes Benz

Mercedes drew attention with an annual fee that unlocks quicker acceleration in certain EQ models. The performance potential is already inside the car but requires a subscription to access it. This is one of the clearest examples of software controlling hardware capability.

Typical Subscription Features: Acceleration Boost in EQE and EQS models.

7. Kia

Kia Connect offers navigation updates, traffic information, diagnostics, and remote control features for a recurring fee. Like other telematics services, it usually includes a free trial followed by an annual or monthly subscription.

Typical Subscription Features: Remote commands, live traffic information, diagnostics, emergency assistance.

8. Cadillac and General Motors

Super Cruise, GM’s hands free highway system, is offered as a subscription service. Even if a vehicle includes the necessary hardware, the feature turns off when the subscription lapses. GM has also expanded connected services through OnStar.

Typical Subscription Features: Super Cruise, OnStar connected services.

Final Thoughts

The shift toward subscription based car features has created a debate over value and long term ownership. Some drivers appreciate paying only for what they use while others feel frustrated by features that seem artificially restricted. As cars rely more on software and connectivity, subscription based upgrades will likely continue to appear across more brands and models.