Mercedes Returns to Traditional Button Layout
Mercedes Joins Counter-Revolution Against Minimalistic Cockpit Designs
In a move that challenges the current trend, Mercedes-Benz has announced a return to physical control elements in its cockpits, particularly in SUV models. This decision, according to the company's software chief, Magnus Östberg, is not solely driven by design preferences or customer criticism, but also by data showing that physical buttons perform better, especially for certain age and population groups.
The new operating concept will be first introduced in the upcoming GLC and CLA Shooting Brake models, with the CLA sedan receiving the redesigned steering wheel featuring numerous physical controls starting this year. The new steering wheel will become standard for future Mercedes models and will also be retrofitted to existing models, starting with the CLA sedan this year.
The hazard lights are now located in the center of the crossbar, with several buttons for essential functions positioned at the rear edge of the inductive smartphone charging tray. Other control elements, such as window controls, mirror adjustment, door locking and unlocking, and seat adjustment, are located where one would expect in a Mercedes, not buried in the depths of the touchscreen menu like in some other modern vehicles.
Traditional buttons and push switches can also be found in other places in the GLC cockpit, such as on the trim piece connecting the center console to the instrument panel. The new steering wheel features a roller for volume control on the right and a rocker switch for speed limiting and Distronic cruise control on the left.
While touchscreens can be easily operated when focused, like using a smartphone, they have shown weaknesses when driving a car and focusing on traffic. Criticisms of capacitive switch fields and touchscreen operation have been made by professional testers, customers, and consumer protection organizations like ADAC, not just at Volkswagen, but also at Mercedes.
Volkswagen started this counter-revolution by bringing back buttons, switches, and knobs in their models, starting from the Golf facelift in summer 2024. Mercedes aims to find a balance between physical buttons and touchscreens, providing a more intuitive and user-friendly experience for its drivers.
The preference for physical control elements varies in different markets. Europeans, for instance, tend to prefer knobs and buttons, while Asian drivers tend to use touchscreens and voice control more. This new operating concept may differ in different markets to cater to these preferences.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz is joining a counter-revolution against the trend of minimalistic cockpit designs, with the aim of providing a more intuitive and user-friendly experience for its drivers. The return to physical buttons and switches, particularly in SUV models, is a response to data showing that these control elements perform better for certain age and population groups and are valued more by buyers of these cars.
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