Mazda's New CX-5 Goes All-Touch, Eliminating Physical Buttons for Safety

Mazda's upcoming CX-5 model is set to eliminate physical buttons for climate control and central functions, adopting a comprehensive touch interface. This design shift has sparked discussion among enthusiasts, but Mazda asserts the move prioritizes driver safety and reduces distraction.

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The new generation CX-5 uses a higher-positioned, larger central screen, allowing the driver to take their eyes off the road for less time when operating vehicle functions.

Koichiro Yamaguchi, CX-5 vehicle line manager, explained that the new system features a higher-positioned, larger central screen. He argued that traditional buttons, often located lower on the dashboard, require drivers to look down, increasing the risk of distraction. By integrating controls into the touchscreen, Mazda aims to minimize the time drivers' eyes leave the road.

The new CX-5 will offer either a 12.9-inch or 15.6-inch touchscreen. While climate functions are now touch-operated, frequently used controls like temperature and fan speed will remain fixed at the bottom of the screen for easier access. Yamaguchi believes this setup shortens the time drivers' eyes are off the road, thus improving safety compared to the previous model.

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Traditional air conditioning buttons are usually located lower on the center console, requiring the driver to look down to find the function keys, and facing many buttons with similar appearances can increase operation time and distraction.

Despite the emphasis on safety, Yamaguchi acknowledged that Mazda will observe market reactions and user habits. If a significant portion of owners express a preference for physical buttons, the company is open to reconsidering the design and potentially reintroducing some traditional controls.

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If most owners prefer physical buttons, Mazda will not rule out adjusting the design direction to bring some traditional buttons back to the cabin configuration.