MAZDA Celebrates Its 100th IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK Award

A new Mazda vehicle can make the everyday drive feel like something worth looking forward to, and feeling confident behind the wheel is a big part of that. In July 2026, the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, bringing Mazda to a total of 100 IIHS top safety awards since the program began in 2008. Learn why this milestone matters with The Autobarn Mazda of Evanston.

The MAZDA CX-5 Makes It 100

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 earned its place in this bit of Mazda history with strong results across the board. IIHS gave the SUV good ratings in the small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front, and updated side tests. Its standard Smart Brake Support system also earned good ratings in the institute’s vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian front crash prevention evaluations. Together, those results brought the Mazda CX-5 the institute’s highest award level.

What It Takes to Earn TOP SAFETY PICK+

The plus sign isn’t earned with one standout test. IIHS looks at front and side crash protection, including how well a rear-seat passenger is protected in the updated moderate overlap evaluation. It also checks headlights across the entire trim lineup and tests standard front crash prevention in vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian scenarios. In other words, the Mazda CX-5 had to deliver a well-rounded performance.

A Strong Year for MAZDA Safety

This isn’t an isolated win. Of the 100 IIHS awards Mazda has won, 74 were TOP SAFETY PICK+ honors. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 also joined eight other 2026 Mazda vehicles that had already earned the same recognition. That gives you several options to consider as you look for the design, space, and driving feel that suit your life.

Find Your New MAZDA Model in Evanston, IL

If you’re looking for a vehicle that gives you ultimate peace of mind—and has the awards to back it up—look no further than a new Mazda model. Visit The Autobarn Mazda of Evanston to compare your options and take a test drive.