Infotainment entered vehicle vocabulary over a decade ago to aptly describe a computer screen built into the dashboard that controls vehicle functions, from the radio to interior settings and your phone. Unfortunately, automakers have proven they aren’t very tech-savvy, as their vehicles have basically become iPads on wheels.
Here are 14 vehicles and brands with the worst infotainment systems, including old and new models.
2013-2017 Lexus LS Series
Lexus developed a unique infotainment system for the LS Series in the mid-2010s. Instead of using a touch screen or dials to control the screen, drivers and passengers use a pointer device installed in the center console. While the mouse-like device is unique compared to other vehicles, it requires putting your right arm on the armrest instead of reaching for dash-mounted buttons or a screen; it just doesn’t feel right.
2019-2020 Acura RDX
The Acura RDX infotainment system was plagued with software and hardware problems. Acura’s parent company, American Honda Motor Co, faced class-action lawsuits because the system, which provided essential safety information and a backup camera, would consistently crash.
Ford’s MyTouch 2011-2013
This flawed infotainment system experienced a class-action lawsuit. Ford forked over $17 million when drivers reported that their MyTouch systems would repeatedly become unresponsive and freeze while driving. There were also complaints that the GPS function didn’t provide correct information. You might want to avoid the 2011-2013 models if you’re looking for a used car.
Cadillac CUE
For a luxury vehicle, Cadillac’s CUE system had some issues. The touchscreen system would delaminate, bubble, and peel, affecting its look and function. Some rather essential basics seem to have been ignored, as CUE didn’t come with a physical volume button and required drivers to push the volume bottom up or down repeatedly.
Nissan Before 2016
Nissan’s infotainment system before 2016 was pretty outdated. It featured a small screen with low resolution and an annoying circle pad underneath for navigation. While there were some physical buttons, Nissan put some of the most important ones to the right of the circle, making them hard for drivers to reach.
2022 Volvo XC60
It’s not uncommon anymore, but the Volvo XC60’s screen is displayed vertically like an iPad. The only issue with an iPad-inspired infotainment screen is that the buttons are too small, distracting drivers from the road.
Subaru Outback Before 2017
Subaru recently updated its infotainment. Before 2017, its Starlink system was consistently laggy, making it challenging to maintain a Bluetooth connection. The built-in Starlink app also received its fair share of criticism for charging high prices for low-speed data.
Range Rover Velar
The Velar has a dual-screen setup called the Touch Pro Duo. It looks cool, but the whole thing is derailed by a slow and confusing experience that can frustrate users, especially since Range Rover is meant to be a luxury SUV.
BMW iDrive
BMW isn’t alone in having an overly complicated interface that makes basic features challenging to find. Users report having to drill three menus deep to change climate settings, which drivers and passengers frequently want to control.
Mazda Before 2024
Mazda only started to include a touchscreen in their vehicles in 2023. That’s a long time to wait. To be fair, unlike other manufacturers, Mazda seems to understand the effects of touchscreens on distracted driving. On the other hand, Mazda also recently started offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, but only when using the buttons on the dashboard, with no touch screen. This is a bit counterintuitive since half the reason to have software support is to make it easier to use your phone rather than relying on Mazda’s knob to guide you, which is cumbersome.
Toyota Entune Before 2021
Before Toyota launched its new infotainment software in 2021, they were known for having some of the buggiest, slowest features available. Overall, customers and dealers experienced major issues.
Maserati
Maserati used a system similar to Chrysler’s UConnect, which isn’t bad. The issue is having a Chrysler system in a vehicle that costs significantly more than a Chrysler.
INFINITI
INFINITI’s infotainment system was also subject to class-action lawsuits, with buyers feeling misled about how poorly the system worked. They reported instances of the InTouh system being slow, freezing, and often requiring rebooting.
Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac EVs
We listed General Motors’ EV lineup because they will not implement Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on their vehicles. Controlling vehicle settings via phone software or an infotainment system doesn’t make driving completely safe, but it can help reduce distracted driving. That said, General Motors claims the opposite.
The hard truth is that GM may follow suit with manufacturers like Audi, Porsche, and others who charge for service subscriptions. This might be around the corner for GM EV drivers, who receive three years of “App Access” to services like Spotify and Audible before, after which they will have to pay GM monthly.
Drivers Don’t Like Some Infotainment Systems
Infotainment systems were designed to enhance the driving experience, but too often, they’ve done the opposite—frustrating users with clunky designs, sluggish performance, or outright failures. Whether it’s a high-end luxury car or a more affordable option, drivers expect these systems to be intuitive and reliable, not sources of stress.
As automakers continue to innovate, one can only hope they prioritize functionality over gimmicks and remember that user experience is as important as horsepower.
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