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Backup cameras are a very useful driver assistance tool. They aim to reduce accidents by increasing the driver’s visual scope.
The technology started as a selling feature for vehicle manufacturers. Nowadays, it is commonplace in the aftermarket.
We lake a look at some affordable cars with a backup camera. Most of them had them installed when the technology was still new.
1. Kia Soul 2014
The Kia Soul has a box-like shape, with a lot of vertical space. To some, it’s unappealing, whilst others take it as a practical hatch or SUV.
Technological features for the 2014 edition include a backup camera, Apple CarPlay, Android auto, and for some higher trims, such luxuries as a panoramic sunroof and heated seats.
Power comes from a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter gas engine, with either manual or automatic transmission.
Also read: Is Kia Expensive to Maintain? (Exact Costs)
2. 2012 Chevrolet Volt
An interesting compact 4-door hatchback that came ahead of its time, when most people were still trying to get their heads around the practicality and hurdles associated with electric-powered vehicles.
The electric motor pushes out 149 horsepower, which does most of the driving, with the small gas engine only there to drive a generator that powers the electric motor.
The battery pack makes the Volt rather heavy, but electric power subdues noise levels. Seating capacity is limited to four adults due to the battery pack taking some good space under the cabin.
Features for such an oldish car include Bluetooth connectivity, a touch screen, whilst a backup camera was optional.
3. 2015 Honda Fit
The fit is famous for its interior space. It is a good economical car. The 1.5-liter offered produces 130 horsepower. A 1.5-liter is also available on lower trims.
Transmission include a 6-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Standard features include keyless entry, air conditioning, and cruise control.
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A backup camera is also standard on all trims, which makes the Honda Fit very competitive. The camera capture three angles.
Standard safety features include side and front airbags and a stability system.
Forward collision and lane departure warnings are optional.
The Honda Fit is one of the best compact hatchbacks in terms of affordability and space.
You can get one for less than $10000 in the used market space.
Also read: 10 Cars with the Best White Interior (+Pictures)
4. 2012 Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a pioneer in hybrid technology when most vehicle manufacturers were still skeptical.
The success of the vehicle is evidenced by its continued presence on most roads, almost in the original exterior styling.
The Prius has given confidence to the hybrid technology, especially the durability of batteries, which is key to warranty periods.
The Prius comes as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid.
A number of features were introduced in 2012, among them a touch screen with Bluetooth.
Higher trims got Toyota’s Entune system with integrated navigation, satellite radio, voice control, and an integrated backup camera. This is available as a standard on the Three Trim.
Te Four trim comes with standard navigation, and an 8-speaker JBL audio system.
The Five trim adds automatic LED headlamps and 17-inch alloys.
Also read: Where is Toyota Manufactured? (The Full List)
5. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox
The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that punches above its weight in more ways than one.
It has been at the forefront of convenient technologies, such as a power lift-gate, when competitors were still chasing other common technologies. No wonder why motoring journalists perceive it as a leader among its peers.
Among the ground-breaking features is a backup camera, touch-screen, and Bluetooth as standard on most trims.
Although it is small, as expected of a compact SUV, the Equinox is quite spacious for both passengers and cargo, with sliding and reclining rear seats offered as standard.
Engines include a 3.0-liter gasoline and a 3.6-liter V6.
6. 2013 Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 has been around for some time, making its stake in the mid-size sedan segment. It has greatly improved in exterior styling and interior décor over the years.
The Mazda 6 is powered by a base 2.5-liter gasoline engine. Also available is a 3.7-liter V6 for those who prefer the sport-tuned models.
Technology has also been improving, from the engines, safety, and driver-assist features.
The 2013 Mazda 6 has a backup camera as an option for some trims, as part of the driver-assist features. Blindspot warning is also an option, whilst Bluetooth comes as standard.
7. 2013 Honda Civic
The 2013 Honda Civic is powered by a 1.8-liter gas engine with an output of 140 horsepower. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission and an optional 5-speed automatic.
Cabin features include Bluetooth and air conditioning. Safety features include ABS brakes, front and full-length side airbags, lane departure, and forward-collision warning.
Controls are on the steering and are displayed on a 5-inch screen. These include a hands-free phone, audio, and an optional navigation system.
A backup camera is also offered as a standard.
The Honda Civic is a small sedan with good suspension which gives good handling on the road.
Also read: Where is Honda Made? (The Full List)
8. 2015 Hyundai Elantra
Engines include a 1.8-liter for the base trims, with an output of 148 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter with 173 horsepower for the Sport trim.
Transmission is either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.
The 2015 Hyundai Elantra comes with an optional backup camera. It is switched on by engaging in reverse gear. The camera has directional guidelines.
In addition to accommodating the backup camera, a 4.3-inch touch screen also displays navigation information.
The feature is standard on the Sport and Limited trims.
Cruise control, Bluetooth, keyless entry, and air conditioning are standard on all trims. The higher trims add 17-inch alloys, heated leather seats, and a proximity key with push-button ignition.
At introduction, the Elantra was a good value for money. The SE, Limited, and Sport models drive and handle very well. This is enabled by suspension tweaks that include steering modes, stiffer shocks, and a bigger stabilizer bar.
9. 2013 Ford Fusion
The 2013 Ford Fusion is a small sedan that is offered in three powerplants, including a hybrid. These include a 2.5-liter entry-level gasoline, a 1.6-liter, and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines.
The hybrid is a 2.0-liter gas engine paired with an electric motor.
Besides the quality exterior styling and interior finishes, the Fusion is also reputed to have good handling and ride quality, owing to its solid suspension.
The 2013 model was improved to include a new touch screen with a backup camera and navigation.
Also read: 25 Common Questions about Ford Fusion You Need to Know
10. 2016 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 compact crossover has been slowly but surely gaining followers in the ultra-competitive compact SUV segment. Each year, new models are released, and existing ones upgraded to stay ahead of the pack, or simply to remain relevant.
The CX-5 is your practical family run around, without much oomph, but sheer practicality for those who love the simple things in life. Comfort is enhanced by features such as touch-screen audio, a navigation system, and a backup camera for greater control and visibility. These are standard on the Touring and Grand Touring trims.
Engine options include a 2.0-liter mated to a manual transmission and a 2.5-liter mated to an automatic gearbox.
What are the Pros and Cons of a Backup Camera?
Pros of a backup camera
- Improved Visibility
The camera assists the driver to see areas that he/she could not normally see when reversing.
- Inexpensive
They do not cost much to install.
- Add value to the car
A backup camera is a good selling point for a car.
Cons of a backup camera
- Over-reliance
A driver may over-depend on the camera and only consider what the camera is showing. They may fail to see dangers outside the camera’s view.
