Safest Cars Under $30K

New safety features continue to be included in cars these days, adding to the long list which already includes ABS, traction control, airbags and active head restraints. One of the latest safety devices to come our way is Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says is so important a vehicle had to have it in order to even be considered for its 2008 Top Safety Pick list. See which cars made it in the Under $30,000 category.

Large Cars: 2008 Ford Taurus Limited

MSRP: $27,620
Electronic stability control: optional feature
Other standard safety features: traction control; feature side airbag--front; head airbag--front; rear seat head restraint; trunk release; tire pressure monitor

Read More About the Ford Taurus Limited

Midsize Cars: 2008 Honda Accord EX-L

MSRP: $28,310
ESC: standard feature
Other standard safety features: four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS); auto-dimming rear-view mirrors; side airbag--front; head airbag--front; rear seat head restraint; dynamic head restraint; trunk release; tire pressure monitor

Read More About the Honda Accord EX-L

Minivans: 2008 Kia Sedona EX

MSRP: $26,195
ESC: standard feature
Other standard safety features: four-wheel ABS; side airbag--front; head airbag--front; rear seat head restraint; trunk release; tire pressure monitor

Read More About the Kia Sedona EX

Midsize SUVs: 2008 Ford Taurus X SEL

MSRP: $28,465
ESC: standard feature
Other standard safety features: four-wheel anti-lock brakes; de-powered airbag; passenger airbag; head airbag; side airbag

Read More About the Ford Taurus X SEL

Small SUVs: 2008 Honda CR-V EX

MSRP: $22,950
ESC: standard feature
Other standard safety features: side airbag--front; head airbag--front; rear seat head restraint; dynamic head restraint; trunk release; tire pressure monitor

Read More the Honda CR-V EX

Read the full story and view the slideshow at Forbes.com:
- Safest Cars Under $30,000- In Pictures: Safest Cars Under $30,000
Find Your Next Vehicle on AOL Autos:

• Car Information
• New Cars for Sale
• Used Cars for Sale