Hyundai Is Bringing Back Buttons Because Touchscreens Are ‘Annoying’

In recent years, cars have evolved into tech hubs with increasingly sophisticated touchscreen displays. However, as Hyundai’s focus groups and consumer feedback reveal, touchscreen-dominated controls may be losing their appeal due to safety and usability concerns. Responding to this, Hyundai Design North America (HDNA) confirmed the brand’s intention to revive traditional buttons for in-car controls.

This change comes after years of prioritizing all-touchscreen designs inspired by Tesla’s sleek multimedia interfaces. However, according to HDNA Vice President Ha Hak-soo, focus groups found these touchscreen controls impractical and frustrating when drivers needed quick access to essential functions like climate and volume controls. Hyundai’s upcoming Ioniq 5 model already incorporates a redesigned HVAC control panel with physical buttons, signaling the company’s new direction.

While large infotainment screens bring a “wow” factor to car interiors, relying exclusively on them for core functions has proven problematic. Many drivers find it annoying—and even dangerous—to navigate through multiple menus to access frequently used settings. This sentiment isn’t new, as car journalists and industry experts have been critical of all-touchscreen controls for years. Recently, Euro NCAP, the European organization known for vehicle safety ratings, announced that by 2026, cars will need physical buttons for certain functions to earn a five-star rating. This additional safety measure highlights the potential hazards of distracted driving when touchscreen controls dominate car interiors.

Even as Hyundai brings back physical buttons, the company continues to explore new display technologies, including plans for a windshield-spanning display integrated with voice control. Expected as early as 2027, this technology aims to keep drivers’ attention on the road rather than down at a console. By combining advanced displays with physical buttons, Hyundai hopes to balance the appeal of futuristic design with safety and ease of use.

“People get stressed, annoyed, and steamed when they want to control something in a pinch but are unable to do so,” Ha said.