Mazda Increases Standard Safety Across the Lineup, But Skips Miata

With the exception of the MX-5 Miata two-door drop-top sports car, every 2018 Mazda will now have forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Mazda Getting Both Systems on All Models

Consumer Reports says that Mazda will have offer both systems on all models, although the standard autonomous braking system that will be standard on most models will be low-speed only, working at speeds up to 19 mph. Systems that work at highway speeds will be optional on some models.

Both systems use laser, cameras, radar or some combination thereof to detect a possible collision and to help the driver avoid a collision. Automatic emergency braking can apply the brakes to help the driver avoid the collision. Automatic emergency braking will be standard on most vehicles by 2022 as part of a voluntary agreement between 20 major automakers, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Why Not for Miata?

Why is the Miata not getting these safety systems as standard? Perhaps a few reasons. Keeping the roadster lightweight is likely the main one. Safety systems like this add weight, and the Miata’s appeal is mostly based on its driving dynamics – which are so good in the first place because the car is one of the lighter ones on the market.
Perhaps in the future all cars will come with these safety features standard. For now, though, the Miata will stay old-school, at least relative to the rest of Mazda’s lineup.

Consumer Reports