When Form Fails Function: Top 10 Vehicle Design Flaws
When Form Fails Function: Top 10 Vehicle Design Flaws
While every car model has its unique features and characteristics, some have design flaws that can be frustrating or even dangerous.
Whether stemming from aesthetic pursuits or attempts to introduce innovative features, these missteps highlight the complex nature of vehicle design.
Here are 10 notable design flaws from various models that consumers absolutely hate.
Complicated Infotainment Systems
Flaw: Many modern cars come with touchscreen infotainment systems that control everything from radio to air conditioning. However, overly complicated systems can distract drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
Example: The early versions of Cadillac's CUE system were often criticized for being non-intuitive and laggy.
Poor Visibility
Flaw: Design trends towards sleeker, sportier profiles often mean smaller windows and bigger blind spots.
Example: The Chevrolet Camaro's stylish design offers a menacing look but at the expense of rear and side visibility.
Door Design
Christian Geischeder, Wikimedia Commons
Flaw: Some car doors, especially "suicide doors" or those that open in unconventional ways, can be less practical and might pose risks in tight spaces.
Example: While the rear-hinged doors of the Mazda RX-8 looked cool, they were often impractical in tight parking spaces.
Touch-Sensitive Controls
Flaw: Replacing tactile buttons with touch-sensitive controls can be problematic, especially for drivers who prefer to adjust settings without looking.
Example: Some iterations of the Honda Civic used touch sliders for volume control, which weren't always responsive.