The all-new CX-5 has arrived, and while the exterior design remains largely unchanged, the interior has undergone a significant transformation. Mazda has opted for a sleek, buttonless look, replacing physical controls with a large touchscreen interface.

This change has sparked debate among users on social media, with comments such as “No buttons, no buy,” “I need separate controls for AC, heating, and audio,” and “I can’t accept the removal of the rotary knob.”

However, Mazda stands by its decision, citing customer feedback as the driving force behind this update. Tamara Mlynarczyk, Director of Communications for Mazda North America, explained that the new user interface was developed to enhance convenience while upholding Mazda’s philosophy of safe driving. “The CX-5’s shift from a rotary knob to a touchscreen reduces the need to take your hands off the wheel,” Mlynarczyk told Motor1.

The new touchscreen houses various functions, including climate control, navigation, and audio. Voice recognition and steering wheel-mounted controls further enhance the driving experience by minimizing distractions.

The controversial new touchscreen on the Mazda CX-5. Image: Mazda.

This marks a turning point for Mazda, a brand known for its classic interface. However, the company is evolving, and the CX-5 is not alone in its minimalist approach. The electric EZ-6 and EZ-60 models sold in China also boast spacious, screen-centric dashboards.

Mazda is not alone in this trend, as luxury automakers like BMW have also bid farewell to the control knob in their front-wheel-drive models. The upcoming Neue Klasse range will also forgo this feature.

As Mazda embraces this new design language, the question arises: Will future models, including the highly anticipated MX-5 and rotary-engined offerings, follow suit? For enthusiasts who cherish physical buttons, the prospect of a large screen dominating the cabin could be a deal-breaker.

Recommended Reads for Your Journey

Our ‘Xe’ section offers a diverse range of captivating books to accompany you on your travels. These titles provide engaging company during those restful moments between destinations.

You may also like

The Mazda Scandal: Unraveling the ‘Ins and Outs’ of the Devastating Lawsuit

The Monroney sticker, a mandatory feature on automobiles sold in the US, has landed Mazda in hot water with a federal lawsuit alleging that the company falls short of its advertised promises.

“Mazda’s Strategic Shift: Hybrids Take Center Stage, with a Cautious Approach to Electric Vehicles.”

Mazda has unveiled its long-term product strategy for the coming years, offering a glimpse into its future plans and vision. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the company aims to chart a new course for the automotive industry.

The All-New Mazda CX-5: Unveiling Soon in Southeast Asia, Anticipating its Arrival in Vietnam

The all-new Mazda CX-5 is a highly anticipated vehicle in the Vietnamese market. However, it seems that Vietnamese customers will have to wait a little longer to get their hands on this latest model.

Why Mazda CX-5 Replaced Buttons with a Touchscreen: Giving Customers What They Want

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – this age-old adage is often touted when it comes to successful formulas. However, Mazda has bravely defied this notion by revolutionizing the interior of their vehicles. In a bold move, they have replaced nearly all physical buttons and knobs with a large touchscreen display.

The All-New Mazda Electric Sedan: Now Available in Europe, with a Price Tag That’s Hard to Ignore.

The Mazda 6e is set to arrive at European dealerships this summer, but its price tag is creating a stir for all the wrong reasons.