ANCAP crash test results

Mazda 323 Protege | 1999 -  

Overall evaluation:

The MAZDA 323 PROTEGE performance was marginal in the offset crash test (score 7.18 out of 16). The passenger compartment held its shape well except for the firewall, which was substantially deformed. The driver's contact with the airbag was unstable. Protection from serious leg injury was poor for the driver.

The vehicle performed better in the side impact crash (score 10.06 out of 16) but there was a moderate risk of life threatening chest injury for the driver.

Safety features

A driver's airbag is standard equipment.

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.

Restraints: Marginal

Offset Crash Test

The steering column moved up substantially and this affected airbag positioning. The airbag cushioned the head of the driver but the head then rolled off the side of the airbag. The side of the head then hit the window sill. The driver's knees hit the dash, steering column and steering column adjuster. The passenger's head hit the dash with a moderate impact. The passenger's knees hit the glove box and dash.

Side Impact Crash Test (no front passenger)

The back of the driver's head glanced the centre pillar then rebounded.

Head Restraint Position Rating: Marginal

Structure: Marginal

Offset Crash Test

The passenger compartment held its shape well except for the firewall, which was substantially deformed. The front part of the driver's floor was pushed rearwards 26cm. The brake pedal moved rearwards by 42cm, ending up above the seat cushion, where it may have been struck by the driver's groin. The dash moved 12cm towards the driver. The width of the driver's doorway shortened by 14cm. All doors remained closed during the crash. After the crash the doors could be opened without tools.

Side Impact Crash Test

The centre pillar and the side doors were pushed inwards substantially. The floor was folded in the region of the centre pillar.

Pedestrian rating: (57%)

57% score for child or adult head and leg injury.