Volkswagen Says It Will Never Make This Mistake Again
Volkswagen says it will never make the same mistake again after officially reversing course on its controversial touchscreen-heavy control layout. The company confirmed that all future models will include physical controls for key functions.
Key Points
- Volkswagen is bringing back physical buttons for essential controls, reversing its controversial touchscreen-heavy design.
- Key functions—volume, climate controls, fan speed, and hazard lights—will have dedicated buttons starting with the production version of the ID 2all.
- Steering wheel touch panels are being replaced with physical buttons, as VW admits its previous design was a mistake.
In recent years, Volkswagen eliminated most physical buttons in favor of touchscreen menus and haptic touch panels, a decision that proved unpopular. Climate and volume controls were moved to haptic sliders, while the steering wheel buttons were replaced with touch-sensitive panels. The new setup was meant to modernize VW’s cabins, but it was widely criticized for being distracting and difficult to use while driving.
Design chief Andreas Mindt has now confirmed to Autocar that Volkswagen will bring back physical buttons across its lineup, starting with the production version of the ID 2all, expected to launch next year. The five key functions that will forever live as buttons are volume adjustment, climate control, fan speed, hazard lights.
These controls will be positioned below the infotainment screen, ensuring drivers can adjust essential functions without relying on touchscreens.
“We will never, ever make this mistake anymore,” Mindt told the publication. “On the steering wheel, we will have physical buttons. No guessing anymore. There's feedback; it's real, and people love this. Honestly, it's a car. It’s not a phone: it’s a car.”
Volkswagen has already begun rolling out these changes by reintroducing physical buttons on steering wheels, and now the automaker is doubling down by extending the change to climate and infotainment controls. Oddly, the 2025 Volkswagen GTI gained physical steering wheel buttons, but its sibling, the 2025 Golf R, did not.
Unfortunately, large digital displays aren’t going away entirely. Mindt explained that regulatory requirements—particularly in the U.S.—mandate certain screen-based features, like a backup camera display.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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Many of us "told you so"!
Good get rid of the BS and get back to more normal things.