As the amount of information presented to drivers behind the wheel increases, the new HMI creates an environment in which the driver is consistently looking at the road ahead and can concentrate on the safe operation of the vehicle.

The human-centered design aims to minimize visual, cognitive and manual distraction, Mazda said.

The simple cockpit has different zones for different types of information. A 7-inch center display (1) sits atop the dashboard making it easy to see without lowering the eyes. Command controller (2) is designed to be operated entirely by feel. Active Driving Display (3) projects important information such as vehicle speed and turn-by-turn navigation above the meter hood. Functions can be controlled voice-recognition.

One of the functions available through Mazda Connect is access to the Aha by HARMAN web content platform for automobiles (Aha). Mazda is the first automaker to finalize a global licensing agreement with Aha, allowing customers to access the service in any country in which Aha is available.

Aha will be introduced to Japan and a number of other Asian and Central and South American countries to coincide with the launch of the new Mazda3 in those markets. This will make it the first connected car in those markets offering access to Aha. In Japan it will be the first vehicle to offer as standard equipment a device that allows drivers to access internet radio and other services through their smartphone.