Customizable Instrumentation

Customizable instrumentation is a technology that has transformed the driving experience over the past decade. Gone are the days of fixed needle gauges and small monochrome displays. Today, instrument clusters transform into true interactive and aesthetic command centers, enhancing comfort, safety, and the sensation of performance all at once.

What is customizable instrumentation?

Also known as the digital cockpit, digital instrument cluster, or through commercial names like Audi's Virtual Cockpit or Peugeot's i-Cockpit, this technology replaces all traditional gauges with a large digital display. Located behind the steering wheel, this screen offers total flexibility regarding the information displayed. The driver is no longer limited to a fixed layout; they can configure the display according to their immediate needs. The technology relies on a high-resolution LCD or TFT screen, managed by the vehicle's onboard computer. Navigation between the various menus and display modes is generally handled via dedicated buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.

The benefits of a performance-oriented digital cockpit

In the Performance category, customizable instrumentation truly comes into its own. It allows for the creation of an immersive driving environment focused on track-style driving.

• Focus on performance: In Sport or Race mode, the screen can display a large central tachymeter, a gear indicator, oil and coolant temperature gauges, or boost pressure. This information, crucial for dynamic driving, is thus highlighted.
• Driving analysis: Some systems integrate advanced features such as a lap timer for track days, an accelerometer (G-force meter), or real-time power and torque graphs.
• Instant adaptability: Switching from one driving mode to another (for example, from Comfort to Sport) instantly transforms the interface. The colors change, the dials rearrange themselves, and the onboard ambiance becomes sportier, preparing the driver for a more engaged driving experience.
• Integration of driver assistance systems: Even during spirited driving, safety remains paramount. The digital cockpit clearly displays Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) alerts without cluttering the main display, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road.

What information can be displayed?

The richness of digital cockpits lies in the variety of possible configurations. Here is a non-exhaustive list of common layouts:

• Classic View: Simulates two large dials (speed and engine speed) with secondary information in the center.
• Navigation View: Displays the GPS map in full screen, with speed and guidance instructions superimposed. This is one of the major assets for readability during trips.
• Sport/Performance View: Highlights a prominent central tachymeter, digital speed, and technical data (temperatures, turbo pressure).
• Eco-Driving View: Prioritizes efficiency indicators, remaining range, and tips to reduce fuel consumption.
• Minimalist View: Displays only essential information (speed, engaged gear, fuel level) for distraction-free driving.

A democratized yet differentiated technology

While premium manufacturers like Audi (Virtual Cockpit), BMW (Live Cockpit Professional), and Mercedes-Benz (MBUX) were the pioneers, customizable instrumentation is now available across most mass-market brands, including Volkswagen (Digital Cockpit), Peugeot (i-Cockpit®), and Renault. Each manufacturer develops its own interface, featuring ergonomics, design, and functionalities unique to the brand, contributing to its identity. Often offered as an option on mid-range trims and as standard on high-end and sports versions, it has become a major purchasing criterion for many buyers looking for a modern and technologically advanced vehicle.