Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Comes In Handy - 2014 Mazda Mazda3 S Long-Term Road Test

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Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Comes In Handy - 2014 Mazda Mazda3 S Long-Term Road Test

Our 2014 Mazda 3 comes with an impressive amount of active safety features. The one I find most useful is the rear cross-traffic alert system.

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cgrocho47

Actually, on the 3i Touring you need to get the Technology package to obtain these features. Otherwise, you get a much smaller (and cheesy-looking) head unit in the space where that big LCD is mounted.

mtaylor3

Never thought I would have much use for blind-spot monitoring, back up camera or rear cross traffic alert, but after having them in my 2014 Mazda3, I can't imagine not having them! They have prevented many near collisions (and I consider myself to be a very attentive driver).

bc1960

@cgrocho47, you need to get the Tech package for the rear camera, but blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert are standard on the i Touring. BSM flashes an indicator in the outside mirror on the side of the approaching vehicle, and cross-traffic flashes both side indicators and beeps. Between this, turn signal repeaters on the mirrors, proximity entry, alloy wheels, nicer/less utilitarian upholstery, rear armrest/cupholders, and leather steering wheel/shift knob/emergency brake on the i Touring, the i Sport seems like it should be more than $1100 cheaper (MSRP).

cgrocho47

Thanks for the correction... the article does imply to me that the backup camera is included. In any case, we do have the 3i Touring with the Tech package, and to me this is the perfect combination of features. Love the car.

bc1960

Congress' original intent was that backup cameras be standard on all new vehicles by MY2014, but it wasn't until several months ago that NHTSA decided how to implement the requirement, so it won't be until MY2018 that all new vehicles have them. I imagine on cheaper trims manufacturers may use small screens embedded behind the rear-view mirror. Unlike the other Mazda models currently offering a backup camera, the 3 effectively requires both the Bose radio upgrade and navigation to get it, which will have to change to equip lower-priced i SVs, Sports, and Tourings.