SAFETY TAKES A BACK SEAT TO STYLE IN CAR BUYERS' DECISIONS

Many consumers are more interested in a car's look and amenities than its safety features, according to a survey by The Progressive insurance agency group.

The survey says that in order of importance the top five new-car purchasing considerations are: overall price, practicality (i.e. gas mileage, insurance, etc.), monthly payment amount, look/style and, finally, safety features such as air bags and anti-lock brakes.

Almost half the respondents say the color of the car is more important than side air bags in their purchasing decision. Twenty-two percent say a CD player is more important than anti-lock brakes.

Other findings: 24% say leather seats are more important than four-wheel drive. Respondents with children were nearly twice as likely to say a new car's monthly payment amount is more important than its safety features.