Even consumers who consider themselves fairly well informed may wonder about car dashboards: which cars have the most high tech? Contrary to popular belief, high-tech dashboards aren't confined just to the most expensive luxury vehicles - although those makes and models certainly are more likely to have them than many affordable cars. So how do you sort between who's got what? Here are some pointers.

Seamless Integration

Whether it's a navigation system or car information, entertainment, directions and connections, traffic and weather, personalized information, or connectivity with mobile devices, you want a car's dashboard to provide seamless integration. Everything should work easily and without distracing the driver. You shouldn't need an encyclopedia to be able to figure it out. The best systems are those that deliver on all fronts, and Ford's Sync and MyFord Touch (and MyLincoln Touch and MyMercury Touch) are perhaps the most high-tech of anything available today - and it's available on most models. But automakers are really paying attention to high-tech dashboards, so look for more innovation going forward.

Ability to Update

Another point relative to car dashboards - which cars have the most high tech - is that they should provide the car owner with the ability to update. This includes updates for navigation and later releases of various high-tech hardware and software.

Compatibility

If you own several mobile and portable devices and sell your car to buy another, you want a car dashboard that's compatible with what you carry with you. Compatibility is a big selling point for high-tech car dashboards.

Electrics, Hybrids, and More

Electric and hybrid vehicles, by virtue of the necessity for the driver to know the range of all-electric driving, when the gasoline (if applicable) engine or motor will kick in, temperature and other vital information probably have the most high-tech of any of the car dashboards. This technology is the latest available - and doesn't preclude the car dashboard from also having navigation, connectivity, entertainment and other high-tech applications.

Luxury models, which typically have much more in the way of standard equipment, are also more likely to have all the latest in high-tech in the dashboard.

How to Choose

While the question of car dashboards - which cars have the most high tech - may not be the first question on your list, be sure to check out the various models and trims of the cars you're considering. If high-tech is important to you, consider paying a bit more for a higher trim to get it, since some features aren't available as standalone options.