Subaru revives classic controls with analog knobs and buttons, a trend gaining momentum in the industry as carmakers prioritize tactile controls for safer and more user-friendly vehicles.
A Return to Sanity: Subaru Revives Classic Controls with Analog Knobs and Buttons
For years, carmakers have been struggling to find the perfect balance between technology and user experience. However, it seems that the industry has finally come to its senses, ditching the trend of relying heavily on screens in favor of tactile buttons, switches, and knobs.
The shift away from touchscreen dominance is a welcome relief for many car owners who have been dealing with the frustrations of massive touchscreens dominating vehicle controls. Experts have long warned that touchscreens can be hazardous, especially when it comes to driving. The constant need to glance at screens while navigating can be distracting and even dangerous.
Exposure to touchscreen hazards can cause repetitive strain injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis.
Prolonged use of touchscreens has also been linked to 'eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision'.
Statistics show that 60% of adults experience some form of digital eye fatigue from screen time.
Additionally, touchscreen surfaces can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infections when not properly sanitized.
Subaru has taken a significant step in this direction by reintroducing physical knobs and buttons in its 2026 Outback midsize SUV. This decision is a testament to the company’s commitment to user experience and safety. By returning to classic controls, Subaru aims to provide drivers with a more intuitive and engaging driving experience.
Subaru is a Japanese automobile manufacturer founded in 1953 by Kenji Kita.
The company's name translates to 'unite' or 'come together' in English, reflecting its commitment to unity and cooperation.
Subaru is known for producing all-wheel-drive vehicles, including the popular Outback and Forester models.
The company has made significant contributions to automotive innovation, introducing features such as symmetrical all-wheel drive and boxer engines.
Today, Subaru is a subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries and operates globally with a strong presence in North America.
A Industry Shift: Tesla and Hyundai Follow Suit
Tesla, a pioneer in the shift towards touchscreen dominance, has also started to listen to consumer feedback. The company has reintroduced physical indicator stalks in some of its models, including the latest Model Y. This move is a significant departure from Tesla’s previous approach, which often buried core functions behind confusing touchscreen interfaces.
Tesla, Inc. is an American electric vehicle (EV) and clean energy company founded in 2003 by Elon Musk, JB Straubel, Martin Eberhard, and Marc Tarpenning.
The company's first car, the Tesla Roadster, was launched in '2008'.
Since then, Tesla has revolutionized the EV industry with its innovative designs, advanced technology, and sustainable energy solutions.
As of 2022, Tesla is one of the leading manufacturers of electric vehicles worldwide, known for its models such as Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y.
The company's mission is to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy.
Hyundai has recently announced that it will be backing away from relying too heavily on screens, while Volkswagen has promised to bring back physical buttons for its most important functions starting next year. The return of physical knobs and buttons is a trend that is gaining momentum in the industry.
A Step in the Right Direction
The return of physical knobs and buttons is a step in the right direction towards creating safer and more user-friendly vehicles. As consumers continue to demand more from their vehicles, it’s clear that carmakers must adapt to meet these expectations. By prioritizing tactile controls, manufacturers can reduce distractions and improve overall driving experiences.
As we look to the future of automotive design, it’s exciting to see companies like Subaru, Tesla, Hyundai, and Volkswagen taking steps towards a more intuitive and engaging user experience. With physical knobs and buttons making a comeback, drivers can expect a return to sanity in the world of vehicle controls.
