The instrument panel central section incorporates a highly reflective silver finish that works to complement the large, black-on-white instruments (which light up as red at night). To the right of the steering wheel is a large, multi-function display and below that is the place receiver for the key card.
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| Mazda's keyless entry system works with a "credit card" that contains personalized information about the driver to automatically prepare the car, such as setting the radio stations. The card also activates the engine start switch mounted on the instrument panel. (Photo: Mazda Canada) |
Between the driver and front passenger is the central display screen to help control the car's various communication, information and entertainment systems. Like the instruments, the center display is trimmed with a highly reflective silver finish.
Mazda Needs Car in Lineup
"Mazda certainly has to make some room in its lineup for emerging growth in the crossover arena," noted automotive analyst Mike Jackson of CSM Worldwide of Northville, Mich. "It certainly combines a lot of features that consumers are going for, such as a better ride and handling performance along with greater functionality."
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| One hurdle the Micro Sport would have to overcome in the North American market would be consumer opinions about hatchbacks. (Photo: Mazda Canada) |
Crossover vehicles are certainly coming of age because they combine the performance of cars with the panache of SUVs and cargo capacity of minivans, he said. The most notable examples on the market are the new Chrysler Pacifica and the Scion xB (U.S. only), but a wave of additional vehicles from a variety of automakers is coming onto the market.
One possible weakness with the design is its hatchback. Many consumers in North America have shunned cars with hatchbacks. However, since the MX-Micro Sport should appeal to potential SUV and minivan drivers, who are familiar with liftgates, the new Mazda should be able to overcome any objections.