The new Audi Q3 has a unique functionality for the steering wheel switches: the right one acts as a gear selector, while the left one is responsible for other functions, including turn signals, as well as wiper and headlight modes.
Some drivers believe it's an overly complicated solution that could pose a safety issue - the last thing anyone wants is to accidentally turn off their headlights when they should have been signaling. Others, however, find it appealing.
Audi may have intended to simplify the controls, but it has caused some frustration among drivers. It should be noted, however, that when Tesla replaced the steering wheel-mounted switches with buttons (physical and digital) in the Model 3, the brand's fans greeted the change with indignation, but then got used to it.
Audi's approach may be different, but it's not exactly a stress-free way to drive. The whole idea is in the design - activating the wipers along with the fog lights may not be exactly easy the first time.
The thing is, the lever has a small button on its end with five different functions. It controls the turn signals (up/down), high beams (forward/reverse), and wipers in one motion, as well as the windshield washer fluid. Behind this button is a wheel that controls the speed of the wipers. Below it is another button for the rear wiper and the wiper jets.
However, Audi's redesigned steering column seems to have won the support of some users online. In a Reddit thread dedicated specifically to the new design, most commenters don't find it confusing at all.