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Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid nab five-star ratings from NHTSA

Ford's Fusion and Fusion Hybrid have both received the highest five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The rating is a big upgrade for the Fusion, which was completely redesigned for 2013. The previous model fell one star short of the top rating, after scoring only three stars in the frontal crash test and four stars in the side crash test and rollover evaluations. The 2013 Fusion received four stars in side crash and rollover testing and a full five stars in the front crash test.
Test results for the 2013 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid were greatly improved at least in part due to Ford's Personal Safety System. The system utilizes smarter sensors to gather crash data and tailor the car's restraint systems to the occupants. Seatbelt usage and seat position are taken into account to ensure airbags deploy with less pressure for smaller drivers, more for larger drivers.
The 2013 Fusion twins also received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ designation. Read the official press release below.

11 vehicles from Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas worth watching

This weekend will see the world's collector car crowds descend on Las Vegas, NV for one of the biggest shows on Barrett-Jackson's popular auction circuit. There are hundreds of vehicles up for bidding, ranging from a brand-new Lamborghini Aventador to a spattering of Art Deco classics and a huge swath of classic muscle cars.
While it's virtually impossible to assemble an inarguable list of the best cars coming during the three-day, 700-plus vehicle auction, we've sifted through the listings for this year's show - it was a tough assignment, we promise - and assembled a list of what we think will be some of the most interesting lots. We'll admit, it's a bit heavy on American iron, but if you browse BJ's listings, you'll come to a similar conclusion. Still, scroll down for our list of what we think will be the most interesting vehicles at the upcoming auction.

2016 Ford Mustang gets new packages, trim and hood-vent turn signals

Ford just introduced the 2015 Mustang last year, but the iconic pony car is already getting a few minor updates for the 2016 model year consisting primarily of new options packages and trim. For starters, Ford is bringing back the turn indicators integrated into the hood vents, first launched on the Mustang nearly half a century ago, which will now be fitted as standard on the Mustang GT. The feature was apparently requested by customers, and signals to the driver when the turning indicator is on. Premium models also get the new Sync 3 system. The Blue Oval automaker is also offering racing stripes in black or silver on the Mustang GT and Mustang EcoBoost, along with a black roof option. There's a new Pony Package available for the EcoBoost Premium model as well, with 19-inch polished alloys, special grille, side stripe and chrome window surround. Customers ordering a Mustang GT fastback or convertible can opt for the Black Accent Package with murdered-out wheels, spoiler, taillamp trim and logos. There's a California Special Package being offered on the Mustang GT Premium with such touches as 19-inch black machined alloys, hood and side stripes, black spoiler, mirror and hood vents, dark taillamp accents, a front splitter, special grille and gas cap, strut tower brace and an interior decked out in black leather with suede inserts and red stitching. Finally, Ford is offering a Performance Package for the Mustang GT convertible with the manual transmission, similar to the kit available for the fastback but catered to the drop-top. The package includes upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, 19-inch black-painted alloys, a larger radiator, strut tower brace and K-brace, retuned electronics, a Torsen limited slip differential, machine-turned aluminum instrument panel, a new splitter and the removal of the rear spoiler.