All About Japan Autos

If you’ve fallen for the urban legend that claims small cars are more dangerous in crashes, Ford may soon prove you wrong.

Starting with the all-new 2012 Ford Focus, the automaker is introducing exclusive airbag technology that will soften the blow of the airbag. Ford says in a press release that “The new airbag uses a reconfigured curve-shaped tether system that pulls in the lower section to create a ‘pocket’,” which lessens the impact on the occupant’s chest and ribs.

Ford will update the side airbags as well. Autoblog says that Ford has added unique “shoulder vents that stay open during inflation, reducing pressure for smaller occupants.” Taller passengers will block the vents with their shoulders, adding higher pressure that’s helpful in a crash.

If you won’t buy a 2012 Ford Focus but like what you hear, don’t worry. The Detroit News reports “The next-generation air bags will debut on the Focus, but show up on other Ford vehicles in the coming years.”

If you’re in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year’s best cars as well as this month’s best car deals.