Nearly two-thirds of UK drivers would prefer physical buttons and dials to touchscreen-only controls, according to research from Allianz UK. 

A car’s dashboard can make a real difference to how comfortable it feels to drive. Adjusting the temperature, finding the windscreen demister or changing the volume should be straightforward, particularly when those are functions used on almost every journey.

New research suggests many drivers feel these everyday tasks have become more complicated. While digital displays offer plenty of useful features, the findings raise a practical question about how easily drivers can access them.

What did the research find?

Allianz UK reports that 65% of UK drivers favour physical buttons and dials over touchscreen-only controls. Younger motorists showed the strongest preference, with 77% of those aged 18–25 wanting physical controls back.

The findings also highlight concerns about distraction. Three-quarters of respondents said touchscreens and infotainment systems had increased distraction in recent years. Meanwhile, 29% reported a touchscreen-related near-miss, accident or situation requiring heavy braking within the previous three years.

The research was published in October 2026. Allianz’s wider international online survey included 1,200 drivers aged 18 and over in each of nine countries, including the UK. These figures reflect respondents’ experiences and opinions rather than independently verified collision records.

Why do drivers still want dashboard buttons?

Physical controls give everyday functions a fixed location and a response that can be felt. Once familiar with the layout, a driver may find a temperature dial or volume button easier to locate without searching through a display.

A touchscreen can require several steps to reach the same setting. If the controls sit within different menus, even a simple adjustment can take more attention than expected.

In Allianz’s survey, common frustrations included complicated menus, lengthy scrolling, small touch areas, slow responses and the absence of physical feedback.

The practical issue is how much attention a task requires. A large display may look clear and well organised when parked, but the controls also need to be straightforward to use during everyday journeys.

Getting familiar with a new dashboard

Before setting off, set the navigation, choose any audio and adjust the cabin temperature. Learn where the controls for visibility and essential driving functions are located.

If an unfamiliar setting needs attention during a journey, stop somewhere safe before working through the menus. Driver assistance features should not be treated as a substitute for staying focused on the road.

Research source: Allianz UK, “Pressing issue: UK drivers want dashboard buttons back”, published 23 October 2026.