The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has received top marks in IIHS testing, earning it a place among the safest small SUVs. Some outlets report that it has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, although there may be some mixed results in certain areas such as headlight performance. The ranking of the Mazda CX-5 in comparison to other vehicles, like the Honda CR-V, is being discussed, but the specifics of these comparisons are unclear.