Mazda Ditches Commander Knob for Touchscreen in CX-5 Redesign

Mazda's bold move aims to balance flexibility and safety in its new infotainment system

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:07pm

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An abstract, sweeping image of a Mazda CX-5 vehicle in motion, with vibrant streaks of color and a sense of speed and energy, conceptually representing Mazda's innovative approach to in-vehicle technology.Mazda's bold move to replace the traditional controller knob with a touchscreen in the CX-5 infotainment system reflects the company's commitment to providing a more flexible and user-friendly driving experience.Novato Today

Mazda has made the decision to replace the traditional controller knob with a touchscreen in the new infotainment system for its CX-5 model. This strategic move is driven by the company's goal to provide a more flexible and user-friendly in-vehicle experience while prioritizing driver safety and minimizing distractions.

Why it matters

Mazda's shift from a commander knob to a touchscreen interface reflects the evolving consumer expectations and the need to adapt to emerging technologies like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. By offering multiple control methods, Mazda aims to strike a balance between accessibility and safety, ensuring drivers can stay focused on the road while accessing various vehicle functions.

The details

Mazda's project manager of in-vehicle technologies and human-machine interfaces, Matthew Valbuena, explains that the new Mazda Connect with Google Built-In system is designed to keep drivers engaged and minimize distractions. The touchscreen interface, inspired by the iPod Touch, offers greater flexibility and access to over 350 in-vehicle apps. Valbuena emphasizes that Mazda's philosophy of prioritizing driver safety remains unchanged, with the inclusion of voice recognition and dedicated buttons on the steering wheel to complement the touchscreen controls.

  • Mazda introduced the commander knob over a decade ago.
  • The new Mazda Connect with Google Built-In system is being introduced in the 2026 CX-5 model.

The players

Matthew Valbuena

Mazda's project manager of in-vehicle technologies and human-machine interfaces.

Mazda

An automotive manufacturer that has made the decision to replace the traditional controller knob with a touchscreen in its new infotainment system.

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What they’re saying

“We must prioritize driver safety and minimize distractions. By providing multiple control methods, including voice recognition and dedicated buttons on the steering wheel, we ensure that drivers can stay engaged with the road while accessing various vehicle functions.”

— Matthew Valbuena, Mazda's project manager of in-vehicle technologies and human-machine interfaces

“The touchscreen interface, inspired by the iPod Touch, offers greater flexibility and access to over 350 in-vehicle apps.”

— Matthew Valbuena, Mazda's project manager of in-vehicle technologies and human-machine interfaces

What’s next

Mazda is considering introducing the touchscreen interface to other models in its lineup, ensuring a balanced approach to technology integration and maintaining its focus on driver safety and user-friendly experiences.

The takeaway

Mazda's decision to replace the controller knob with a touchscreen in the CX-5's infotainment system reflects the company's commitment to adapting to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. By prioritizing driver safety and providing a more flexible and intuitive user experience, Mazda aims to set a new standard in the automotive industry.