I've always owned cars with the seat controls on the seat rather than the door. This allows me to adjust the seat without having to reach to the door and/or have the door closed. There are situations where I want to adjust the seat without having the close the door first, so I see the reasoning for having the controls on the seat.

For Benz, I can see that having the controls on the door can be more convenient when the door is closed. One won't have to reach down or fumble/feel around for the right controls. It is easier to identify which switch you want.

Aside from the pros/cons I've identified with both systems, is there something I'm missing? What is the Benz's design philosophy for putting seat controls on the door?

Thanks.

I'm guessing your second paragraph answered your third.. Not trying to be a jerk that's just what I believe.

Yeah, I get it. I just didn't know if there is something else that I missed, there there is some other reason that controls on the door is a good thing. Thanks.

Controls on the door makes more sense to me. Can you imagine reaching down into the side of some of these seats and then your hand getting pinched once the seat starts moving. Also, I would rather look at the button that I need to push vs. feeling for the button and then find out that I pushed the wrong one. Take care!

I like how the seat controls reference the exact way the seat looks. Very easy to use. I think you just may be used to doing it the other way. And I think the w221 layout looks better.

I do see the advantages. What has thrown me off is that, lately when I go test drive a Benz and wanting to adjust the seat while the door is still open, I realize I can't. It's something to get used to I suppose.