Customer Feedback:Audi Explains Why Some Physical Controls Are Returning

Audi’s stunning Concept C not only previews a future electric sports car but also introduces a new design language and a more ergonomic interior layout. Weve been promised a return to proper controls by going back to physical buttons and switches for frequently used functions. Although the performance EV isn’t expected until later this decade, Ingolstadt is already making improvements by addressing some interior issues that have affected recent models. In a surprising but welcome announcement, Audi is getting rid of the touch sliders on the steering wheels of five models. The A5, Q5, A6, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron will now have physical rollers to control the volume and navigate the digital screen’s menus. It’s a small change, but a step in the right direction nonetheless. This change is surprising, considering all five cars are still new models. In fact, the newest A6 was launched just a few months ago in both sedan and wagon versions. The A5, Q5, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron are also not much older, having all made their debut last year. So why the rush to bring back physical rollers? We asked Audi what triggered this change, and the company admitted it was responding to customer requests for traditional controls. In an email to Motor1, spokesperson Michael Crusius explained what led to the steering wheel updates.: Audi recently committed to enhancing its interiors in other ways as well. A few months ago, in an open interview with Motor1 Germany, the company admitted that interior quality had declined in recent years but promised a comeback. Oscar da Silva Martins, Head of Product and Technology Communication, stated: Audi isn’t alone. Many car manufacturers have gone too far with cost-cutting, using cheaper materials while relying heavily on oversized screens and finicky touch controls. Even worse, some cars make you use the touchscreen for almost everything after removing most separate controls. The Concept C aims to revive the glory days of car interiors with anodized aluminum physical controls and what the company calls the unmistakable “Audi click.” It’s a future we can’t wait for. Hopefully, aspects of the Concept C’s simple yet refined interior will soon appear across the entire Audi lineup. The two-seater targa EV is expected around 2027, so we’ll likely see more major updates to the rest of the range toward the end of the decade.