Cars shift to buttons, knobs, according to USA Today.
For generations, having an automatic transmission has meant using a lever on the car’s console or steering column to change gears.
But with more electronic transmission controls eliminating the need for a mechanical shift control, it’s no longer as familiar or simple. Knobs, toggles and push buttons are coming on strong to give cars a more high-tech feel in their controls. Examples:
• Lincoln. A row of push-buttons on the center dashboard control shifting selections in the new MKC crossover.
• Chrysler. The new 200 midsize sedan has a rotary knob shifter on the console, much like the Ram 1500 pickup, which puts the device on the dashboard.
• Acura. Honda’s luxury brand is just now launching its key new TLX midsize sedan, which uses a push-button array on the console in place of a traditional gear lever in V-6 models. Acura says that frees up center-console space while making it look futuristic.