NHTSA Gives CX-7 Top Crash Tests Ratings

Hats are off for the new Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV. Recently, the 2007 version of the vehicle received the 5-star frontal and side impact crashworthiness ratings, the highest ratings, in the U.S. government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests.

“The CX-7 combines performance and safety with a level of power and driving satisfaction seldom associated with a SUV,” said Robert Davis, senior vice president of product development and quality for Mazda North American Operations. “We are proud to offer a vehicle that blends these features with excellent crash test ratings.”

In addition, Mazda CX-7 also received a 4-star rollover rating for the all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive versions. So far, no sport utility vehicle has received better ratings than Mazda CX-7.

Frontal collision ratings given by the NHTSA, are established by placing crash-test dummies in the front-passenger seats as well as in the driver seat and securing them with seat belts. Then, the vehicle is crashed into a preset barrier at the speed of 35 mph. Said crash test is comparable to a head-on collision between 2 similar vehicles running at 35 mph. The top rating given to CX-7 in said crash test indicates a 10 percent or less chance of having serious injury when the occupants in the front seats are belted.

In the side-impact crash test, intersection-type collision is designed. It employs a 3,015 pound barrier moving at 38.5 mph into the CX-7. This is done while the test dummies are buckled into the driver and rear passenger seats. CX-7also gets a 5-star rating in this crash test. This indicates a 5 percent or less chance of serious injury.

Mazda started the production of 2007 CX-7 early this year and went on sale last June. Said vehicle replaced Tribute as Mazda's small SUV. The latter is known for its refreshed Mazda Tribute 2004 parts. CX-7 is also the automaker's first midsize SUV since Navajo. Mazda Navajo, a 2-door SUV, is considered as the rebadged version of Ford Explorer Sport. Mazda Navajo performance parts underwent several redesigns.

Mazda CX-7 boasts its full complement of standard safety equipment that includes dual front airbags, front seat mounted side air bags, curtain air bags with rollover protection, anti-lock brakes, traction control and Dynamic Stability Control and tire pressure monitors. CX-7 competes against Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Acura RDX.

Kimberly Meyer is an expert when it comes to automotive issues. She is the manager of her own car parts manufacturing company. This 33 year-old maiden is also a talented writer.