Exploring Mazda’s Infotainment Systems: From MZD Connect to Mazda Connect 

In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected while on the road is more important than ever. Mazda, a renowned auto manufacturer, understands this need and has continuously evolved its infotainment systems to enhance the driving experience. Let’s take a deep dive into Mazda’s journey through its infotainment systems, from the early days of MZD Connect to the latest and advanced Mazda Connect technology.

MZD Connect: The Foundation

In the ultra-connected 21st century, staying in the loop, even as you drive, has become increasingly important. However, maintaining driver safety also matters, which is why infotainment systems exist. As this portmanteau of “information” and “entertainment” suggests, the purpose of these systems is to provide vital information as well as entertainment through the vehicle itself, building in safety features such as freezing operation while the vehicle is in motion. Infotainment systems connect to users’ smartphones via Bluetooth or wired connections.

When Mazda first dove into the infotainment market, they developed the MZD Connect system, which allowed users to connect their phones within their vehicles to access phone apps, such as navigation and maps, through the in-vehicle MZD Connect system. Utilizing a stationary rotary dial and buttons, located just behind the gear shift, drivers can toggle through the vehicle’s audio system, in-vehicle navigation, and phone apps. The MZD Connect system was standard on all Mazda vehicles up through the 2020 model year, when the next generation of Mazda infotainment began to take over — Mazda Connect.

Mazda Connect: The Evolution

Beginning in select models in 2020, Mazda introduced the seventh generation of its infotainment system, renamed Mazda Connect. Still in use today, Mazda Connect takes the in-vehicle infotainment system to the next level, using smartphone app support to provide users with more information and entertainment options than ever before.

Enhanced Connectivity with the MyMazda App

One of the hallmarks of the Mazda Connect system is its integration with the MyMazda app paired with Mazda Connected Services. These features allow drivers to access their vehicles’ in-car Wi-Fi capabilities and provide access to emergency services, such as automatic 911 dialing and roadside assistance. Drivers can also monitor and control their Mazdas from their smartphones using the MyMazda app.

This enhanced connectivity provides users with information about their vehicles’ health, including service history and maintenance schedule, and fully integrates with the in-vehicle Mazda Connect system. Other features available through the MyMazda app include vehicle information, including “how to” videos, a Mazda dealer map, and full access to all Mazda manuals and guides. Users can even use the MyMazda app to request roadside assistance or to connect directly with Mazda via phone, chat, or email.

Infotainment Customization

Within the on-board Mazda Connect system, users can also customize their infotainment experiences to ensure their vehicles are set up with their favorite apps and settings. Mazda Connect is fully compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing users to access their apps from the on-board infotainment system, using the same easy-to-use rotary dial and button features used in the MZD system. Each vehicle with a Mazda Connect system allows users to connect via Bluetooth, USB, or HDMI cable setup.

Users can also set up a variety of different entertainment options through the Mazda Connect system. This includes direct access to Pandora® and SiriusXM® satellite digital radio. The Mazda Connect system also includes HD radio along with AM/FM options.

Safety Integration

While the entertainment and customization options are vast, safety is also at the forefront of the Mazda Connect experience. As such, several built-in features are made to keep drivers and passengers safe. First, through its Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Mazda Connect offers users a fully hands-free communication experience. This includes hands-free calling and voice command capabilities along with text messaging and the ability to import up to 1,000 contacts directly into the system.

The Mazda Connect system also keeps the safety of the vehicle upfront as well. Through the on-board system, drivers can access critical information about fuel efficiency, vehicle stats like tire pressure and miles before the next service, and an on-screen owner’s manual that allows drivers to quickly access information about warning lights and other signs of vehicle distress.

Mazda Connect also features Mazda’s original driving support system, i-DM. The i-DM system offers both a coaching and teaching system designed to evaluate and improve a driver’s smoothness and efficiency, with the goal of improving long-term fuel use and overall safety.

The Future of Mazda’s Infotainment

As technology and connectivity continue to develop in the coming years, Mazda will continue to innovate and expand its Connect system with the goal of meeting, and exceeding, the expectations of its drivers. Just as the Connect is a natural advance from the MZD system, the future of Mazda’s infotainment will continue to advance.

For now, however, the incredible connectivity, entertainment, and safety features offered by the Mazda Connect system cover the full range of needs of modern drivers. Ready to experience the infotainment for yourself? Come on down to DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, to check out our range of new Mazda vehicles equipped with Mazda Connect.