Speed Display Showdown
Let's face it: digital speedometers loaded with crisp graphics are shaping the future of car dashboards. While new cars showcasing pure analog clusters are becoming rare, these speedometers still offer that classic swagger we all love to see. Sadly, many beloved models featuring these timeless gauges are now only available in the used car market. Here are 10 automobiles that have the best digital speedometers—and 10 that strive to keep the analog tradition alive.
1. Audi A6
When ambient lighting conditions change, the A6's Virtual Cockpit automatically adjusts its 12.3-inch display brightness, ensuring optimal speed readout visibility whether you're driving through sunlight or dark tunnels. This adaptation represents just one aspect of Audi's standard digital speedometer system.
2. Tesla Model 3
Revolutionary in its approach to automotive instrumentation, the Tesla Model 3 eliminates the traditional instrument cluster in favor of a fully digital display integrated into its central touchscreen. This minimalist interior design philosophy provides real-time Autopilot visualizations that update seamlessly.
3. BMW i4
iDrive 8 delivers futuristic graphics, converting speed monitoring into a visual experience, with the BMW i4's curved 12.3-inch display panel combining digital cluster and infotainment functions in vivid clarity. Beyond speed, the system showcases driving data, including regenerative braking statistics.
4. Hyundai Ioniq 6
Pixelated rear lights and simulated vehicle sounds through internal speakers create a cohesive futuristic aesthetic. This extends to the Ioniq 6's twin-screen cybernated speedometer layout. Eco-driving information is presented alongside speed information to optimize the efficiency of electric vehicles.
5. Porsche Taycan
Retro-styled digital graphics cleverly mimic traditional analog meters in the Taycan's 16.8-inch curved cluster. Interestingly, there are hand proximity sensors that enable intuitive screen control, allowing drivers to switch between classic, full map, or minimalist speedometer views without physical contact.
6. Kia EV6
The EV6's heads-up screen projects speed information directly onto the windshield while dual panoramic displays serve comprehensive real-time data, including navigation and range statistics. Did you know that ambient lighting technology dynamically changes color schemes based on the selected drive mode?
7. Lucid Air
Aircraft-inspired dashboard design reaches new heights with the Lucid Air's massive 34-inch Glass Cockpit. Here, speed displays achieve 5K resolution clarity. The jet-influenced interface permits individuals to swipe through speed views across the expansive screen, creating a tablet-like interaction experience.
8. Chevrolet Corvette C8
Apparently, this car’s racing-inspired dashboard adapts its tachometer and speed display configuration based on selected drive modes, including Tour, Sport, and Track settings. Performance data recording capabilities overlay lap times directly onto speed information, which appeals to serious driving enthusiasts.
9. Mercedes-Benz EQS
MBUX artificial intelligence learns individual driver preferences to customize the EQS's Hyper-screen speedometer experience. Touch haptic feedback provides tactile responses while simultaneously interacting with automated speed controls. Besides, stunning graphics automatically adjust to reflect ambient lighting themes present throughout the cabin.
10. Ford Mustang Mach-E
The GT trim features exclusive performance animations that activate during spirited driving. Voice assistant integration allows hands-free control of electronic cluster functions. With this, you can modify the settings through simple vocal commands and maintain full attention on the road ahead.
Now let's move towards the analog side, where traditional needles and dials still rule the road.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Red illumination glows softly through the stunning Miata's analog dials during nighttime driving. The center-mounted speedometer is positioned directly in the driver's line of sight, typically within a classic three-dial design. This minimizes digital interference and maximizes pure analog joy.
2. Toyota 86 (GR86)
Heritage Toyota sports cars inspire the GR86's mechanical speedometer layout. Here, true needle sweep action combines with backlit clarity, plus the classic sporty structure pairs an analog speedometer with a digital tachometer. Under acceleration, the analog readout shifts subtly, providing tactile feedback.
3. Dodge Challenger (2023)
Farewell to old-school dials marks the end of an era, as the 2023 Challenger represents the final model year to offer classic retro gauges before Dodge transitions to electrified future models. The driver-focused cluster earns consistent praise from automotive enthusiasts.
4. Ford Mustang GT (S550)
Startup drama unfolds every time the Mustang GT's needles perform their signature sweep across the gauge faces. The right dial displayed the speedometer (up to 160 mph or 260 km/h, depending on market), while the left dial showed the tachometer.
5. Lexus IS 500 (2025)
V8 performance demands authentic instrumentation, and the IS 500 delivers through its traditional speedometer. Contrast stitching and metallic bezels enhance the dashboard's premium feel, alongside G-force and temperature gauges that flank the entire setup to provide comprehensive performance monitoring.
2025 Lexus IS 500 Road Test by Karl Brauer Cars
6. Dodge Charger R/T
That thick, bold needle delivers weighty visual feedback that reinforces the vehicle's substantial character. Additionally, the white-on-black dial formatting ensures sharp visibility under all lighting conditions. Then comes a retro cue ball gear shifter, completing the nostalgic atmosphere fans love.
7. Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z (model years 2009–2022) is equipped with an old-school analog speedometer as standard, making use of a physical needle dial prominently located in the instrument cluster. Any cybernated dash you see in a 370Z involves a third-party aftermarket upgrade.
8. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
This beast’s rugged analog cluster is specifically designed for off-road conditions, featuring a speedometer with a mud-splatter-resistant coating. Its classic two-dial configuration comes with a small digital screen in the center, making it both practical and stylish for adventurous driving.
9. Toyota Land Cruiser (J200)
Here, deep-set dials reduce glare in sunny environments, and mechanical reliability takes precedence over flashy automated elements. The dashboard design earns frequent praise for its "timeless" aesthetic that prioritizes functionality over trends, ensuring that speed tracking remains clear and accessible across terrains.
10. Nissan Frontier (2025)
The 2025 Nissan Frontier retains a traditional analog instrument cluster with a physical analog speedometer. The truck’s main gauges—including speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and coolant temperature—are all analog dials with moving needles. Drivetrain is available in both 4x2 and 4x4.
