The 2003 Mazda 6 marked a significant update replacing the Mazda 626. This article analyzes the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) side impact crash test results for a 2004 Mazda 6i 4-door model without optional side airbags, providing valuable safety insights for potential buyers of the 2003 Mazda 6. It’s important to note that these results apply to 2003-2006 models, as side airbags became standard in 2007.
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test: 2004 Mazda 6i
The IIHS conducted a side impact crash test on a 2004 Mazda 6i to assess its structural integrity and occupant protection. This particular test vehicle did not have the optional side airbags installed, reflecting a common configuration for the 2003 Mazda 6. Mazda did not request a separate test with side airbags. The following table summarizes the key findings:
| Evaluation Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Evaluation | Poor (P) |
| Structure and Safety Cage | Marginal (M) |
| Driver Injury Measures | |
| Head/Neck | Poor (P) |
| Torso | Acceptable (A) |
| Pelvis/Leg | Poor (P) |
| Driver Head Protection | Poor (P) – Dummy’s head struck the intruding barrier. |
| Rear Passenger Injury Measures | |
| Head/Neck | Good (G) |
| Torso | Poor (P) |
| Pelvis/Leg | Good (G) |
| Rear Passenger Head Protection | Acceptable (A) – Dummy’s head hit the B-pillar. |
The overall rating of “Poor” highlights the vulnerability of occupants, particularly the driver, in a side impact collision without side airbags. The intrusion of the barrier into the driver’s space resulted in significant head injuries to the dummy. While the rear passenger fared better in terms of head and leg protection, the torso still received a “Poor” rating.
Detailed Analysis of Driver Injury Measures
The driver’s head injury measures were high due to direct contact with the intruding barrier. This emphasizes the critical role of side airbags in mitigating head injuries during side impacts.
Technical Measurements and Intrusion Data
Measurements of the occupant compartment intrusion reveal how much the barrier deformed the vehicle’s structure:
Occupant Compartment Intrusion (Driver Side)
| Test ID | CES0401 |
|---|---|
| B-pillar to Longitudinal Centerline of Driver’s Seat (cm) | 1.0 |
This indicates significant intrusion into the driver’s survival space. Detailed injury measurements for both driver and passenger are available in the original report, providing a comprehensive understanding of the crash dynamics and injury potential.
Conclusion: Safety Considerations for the 2003 Mazda 6
The IIHS side impact crash test results for the 2004 Mazda 6i without side airbags underscore the importance of this safety feature. While the 2003-2006 models lacked standard side airbags, buyers should prioritize finding a vehicle equipped with them. The significant risk of head injury to the driver in a side impact is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating the safety of the 2003 Mazda 6. This information highlights the advancements in vehicle safety and encourages informed decision-making for used car buyers.
