Modern cars are packed with screens, but are they making our drives safer or more distracting? We break down the critical issues every car buyer needs to understand before committing to a screen-heavy interior.
Carvia InsightCarvia InsightTouchscreens force your eyes off the road, even for a split second, to confirm an input. Unlike physical buttons you can feel, this visual distraction significantly increases accident risk. Prioritize cars with physical controls for essential functions like climate and audio.
Carvia InsightWhile some brands like BMW (with iDrive) offer excellent hybrid solutions, others like Audi have moved towards all-touch interfaces, which can be a step backward in usability and safety. Research how your target vehicle handles controls – a good system balances screen utility with driver focus.
Carvia InsightBeyond safety, touchscreens are notorious for collecting fingerprints and reflecting glare, making them look constantly dirty and difficult to read. This detracts from a premium feel and can be a daily frustration. During your test drive, observe the screen in different lighting conditions and consider how often you'll want to clean it.
Carvia InsightTouchscreens are complex electronic components prone to glitches, freezing, or complete failure. When they break, you can lose access to critical car functions, and replacement costs can run into thousands of dollars. Always check service history for infotainment issues and factor potential repair costs into your budget.
Carvia InsightThe best solution combines the best of both worlds: a screen for navigation and infotainment, and physical buttons or dials for essential, frequently used controls. Look for vehicles that strike this balance, ensuring both convenience and safety on the road.
Carvia InsightPrioritize vehicles with physical controls for critical functions like climate, volume, and drive modes – your safety depends on it.
Always test the touchscreen's responsiveness, glare, and fingerprint resistance during your test drive, ideally in varied lighting.
Research common touchscreen issues and average replacement costs for any model you're considering; these can be significant.
Carvia InsightThis article is based on commentary from the provided video. Carvia.ai provides independent analysis and guidance.
Inspect the screen for excessive scratches, dead pixels, or signs of previous repair – red flags for future problems.
Look for hybrid control systems that offer a blend of screen functionality and tactile buttons for the most user-friendly experience.