When it comes to “normal car” interiors, Mazda has been crushing it over the last decade. Its high-end detailing and finishes make it feel more like a luxury car, all while keeping a layout that retains easy-to-use buttons. The Japanese brand’s latest model, the Mazda6e EV which replaces the Mazda6 sedan, might have bones that come from a Chinese joint venture. But the brand has clearly worked hard to introduce omotenashi. That’s the Japanese spirit of hospitality, trying to anticipate your needs.
Unfortunately, Mazda seems to be following the crowd when it comes to displays, apparently ignoring our need for real buttons and going instead with touchscreens. At least it looks classy.
Mazda’s “Anticipation” Includes Some Interesting Features
For Mazda, anticipation means some features that aren’t exactly original. Power mirrors that fold out as you approach, a driver’s seat that slides back for entry and exit, and illuminated greetings from the head and taillights, for example.
One that is a lot more interesting, though, is a snow mode for the head-up display. The full-color display has minimal, classic, and custom modes to show different levels of information. Snow mode changes the colors so you can read it against a bright and snowy background. Handy for winter driving.
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The 10.2-inch digital dash bridges the gap between classic and modern with a tiny cluster hood. Mazda says the screen itself shows minimal but crucial information, like tire pressure, range, and speed. But it also has a full driver-assist road view, and a gauge telling you what test it is using for remaining range, whatever that is. So we can’t really agree that it’s minimal.
Mazda has been using a rotary controller for its infotainment system for more than a decade, and while it is still polarizing, this new system isn’t going to end that. Now, every control for infotainment and HVAC is on the 14.6-inch center screen, so the anger will be redirected. The steering wheel also has haptic controls instead of normal buttons, so get used to looking down often.
The company says the new interface is “inspired by smartphones” and will give you extensive personalization options. We haven’t used it yet, but we’ve yet to find a touchscreen interface for key vehicle functions that’s better than actual buttons. For Europe, the voice control system can understand nine languages. It will also have gesture controls for answering calls or adjusting the audio system.
Pet Mode Means Amazing Detailing Can Get All Furry
Finally, an automaker other than Tesla has added a pet mode. The 6e will keep the climate control running while parked, and flash up a message on the center screen to let passers-by know Spot the dog is just fine. That’s very handy for dog owners in the warmer months.
The tech all sounds great, but the cabin it’s mounted in is even better. Mazda’s takumi master craftsperson design shines through all around. The quilted detailing on the seats is exquisite, though admittedly these are carefully prepared photos. Still, it’s hard to fake the Mazda lettering and multiple bands of contrast stitching.
Mazda has gone all-out on the dash, too. While we’re sure most grades of the 6e won’t be this well-appointed, this particular car, with its tan suede-look on two levels of the dash mixed with black is something almost on the level of Mercedes-Benz.
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The Mazda6e will arrive at brand showrooms in Europe this summer. Pricing in Germany starts from 44,900 euros ($52,500) and climbs to 49,700 ($58,200). Perhaps someday Mazda will see fit to bring the 6 back to the States. For now, we’ll make do with hopes and dreams.
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