VIDEO: Are Reconfigurable Gauge Clusters For The WIN Or For The LOSS?

First, we were given those large laptop screens that essentially digitized our instrument clusters in high-end automobiles. Now we're being provided digital, reconfigurable gauge clusters to enhance our driving experience.

To be found in cars like the 2012 Lexus LFA, 2013 BMW 5-Series, 7-Series, 2013 Cadillac XTS -- as seen below -- and likely a plethora of new cars coming forward, these new reconfigurable clusters will likely become the new automotive standard.

But does that mean we have to like them?

In a vehicle like the LFA where the motor is so high strung and revs so fast that a digital rev counter is the ONLY way the tach can keep up, I understand a digital readout's purpose. However, in a luxo-barge, I am not seeing what's so damn hot about them.

I don't know about you guys and girls but I stare at multiple monitors a day. The last place I want to see ANOTHER screen -- assuming you don't already have navigation -- is in my car.

Enough of what I think though, what are your sentiments?

Are reconfigurable gauge clusters the wave of the future or merely another thing that will ultimately go wrong in a high-tech flop?


The unprecedented available Reconfigurable Gauge Cluster in the XTS allows you to customize your instruments, giving you a whole new level of control.

Vroooom - 6/12/2012 8:53:45 AM

+3 Boost

For those of us that become bored with their cars very quick I think this will help. I love the idea of changing and only displaying the info I want to see.

dotuno - 6/12/2012 11:00:32 AM

+2 Boost

It promises great flexibility. The most important thing is that there is no glitch: I can see a car maker getting sued (perhaps rightfully so) because the driver did not know his current speed when his gauge cluster suddenly switched away from the speedometer to entertainment mode.

Steve - 6/12/2012 11:15:33 AM

+1 Boost

Remonds me of Bruce Springstein's song: 57 Channels and Nothing On. Having a lot of *great* choices is great. Having a lot of choices and only one usable one...not so much.

CarCrazedinCali - 6/12/2012 2:41:51 PM

+1 Boost

I love the idea of customization in the guage cluster, graphics are fun too. I am excited to see this integration applied to more cars.