As covered previously, GM is set to debut an interior update for the C8 Corvette in conjunction with the upcoming 2026 model year. GM Authority’s spy photographers have already caught prototypes of the Corvette interior update out and about for testing, revealing a major change to the dash, center stack, central infotainment screen, and HVAC controls. Assuming GM will indeed remove the central wall of buttons and HVAC controls seen on the current model, the question then becomes this – how will the 2026 Corvette interior update handle the climate controls?
2025 Corvette interior
In the current C8 Corvette, the climate controls are laid out in a distinctive vertical strip of physical buttons. This “wall of buttons” runs along the center divider between driver and passenger, sloping down from the dash and tapering into the console. It includes tactile switches for adjusting fan speed, temperature, seat heating/cooling, and other HVAC functions. While this design offers quick access to climate controls without crowding the touchscreen, it’s also been criticized for being visually busy and difficult to navigate without looking.
Now, as GM redesigns the Corvette’s interior for 2026, we’re left wondering – how will climate control be handled in the absence (or modification) of the current button wall? Well, based on the most recent spy images, we see three potential directions GM could take.
2026 Corvette interior update compared to 2025
Knobs And Buttons
GM may adopt a more traditional arrangement of knobs and buttons positioned below the new infotainment screen. This approach would preserve tactile functionality while offering a cleaner aesthetic. It’s a popular setup in many luxury sports cars and could be easily integrated into the redesigned center stack. It also reduces driver distraction by offering more intuitive control.
Lower Wall Of Buttons
Another route GM might take is to redesign the button wall to be lower than it is currently. While the original vertical wall appears to be gone in the recent spy photos, it’s unclear whether or not a shortened or recessed wall remains hidden below window line. If true, the new lower wall would allow GM to retain the benefits of physical buttons while modernizing the dash layout and accommodating the screen upgrade.
2026 Corvette interior update compared to 2025
Migration To The Touchscreen
The third option would be to move the HVAC controls onto the infotainment display. While this might simplify the dashboard design and streamline the interface, it also comes at the cost of tactile feedback. In a performance-oriented car like the Corvette, where drivers often make adjustments while in motion, relying solely on screen inputs could lead to frustration. Even if the screen is larger and more responsive, the absence of physical buttons could be a dealbreaker for some.
2025 Corvette interior
Of course, a hybrid approach is also on the table, blending touchscreen HVAC functions with physical controls for the most frequently used settings, such as temperature and fan speed. This would strike a balance between modern tech and practical ergonomics, potentially satisfying both camps (or neither, as the case may be).
So, Corvette fans, what’s your take? Should GM stick with buttons, embrace the screen, or aim for some kind of middle ground? Let us know how you’d design the new Corvette cockpit by posting in the comments below.
Comments
I prefer physical buttons! Moving everything to the Touch Screen would be a major inconvenience in my opinion.
Leave it alone. The buttons are perfectly placed now. I love my 2021!!!!
Keep it simple! Large buttons for the GEEZERS who can afford a CORVETTE.
Use the new S-650 Mustang as an example of what not to do with a screen.
You shouldn’t have to pull over to the side of the road to change temperature or select your favorite radio station. If you want screens, stay home, don’t drive, and play with your cell phone. I’ll feel much safer on the highway!
Why not create a couple of affordable models before sales volumes put Corvette out of business.
I love the wall of buttons. No other Manufacturer is bold enough to try this.
It’s one thing that draws comments from friends. And I do mean positive comments.
If your wife feels isolated in the passenger seat, let her drive once in a while. The other option is for her to stay home.
The wall of buttons is fine. Since my wife is no longer interested in bending over the console everything is fine with me.
How about a base motor that isn’t a warmed over suburban engine?
Leave the buttons alone i love my 22 love the wall ,thank you Frank
I got $20 says the wall is still there. That picture was just taken at the right angle to look different. If they did anything they might have lowered it.
Leaked photos were all over the internet before GM had them all taken down. The buttons are gone from the wall, and the wall now has an opening so it works as a grab handle. The leaked photos did not, however, show where the controls ended up.
What this article really says is GMA has absolutely no idea what the controls that are no longer on the wall are going to look like or where they’re going to be. The whole article is clickbait.
Migrate the functions to the touchscreen devising a smart, intuitive interface and provide a voice interface as well so the driver can use voice commands to accomplish the desired climate control changes.
I havnt used my wall buttons yet.All I do is say…Hey Google, change my…and it’s done.