In-Car Infotainment Systems Linked to Driver Distraction
New research shows how complex dashboard menus can take your eyes off the road for several seconds.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Car Types
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University of Newcastle researchers tested 10 different in-car infotainment systems to determine how screen interactions impact driver attention. The study revealed that navigation complexity significantly increases the time drivers spend looking away from the road.
Why it matters
Understanding how infotainment design impacts safety helps drivers compare vehicle technology and recognize the risks of complex dashboard interfaces. The study aimed to provide manufacturers and regulators with better data to improve future vehicle designs.
The study analyzed 10 systems, finding the Cupra Ateca requires 11 steps and diverts eyes for six seconds per task, compared to Apple CarPlay which needs two steps and just over one second of distraction.
The players
University of Newcastle
An Australian research institution that led the three-year investigation into driver distraction and automotive interface design.
Apple CarPlay
A widely used automotive software interface developed by the technology giant to mirror mobile phone functionality on vehicle dashboards.
Cupra
The high-performance vehicle brand whose Ateca infotainment system was evaluated for its menu complexity during the study.
The details
Researchers used specialized eye-tracking glasses to monitor driver concentration lapses during infotainment interaction. Each system was scored by the number of steps required to complete tasks, with results modeled at 60km/h. At that speed, a two-second distraction results in the vehicle traveling 33 meters without the driver looking at the road.
Timeline
The University of Newcastle conducted the research over a three-year period.
The Home Front
This research follows the standardized safety assessments established by the AAA driver distraction test tool to quantify visual demand. It marks a push to bring human-factors engineering into the consumer-facing evaluation of modern in-car technology.
Before hitting the road, take time to familiarize yourself with your car's menu structure while the vehicle is safely parked in your driveway. If your system requires multiple steps for routine adjustments, consider setting up your presets or playlists before you put the car in drive.
The takeaway
The complexity of your dashboard menu directly correlates to how long you are driving blind. To improve safety, minimize manual screen interaction by configuring your display preferences and navigation destinations before you begin your trip.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in vehicle interfaces in our Car Types section.
More information
For a full breakdown of the testing criteria, visit the AAA driver distraction test tool.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Perth Now.
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Do you feel that modern in-car touchscreen systems make it harder for you to drive safely?
