mazda hazumi concept: a glimpse at mazda’s next-generation subcompact

mazda hazumi concept: a glimpse at mazda’s next-generation subcompact
all images courtesy mazda

at this year’s geneva motor show, mazda introduced the ‘hazumi’ concept, bringing together the essence of KODO – soul of motion design, skyactiv technology, mazda proactive safety, and a new in-car connectivity system known as MZD connect – to foreshadow the future of the company’s next-generation subcompact.

the concept incorporates a newly developed 1.5-litre ‘skyactiv-D’ clean diesel engine for superior fuel economy without compromising performance. in addition to enhancing safety fundamentals such as driving position and field of view, hazumi adopts mazda’s range of ‘i-activsense’ safety features. the MZD connect system, in combination with the heads-up cockpit, offers drivers the convenience of intuitive connectivity for smartphones in an easy-to-use format while behind the wheel.

by drawing the compact cabin as far to the rear as possible places the center of gravity near the rear wheels, the exterior creates a wedge shaped body starting from the low and pronounced nose, rising toward the rear to impart a strong sense of forward motion. the sharp, chiseled silhouette is a clear departure from mainstream subcompact design where ‘one-motion form’ styles prevail. the short overhangs and extended fenders bulge over large wheels to underline the car’s athletic stance. 

the headlamps and grille are positioned low to the ground as possible, giving the front face a sharp look reminiscent of a cheetah on the prowl. LED guiding rings add depth and solidity to the headlamps, evoking the strong-willed eyes of an untamed animal.

the ‘hazumi’ displays the athletic silhouette of a sports car when viewed from the side: a long line starts from the hood, crests over the front wheel and runs all the way to the rear, while an overlapping line peaks over the rear wheel, emulating a rhythm of flexing muscles and adding to the strong sense of forward motion.

the firmly planted rear wheels support the high ‘hipline’ and, together with the steeply inclined back window, create a strong sense of forward motion. the distinctive oblong rear combination lamps convey speed while possessing the piercing vitality of the headlamps.

the passenger space begins immediately with an instrument panel shaped like the wing of an airplane, creating a comfortable feeling of openness. the center console is suspended like a bridge, enhancing the feeling of space and creating more room in the foot wells.

the instrument cluster is designed around the driver’s center axis. it features a single, centrally-positioned gauge with displays spreading like wings on either side. the layout of the center display, active driving display, and commander control, is based on mazda’s unique human machine interface (HMI) concept called the heads-up cockpit. it is designed to help drivers deal with large amounts of information while keeping their eyes on the road ahead and maintaining a safe and stable body position.

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