Mazda Recognised Among the Safest Car Brands by Consumer Reports

Mazda Motor Corporation has once again reinforced its global reputation for engineering excellence, with the brand recognised as one of the safest new-car brands in the 2026 Consumer Reports Safety Rankings.

According to the latest analysis by the independent consumer advocacy organisation Consumer Reports, Mazda is ranked among the top three safest car brands, alongside Genesis and Acura. The rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of crash test results, braking performance, handling, and crash-avoidance technology. This recognition reflects Mazda’s ongoing commitment to developing vehicles that prioritise both driver confidence and occupant protection, while delivering the engaging driving experience that defines the brand.

“Safety is not simply a feature at Mazda — it is a fundamental design principle that guides how we engineer every vehicle,” says Bonite Van Der Merwe, Managing Director of Mazda Southern Africa. “Being recognised by Consumer Reports as one of the safest car brands globally reinforces Mazda’s human-centric philosophy and our commitment to ensuring that every journey begins with confidence — because when drivers feel safe, the spirit of Wonderrrr Awaits truly comes to life.”

A Human-Centric Approach to Safety

Mazda’s safety philosophy is rooted in human-centric engineering, which focuses on designing vehicles that work intuitively with the driver while protecting occupants and other road users.

Across its model range, Mazda incorporates a suite of advanced safety technologies known as i-ACTIVSENSE, including:

• Smart Brake Support

• Blind Spot Monitoring

• Lane-Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Driver Attention Alert

These technologies work alongside Mazda’s SKYACTIV body structures, which are engineered to provide enhanced protection while maintaining the responsive driving dynamics for which Mazda vehicles are known.

Safety Across the Mazda Range

Mazda’s commitment to safety is evident across its global lineup, including models available in South Africa such as the Mazda CX-5, CX-30, CX-60 and Mazda3.

These vehicles combine advanced driver-assistance systems with robust vehicle architecture, helping drivers avoid potential hazards while offering strong occupant protection in the event of a collision.

Global Recognition

Consumer Reports evaluates vehicle safety using multiple data sources, including:

• Independent crash-test results
• Emergency handling and braking performance
• Real-world safety data
• Effectiveness of crash-avoidance technologies

Mazda’s strong performance across these areas contributed to its ranking among the top safety brands in 2026.

“This recognition reinforces Mazda’s dedication to creating vehicles that protect and inspire drivers,” adds Van Der Merwe. “When safety, design and driving enjoyment come together, it allows our customers to explore the road ahead with confidence — because with Mazda, Wonderrrr Awaits.”