 |
| The first generation Mazda MX-5 Miata incorporated pop-up headlamps and a cheeky, impish look that quickly won over fans. Its excellent driving dynamics and stellar reliability kept them faithful. (Photo: Mazda) |
Callum admits that "the company has lost its way for a while in design terms, but we are definitely back on track." While focused in the right direction, Moray would like to introduce new ideas to the car buyers. He continues, "We are looking at how we can deliver products to customers in a way they have not seen before."
When talking about the Washu, an inventive concept crossover vehicle unveiled at the North American Auto Show in Detroit, Callum stated, "If you take the doors, this is an example of how we can present things to customers in a unique way. Since Ford invested in the company we have been able to accelerate the commitment to design and we have already got it back to a point where people recognize Mazda once again."
 |
| Mazda's Washu concept vehicle, unveiled at the Detroit auto show, shows that Callum and his design team are thinking outside of the box. (Photo: Mazda) |
With Mazda starting to share vehicle architecture and key components with Ford products it has led to some concern regarding a watering down of the Japanese brand's distinct DNA. According to Callum this isn't a problem, but quite the opposite. "If anything it encourages you to be more adventurous because you want to make sure your car looks different to a Ford."
Regarding the upcoming MX-5 design Callum says that the interior will be just as important a design and functionality statement as the exterior. He continued, "But it is not just about the exterior look, interior design has become increasingly important, particularly with the amount of equipment and technology which now has to be packed inside a car - this is something the Japanese are very good at." Furthermore he stated, "On a global scale interior variations are coming together. More things are now acceptable to all the markets so this will ultimately make the packaging easier."
The MX-5 Miata is expected to arrive in the spring of 2004 as a 2005 model. Sports car enthusiasts the world over eagerly wait its arrival.