Knobs and buttons are making a comeback at Ford. The automaker revealed in a release today that future Fords will combine touch-screen displays with the knobs and buttons to which most drivers are accustomed.
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Sync and MyFord Touch have helped Ford raise average transaction prices, but the connectivity technologies have also contributed to huge drops in customer satisfaction as measured in various surveys. Ford points to the full-size F-150 as an example of successful MyFord Touch execution, noting that models with the feature have a quality satisfaction rate of 86 percent. The 2013 Ford Taurus' interior is shown above; the 2013 F-150's center stack is displayed at right.
Ford has attempted to increase customer satisfaction with MyFord Touch with downloadable upgrades, and another one is coming this summer. By the time the 2015 Ford Mustang debuts, we'd expect to see models with MyFord Touch to use this blend of buttons, knobs, and a touch-screen display, to make the system easier to use.
We got our first preview of Apple's "iOS in the Car" system last week, yet another example of increasing competition with vehicle connectivity systems. As Ford prepares complete redesigns of its two most iconic vehicles -- the F-150 and Mustang -- a combination of knobs, buttons, and touch screens should serve Ford well in dealerships and quality surveys.
Source: Ford
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