20 Safest Cars of 2015

16. Mazda 6

The Mazda 6 scored “good” in most areas tested, but scored an “acceptable” in the small front overlap test. The Mazda 6 also scored a “advanced” in the front crash prevention test. When equipped with the optional forward obstruction warning, the Mazda 6 avoided a collision at 12 mph, but reduced impact speed by 0 mph at 25 mph. This system did not meet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s criteria for forward collision warning. The child seat LATCH system scored a “poor” grade, due to the lower anchors being too deep in the seat, difficult to maneuver around, and too much force being required to attach. The roof was able to withstand 5.21 times the vehicle’s weight before crushing 5 inches, earning the Mazda 6 a score of “good”. In the small front overlap test, the Mazda 6 earned “acceptable” in most areas, and “good” in the chest and hip/thigh injury measurements. When measuring injury on the dummy, a high head acceleration occurred when the dummy hit its head on the steering wheel through the airbag. Measurements indicate that right lower leg injuries would also be possible. The dummy’s head remained in contact with the airbag, but its head moved toward the left side of the steering wheel and A pillar because the seat belt allowed excessive forward excursion of the head and torso.