LOU WATERS, CNN ANCHOR: Safety experts say a few vehicles still need improvement, but overall, the latest crash test results are encouraging. Here is CNN's Carl Rochelle.</s>CARL ROCHELLE, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The institute found that most cars, crashed into a wall at 40 miles per hour, did better than in previous years' tests. For example, one moderately priced, mid-sized car that made gains was the 2000 model Toyota Avalon. As a contrast, the institute provided video of its tests in 1996, in which it considered the Avalon a marginal; in 1998, where its performance was found to be improved and acceptable. This year's model tested under similar circumstances was found to be good and earned a "Best Pick" rating.</s>JULIE ROCHMAN, INSURANCE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY: The manufacturers know what they need to do to improve crash-worthiness performance. Many of them run our tests as a part of their design process. They run the government's tests. This is not a big secret. They know exactly what they have to do.</s>ROCHELLE: The Isuzu Rodeo did not fare so well. In 1996, the institute rated the Rodeo's safety poor because of injuries to the dummy's legs. In the 2000 Rodeo tests, the dummy suffered severe head and neck injuries, and for that reason, the institute says, its rating continues to be poor. In large-sized family cars, the Ford Taurus and its sister model, the Mercury Sable, continued to remain a top pick for safety. Among other cars tested, the institute says the Lincoln 2000 LS was a "Best Pick," with an overall rating of good. The Nissan Maxima and Infinity were found to be acceptable, as was the Mazda</s>MPV. (on camera): In all, seven new vehicles representing six updated designs were tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a group funded by the insurance industry. All except the Isuzu Rodeo and the Honda Passport earned good or acceptable ratings. Carl Rochelle, CNN, Washington.
Safety Experts Find Crash Test Results Encouraging, but a Few Vehicles Still Need Improvement