Sexy Neon

[V6Maniac]

Neon is worst performer: The Neon has "major problems beginning with its structure. This car is a disaster," Lund says. "The structure is poor, and both dummies' heads were hit by the barrier during the crash test. High forces were recorded on the head, torso, and pelvis of the driver dummy. If this had been a real driver in a real crash, it's likely it wouldn't have been survivable."

While combination head and torso side airbags for the front occupants are available on the Neon, DaimlerChrysler did not ask for a second test with the airbags.

"With a poor structure, the company probably didn't think side airbags would make a big difference in the Neon's performance," Lund says. Pointing to the Neon's marginal rating in the Institute's frontal test, he adds that "if safety is a priority, the Neon is a small car to be avoided."

Cobalt is 'best pick' in frontal test: This is General Motors' new entry in the small car category. It's a big improvement over the Chevrolet Cavalier, which still is being sold. The Cavalier is rated poor for frontal crashworthiness.

"The Cobalt's structure held together very well in the frontal test," Lund says. The driver's survival space was maintained, and there was minimal to moderate intrusion into the footwell area. The dummy's movement was well controlled during the crash, and all injury measures were low. The Cobalt is rated good and earned the added designation of "best pick."