Are Small Cars Safe?

With gas prices so volatile, a lot of people think owning a small car is the way to go. But when the weather turns bad and roads become slick, are these small cars safe enough?

For the first time crash tests are being performed on the smallest cars sold in the U.S.: The mini cars.

In one test, the side-impact crash proved too much for 4 of the 8 models tested.

The Hyundai Accent, Toyota's Scion xB, and the Toyota Yaris without optional airbags all scored "poor" ratings. The Chevy Aveo scored a "marginal."

The head injuries, say experts, could have been severe.

For rear impact collisions, 7 of the 8 models earned a "marginal" or "poor" rating due to inadequate seat/heat restraints.

Some of the cars might have performed differently with head restraints in different positions.

The good news?

All of the cars earned "good" or "acceptable" marks in front impact collisions.

So, what's the top overall pick? The Nissan Versa, which earned "good" ratings in front, side and rear impact collisions:

The Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Mini Cooper, Chevy Aveo, Toyota Scion xB and the Hyundai Accent all earned "marginal" or "poor" scores in one or more tests.