A vehicle occupant protection system (200) including an airbag module (50) containing an elongated inflator (10) and an elongated airbag (202) is provided. The airbag (202) contains a first and a second upper portion, (44 and 46), and at least one lower or thoracic portion (48) in fluid communication with at least one upper portion (49 or 46) upon activation of the airbag (202).
