When the Mk8 Golf GTI was released, one of the biggest criticisms from analysts and car enthusiasts was the complexity of the infotainment system. Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer made a statement about the infotainment system
Volkswagen will make a radical change in the infotainment system
Speaking to Car Magazine, Schäfer admitted that mistakes were made in the MIB3 infotainment system and some electric vehicles, which we encounter in other vehicles in the series as well as the Mk8 Golf. Stating that they will solve the problems as soon as possible, Schäfer said, “We know what we need to do. We evaluate the feedback we receive from our customers, the press and our dealers. If you know something is not good enough, you should change it.’”
Stating that they have accelerated the work on the new software, Schäfer said that they will add more features to the infotainment system. Volkswagen owners will be able to easily control features such as seat heating and ambient lighting via the infotainment system.
Underlining that the improvements will not be limited to software, Schäfer stated that the hardware such as touch capacitive buttons on the steering wheel of VW’s vehicles will also be renewed. However, Schäfer said that new hardware developments will take place in vehicles in 2024.
Schäfer stated that the board of directors meets monthly to check the progress of improvements in the infotainment system and closely monitors the work. Stating that his colleagues are prejudiced about the technologies they produce, Schäfer said, “Now we receive more consultancy services than before. If you ask our employees, they will say that the technologies we have developed are great. It is necessary to consult different people and institutions in order to prevent such prejudiced thoughts.” said.
Schäfer said that in the future, Volkswagen and many of its brands will work to create brand identities that make their vehicles’ interiors more consistent. This move is expected to make it easier for customers to find things like the start button, volume controls, and hazard warning flashers.