At the time it was introduced it stood out as a lot of the interiors were pretty bland, dark and dank and something different was needed to stick out, back in 2005 headrests were seen as a premium feature.
I'd say it suited some types more than others, the Omni's were not the best fit with the way the interior is set out, the MAX referb they received later in life did no favours for looks (seats were flat as a pancake by that point tho).
I'd say it was very much a product of its time and to some degree hasn't aged well.
Arriva North East: New buses 2022