Significant improvements from the 2015 model
The 2017 Mazda CX-9 crossover has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Starting with 2017 models produced after November 2016, Mazda altered the deployment pattern of the side curtain airbags to increase protection in front and side crashes. Accordingly, these models earned top scores in all five crash categories, including the difficult small overlap test. The large crossover also received a “Superior” score in front crash prevention. The vehicle was able to avoid collisions in automatic braking tests conducted from 12 mph and 25 mph.
The “Superior” front crash prevention technology comes on the highest trim levels of the CX-9 including the Grand Touring and Signature. Those trims also offer the CX-9’s best headlights, which command an “Acceptable” rating.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was not fully rated by IIHS. The last CX-9 to be evaluated in every category was the 2015 model, which earned a “Poor” score in the small overlap front crash test as well as “Marginal” scores in the roof strength and head restraint examinations.
In order to qualify for the 2017 Top Safety Pick+ award, a vehicle must earn “Good” ratings in all five crash tests as well as an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating in front crash prevention. Headlights must be rated “Acceptable” or “Good.”
Source: IIHS