IRVINE, CA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently granted six Mazda models its SmartWay Certified Vehicle designation. Giving environmental scores for cars and trucks based on emission levels and fuel economy values, the U.S. EPA's Green Vehicle Guide listed the 2009 Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, B2300, Tribute, and Tribute Hybrid as SmartWay vehicles.

The 2009 Mazda5 six-passenger, multi-activity vehicle was the only model in its size category to achieve the SmartWay rating.

"Mazda takes great pride in engineering good, quality, fuel efficient vehicles, and we are delighted that the U.S. EPA has validated our efforts," said Robert Davis, senior vice president, product development and quality, Mazda North American Operations.

SmartWay certification is reserved for the cleanest, most fuel-efficient vehicles available in today's market. A SmartWay Certified Vehicle designation is determined by how a vehicle scores using EPA air pollution standards and criteria. Specifically, the scores are based on emission levels (the Air Pollution score) and fuel economy values (the Greenhouse Gas score). Vehicles that score a 6 (out of 10) or better on each of the Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas scores and achieve a combined score of at least 13 when added together qualify as SmartWay Certified Vehicles.