Top 3 safety highlights on a Mazda3

By Farzana Chaumoo

The Mazda3 comes with a suite of safety features that are primed for anything.

 

1. 2019 Mazda3 Achieves 5 Star Euro NCAP Rating

Announced in May 2019, the Next-Generation Mazda3 has been awarded the maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP in its latest series of tests. Soon to be launched in South Africa, the 2019 Mazda3 follows the Mazda6 as the second Mazda to achieve an overall five-star rating under the new, more stringent 2018 Euro NCAP crashworthiness ratings.

Its impressive performance may be attributed to three key factors: the adoption of the very latest Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, which features a high-rigidity, impact-absorbing yet lightweight bodyshell; an even wider range of advanced safety technologies to help drivers identify potential risks and reduce the likelihood of damage or injury; and enhanced pedestrian protection performance.

With a truly outstanding 98% score in the Adult Occupant category, the All-New Mazda3 achieved maximum points for frontal full-width impact, and both car and pole side impacts. Mazda's Smart Brake Support system also gained full marks in low-speed tests, with collisions avoided in all scenarios.

An excellent Child Occupant score includes maximum points for child protection in the dynamic tests, with full marks for both frontal and lateral impact. Vulnerable Road User (pedestrian safety) tests garnered maximum points for pedestrian leg and pelvis area protection. In addition, the Safety Assist category score pays tribute to the efficiency of the Next-Generation Mazda3's comprehensive suite of safety features.

 

2. General safety features

Six SRS airbags are integrated into the Mazda3, which includes a front, side (front) and curtain (front and rear) airbag. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated Traction Control System (TCS) is standard for the 2.0-litre models. The stopping power of four big disc brakes incorporates Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which optimises braking force according to the vehicle’s load. Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) recognises urgent braking, maximising braking force right when you need it. Feel confident after braking on an incline, with Hill Launch Assist (HLA), giving you a smooth start on re-acceleration. The Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) bolsters safety by flashing the hazard lights to warn drivers behind. The Mazda3 also gives you high security with remote control locking and an engine immobiliser as standard.

 

3. Smart City Brake Support (SCBS)

This system helps prevent or lessen low-speed impacts. With pedestrian detection, Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) monitors the vehicle in front to assess the possibility of a collision at forward speeds of 4-80km/h. If the system detects a high risk of impact, it issues visual and audible warnings and primes the brakes for faster response should the driver brake. If the driver does not brake, the brakes are applied automatically. Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) also works in reverse at speeds of 2-8km/h. Standard on Astina Plus models only.

 

Recommended: Mazda3 test drive: make sure to check these features out.