Physical dashboard controls are returning, and no manufacturer is as excited about this trend as Hyundai. The South Korean company has been promoting the return of buttons and knobs since 2023, asserting that excessive reliance on touchscreens can be hazardous and stressful for drivers. We’re beginning to see the initial concrete outcomes of this policy, and Hyundai is not looking back.
Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president for product planning and mobility strategy at Hyundai Motor North America, expressed this sentiment to The Drive during the 2026 New York Auto Show, stressing the significance of physical controls in the automaker’s forthcoming models—especially in the body-on-frame midsize pickup Hyundai intends to unveil by 2030.
“We are always going to include—particularly in a work vehicle—we will always integrate the buttons that users need to operate frequently without needing to look at them,” Boyle mentioned, specifically highlighting volume and climate control as key examples. She noted that smartphone interfaces and other relevant technologies would also be incorporated, but not at the cost of physical controls.
“[The] critical functions that you must repeat will remain as manual knobs. That’s just the way it is.”
Boyle stated that previously, advocating for physical controls has often created conflicts between product planners and designers who, if given free rein, would “electronicize everything.” However, that perspective is evolving.
“Honestly, we no longer have to argue with design as much,” she mentioned. If the Boulder concept—Hyundai’s unexpected revelation at the New York show—is any indication, those designers have indeed moved forward. The all-in-one screen has been cast into the fires of Mt. Doom, replaced by smaller displays paired with their own controls.
It remains uncertain if this specific configuration is viable for production, and we will have to wait a little while to see the interior of the midsize pickup that will utilize the Boulder’s body-on-frame base. The Santa Cruz gained a few additional buttons during its final refresh prior to its discontinuation, but a clearer picture of Hyundai’s new era of dashboard controls will emerge when revised models of the Elantra and Tucson are introduced, likely as 2027 offerings.
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**Hyundai Reaffirms Its Commitment to Utilizing Physical Buttons and Knobs for Volume and Climate Control**
In a time when automotive technology is advancing rapidly, Hyundai has issued an important statement that highlights its dedication to user-friendly design. The South Korean car manufacturer has confirmed that it will persist in using physical buttons and knobs for volume and climate control in its vehicles, a decision that resonates with a broad audience preferring ease of operation and accessibility.
### The Reasoning Behind the Choice
Hyundai’s pledge to physical controls arises from an increasing consumer demand for intuitive vehicle interfaces. While numerous manufacturers have moved towards touchscreens and digital interfaces, Hyundai acknowledges that physical buttons and knobs offer tactile feedback, enhancing the driving experience. This strategy enables drivers to make changes without diverting their focus from the road, thereby fostering safety and convenience.
### Consumer Desires
Surveys and customer feedback have revealed a strong inclination towards physical controls as opposed to touch-sensitive options. Many drivers believe that tactile buttons provide a more dependable and straightforward means to manage critical functions such as audio volume and climate controls. This preference stands out significantly among older users and those less familiar with cutting-edge technology.
### Boosting Safety and Usability
By retaining physical controls, Hyundai seeks to improve the overall safety and usability of its automobiles. The capacity to modify settings with minimal distraction is critical, particularly in an age where driver attentiveness is vital. Physical buttons facilitate quick, instinctual changes, allowing adjustments to be made without taking eyes off the road. This emphasis on safety aligns with Hyundai’s wider mission to prioritize the well-being of drivers and passengers.
### Fusion with Modern Technology
Though Hyundai is committed to physical controls, the company is not avoiding the incorporation of contemporary technology in its vehicles. The manufacturer plans to merge traditional controls with sophisticated infotainment systems, ensuring that drivers can access cutting-edge features without compromising usability. This blended strategy allows Hyundai to cater to tech-savvy customers while still meeting the needs of those who prefer a more conventional setup.
### Upcoming Models
Hyundai’s dedication to physical buttons and knobs will be evident in its future models. As the company continues to innovate, it will uphold this equilibrium between modern technology and user-friendly design. Future vehicles are anticipated to showcase an ergonomic configuration that integrates both physical controls and digital displays, creating a cohesive experience for drivers.
### Conclusion
Hyundai’s reaffirmation of its dedication to physical buttons and knobs for volume and climate control represents a strategic choice that underscores the significance of user experience in the automotive sector. By prioritizing tactile controls, Hyundai aims to enhance safety, usability, and overall customer satisfaction. As the automotive industry progresses, Hyundai’s approach serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.