IIHS & HLDI news: 2010

Ford's re-engineered and restyled 2010 Mustang convertible earns good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for occupant protection in offset frontal crashes and side impacts. When the Institute initially tested the 2010 model it earned a poor frontal rating, but it improved to good in a follow-up test after Ford modified the front structure and doors of models made after December 2009.

The 2010 Acura MDX earns a good rating for occupant protection in new side tests. Acura modified the side airbags in the current model of this midsize luxury SUV, which was redesigned for the 2007 model year. The 2007-2009 model also earned a good side rating.

Toyota modified the 2010 Tundra's frontal airbags and safety belts and added knee airbags for the driver and front passenger to retain the good rating it earned for frontal protection for 2007-09 models. This large pickup had previously earned good ratings for side and rear protection, too.

New Jersey joins 23 other states in requiring rear seat occupants to ride restrained. Violations will be enforced as a secondary action, effective 1/20/11. For details on safety belt use laws in all states, go to http://www.iihs.org/laws/SafetyBeltUse.aspx