Mazda3 given Top Safety Pick nod
The 2011 Mazda3 has been recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Mazda3 received the 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 of 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 Mazda3 comes in three Canadian models – Mazda3 sedan, Mazda3 Sport hatchback and Mazdaspeed3 (starting at $16,295, $17,495, and $29,695 respectively.
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.
