I believe a car’s interior should be minimal, but not everything needs to be a touchscreen. Touchscreens lack tactile feedback, and let’s be honest, it’s a hassle to flip through menus just to adjust basic functions like A/C, media, and drive modes. This is where the S3XY Knob Customizable Rotary Dial for Tesla comes in.
First launched in January 2024, it quickly got a Gen2 refresh to support the Tesla Model 3 (2024) and upcoming Model Y. This premium rotary control, designed specifically for Model 3 and Model Y, offers precise handling of over 66 programmable functions—conveniently placed at the center console, within easy reach.
With the S3XY Knob (intriguing name, by the way), you get instant access to controls like climate, media playback, driving modes, and more, all without lifting your arm, like literally. Best of all, Gen2 features button bumps and dividers, along with a mirroring feature via the S2XY app, so you can operate it without looking at the knob or the main screen. Just mount your phone in your line of sight on the dash, and you’ll see real-time changes right in front of you.
Thanks to access to Tesla’s API, many of the knob’s adjustments now sync with the Tesla main display. Not everything is supported just yet, but Enhance Ltd. promises more functions will be added via over-the-air updates as Tesla expands API support. The syncing is handled via Bluetooth over an encrypted Tesla protocol, which means you no longer need your phone with the app running in the background.
Visually, it blends right in—it looks like it belongs in the car. It sports a high-res OLED screen for real-time feedback and customization. This new version also boasts faster response times, better integration with S3XY Buttons Gen2, improved control logic, and simplified installation.
Installation isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but it’s still relatively straightforward. The system consists of two parts: the controller and the commander. The commander installs inside the lower section beneath the A-pillar, which does involve a bit of prying and reassembling panels and seals. Still, it’s essentially plug-and-play.
The latest model also features an upgraded mainboard that enables fast charging (up to 20W) for your phone. There’s now a USB-C port so you can keep a cable tucked away until needed. Power comes from a USB-C to low-voltage socket cable, plugged into the 12V socket (a.k.a. the modern-day iteration of the old-school cigarette lighter) inside the center console—keeping everything neat and tidy, as it should be in a Tesla.
The S3XY Knob is available for the 2021–2023 Model 3, 2021+ Model Y, 2024+ Model 3, and 2025+ Model Y (pre-order), starting at US$344.69.
Images: Enhance Ltd..
