A control system for a vehicle with a plurality of selectively variable characteristics includes an input member and a generally cylindrical wheel. The input member is manipulable to cause a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. In the first mode of operation, the wheel is pivotable to cause a first submode of operation and to cause a second submode of operation. In the second mode of operation, the wheel is pivotable to cause a third submode of operation to cause a fourth submode of operation. Rotating the wheel in each of the submodes causes a variation in a respective variable characteristic. The control system thus enables a single finger wheel to control multiple characteristics or multiple vehicle systems, which enables a corresponding reduction in the quantity of switches and other control input devices in a vehicle passenger compartment.