Though problems with vehicle media have fallen slightly, infotainment features continue to bedevil the average driver.

Responding to J.D. Power’s latest auto media quality and satisfaction poll, drivers noted two fewer problems per 100 vehicles to 42. But infotainment problems linger, with a modest uptick.

Digital controls on large touchscreens are at the heart of the problems with their complex interfaces, J.D. Power found. The controls don’t tend to be intuitive, which presents problems when one needs to pay attention to the road.

“Vehicle owners desire technology that is easy to use and minimizes distractions while driving,” said Lisa Boor, J.D. Power senior manager of auto benchmarking and mobility development in the company’s report. “User frustration builds when controls are confusing and screens are cluttered.”

A better setup for drivers would be a mix of touchscreens and traditional three-dimensional buttons, the company advises automakers.

J.D. Power conducted the poll from June 2024 to this past May, questioning nearly 93,000 buyers and lessees of new 2025 vehicles after three months of use.

Vehicle models that achieved the highest scores among drivers are, by segment:

• BMW X4 SUV – small-compact premium 

• Kia K4 car – small-compact mass-market

• BMW X6 crossover SUV – midsize-large premium

• Nissan Murano crossover SUV – midsize-large mass-market 

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