I see your points. BUT. The steering wheel will still have the volume/menu/call buttons. Is a volume knob still necessary? (I would like if they'd add a mute button). Also, have any of you played with the new touch screen. Other than the touchy volume swipe area and slightly dated graphics most publications agree it's one of the best. Well thought out, user friendly and organized. Personally i think the imid system is a mess. Its so confusing and took forever to learn. The new touch screen is way better in terms of intuitive interaction. Also, it wouldn't be that insane for honda to add tactile feedback to the screens (i feel like i read somewhere they might be doing just that with the next version of the system, can't remember where tho.) Also, once you have it dedicated to memory you don't need knobs and buttons (the HVAC still has buttons below the screen, the screen only adjusts temp and auto climate control and seat warmers). I type and use my iphone all the time without ever having to look down at the screen, it just take a bit of getting used to. And really, once you've done that knobs and buttons aren't any more/less distracting than touch screens. But the screens give a cleaner more high end look.
Just my thoughts. lol.
Also, the next version that'll be in the civic will have the Apply Carplay (and android auto i think), which effectively makes the touchscreen into your phone, so that shouldn't take any getting used to as we all know our own phones id think.