The modern vehicle is no longer just a mode of transportation – it’s a personalized command center. As cars become smarter and more connected, the in-cabin experience is evolving into a fully digital, voice-activated, entertainment-driven environment. With intuitive infotainment and AI-powered features on the horizon, today’s vehicles are redefining how drivers engage on the road.

At Audacy, we’ve tracked this transformation every mile of the way. Across five waves of proprietary research from 2021 to 2025, we’ve explored how smart car technology is reshaping consumer behavior and expectations. What continues to rise to the top? Audio. As the dashboard becomes more intelligent, Audio continues to be the heartbeat of the in-car experience – delivering engagement, immersion, and impact with every drive.

In an era of high-tech cars packed with safety, navigation, and entertainment features, AM/FM radio is the main attraction. Just how essential is radio? Nine in ten listeners tune into local radio for breaking news – more than social media or phone apps. 

Bottom line: New tech is definitely transforming the driving experience. But with all the options drivers have at their fingertips – it’s radio they want as their co-pilot.

Why? Because it’s personal. Radio delivers what apps and algorithms can’t – a real human connection. These hosts are part of your community. They battle the same clogged highways, root for hometown teams, and wonder if they need to pack their umbrella. 

So it’s no surprise that 89% of connected car drivers want to hear from their favorite stations and personalities behind the wheel. 

And that’s exactly what they’re getting. Drivers want their dashboard tech to bring them their go-to content no matter where they are. That’s where apps like Audacy come in: 44% of drivers tune in through radio apps – whether they’re commuting across town or road-tripping across the country.

A Yankee fan in L.A.? Easy. Fire up WFAN. Craving Chicago’s Finest Rock, WXRT from a beach in Miami? Done.

Radio’s voice is as strong as ever – and in today’s smart cars, it’s more accessible than ever, too.

Technology doesn’t always make things easier – just ask anyone trying to find a show across a dozen streaming platforms. But in-car infotainment systems should make discovering and enjoying Audio better. Imagine all the podcasts, local radio, and digital streaming – all at your fingertips. That’s not just convenience; it’s the feature tech-savvy drivers want most from next-gen dashboards.  

Seven in ten drivers say when it comes to dashboard features they use most, Audio tops the list, beating out navigation and phone calls.

What drivers really want now is personalized Audio experiences – content that keeps them focused, tailored to their interests, and provides relevant breaking news.

But drivers don’t want tech overload.

Back in 2021, when we started surveying connected car drivers, many said super-sized touchscreens felt more frustrating than helpful. Automakers listened, dialing back the over-designed interfaces and bringing back the humble knob and button. 

Now, in the fifth wave of our study, that preference is even clearer: three out of four drivers say ease of use – like a tap on the dashboard or smartphone screen – is what matters most. 

Looking ahead, hands-free driving could make in-car listening even more enjoyable. As autonomous driving becomes reality, nearly half of drivers say they’ll spend more time enjoying their favorite radio shows and podcasts – a 47% jump from just last year.

As today’s vehicles get smarter, drivers are looking for tech that goes beyond flash – think real convenience, safety, and personalization. And that’s exactly where artificial intelligence comes in – with systems that learn behavior and help drivers stay focused and connected. And here’s the kicker: consumers who are most interested in AI – those early adopters – are also among the heaviest radio and podcast listeners.

For starters, voice control is at the top of the wishlist. Eight out of ten drivers want to control their Audio with just their voice in their next car – keeping hands on the wheel and distractions to a minimum. It’s a feature that feels natural, intuitive, and, most importantly, safe.

But voice control is just the beginning. Biometric integrations are on the way that sense when you’re tired and need upbeat Audio to stay alert, or serve up breaking traffic, weather, or local news updates the moment you need them. That’s the kind of personalized, in-the-moment experience AI is working toward.

And it’s not just about what happens in the car. Today’s drivers – especially the tech-savvy ones – expect their Audio to follow them everywhere. Whether they’re finishing a podcast from the office to the car or switching from music on the road to the gym, they want their content to move with them. Nearly all AI intenders (93%) say seamless podcast listening is a must, and 73% say the same about radio.

As cars get smarter and the dashboards get sleeker, the in-car experience is becoming one of the most powerful touchpoints for brands. Today’s drivers aren’t just commuting – they’re connecting, discovering, and engaging with content that matters to them.

Advertisers have long valued radio’s ability to drive (no pun intended) consumer awareness and conversion. You know you’ve hit a drive-thru or retailer after hearing a radio spot.

Now, advanced infotainment systems are turbo-charging that relationship. When a brand’s spot airs, its logo can appear on the screen, reinforcing its messaging. Advertisers can direct spots based on a driver’s geographic location. 

Here are three key takeaways for brands looking to make the most of this moment:

1. Embrace Personalization.
Drivers want content that fits their mood, needs, and routines. With AI and connected systems making personalized listening easier than ever, advertisers have the opportunity to deliver the right message at just the right time.

2. Make It Seamless.
From the office to the car to the gym, today’s audiences expect their Audio to move with them. Whether it’s music, a podcast, or a targeted ad, consistency across platforms creates stronger brand recall and deeper engagement.

3. Lean Into the In-Car Experience – Where Radio Rules the Road.
Radio continues to lead as the trusted, go-to source in the car. With local personalities, live updates, and strong listener loyalty, it remains a cornerstone of the driving experience. Pairing your message with that trust is a smart move for any advertiser.

As tech-forward cars evolve, Audio will become more personalized, predictive, and accessible. However, the value of local radio as a trusted source of information and entertainment remains constant. It’s still the bestie in the passenger seat.

Stay tuned for more from Audacy Insights — we’ll dive into the key consumer segments revealed in the study, and explore why reaching them should be part of your strategy.