Comfort and Convenience
Some people like a window cracked for fresh air, while others keep the cabin closed so papers and drinks stay still. Hats, scarves and open maps tend to decide that choice as much as the weather does.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Noting where the lights, washers and demist switches sit while you are still parked means you are not hunting for them after the weather changes. That is ordinary preparation before a longer trip.
Multimedia and Connectivity
If a short call comes in, some people want to answer without digging through a bag. That only works if a speaker or a place to rest the handset is actually there.