Top 5 Safest Hybrid New Cars for 2010
If safety is a top priority for you, then you'll find plenty of new cars in the hybrid market that meet your needs. As a segment, hybrids are some of the safest vehicles on the road, with a plethora of advanced safety features typically coming standard. Of all the fuel-efficient hybrids on the road, five have earned the coveted 'Top Safety Pick' Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Review these safest hybrid new cars to find the one that best meets your needs.
New 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid
The Ford Fusion Hybrid fares well in crash tests thanks in large part to a standard feature set that includes six airbags, traction control, stability control and rear parking sensors. For those who are serious about safety, a rearview camera and blind-spot warning system serve as available upgrades. Starting at $27,950, the Ford Fusion isn't the most affordable hybrid on the market. However, its enhanced interior comfort, smooth driving dynamics and classic sedan body style help make the Fusion one of the favorite hybrids for the year among reviewers and drivers alike.
New 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
Those looking for a safe hybrid SUV will find much to like about the new Ford Escape. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, six airbags (including side-curtain bags with rollover sensors), blind-spot mirrors and stability control. Safety upgrades include park-assist sensors and a rearview camera. Parents may also opt for the MyKey safety system, which allows owners to program top speed limits and stereo volumes for teen drivers. Base price for the new Ford Escape is $29,860.
New 2010 Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has the distinction of being outfitted with more standard airbags than any other hybrid. These airbags include front passenger side- and front-airbags, full-length head-curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag (for a total of seven). Other standard features include antilock disc brakes, anti-whiplash head restraints, stability control and traction control. Optional upgrades include an advanced pre-collision warning system and lane-departure warning.
With a base MSRP of $22,800, the Prius is a good buy for the money. Add in a comfortable rear seat and smooth engine, and this is one of the better family-friendly hybrids on the market.
New 2010 Honda Insight
The Honda Insight comes standard with six airbags, antilock brakes and electronic brake force distribution. When comparing against the similarly styled and priced Prius, shoppers should note that traction control is only available on upper-tier Insight models. Still, the Insight earns a top rating of "Good" in every category tested by the IIHS. The Insight also boasts a lower price than the Prius, with a base MSRP of $19,800. However, a loud engine and other inconsistencies may make the additional money worth the payout.
New 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid
The Honda Civic Hybrid comes standard with six airbags, antilock brakes, electronic brake distribution, brake assist and stability assist with traction control. There aren't any notable safety upgrades. However, the good mix of standard features is more than enough to offer impeccable safety performance. At $23,800, the Civic Hybrid competes ably against the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight.