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Are there any modern cars that don't feature a touchscreen for controls?

We’ve owned a 2011 VW Golf as a second car since it was almost new and have been very happy with it. Now think we should update it for something newer. Our problem is there’s a sea of similar cars in the market place and would like some advice as what to replace it with. As we’re in our mid 70’s we think an automatic would suit as better now and as we have a wall charger could charge a hybrid car. We don’t have a budget but would prefer something with knobs instead of controls that are changed from a touch screen. Can you suggest some suitable models to start with as a short list?

Asked on 22 November 2024 by peter kelly

Answered by David Ross
Unfortunately there are very few brand new cars that do not have touchscreens, although it appears that the tide is turning somewhat on screens and Euro NCAP is looking at changing its testing guidelines from 2026 so that certain functions must be controlled via physical buttons. As for brand-new cars, certain Mazda models, basic Dacias and the entry-level Citroen C3 have partial or no touchscreen functionality, but as this is generally a feature applied to lower specification cars you are unlikely to find a new car without a touchscreen. We would suggest looking at a younger used version of cars such as the Kia Niro PHEV, Audi A3 e-tron or BMW 330e, which would offer the plug-in facility but do not have all their functions operated through a touchscreen.
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