Remember the days of fumbling for your keys, inserting them into the ignition, and turning to start your car? While that familiar ritual might evoke a sense of nostalgia for some, the automotive world is rapidly moving towards a more convenient and technologically advanced solution: Push To Start Cars. This feature, once reserved for luxury vehicles, is now increasingly common across a wide range of models, offering a blend of ease, security, and modern appeal. Let’s delve into why push to start ignition is becoming a staple in modern vehicles and explore some notable examples.
The Growing Popularity of Push-Button Start Systems
The transition from traditional keyed ignitions to push-button start systems signifies more than just a change in how we start our cars; it reflects a broader evolution in automotive technology and consumer expectations. Initially seen as a premium feature, push-button start has steadily migrated from high-end luxury cars to mainstream models, becoming a sought-after amenity for drivers of all kinds.
Several factors contribute to this growing popularity. Firstly, convenience is a major driver. With a push-button start system, drivers can keep their keys in their pocket or bag, eliminating the need to juggle items while entering the car. This is particularly beneficial in situations like carrying groceries or managing children. Secondly, enhanced security is another advantage. Keyless entry systems, often paired with push-button start, incorporate immobilizer technology that makes it significantly harder for thieves to steal cars.
Furthermore, push-button start systems contribute to a more modern and sophisticated driving experience. The sleek button on the dashboard replaces the traditional ignition cylinder, aligning with the clean, tech-forward aesthetics favored in contemporary car interiors. This feature also paves the way for other advanced functionalities, such as remote start and automatic engine shut-off, further enhancing the user experience and vehicle efficiency.
Exploring Cars Equipped with Push to Start Technology
To illustrate the breadth of vehicles now offering push-button start, let’s examine some models across different segments, inspired by the original list, but expanded with more detail and insight.
1. Chevrolet Camaro: Embracing Modernity in a Muscle Car Icon
The redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Camaro marked a significant shift for this iconic muscle car. While staying true to its performance roots, the Camaro embraced modern technology, including a push-button start system. This feature, perhaps unexpected in a car traditionally associated with raw, analog driving experiences, highlights the evolving nature of muscle cars. Beneath the hood, the 2016 Camaro offered a range of powerful engines, from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder to a potent 6.2-liter V-8, all easily awakened with a simple push of a button. The inclusion of push-button start signifies the Camaro’s blend of classic muscle with contemporary convenience.
Chevrolet Camaro Photo by Chevrolet
2. Mazda Mazda6: Performance and Tech in a Family Sedan
The 2016 Mazda Mazda6 is a mid-size sedan that expertly balances practicality with driving enjoyment. Mazda’s commitment to sporty handling and innovative design extends to features like push-button start, adding a touch of modern sophistication to this family-friendly car. The Mazda6’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides a responsive and efficient driving experience, easily initiated with the push-button start. This feature complements the Mazda6’s well-appointed interior and user-friendly technology, making it a compelling option in the competitive sedan market.
Mazda Mazda6 Photo by Benjamin Hunting
3. RAM 2500: Push-Button Convenience in a Heavy-Duty Truck
Even in the robust world of heavy-duty trucks, push-button start is making its presence known. The 2016 RAM 2500, known for its capability and customization options, offers push-button start on higher trim levels, demonstrating that convenience features are valued even in work-focused vehicles. While base models might prioritize rugged simplicity, the availability of push-button start in upper trims caters to drivers seeking a blend of toughness and modern amenities. Starting the powerful engine of a RAM 2500 with a button press adds a touch of ease to operating this capable truck.
RAM 2500 Photo by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
4. Acura ILX: Entry-Level Luxury with High-Tech Touches
As Acura’s entry-level luxury sedan, the 2016 ILX naturally incorporates features expected in the luxury segment, including push-button start. This amenity is almost a given in modern luxury cars, and its presence in the ILX reinforces its upscale positioning. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine in the ILX springs to life effortlessly with the push-button start, setting the tone for a refined and comfortable driving experience. This feature, along with other premium touches, makes the ILX an attractive gateway to the Acura brand.
Acura ILX Photo by Acura
5. Buick Verano: Affordable Luxury with Modern Features
The 2016 Buick Verano aimed to redefine perceptions of the Buick brand, offering an affordable compact luxury sedan with contemporary features. Push-button start was a key element in this modern appeal, providing a level of convenience typically associated with higher-priced luxury cars. Starting the Verano’s engine with a button press adds to the overall sense of refinement and ease that Buick sought to deliver with this model.
Buick Verano fallback image
6. Cadillac ATS-V: Performance Luxury at Your Fingertips
In the performance-oriented Cadillac ATS-V, push-button start aligns perfectly with the car’s focus on sporty driving and luxury. This feature allows drivers to quickly ignite the powerful turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine and get on the road or track with minimal delay. The ATS-V’s push-button start is not just a convenience feature; it’s part of the car’s overall performance-focused and luxury-oriented design.
Cadillac ATS-V fallback image
7. MINI Cooper S Hardtop: Fun and Tech in a Compact Package
The MINI Cooper S Hardtop, known for its playful driving dynamics and iconic styling, also incorporates push-button start, but specifically in the more powerful “S” trim. This feature adds a touch of modern tech to the MINI’s retro-inspired design. Starting the spirited 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine of the Cooper S with a button press complements the car’s fun-to-drive character and contemporary features.
MINI Cooper S Hardtop fallback image
8. Ford Escape: Mainstream SUV with Added Convenience
The 2016 Ford Escape, a popular compact SUV, demonstrates the broadening availability of push-button start in mainstream vehicles. This feature adds a layer of convenience to the Escape’s practical and versatile nature. Starting the engine of the Ford Escape, whether it’s the base 2.5-liter or the more powerful EcoBoost options, is simplified with push-button start, enhancing the daily usability of this SUV.
Ford Escape fallback image
9. Scion iA (Toyota Yaris iA): Push-Button Start Arrives in the Entry-Level Segment
The 2016 Scion iA, now known as the Toyota Yaris iA, marked a significant milestone by bringing push-button start to the entry-level car market. This demonstrated that features once considered premium were becoming increasingly accessible to budget-conscious buyers. The inclusion of push-button start in the Scion iA highlighted the feature’s growing ubiquity and its appeal across all vehicle segments. Starting the efficient 1.5-liter engine of the iA with a button press brought a touch of modern convenience to the subcompact class.
Scion iA Photo by Scion
10. Acura NSX: High-Performance Hybrid with Minimalist Controls
The highly anticipated 2017 Acura NSX, a hybrid supercar, features push-button start as one of its few tactile controls in a minimalist cockpit. In this high-performance context, push-button start emphasizes the car’s modern technology and driver-focused design. Igniting the powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electric motors of the NSX with a button press underscores the car’s cutting-edge engineering and performance capabilities.
Acura NSX fallback image
The Future of Car Ignition: Beyond the Button
Push to start cars are more than just a passing trend; they represent a fundamental shift in how we interact with our vehicles. As technology advances, we can expect even more sophisticated keyless systems, potentially incorporating smartphone integration, biometric authentication, and even predictive start capabilities. The simple act of starting your car is becoming increasingly seamless and integrated into a broader ecosystem of automotive technology, with push-button start paving the way for future innovations in vehicle access and operation.
In conclusion, the rise of push to start cars is driven by a desire for convenience, security, and a modern driving experience. From luxury sports cars to entry-level sedans and even heavy-duty trucks, this feature is becoming increasingly prevalent, signaling a new era in automotive technology where starting your car is as easy as pushing a button.
