2011 Mazda3 named "Top safety pick" by Insurance Institute for Highway safety
Popular compact sedan and hatchback receive highest safety rating from IIHS --
The 2011 Mazda3 was today recognized as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The
Mazda3 received the organization’s highest possible crash safety rating of “Good” in all four tests conducted.
“Nearly half of all Mazdas sold in Canada are Mazda3s, so we are justifiably proud of the 2011 Mazda3 earning the distinction of the IIHS ‘Top Safety Pick,’” said Don Romano, President, Mazda Canada Inc. “Both the sedan and hatchback models are recognized with this award, examples of Mazda’s dedication not only to producing engaging and fun-to-drive vehicles but those offering the utmost quality and safety.”
Vehicles receive ratings based on results from the Institute’s evaluations on front, side and rear impact crash tests as well as a roof strength test (implemented in 2010), which measures occupant protection in the event of a rollover. Each vehicle’s overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion specific to each crash angle and the injury impact on crash test dummies positioned within the vehicles at the time of collision. Only vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are eligible for testing.
The 2011 Mazda3 recently was named a “Recommended” vehicle by a leading consumer publication and the sedan model praised as its “Most Fun Small Sedan” and a “Best Vehicle Under $20,000.”
Available in three models, the Mazda3 sedan, Mazda3 Sport hatchback and Mazdaspeed3 (starting at $16,295, $17,495, and $29,695 respectively), the 2011 Mazda3 family of vehicles boasts a number of passive and active safety technologies as standard equipment. In addition to Mazda’s proprietary Advanced Impact-energy Distribution and Absorption System (MAIDA), all Mazda3s come with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBFD), dual front airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags, and front seat active headrests. In addition, the Mazda3 is equipped with Mazda’s Brake Override system, which always prioritizes the brake pedal over the accelerator pedal should both be engaged simultaneously, allowing the vehicle to be brought to a safe stop.
About the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Founded in 1959, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is an independent, non-profit, scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries and property damage that result from crashes on the nation’s highways and roads. The Institute, along with affiliate the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), supports highway safety efforts and accident prevention through vehicle crash safety tests as well as consumer education, such as driver behaviour and roadway designs. For more information, visit www.iihs.org.