Before getting to a list of the vehicles that earned ''excellent'' ratings on the CRSA charts, it's worth noting the magazine's perspective on safety. ''With today's range of choices, there's no reason to accept a vehicle that doesn't perform well in all safety areas.''
As for those lists of vehicles that scored ''excellent,'' it's important to note that some of the findings are only good for specific models with certain (usually bigger) engines and other equipment. Again, check the magazine or website.
In rank order (i.e. top to bottom) in the Small Car category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Honda Civic, VW Golf, VW Jetta, Ford Focus, and Mini Cooper.
In rank order in the Minivan category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Honda Odyssey and Ford Freestar.
In rank order in the Small SUV category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Subaru Forester, Saturn Vue, Honda Element, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Santa Fe.
In rank order in the Midsized SUV category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Lexus RX330, Chrysler Pacifica, Nissan Murano, Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, and Toyota 4Runner.
In rank order in the Family Sedan category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Mazda6, VW Passat, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Chevrolet Impala.
In rank order in the Large and Upscale Sedan category, CR gave ''excellent'' ratings to Lexus IS300, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Saab 9-5, BMW 3-series, Lincoln LS, Lexus ES330, Jaguar X-Type, and Cadillac CTS.