- Latest generation BMW 3 Series scored maximum points by a mid-size car
- Excellent results in child occupant protection, pedestrian protection and standard safety equipment
The BMW 3 Series has added a feather in its hat with a five-star score in the latest round of Euro NCAP crash test. Also, the executive sedan emerged with the best result for adult occupant protection achieved by a ‘large family car’ (midsize model) since the introduction of the current Euro NCAP test format.
The Bavarian carmaker claims the weight-optimised design and a high load-bearing capacity along with engineered deformation paths in the new 3 Series helped to preserve the passenger cell’s rigidity in various types of collision. In Euro NCAP testing, the aluminium/high-strength steel safety passenger cell proved to be extremely robust – both in the frontal and side collisions and the side pole impact. In a frontal collision, the forces acting on the vehicle were diverted via multiple load paths in the large deformation zones.
Meanwhile, the reinforced side structures in the B-pillars and high-strength side impact members in the doors and seat cross-members protected the occupants in the event of a side-on collision. Strengthened pillars and roof members ensure that the passenger cell retains its rigidity if the car rolls over. The German sedan managed to score 97 out of 100 in adult occupant safety while the child safety score was 23.8 out of 24. And the active bonnet with pyrotechnic release mechanism helped with impressive results in pedestrian safety as well.
The new 3 also comes with collision and pedestrian warning with auto-braking function to avert a collision in all test scenarios, earning it maximum points in the assessment. This technology is a part of the standard Active Guard system that also comprises lane departure warning with lane return and the speed limit display road sign detection system with no-overtaking indicator. Also standard in the 3 Series are DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), a tyre pressure indicator, attentiveness assistant and intelligent emergency call with BMW accident assistance.
