and... they keep changing, somewhat. it's incremental year to year - most 2015-2016 changes weren't noticeable. But comparing a 2000 to a 2014, for example, you'll notice a lot of differences. most of my used car purchases have been 'newish' (like... 3-4 years old), and I had them for a few years. I got 2004 (new) and had it for 13 years - a lot changed in that time period! As you say, safety, fuel economy, gadgets (rear camera, etc).

I felt like a monkey in a spaceship driving the Highlander for the first time. The 3d view of your surroundings, rear camera you mentioned, cruise with following distances and adjustable speed, blind spot sensors, automated throttle to improve fuel economy, etc. I know a lot of people reading this will think "Yeah but your 'spaceship' has nothing on a tesla and sounds like any car I've been driving for years", but... Like I said, I was limping cars along. My last two vehicles were a '98 and an '03.

I was such a "point a to point b, what else could you need?" person, haha. Unknown unknowns and all that, I guess.

You're right though, I probably won't be wowed by a new car for another 10 or 15 years. I'm perfectly alright with that!