In a notable evolution of its popular CX-5 vehicle, Mazda has introduced a revamped interior for the third-generation model, largely abandoning traditional physical buttons and rotary dials in favor of a sleek, minimalist design dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system. This transformation marks a considerable divergence from the automaker's long-standing emphasis on tactile controls, a feature often praised by drivers for enhancing ergonomics and safety. The CX-5, which has amassed nearly five million sales since its 2012 debut, stands as Mazda's top-selling model, making this interior overhaul a significant strategic decision.
This shift has, however, sparked debate among automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike. Many voices in online communities and comments sections have expressed a clear preference for the utility of conventional buttons, citing concerns over ergonomics, ease of use, and the potential for distraction that touchscreens can present while driving. Familiar controls for climate, audio, and navigation functions are deeply ingrained in the driving experience for many, leading to apprehension about their removal.
Mazda's public affairs manager for North American Operations, Tamara Mlynarczyk, clarified the company's stance, indicating that the decision was informed by internal research suggesting a customer desire for expansive infotainment displays. The new human-machine interface (HMI) in the CX-5 prioritizes a touchscreen setup to minimize drivers' hand movements from the steering wheel. This is complemented by advanced voice recognition capabilities for controlling various vehicle functions, such as air conditioning, audio, and navigation, along with human-centric steering wheel controls designed to reduce cognitive load on the driver.
This reorientation toward a less physical control scheme is not exclusive to the new CX-5. Other models, including the EZ-6 electric sedan (also known as the 6e in some markets) and the EZ-60 electric crossover, already showcase this design direction, albeit with some roots in Mazda's joint venture with Changan in China. However, the new CX-5's global reach signifies Mazda's commitment to this button-less future across its core product line. Even some premium brands like BMW have begun to phase out rotary controllers in their front-wheel-drive models and upcoming electric vehicles, further underscoring a broader industry trend towards simplified, screen-dominated cockpits.
The move represents a substantial philosophical shift for Mazda, a company that previously championed driver engagement and safety through intuitive, analog controls. As recently as 2019, when the Mazda3 was launched, the company’s lead engineer for HMI and infotainment, Matthew Valbuena, highlighted concerns about touchscreens inducing unintended steering inputs and requiring drivers to divert their gaze from the road. The evolving landscape of automotive technology and consumer expectations is clearly influencing Mazda's design ethos, prompting a reevaluation of what constitutes a preferred and safe in-car experience.
Whether this minimalist interior trend will permeate all future Mazda offerings, particularly iconic models like the Miata or forthcoming rotary sports cars, remains a point of speculation and hope for many traditionalists. The integration of large, centralized screens presents a distinct aesthetic and functional departure that could prove to be a make-or-break factor for certain segments of the driving public who value a more tactile and less visually demanding interface.
The automotive industry is in constant flux, balancing technological innovation with driver preferences. Mazda’s latest interior design, while aligning with certain emerging consumer demands for integrated digital experiences, also highlights the ongoing dialogue within the car community regarding the ideal balance between digital interfaces and traditional, physical controls. The success of this new design approach will ultimately be determined by how well it resonates with a diverse customer base and if it truly enhances the overall driving experience.