For many car buyers, safety is the No. 1 concern, and today it’s easier than ever to avoid an accident. But with so many safety features available, it’s better to know what’s what before you buy. We’re taking a closer look at the rear cross-traffic alert system on the 2014 Mazda6.
This safety feature is usually offered alongside a blind spot monitoring system and does exactly what it sounds like it should: It lets you know if you’re about to back into oncoming cross traffic. This feature is especially helpful when pulling out of a tricky driveway or maneuvering in a crowded parking lot.
Here’s why this feature is so cool: Once you shift the car into reverse, it can tell you if a car is approaching before you can even see it! And here’s how it works: Two sensors located inside the rear bumper detect movement on either side of the car at a 120-degree angle. If a vehicle is approaching, the alert chimes and an LED icon flashes in the side mirror to warn you. Since one in five car accidents happen in a parking lot, this safety feature makes a lot of sense, and it’s sure to be very popular with buyers.
Opting for a rear cross-traffic alert system is kind of like taking out a small insurance policy against fender benders. Remember, when it comes to you and your car, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
