Swedish Study Finds Newer Cars Demand More Attention Behind the Wheel

If you’ve ever fumbled with a touchscreen while driving, you’re not alone, and a new study from Sweden suggests the problem is actually getting worse. Researchers tested the latest infotainment systems and found that many modern cars require drivers to take their eyes off the road longer than older models do.

That’s a troubling trend, especially since automakers have had years to refine these interfaces.

The study measured how long it took drivers to complete basic tasks like adjusting the radio or climate controls. In many newer vehicles, those tasks demanded several seconds of visual focus, time that could mean the difference between a close call and a crash. Older cars, with their physical buttons and knobs, allowed drivers to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

So why haven’t manufacturers improved? Experts point to a design philosophy that prioritizes sleek, minimalist interiors over usability. The result: drivers are left struggling with menus and touch-sensitive sliders that require more concentration than a simple dial. For now, the safest bet might be to master your car’s voice commands, or stick with the old-school buttons if you have them.