ANCAP crash test results

BMW 3 Series (LHD) | 2000

Front+side+head airbags

Important note: The left-hand-drive European model was tested by EuroNCAP. Australasian specifications may vary and therefore models sold in Australasia might provide different levels of protection to those described on this page.

Model history and safety features

The tested model of BMW 3-SERIES (LHD) was introduced in Australia in 1998.

Dual front airbags, side airbags (front and rear) and head-protecting inflatable tubes are standard equipment. ABS brakes and electronic stability control are also standard.

The front seat belt buckles are mounted on the seats and the upper anchorages are adjustable. These features improve the fit of the seat belt. Pretensioners are fitted to the front seat belts to reduce slack in the event of a crash. A three point seat belt is fitted to the centre rear seat. This provides better protection than a two point seat belt.

Overall evaluation:

The BMW 3-Series scored 9.87 out of 16 in the offset crash test. The passenger compartment held its shape well. Protection from serious chest and leg injury was marginal for the driver.

The vehicle scored 12.985 out of 16 in the side impact crash test. There was a high risk of serious chest injury for the driver. A further 2 points were scored in the optional pole test and this earned the vehicle a 4 star rating (minimum 24.5 pts).

Frontal offset crash test

Body region scores out of 4 points each: Head/neck 4pts, chest 2.63pts, upper legs 2pts, lower legs 1.24pts.

The passenger compartment held its shape well in the offset crash test. The brake pedal moved rearwards by 137mm and upwards 39mm. The steering wheel hub moved rearwards -24mm and upwards 32mm. The front ("A") pillar moved 36mm rearwards. The width of the driver's doorway shortened by 21mm. All doors remained closed during the crash. After the crash all doors could be opened with normal effort.

The airbag cushioned the head of the driver and contact was stable. Interior components were a potential source of injury for the driver's knees. The passenger's head was cushioned by the airbag.

Side impact crash test

Body region scores out of 4 points each: Head 4pts, chest 3.01pts, abdomen 1.97pts, pelvis 4pts.

The vehicle was eligible for an optional pole impact test, since it had head-protecting side airbags and scored four points for the head in the side impact test. The manufacturer decided to go ahead with the pole test and the vehicle earned a further two points.

Bonus points (maximum 5)

Pole Test: 2 points
Seat belt reminders: Not eligible

Modifiers for offset test scores

Pedestrian rating - tested to previous protocol

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ANCAP one-page printable version (PDF 138KB)

Page created: 14 November 2003