A-Pillar Obstructs Vision?

Almost a month ago I took the opportunity to test drive a Tribute and Escape on the same day. One of the things that I noticed is the A-pillar (pillar between the drivers window and windshield)<br>seemed to obstruct the drivers view of the road.<br>I have 2 other vehicles that I drive (for too long now) and don't notice this problem. I recall this now because I just received the Mazda Virtual Test Drive video and in it there are shots from that exact viewpoint from the drivers seat maneuvering curves. And just at the critical angle oncoming traffic is completely obscured.<br><br>The A-pillar seems to be too far forward obstructing the front-left view especially around curves. Is this simply a psychological thing which drivers compensate for or a legitimate concern? Perhaps it was because I am tall and had the seat most of the way back?<br><br>Feedback appreciated, TIA.<br><br>P.S. This past weekend I had the oportunity to compare the Tribute with the redesigned RAV4. The two dealers are directly across the street from each other. Although I like the new RAV style it is too small compared to the Tribute. And without a V6 option it is definately scratched from my list. Nice exterior but I still prefer the Tribute styling. These radical styles are nice when they first appear but get old quickly. The Aztek will be a good example in a few years as is the old RAV now. The Tribute IMO is of a classical design of which one doesn't easily tire.

The one amazing feature to me about the tribute is the incredible visibility that you have all around you. I haven't in the slightest had a problem with the A-pillar. <br>Marty

The one amazing feature to me about the tribute is the incredible visibility that you have all around you. I haven't in the slightest had a problem with the A-pillar. <br>Marty

The one amazing feature to me about the tribute is the incredible visibility that you have all around you. I haven't in the slightest had a problem with the A-pillar. <br>Marty

Marty,<br><br>I absolutely agree with you on this one. When I started backing out of a spot for the first time, that's what I noticed too. My friends say it's like riding in the popemobile.<br><br>James

Until your post never gave the A-Pillar any notice. That is, it doesn't bother me. Last week I went to the Mazda offices here in So. Cal for a marketing survey. They asked a similiar question (about the handles on the A-pillar) and I was truely puzzled (i never noticed they were there). Perhaps prior vehicle experience colors our obervations?

Until your post never gave the A-Pillar any notice. That is, it doesn't bother me. Last week I went to the Mazda offices here in So. Cal for a marketing survey. They asked a similiar question (about the handles on the A-pillar) and I was truely puzzled (i never noticed they were there). Perhaps prior vehicle experience colors our obervations?

Until your post never gave the A-Pillar any notice. That is, it doesn't bother me. Last week I went to the Mazda offices here in So. Cal for a marketing survey. They asked a similiar question (about the handles on the A-pillar) and I was truely puzzled (i never noticed they were there). Perhaps prior vehicle experience colors our obervations?