Mazda 3 scores 5 stars: advanced safety still optional

ANCAP today announced a maximum 5 star safety rating for the new Mazda 3 sedan and hatch.

Launched in Australia last week, the new Mazda 3 again scored ANCAP's highest safety rating - a rating also held by its predecessor. It will launch in New Zealand soon.

"The previous model Mazda 3 accounted for a considerable 7% of all Australian passenger car sales in 2013. If the new Mazda 3 is to sell in similar numbers, this will mean tens of thousands of consumers are again purchasing a car with excellent safety performance," said ANCAP Chairman, Mr Lauchlan McIntosh.

The new Mazda 3 had to jump higher hurdles in order to gain its 5 star ANCAP safety rating as ANCAP continues to increase the requirements for each of its star ratings.

"Head-protecting side airbags for rear seat passengers is now required for 5 stars, as is a higher score in the pedestrian protection test. The Mazda 3 ticks these boxes yet life-saving technology such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is still only offered as an option on Australian-sold models. In the UK, AEB comes standard," Mr McIntosh added.

"While the Mazda 3's pedestrian injury rating of 'Acceptable' is encouraging, ANCAP is looking for all vehicles to score the maximum 'Good' rating", Mr McIntosh continued. "Pedestrian injuries are an increasing proportion of the total as improved internal protection features reduce occupant injuries.”

570,000 new passenger cars were sold in Australia in 2013. 91% of these held the maximum 5 star ANCAP safety rating

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, Australian state and territory governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

To search individual crash test results for over 475 vehicles, learn more about safety technologies, explore interactive features, watch videos and to download images and media releases visit ancap.com.au.