The most common head-up displays (HUDs) project information directly onto the vehicle’s windshield. Depending on the manufacturer, these systems can show various data, from current speed and navigation prompts to the title of the song currently playing.
In sports cars and manual-transmission models, the HUD may even provide shift prompts, indicating the optimal moment to change gears.
Mazda vehicles typically display only current speed, navigation directions, and the posted speed limit. Other manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Toyota, and Volvo, allow you to customize what appears on the HUD and even change the color of the digital speedometer.
Plastic-Panel HUDs in Modern Cars
To make head-up display technology accessible in a broader range of vehicles, brands such as Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Ford, and Mini use HUD systems that project information onto a small plastic panel mounted atop the dashboard, directly in front of the driver.
This display type first appeared in the third-generation Mazda3 and was soon adopted by Mini across its lineup. Hyundai introduced it in the Kona and Veloster models, while Kia added it to the Soul. Ford also offers this style of HUD in the higher trims of the Escape compact crossover, several examples of which can often be found in the inventory of the used car dealerships.
Which Type of Head-Up Display Is Best?
Each type of head-up display has distinct advantages and disadvantages. The innovative systems are more convenient since the information appears higher up, directly in the driver’s line of sight. They also provide a larger projection area, allowing more information to be displayed clearly.
However, these advanced HUDs are more expensive. They require specialized glass to ensure the information remains visible, as standard windshields make the projection unreadable. Another drawback is that the display may become difficult to read when wearing polarized sunglasses.
HUDs that project onto a plastic panel are much less costly, but their customization options are limited. You cannot resize or adjust their vertical position. Because the panel sits on the dashboard, it may fall outside your direct line of sight, requiring you to briefly glance downward. Still, these systems don’t require a special windshield, lowering replacement costs if repairs are needed.
Are Head-Up Displays Useful?
If you view a HUD as a safety tool that helps you keep your eyes on the road instead of glancing down at the instrument cluster or infotainment screen, this technology can be very beneficial. The main factors to consider are the unit’s price and build quality.
How to Choose a Good Head-Up Display
- Check the display’s customization options. Can you choose which information is shown and hide unnecessary elements?
- Make sure the display size provides clear, easily readable information.
- Verify whether the projection height can be adjusted to align with your direct line of sight.
- If the HUD uses a plastic panel, ensure the panel isn’t positioned too low, as this could force you to look down and divert your attention from the road.
If you’d like to experience a well-implemented HUD firsthand or purchase a vehicle equipped with one in Indiana, consider models such as the Mazda3, Hyundai Kona, Toyota Camry, Kia Telluride, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, Audi A4, and Lincoln Corsair.
