A growing number of drivers are expressing frustration with the increasing reliance on touchscreen controls in modern vehicles, calling for a return to physical buttons and dials. A recent survey by Allianz, an insurance company, found that nearly two-thirds of British motorists would prefer traditional tactile controls over touchscreen “infotainment” systems, which have become standard in many new cars.

The survey, which included responses from around 1,200 drivers across nine countries, highlighted several common complaints. Participants cited difficulties navigating complex menus, the need for extensive scrolling, small or hard-to-touch screen areas, and delayed responses as key sources of frustration. Concerns extend beyond convenience, as touchscreen interfaces increasingly manage critical safety functions such as adjusting windscreen wiper speed, controlling mirrors, and operating heating or demisting systems.

Experts attribute the shift toward touchscreen dominance largely to manufacturers seeking cost reductions by simplifying design, production, and assembly processes. However, Allianz warned that this trend could pose safety risks. Their research indicated that interacting with touchscreen controls leads to longer glances away from the road—up to 25 percent more time compared to using physical buttons, which translates to approximately three additional seconds during comparable tasks.

Dr. Klaus-Peter Röhler, a member of Allianz’s board of management, emphasized the safety implications, noting that every second drivers spend searching for controls is a second they are distracted from the road. He pointed out that “distraction” was a contributing factor in 12 percent of fatal crashes last year, bolstering concerns over in-car technology design.

The preference for physical buttons was particularly strong among younger drivers aged 18 to 25, challenging assumptions that demand for tactile controls stems from older generations’ reluctance to adapt to new technology. Röhler explained that the nature of distraction has changed over the past decade, shifting from external sources brought into the vehicle to features built directly into the car’s interface. He contrasted the smartphone experience—where multiple taps to access functions are acceptable—with driving, where safety-critical controls must be immediately accessible and easy to operate without diverting attention.

While automakers argue that touchscreen systems offer flexibility and modern aesthetic appeal, the findings suggest many drivers prioritize usability and safety over sleek design. This has sparked calls within the industry to reconsider the balance between screen-based and physical controls to reduce driver distraction and enhance road safety.