A head-up display device for displaying a virtual image superimposed over a field of view to a viewer is provided. The head-up display device includes a picture generating unit having an illumination source, such as a laser, to generate a real image following a first light beam. A windshield of a vehicle engages the first light beam, either at an inclined angle or perpendicular, to reflect the first light beam away from the viewer as reflected images. A combiner disposed on the windshield including a holographic optical element steers the first light beam toward the viewer as a third light beam to present the virtual image within the field of view of the viewer. Mirrors may direct and magnify first light beam onto the combiner. A method for displaying a virtual image superimposed over a field of view to a viewer using a head-up display device is also provided.