MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Mazda Mazda6

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Mazda Mazda6

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
17Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE MAZDA MAZDA6

The Mazda6 is a mid-size sedan aimed at drivers who want a more engaging, driver-focused alternative to the mainstream family sedan crowd. Offered in the 2019 through 2021 model years covered here, it targets buyers who appreciate refined styling and a premium feel without fully crossing into luxury-brand territory. It competes in one of the most scrutinized segments in the American market.

VERDICT

The 2021 Mazda Mazda6 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 96 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Mazda6 as one of the most rewarding mid-size sedans to drive, praising its responsive handling, upscale interior quality, and composed ride. They tend to highlight it as a strong choice for buyers who prioritize driving engagement and refinement, though some note that its cargo and technology offerings can trail segment leaders.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 10.3%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15163

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record20/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Mazda Mazda6 at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

17 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 13Unknown Or Other 2Visibility/Wiper 2Back Over Prevention 1Fuel/Propulsion System 1

Other Mazda6 years

Rivals in Sedan (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15163), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Mazda Mazda6 2021. Class rank 12 of 94 in Sedan 2021. Methodology · Disclosure