Mazda’s redesigned 2026 CX-5 compact crossover has received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award. This marks Mazda’s ninth model with the highest safety rating for 2026, the most of any brand in the U.S.
IIHS Updates Raise Safety Standards
For 2026, the IIHS updated its testing criteria to improve pedestrian crash prevention, strengthen back seat protection, and enhance crash-avoidance performance. New tests include a rear-seat dummy in the moderate overlap front crash test to better assess injury risks for 12-year-olds or small adults.
Vehicles must meet these toughened standards to earn the Top Safety Pick+ rating, reflecting advanced occupant protection and crash avoidance technology.
Mazda’s Safety Commitment and Technologies
Mazda aims for zero fatalities in its new models by 2040. Jennifer Morrison, Mazda North America’s director of vehicle safety strategy, highlights the role of engineering, human-centric design, and safety technologies in achieving strong safety results.
All new Mazda vehicles come standard with multiple safety features:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
These features use integrated cameras and sensors to help avoid or reduce the severity of crashes.
2026 CX-5 Pricing and Enhancements
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at around €29,000 (approx. $31,485). This is approximately €870 (£750) more than the outgoing model but includes more technology, larger screens, enhanced connectivity, and improved safety and interior space.
Why It Matters
The redesigned Mazda CX-5’s Top Safety Pick+ status confirms Mazda’s focus on safety amid growing consumer demand for well-protected vehicles. The updated IIHS criteria mean the CX-5 not only protects drivers but also addresses risks to rear passengers and pedestrians. For compact SUV shoppers, this adds weight to the CX-5’s reputation as a safe daily driver.
Source: autonews.com