Enhancements Required for Mazda’s Infotainment System to Achieve Its Maximum Potential

Earlier this week, I noted how Mazda has finally acknowledged that its infotainment system is lacking. The response from readers in our comments, along with those on Reddit, was rapid. Some owners mentioned they adapted to the scroll-wheel format after using it for a while, while others were less inclined to tolerate it, stating they quickly returned rental cars upon discovering the system wasn’t a touchscreen.

Your voices are being heard loud and clear. Currently, I’m driving a 2026 CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid. I had just been in the CX-70 and CX-50 Hybrid. Last summer, I took a road trip in the CX-90 featuring the turbo-six engine. In various configurations, I’ve invested numerous hours engaging with the multiple evolutions of Mazda’s infotainment system as screen sizes increased, resolutions improved, and Apple CarPlay was embraced. Consequently, here’s my perspective on how Mazda might have remedied its system.

To start, there was no need to eliminate the scroll wheel, quick function buttons, or the volume knob. All these elements could have remained intact. As mentioned, Mazdas equipped with the larger 12.3-inch screens have touchscreens, yet the touch feature is inactive when the vehicle isn’t in Park or outside the CarPlay interface. Users can navigate the menu and activate touch capabilities while driving, but it’s still restricted to CarPlay.

The problem lies in the screens being positioned on the dashboard like tablets, making them difficult for most users, including myself, to access comfortably. Especially the entire screen area. The mounting of the screen isn’t suitable for regular touch use because the system wasn’t engineered for it.

Mazda’s built-in infotainment system interface is not designed for touch, cannot be modified to be touch-capable, and closely resembles older versions of BMW iDrive and Audi’s MMI systems.

Replacing all this with a 15.6-inch touchscreen and eliminating the volume knob in the new 2026 CX-5 is precisely the opposite direction and presumably cuts costs for Mazda. The climate control buttons in the existing models are quite nice, with toggles and buttons that provide a satisfying tactile response.

Mazda could have rectified its infotainment challenges simply by repositioning the screens closer to the front-seat passengers, activating touch functionality throughout the system, and revamping the native interface to align with modern standards. Hyundai’s tile-based interface, which features iPad-like icons, serves as an excellent reference point. Retain the scroll wheel and the volume knob, even the shortcut keys. These features enable users to make quick adjustments or skip through audio in a podcast or song.

A balanced approach would have entailed modifying the current hardware and providing a contemporary interface. I hear you loud and clear, Internet. The challenge isn’t in the hardware; it lies in the software, screen placement, and Mazda’s all-or-nothing mentality regarding these factors.

Even Cadillac has implemented an iPad-like interface complemented by a screen wheel, volume knob, and shortcut keys in its electric vehicles and the latest Escalade. It doesn’t need to be this complex.

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**Necessary Enhancements for Mazda’s Infotainment System to Achieve Its Full Potential**

Mazda has made noteworthy advancements in the automotive sector, especially regarding driving dynamics and aesthetics. Nonetheless, one aspect that has drawn criticism is its infotainment system. While the system provides a variety of features, several enhancements are essential to improve user experience and functionality.

**1. User Interface and Navigation**

The existing user interface of Mazda’s infotainment system can be daunting for some users. Simplifying the design and making it more user-friendly would greatly assist drivers. A more organized menu layout, with fewer submenus, would facilitate quicker access to vital functions. Additionally, improving the navigation system with live traffic updates and more precise mapping would enhance usability.

**2. Touchscreen Functionality**

Mazda’s infotainment system heavily relies on a rotary controller, which may be unwieldy while driving. Introducing a touchscreen feature would give users a more familiar and direct method to engage with the system. A responsive touchscreen would simplify access to apps, music, and navigation, minimizing the need for drivers to divert their attention from the road.

**3. Voice Recognition and Control**

Although Mazda’s voice recognition features are available, they frequently do not meet user expectations. Enhancing the accuracy and responsiveness of voice commands would allow drivers to manage various functions without removing their hands from the steering wheel. A more sophisticated natural language processing system could enable users to interact with the infotainment system more conversationally.

**4. Smartphone Integration**

While Mazda provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the integration can be inconsistent. Streamlining this experience and ensuring these features function smoothly across all models would improve the overall user experience. Furthermore, broadening compatibility with additional apps and services would give users greater opportunities to tailor their infotainment experience.

**5. Software Updates and Connectivity**

Regular software updates are essential for sustaining the performance and security of the infotainment system. Mazda should develop a more efficient method for conducting over-the-air updates, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and enhancements without needing to visit a dealership. Improving connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi hotspots, would also offer users increased flexibility and convenience.

**6. Audio Quality and Customization**

Though Mazda’s infotainment system includes audio capabilities, sound quality can differ significantly among models. Investing in superior audio hardware and providing more customization options for sound settings would appeal to audiophiles and elevate the overall driving experience. Features like equalizers and preset sound profiles would allow users to adjust the audio output to their preferences.

**7. Enhanced App Ecosystem**

Expanding the selection of apps available through the infotainment system would grant users additional entertainment and utility options. Partnering with popular app developers to create dedicated applications for the platform could enhance functionality and keep users engaged. This could encompass apps for news, podcasts, and even vehicle diagnostics.

**Conclusion**

Mazda’s infotainment system possesses the potential to be a standout feature in its vehicles, but several enhancements are critical to fully realize this potential. By prioritizing user interface simplicity, improving touchscreen functionality, refining voice recognition, and expanding smartphone integration, Mazda can cultivate a more user-friendly experience. Moreover, emphasizing software updates, audio quality, and expansion of the app ecosystem will guarantee that Mazda’s infotainment system meets the changing demands of its customers. With these improvements, Mazda can elevate its infotainment system to align with the brand’s esteemed reputation for quality and innovation.