Honda Accord Or Nissan Altima: Which One Does V-6 Better?
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SAFETY | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Good," frontal offset test; "marginal," rear impact
IIHS
Five stars, all frontal and side tests
NHTSA
Mazda6 now offers a blind-spot monitoring system
Cars.com
Dynamic stability control on all models saves you should you run out of talent in a turn
AutoWeek
Most—though not all—indications point to a very high level of safety in the 2010 Mazda Mazda6.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Mazda6 has "good" frontal impact protection, yet this mid-size sedan scores a low "marginal" in the seat-based rear-impact test—indicating a higher-than-normal chance of whiplash or neck injuries. The one concerning part of the IIHS results is their contention that "forces on the right tibia indicate that injuries to the lower leg would be possible." However, it receives top five-star scores across the board from the federal government.
Front side airbags, side-curtain bags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and dynamic stability control are all standard, as they are among most mid-size sedans. Mazda's blind-spot monitoring system is available too. The 2010 Mazda Mazda6 also features several electronic safety aids. Cars.com mentions the blind-spot monitoring system that is optional on Touring models and standard on the Grand Touring versions, including "dynamic stability control on all models," according to AutoWeek. And in a nod to those who frequent more crime-ridden areas, Cars.com notes that the Mazda Mazda6 includes a "standard smart key that immobilizes the engine in a theft attempt."
Overall, the 2010 Mazda Mazda6 might be quite a bit better at avoiding accidents than some other mid-size sedans. Good visibility helps the 6 feel like "a full size smaller than it is once you're moving," according to Automobile Magazine. Reviewers at ConsumerGuide point out the "wide C-pillars somewhat impede visibility to the rear corners," but the blind-spot system should help with that.
Conclusion
Crash-test results for the 2010 Mazda Mazda6 aren’t the best in class, but combined with some excellent accident-avoidance features, it’s a very safe sedan.
