Hi Brydo,
Agree. A whole new ball game. In aviation, when converting onto a new aircraft, the first part of the course is technical ground school, enforced by simulator visits to practice system operation and normal plus non normal check lists.
perhaps it is time for the manufactures to develop an app to replicate their tablet- mimicking control systems – some of which are allegedly much better thought out than others. Are you listening, VAG? The software engineers could then give new owners an opportunity to practice accessing their multi layered menu systems, with some explanation of the functions.
My personal experience of these new systems is restricted to last generation technology VAG, now extended by an order for the old school Touran. Despite having had a career multitasking in ergonomically sophisticated Boeings, I would find touch screen icons and menus a dangerous distraction, especially on a winding, pot hole infested B road on a wet winters night. Safety has taken a backwards step, imho. De misting, for example, should be an accessible, easy to locate button, with tactile positive feedback. Eyes on the road.