Mazda to Show MX-Crossport Concept at Detroit Auto Show

The main circular-shaped touch screen monitor located to the right of the steering wheel holds the controls for climate and

The MX-Crossport is the first Mazda to feature a full-length glass roof. (Photo: Mazda Canada)

audio, plus the second and third monitors located at the base of the windshield act as the display panel for the navigation system while also acting as an aid for blind-spot monitoring, parking guidance and emergency information. The dashboard-mounted screens can also double as a DVD entertainment center for the front seat passenger.

The MX-Crossport is the first Mazda to feature a full-length glass roof. Although the panoramic-style ceiling doesn't retract, it boasts electrochromic tint, which allows the driver to adjust the amount of light entering the cockpit, changing from transparent to translucent white at the touch of a button. An overhead console which runs the full length of

The 'MX' title cannot be ignored, considering that every concept to bear these two letters has in due course become a production vehicle. (Photo: Mazda Canada)

the roof features storage cubbies and a monitor for the rear-seat entertainment system.

While Mazda has not said that it will be producing the MX-Crossport, it has stated that it intends to expand its line of zoom-zoom products for the North American and global markets, with the Crossport being an important step forward in the process.

Of course, the 'MX' title cannot be ignored; every concept to bear these two letters has in due course become a production vehicle. With the Ford Escape-based Tribute as its only SUV, it's highly unlikely that Mazda will pass on the opportunity to release a truly exciting, car-like crossover to the marketplace.