A control system for a vehicle with a plurality of selectively variable characteristics includes a mode selector switch and a characteristic adjustment switch. Rotation of the mode selector switches causes the control system to alternate between first and second modes of operation. In the first mode of operation, rotation of the characteristic adjustment switch causes a first variable characteristic to change. In the second mode of operation, rotation of the characteristic adjustment switch causes a second variable characteristic to change. The control system thus enables a single switch to control multiple characteristics or multiple vehicle systems, which enables a corresponding reduction in the quantity of switches in a vehicle passenger compartment.