Is Mazda teasing something right under our noses at the Japan Mobility Show? That may be the case if we were to look carefully at detail photos of its stunning new Vision X-Coupe and Vision X-Compact concepts.
The most obvious thing is, of course, the exterior design. Mazda still refers to it as Kodo – Soul of Motion, but it’s been twice evolved—just like a Pokémon. It’s clear that the design is still very much all about clean lines and forms, but there are some subtle differences.
First up, it looks like the upright front clip will become a normal sight in upcoming Mazda cars. First implemented in the Large Product Group models such as the CX-60, the new design language may see it being rolled out across the product range, including smaller vehicles like the one previewed by the Vision X-Compact. Second, Mazda may be applying a new taillight graphic with a C-shaped motif that acts as a “frame” to the spelled out “MAZDA” lettering which replaces the familiar wing-shaped M logo.
More than just its exterior design, Mazda may be subtly previewing not just one, but two potential infotainment concepts. At a glance, both models continue with its trademark minimalist approach with the driving controls—the gauges, steering wheel, and shifter—all forming the central focus, visually. That said, Mazda may be caving in and may be joining other carmakers in offering a sizeable touchscreen-based interface. The big difference? They’ve managed to tuck it neatly.
In the Vision X-Coupe, which will probably form the basis of Mazda’s future large SUVs and crossovers, the infotainment system looks to span the length of the dashboard, all the way to the passenger side. The interface itself is a tile-based system with three widgets, including one screen dedicated as a passenger display. There’s also a permanent vertical column of shortcuts as well as a horizontal row for the climate control and display.
On the other hand, the Vision X-Compact may set the trend for Mazda’s smaller models, including, most likely, the next-generation MX-5. Instead of an expansive horizontal screen, this one has a vertically-oriented infotainment screen next to a singular round digital gauge cluster. The interface makes good use of the limited screen space, cramming a row of shortcut buttons at the bottom and the climate control interface on top of it. Much of the screen space, however, is dedicated to the selected function be it navigation, entertainment, or car settings.
It’s unclear if this screen is controllable via the steering wheel, but a gander shows two circular controllers in the Vision X-Compact; this is as opposed to the Vision X-Coupe’s two toggle switches. Nonetheless, Mazda has confirmed that the Vision X-Compact will have an AI-enabled virtual companion that’s capable of engaging the driver in natural conversation.
Since Mazda unveiled the Vision X-Coupe and Vision X-Compact purely as design studies at this point, all this is conjecture for now. But it’s worth noting that Mazda went out of their way to put in a complex-looking infotainment setup in both vehicles. Here’s hoping that Mazda realizes the importance of a well-executed man-machine interface and will be able to implement it in their upcoming cars.
Why do even Japanese automakers adopt to touchscreen? Is it because future vehicles will be software defined? Physical controls work best for cars.
ReplyDeleteComplain all you want if you want to be heard but apparently there's not enough of you complaining to make them change their minds.
DeleteThese are decisions driven by the market and even if you don't hear people loudly going, "yes, touchscreens!" the sales most likely show that people are choosing to buy cars with touchscreens rather than without.
Manufacturers have started giving a few physical controls back like for aircon since that's what 99% of people against touchscreens seem to be actually complaining about but if you want no touchscreens at all for new cars then your choices are going to be very limited.
Actually, I’m good with touchscreens. Just about the air conditioning controls and a volume dial that should be physical. The rest is ok to be touchscreen.
DeleteI do really hope that software defined vehicles will still have physical knobs and controls and switches.
ReplyDeletePlease do not remove the center knob. It is one of the things that make a Mazda feel like a Mazda and separates it from the rest. Sadly, even die hard fan like myself might not buy a new one without the knob anymore.
ReplyDeleteThese touchscreen peeps do not understand the convenience of Mazda's rotary knob. Been using them for 8 years now with android auto. I have no issue with it, very happy with the knob compared to a touchscreen. You are driving a car, not a gadget on wheels. Just set and save your usual locations in waze(will be in recent) and you'll find the knob very convenient to use.
ReplyDeleteBlackBerry: our phone's trackwheel is loved by millions and is super convenient to use! Who needs stupid touchscreens!? We bet that the market will prove us right on this 100%! 😎💪
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