evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.

Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on two instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact.

Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry — the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. Seats without good or acceptable geometry are rated poor overall because they can't be positioned to protect many people.

Complete List of All 72 Winners

Large Cars

Acura RL

Audi A6

Cadillac CTS

Ford Taurus

Lincoln MKS

Mercury Sable

Toyota Avalon

Volvo S80

Midsize Cars

Acura TL, TSX

Audi A3, A4

BMW 3 series 4-door models

Ford Fusion with optional electronic stability control

Honda Accord 4-door models

Mercedes C class

Mercury Milan with optional electronic stability control

Saab 9-3

Subaru Legacy

Volkswagen Jetta, Passat

Midsize Convertibles

Saab 9-3

Volkswagen Eos

Volvo C70

Small Cars

Honda Civic 4-door models (except Si) with optional electronic stability control

Mitsubishi Lancer with optional electronic stability control

Scion xB

Subaru Impreza with optional electronic stability control

Toyota Corolla with optional electronic stability control

Volkswagen Rabbit

Minicar

Honda Fit with optional electronic stability control

Minivans

Honda Odyssey

Hyundai Entourage

Kia Sedona

Large SUVs

Audi Q7

Buick Enclave

Chevrolet Traverse

GMC Acadia

Saturn Outlook