The 2018 Mazda 6 midsize sedan, when equipped with optional curve-adaptive headlights, can now boast Top Safety Pick status after a solid performance in five crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Mazda 6 sedan scored good ratings in all of the tests, including the newest evaluation for protection in passenger-side small overlap front crashes.

To capture the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, a vehicle must earn good ratings across the board, including the driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. Top Safety Pick awardees must also feature available front crash prevention that earns an advanced or superior rating and available acceptable- or good-rated headlights.

The Mazda 6 garners a superior rating for front crash prevention when equipped with optional Smart Brake Support and Standard Smart City Brake Support, according to the institute.

The technology prevented a collision in the 12 mph track test and reduced the impact speed by an average of 24 mph in the 25-mph test. The system also includes a forward collision-warning component that meets criteria established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As a stand-alone system, Smart City Brake Collision earns an advanced rating and proved to prevent a collision in the 12-mph test.

The curve-adaptive LED headlights on the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims earn an acceptable rating. High-beam assist, a system that automatically switches between high beams and low beams, depending on the presence of other vehicles, makes up for some of the low-beam deficiencies, boosting the rating. The Mazda 6's other available headlights earn a marginal rating.

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