Tech That Redefined Performance
Gearheads used to tune with wrenches—now it happens with code. The most exciting updates in the automotive world no longer require a trip to the auto shop. These machines gained new abilities overnight, with software pushing limits on speed, control, and convenience. Scroll through the 20 models that turned each update into a brand new performance chapter.
1. Tesla Model S
Tesla made headlines in 2014 by boosting the Model S’s acceleration through a software update. The “Insane Mode” launch control upgrade took 0–60 mph in under three seconds. Video game additions followed, and the 2020 “Boombox” mode update let drivers replace their horns with custom sounds.
2. Porsche Taycan
In 2021, Porsche delivered a sweeping software update to early Taycan models that optimized powertrain efficiency and upgraded the infotainment system. Earlier owners gained functions introduced in newer models without visiting a dealership. Even the adaptive air suspension system received improved responsiveness via software tweaks.
3. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system was rolled out via software to many 2021 and 2022 Mach-E models. The update added Level 2 autonomy for highway driving and integrated it with adaptive cruise control. Performance upgrades and bug fixes were also delivered remotely.
4. Lucid Air
In 2023, Lucid released a major update that overhauled the interface layout, added new drive modes, and refined the regenerative braking feel. Software updates also improved battery preconditioning for faster charging. The DreamDrive ADAS suite received expanded capabilities, including intersection assistance and lane change improvements.
5. Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 has consistently benefited from impactful OTA updates, including a 68-horsepower boost in 2022 via the Performance Pack upgrade. Energy efficiency and infotainment speed were also improved over time. Most notably, Android Automotive OS updates allowed seamless app expansion, which includes YouTube and Waze.
6. BMW iX
This model introduced Remote Software Upgrade 2.0, bringing major enhancements to iDrive and driver assistance functions. A 2022 update improved lane-keeping sensitivity, while BMW added video streaming and gaming apps to the infotainment system in 2023. Owners also received more customization options for drive modes.
Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) on Wikimedia
7. Hyundai Ioniq 5
The New Zealand automaker expanded its Bluelink connected services with a 2023 update that improved route planning and charging station recommendations. The Ioniq 5’s regenerative braking algorithms and digital cluster responsiveness were also fine-tuned. Notably, the Smart Cruise Control system gained enhanced learning capabilities.
8. Rivian R1T
The brand has consistently rolled out feature-rich software updates to the R1T since 2022. A major update added Camp Mode, which balances battery usage overnight while leveling the suspension. Further enhancements brought improved off-road drive modes, new UI themes, and even pet comfort controls.
9. Mercedes-Benz EQS
MBUX updates for the EQS sedan included AI-driven cabin customization. A late 2022 software push also upgraded the car’s augmented reality navigation system, making turn-by-turn overlays more responsive. Perhaps most impressive was the performance improvement in rear-axle steering, which expanded the angles from 4.5 to 10 degrees.
10. Volvo XC40 Recharge
A 2023 OTA update delivered a performance bump of 34 horsepower to the dual-motor XC40 Recharge. The range was increased through improved battery thermal management and regenerative braking logic. The Google-powered infotainment system saw faster responses. One update even fixed a blind spot monitoring issue fleet-wide.
11. Audi e-tron GT
Audi’s updates to the e-tron GT refined both the user experience and driving dynamics. In 2023, a major OTA push recalibrated the adaptive suspension for sharper cornering and added predictive energy management for better real-world efficiency. The update also improved voice commands and enabled wireless Apple CarPlay—features that weren’t available at launch.
12. Toyota bZ4X
Though launched conservatively, Toyota’s bZ4X gained critical improvements in 2023. Updates enhanced regenerative braking control, allowing greater flexibility in the Eco mode’s climate settings. Toyota also improved smartphone connectivity, and an additional patch fixed a low-speed driving issue related to pedal responsiveness noted by early owners.
13. Fisker Ocean
The launch of Fisker’s “Hyper Range Mode” gave the Ocean SUV a notable software boost. This update rebalanced motor power and battery use to increase range by up to 30 miles. Interface usability and SolarSky roof diagnostics were also refined, alongside a smoother, hands-free driving experience.
14. Nissan Ariya
For the Ariya, Nissan’s 2023 updates brought faster voice recognition, more intuitive navigation, and support for over-the-air map downloads. A more dynamic e-Pedal response and subtle acceleration tweaks followed in later revisions. Nissan also fixed a system reboot bug that was affecting charging timers during overnight home charging.
15. Genesis GV60
One update in 2023 enhanced the GV60’s facial recognition and fingerprint start systems for quicker authentication. Boost Mode, originally limited to specific trims, was also unlocked for more models. Moreover, the regenerative braking system gained smoother transitions through revised tuning protocols, making the car more competitive.
16. Jaguar I-PACE
Jaguar rolled out a 2020 update that extended the I-PACE’s range by up to 12 miles. The software recalibrated the thermal management and regenerative braking systems for improved efficiency. Plus, later updates improved real-time traffic data and added Amazon Alexa voice integration to the infotainment system.
17. Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Several software upgrades were introduced after the Bolt EUV’s 2021 release. These included improved battery diagnostics and better energy management protocols. Super Cruise updates enabled more highway sections and smoother lane changes. In 2023, a fix also addressed incorrect range predictions in colder climates.
18. Kia EV6
Kia’s EV6 received a major update in 2023 that refined torque delivery and boosted charging curve efficiency, reducing charge times by 10–80%. It updated the Highway Driving Assist system to handle curves more naturally. Kia also added voice controls for climate settings and expanded OTA compatibility.
19. Honda Prologue
Although new to the EV scene, the Honda Prologue also benefited from OTA adjustments. Honda improved its GM-sourced Ultium software to allow for faster charge port recognition and more stable route planning. A follow-up patch resolved Bluetooth disconnection issues and added driver-selectable regen settings.
20. Subaru Solterra
In 2023 and 2024 updates, the Subaru Solterra’s navigation and voice command systems were refined, and regenerative braking behavior was made more predictable. Subaru also adjusted the AWD torque split for better low-traction handling. An update finally enabled full wireless Android Auto compatibility in mid-2024.
