Volkswagen Is Bringing Back Buttons For Good, Thank Goodness
Volkswagen knows that its latest infotainment system, which relies on a touch-heavy blend of on-screen functions, dash-mounted sliders, and haptic steering wheel “buttons,” is a big problem. Appearing on the ID.4 electric SUV, ID. Buzz minivan, and eighth-generation Golf GTI, the setup is difficult to use when in motion, and it’s easy to mistake the volume and temperature sliders when reaching for the dash while keeping your eyes on the road – worse so at night since they’re not illuminated. However, VW seemed to say “our bad” in reference to its next-generation electronics, which will bring buttons back for five key secondary functions.
“We Will Never, Ever Make This Mistake Anymore”
The automaker’s design chief, Andreas Mindt, admitted that VW customers were very frustrated with the touch-sensitive layout. As reported by Autocar, the company will revert to physical steering wheel buttons and infotainment controls starting with the production version of the ID.2, due sometime next year. As seen on the ID.2all concept, the interior features hard buttons and tumblers (presumably for volume and on-board computer functions) on the steering wheel spokes, meaning the automaker is making good on its commitment for better ergonomics in the future.
The recently revealed Volkswagen ID.EVERY1 also features a foursome of rocker switches mounted below the infotainment screen, which Mindt confirmed would handle the dual-zone temperature controls, ventilation fan speed, and audio volume, as well as a fifth button for the emergency hazard lights. Many of the car’s other functions, such as audio track seeking, navigation inputs, and climate modes will still live in the touchscreen, which isn’t altogether uncommon, though we do wish VW would include some kind of physical mode switcher for the screen itself.
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The Button Is Back Starting Next Year
The first recipient of VW’s newly physical infotainment controls will be the Golf-sized ID.2, which should launch in Europe in 2026 and might jump to the US a year later. Following the ID.2 will be the ID.EVERY1’s production followup, likely called the ID.1 and due sometime in late 2026 or early 2027. The ID.1 will almost assuredly remain an overseas-only proposition, however. Plan on the revised interface showing up in other Volkswagen products as well, including a mid-cycle facelift of the ID. Buzz and ID.4 EVs.
Of note, Volkswagen has already rectified its frustrating steering wheel interface by ditching haptic-touch buttons for physical units on the recently introduced 2025 Tiguan and facelifted GTI, codenamed Mk8.5. The new helm will help significantly improve ergonomics behind the wheel, as previously it was far too common to activate the steering wheel heater or change radio stations while executing a three-point turn or maneuvering into a parking space.
Source: Autocar
