Five important features: Volkswagen brings back physical controls
Volkswagen has recognised its mistakes: all future models of the brand will once again have physical buttons for the main system control functions, the company's chief designer Andreas Mindt has announced.
What will change.
In recent years, VW has been criticised for over-digitising the car's controls. The brand has replaced the familiar buttons on the steering wheel and climate control panel with touch-sensitive elements that have often been frowned upon.
In models such as the VW ID 3 (pictured), the buttons have been replaced with tactile sliders or touch controls. Photo: Volkswagen AG
From 2026, starting with the production version of the VW ID.2all electric cars will return in all new VW models:
- Physical multimedia volume controls;
- Separate temperature controls for driver and passenger;
- Air-conditioning intensity control;
- A panic button under the centre display;
- Physical buttons on the steering wheel.
Mindt promised that Volkswagen will never make this mistake again with touch elements instead of physical ones. He also emphasised that a car is not a smartphone and people want to feel the buttons, not guess where to press.
Will touchscreens remain?
The return of physical buttons doesn't mean abandoning large touchscreens. It's modern, convenient, and in some countries, notably the US, you can't do without a display because of the mandatory rearview camera.
Source: Autocar