Is a Mazda Head-Up Display Worth It?
Mazda includes their Active Driving Display as a standard feature on many of their premium trim levels, but is it worth the upgrade?
Written by Jessica Gibson
Reviewed by Hillary Kobayashi
Mazda calls its head-up display (HUD) “Active Driving Display.” It works by projecting important driving information directly onto the windshield in front of the driver. HUD systems can reduce distracted driving, which leads to thousands of accidents a year.
If you’re someone who considers yourself to be tech-savvy, you probably look for the latest technology when you’re shopping for a new car. The head-up driving display has got to be one of the coolest new features available, but is it just a flashy option or a legitimate safety feature?
Here to help answer that question is
Jerry
, the trustworthy car insurance
comparison app. We’ll cover what the head-up display looks like in a Mazda vehicle and tell you which models it’s available in. Plus, we’ll even give you tips for saving on Mazda insurance costs
, so keep reading!Mazda head-up display: what is it and do you need it?
The head-up display looks like something you’d see a pilot use—that’s actually where the technology originated. Mazda calls its head-up display “Active Driving Display.” It projects vital driving information onto the car’s windshield in the driver’s line of sight. This placement keeps your eyes on the road.
Mazda believes the Active Driving Display to be so important that they added it to most of their lineup starting in 2017 (although you usually have to purchase upgraded trim levels to get the system).
Sounds like a fantastic piece of tech, right? Here’s how it works: a small projector, set of mirrors, and translucent screen on the windshield display the information that you’ve selected. Active Driving Display puts this directly on the windshield in your line of sight.
Mazda lets you customize what information the system displays, like:
- Vehicle speed
- Blind spots
- Speed limits
- GPS instructions
- Telephone information
- Engine power
- Cruise control
- Warning messages about the car’s status
- Entertainment menu
- i-ACTIVSENSE safety system features
You can easily adjust the display’s height and brightness so it’s comfortable for you. It might take a little getting used to, but Active Driving Display can help you focus on the road, so you’re not as distracted.
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Which Mazda models have a head-up display (HUD)?
Mazda has been offering its Active Driving Display as a standard feature on most models since 2017. It comes standard on specific trim levels on these popular 2022 Mazda models:
- Mazda CX-30 Series: Standard with the 2.5 S, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Premium Plus Packages ($32,000 to $35,600 MSRP)
- Mazda CX-5 Series: Standard with the Premium Plus Package ($35,000 MSRP) and 2.5 T ($37,000 MSRP)
- Mazda CX-9 Series: Standard with theGrand Touring($45,700 MSRP) andSignature Package($48,500 MSRP)
- Mazda MX-30 EV Series: Standard with the base trim and Premium Plus Package ($34,000 to $37,000 MSRP)
- Mazda 3 Series: Standard with thePremium Package($30,000 MSRP) and 2.5 T hatchback or sedan ($32,000 MSRP)
- Mazda 6 Series: Standard with theGrand Touring($29,500 MSRP),Grand Touring Reserve Package($32,000 MSRP), andSignature Package($35,000 MSRP)
You’ll also be able to snag the all-new 2023 Mazda CX-50—which comes equipped with an Active Driving Display—for $27,500 MSRP.
Unfortunately, if you were hoping for an Active Driving Display on the MX-5 Miata, you’re out of luck! This is the only Mazda model that doesn’t offer the feature.
The various trim levels also include other upgrades, like leather seating, a multi-information display, and a traffic sign recognition display, so if you’re on the fence about a trim level with a HUD, these luxuries might seal the deal.
Can you add a head-up display to a Mazda?
If you’re driving an older Mazda or a newer one that doesn’t have an upgraded trim package, you might be wondering if you can simply add a head-up display. To add one to your Mazda, you've got two somewhat expensive options.
For a genuine Mazda Active Driving Display, you’ll need to replace the whole windshield because the display uses a transparent screen that’s already built into the windshield. Although prices vary based on labor in your area, expect to pay in the ballpark of $2,000.
Your other option is to buy a retrofitted head-up screen that’s separate from the windshield. Auto parts stores sell one for around $450—keep in mind that these aren’t genuine Mazda parts. However, the smaller screen will still display similar driving information. It might not look as elegant or sophisticated as Mazda’s Active Driving Display, but it will get the job done!
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversHow to use the Mazda head-up display
There is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to using the Active Driving Display, but Mazda makes it intuitive. Here’s how you access the HUD:
- Pull up the Mazda Connect Screen and scroll over to “Settings.”
- Select the “Active Driving Display” tab (this might be abbreviated as “AD-Disp”).
- Change your desired settings.
You can adjust the brightness, angle, and height of the display. Don’t forget to select what information you want the display to project. For instance, you can choose to see navigation and street information. If at any time you want to restore the factory settings, just select “Reset.”
In more recent Mazda vehicles, you’ll be able to integrate Android Auto or Apple CarPlay with the Active Driving Display. You can also use the HUD to navigate your music and infotainment choices!
Is a Mazda head-up display worth it?
Ultimately, a head-up display system is a matter of personal preference. If you love added safety features and try not to look down as much when you drive, you’ll probably find the Active Driving Display worthwhile.
If you’re unsure about the feature, ask yourself if you’d use the other upgrades that come with premium trim levels (since the Active Driving Display is only standard on upgraded models). Of course, if you’re primarily trying to save money, the difference in cost from the base level might dissuade you.
Another thing to consider is how more expensive trim levels affect your car insurance costs. Additional accessories are fun and might be helpful, but they usually increase your premium.
How to save on Mazda insurance
If you’ve decided to splurge on a premium trim package, you might be looking for extra room in your budget. Why not look for cheaper
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