Mazda does things differently, especially when it comes to their CX-90 PHEV’s infotainment system. Unlike most cars, this system doesn’t always work as a touchscreen. Instead, it only accepts touch inputs when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, this feature is only available in certain trims, like our PHEV Premium Plus.
If you have a different trim, you won’t have touchscreen capabilities. This applies to models with a 10.25-inch screen, while the ones with a 12.3-inch screen do have touch controls.
It’s odd that Mazda limits touch controls to higher trim levels, as it’s not considered a luxury feature. Even cheaper models like the CX-50, CX-5, and Miata have touch control, despite having smaller screens.
But if your CX-90 doesn’t have touch controls, there’s still hope. Mazda has set up shortcut buttons around the rotary control knob to handle CarPlay and Android Auto functions. This can actually be quicker and more convenient than using the touchscreen.
For example, pressing the “Media” button quickly opens your default music player. There’s also a “back” button for navigating through apps and a “home” button for accessing the CarPlay/Android Auto app drawer.
Using the rotary knob and shortcut buttons while driving feels safer and quicker than trying to use the touchscreen. It’s a more efficient way to get things done, although some tasks are still better with touch control, like navigating through certain apps.
Having both touchscreen and rotary knob controls would make life easier for CX-90 owners. It’s a matter of personal preference, but having both options would be more convenient for everyone.
