If you are concerned about safety when you're on the road, as we all should be, take a look at this list from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. I asked Jody Victor to tell us about the top 10 from their list of safest vehicles for 2010.
Jody Victor: In all, 27 vehicles made the grade based on even more stringent testing on roof strength/rollover safety this year - fewer than half of the 72 models that initially landed the coveted award last year. Let's take a look at the top ten.
Ford Taurus - The 2010 Taurus has already made its mark with a bold, new, surprisingly unstodgy redesign. Having earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick every year since 2007, the Taurus cements its position as one of Ford's flagship vehicles.
Volvo S80 - Like the Taurus, the S80 has been on the IIHS annual list since 2007. Considering Volvo's tradition of industry-leading crash safety, passing the new rollover test isn't a gold star so much as a prerequisite. Along with the Lincoln MKS, the S80 is one of just two luxury large cars on the new list.
Subaru Legacy - The 2010 Legacy is one of just six vehicles on this year's list with a perfect record, having won a Top Safety Pick every year since the IIHS started giving out the awards in 2006.
Volkswagen Jetta - Although the Jetta's distinctive looks have become watered down in recent years, the sedan's performance and brand name have helped it stand out in a crowded field. Another Top Safety Pick - the car's third straight since 2008.
Kia Soul - While the Scion xB failed to win tip honors, the Kia Soul somehow passed muster. It might be Kia's only 2010 winner, but in the escalating battle for first-time car buyers, one exceedingly safe little car is better than none.
Nissan cube - Until now, the story of the Nissan cube has been its unique, even freakish appearance, which is either a bold design move or a desperate bid for attention. By storming onto the IIHS list for the first time - one of just five small cars to do so - the cube proves that it's more than just an eccentric first car.
Dodge Journey - Few SUVs made the list. The Journey's biggest selling point has been its price, but for drivers who absolutely need the cargo space and who prioritize safety above everything else, this award could pull this also-ran SUV out of obscurity.
Volvo XC90 - Considered one of the safest SUVs for years, the XC90 has earned top IIHS honors since 2007. In fact, safety is this SUV's only distinguishing trait, or at least the only thing justifying its luxury price tag.
Jeep Patriot - Rounding out the list of otherwise-underwhelming Top Safety Picks, the Jeep Patriot's win reinforces an important point - Safety is not always a function of price or engineering heritage.
Subaru Forester - Aside from landing five Top Safety Picks this year, Subaru is the only company to have not one but two vehicles (Forester, Legacy) with winning streaks dating back to 2006.
Thanks, Jody! Great info to know!