1. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
The single most important safety feature. AEB detects potential collisions and applies brakes automatically if the driver doesn't react. Standard on most cars from 2018 onwards.
2. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Mandatory in Australia since 2013. ESC detects loss of traction and automatically applies individual brakes to prevent skids and rollovers.
3. Multiple Airbags
Look for at least 6 airbags: dual front, side chest, and curtain airbags. Premium vehicles offer knee airbags and rear side airbags.
4. Reversing Camera
Eliminates blind spots when reversing. Especially important for SUVs and utes with poor rear visibility. Mandatory on new cars from 2018.
5. Blind Spot Monitoring
Sensors detect vehicles in your blind spot and alert you via a dashboard or mirror indicator. Invaluable on Perth's busy freeways.
6. Lane Departure Warning
Alerts you when the car drifts from its lane without indicating. Some systems actively steer the car back into the lane.
7. Adaptive Cruise Control
Maintains a set distance from the car ahead, automatically adjusting speed. Reduces fatigue on long drives and in stop-start traffic.
8. ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors
Standardised child seat mounting points that are safer and easier to use than seatbelt installation. Essential for families.
9. ANCAP Safety Rating
Always check the ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program) rating. Aim for 5 stars. Ratings are published at ancap.com.au.
10. Tyre Pressure Monitoring
Alerts you to low tyre pressure, which can cause blowouts and reduce braking performance. Increasingly common from 2019 onwards.