Well there you go. I think it's clear to say that you have an opinion based primarily on function.

I cannot speak for everyone, but better buttons are going to make me appreciate the vehicle even more so. If I don't feel that certain interior parts aren't up to my standards, then I will ultimately be less happy with the vehicle.

Anyways, I find this a very frustrating debate as it's endless and extremely complicated... Don't get me wrong, I can understand where you're coming from. There have been a number of vehicles where people complained about a certain aspect of their interior when I deemed what they were saying completely unfathomable and overly picky.

In the end, We all like what we like; it's just a matter of opinion.

I pretty much have to look at the buttons every time I drive my car. Dont you, seriously? ... or do you close your eyes when coming into your car!

So if something bothers me, it will surely pop out and aggravate me. An this does not only apply to cars. If any interface bothers me, I will not use it... be it a software application, stereo systems, phone, etc.

I can safely say that it's those little things that annoy the most. For example, a rattle in the car. It's something small and doesn't affect the driving. But it will drive you insane.

The perception of luxury isn't just looks. It's a combination of all senses. A button can look ok, but if it doesn't feel right, it will annoy you as a consumer. I don't know about the other manufacturers, but I know for a fact that BMW has teams dedicated for the smell of the car interior. Yes, a team.

I don't think it's out of the question to expect so much. The better the car, the better the driving experience. And in the end, that's what matters most.

Yes, now that (rattle in the car) is something to be concern with. That is your safety.

Now as far as smell.... Every new car from Honda to Bugatti usually has an excellent "new car smell" except maybe a few. That usually the least of my concern IMO.

Exactly a good car does provide and excellent driving experience, that why small thing like buttons don't concern me as they do others.

Yes, and thats about it a glance. I understand your point of view. It's just I could care less about buttons. Harder or "sparkling" buttons just don't make my driving experience any better.

I want to know how fast it is, can I use the navigation with out problems, that it will hold up if I get in an accident and that it makes me look good(not that I need it, but it helps ).

I hope it doesn't seem like I'm trying to debate back and forth with you and bruce. I understand your points.

Plus I appreciate everyones input. That was the goal of this thread to know what you all expect and why you expect it.

A rattle is purely an acoustic problem. It is definitely not a safety concern, but it will piss you off if it is constantly there. For example, if the arm rest is rattling, you will find that the noise is makes ruins your driving experience.

Imo, if something doesn't look or feel right, no matter how good the car is, you will not enjoy the experience as much.

I think it is a very healthy debate.

I honestly believe that the look and feel of every aspect of the vehicle needs to reassuringly exude quality. The interfaces needs to be simple and intuitive to use as well.
Be it the buttons, a gear lever, seat-belt, seats etc- the concept of TQM(Total Quality Management) needs to be employed.
It also helps when you have a set of competent people at the dealerships to handle your problems should the need arise.

I'm looking for a car that feels solid in every respect, and an interior that is seemingly indestructible. This I see in cars like the Phaeton, but seldom anywhere else.

Just make sure everything I touch in the cabin lasts and feels good, and I'm pretty satisfied.