Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2010 - Auto

Autos
102 Your inside track for new &

used vehicles
112 Tire buying advice
115 _ Rating the 2010 models
126 Reviews of the 2009-10 models
149 Used cars: The best & the
ones to avoid
155 Detailed auto reliability
180 Tire Ratings
102 C O N S U M E R REPORTS B U Y I N G GUIDE 2OtO
Your Inside Track for

New & Used Vehicles
his 88-page section is your all-in-one guide to buying a
T vehicle. Starting off on page 103, we detail the 5 Steps to Get

the Right Car and the Best Price. Buying a car can be thrilling
and terrifying at the same time, but foilowing these five
easy steps can taite the advantage out of the salesperson's
hands and put you in charge of the buying and negotiating process.
On page 112 is our tire buying advice. reliability, owner satisfaction, owner cost.
With more—and better performing—tires and overall safety.
on the market than ever before, we explain the vehicle profiles, starting on page
what to look for wben buying tires. Paying 126, are our summary reviews of vehicles,
more money doesn't mean you will neces- including our recommendations and pre-
sarily get a better tire. dieted reliability Ratings.
Turn to page 115 to see which vehicles. Consumers considering a used vehicle
among I he more than 270 we recently should turn to the best and worst used cars
tested, did best and worst in our Ratings. section on page 149. You'llfindour CR Best
Here you can see how each ranks among of the Best, models ihat bave performed
its competitors in overall lesl score, real- well in our road tests and showed above-
world fuel economy. Ratings for predicted average reliability (Used Car Verdicts) in
THE CONSUMER REPORTS DIFFERENCE

To get the right car at the best price you need to do your research. But how do you
determine the quality of your information? More people turn to CONSUMER REPORTS for
car-buying advice than any other publication or Web site. That's because CONSUMER
REPORTS, published bv the nonprofit, independent Consumers Union, holds a special
place in the world of auto information.
• CR is the only publication whose staff buys its own test vehicles anonymously.
We put the vehicles through the most comprehensive auto-testing program of any
U.S. publication or Web site at our 327-acre Auto Test Center. More than 50 tests and
evaluations are performed on every vehicle.
- CR does not accept advertising, so we don't have to pull punches in our Ratings,
reviews, and safety reporting. Unlike other publications that must placate advertisers.
we tell you which vehicles are the best and which are the worst.
F I V E S T E P S T OG E T T H E R I G H T C A R 103
our 2008 Annual Auto Survey, as well as brands being discontinued, and lightened
the CR Worst ofthe Worst, vehicles with credit standards, and the entire process
multiple years of much below-average reli- can be less fun and more frustrating.
ability that yt)ü should avoid. To ensure that you get the right vehicle at
The exclusive CR Reliability History the best price, you need to be an informed
charts start on page 155. These charts are buyer. That means investing time in
based on responses from our 200S Annual research and preparation. 'Ihe car-buying
Auto Survey, when we ask our approxi- process can be boiled down tofivesteps:
mately six million magazine and Web site • Get the right information to narrow
subscribers about any serious problems your choices and make a smart decision.
they have had with their vehicles in the • Check out the cars by doing a thorough
preceding 12 months. test drive.
We dose the section on page 180 wiih « Set a target price and learn the value
Liur Ratings of tires. Fach tested tire is ofyour Irade-in.
rated for wet, dry, and, where applicable, • Shop for financing before you deal by
winter performance. In addition, CR rates comparing terms and interest rates, and
lires for rolling resistance, ride comforl, getting preapproved for a loan.
road noise, and tread life. • Get the best deal by contacting deal-
This edition's reliability data are based erships, comparing offers,-and using a
on more than 1.4 million vehicles. They proven negotiating stratify.
provide you with information on 230 mod-
els, showing you how models from 2003 Step 1: Get the right info
through 2008 are holding up in 17 trouble To accurately compare vehicles and deter-
spots. These are comprehensive reliability mine the besl one lor your needs, gather as
data you can't get from other publications. much information as you can about any
models you're considering. Fortunately, the
Internet makes tbat easy to do. But just as
5 STEPS TO GET cars can vary greatly in quality, so can
sources of information. The kt.7 is knowing
THE RIGHT CAR & what to look for andfindingthe best sourc-
es of information. Here, we list .some of tbe
THE BEST PRICE major areas that you should consider when
comparing models.
Buying a new car in today's climate can be AUTOMAKER WEB SITES

an exciting, but confusing process. Many Use those sites to get basic information,
people are intimidated by the dealership such as which models and trim levels are
experience, including the price negotia- offered, available features and options,
tions and the high-pressure sales tactics specifications, retail pricing, warranties,
tbat can be used to manipulate you into and local dealers. Most sites also let you
spending more than you need to. Others compare vehicles and "build your own
find it confusing to try to pick the right car," giving you a retail price for your
vehicle from the more than 300 models configuration. That doesn't guarantee
on the market. Add in dealership closings. you'll find a vehicle confi.gured the way
104 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0
you want it on a dealership's lot. Keep in RELIABILITY

mind, too, that the main purpose of those A vehicle's reliability can have a huge
sites is to promote their own products, effect on how satisfied you'll be with it
so the model information is the same as over the years, and it can significantly
advertising. affect its resale value. Reliability, however,
is a difficult and expensive quality lo eval-
VEHICLE RATINGS uate becau.se the information has to come
CONSUMER RKPORTS' Ratings (page 115) from vehicle owners; the more, Ihe better.
can help you narrow your list by giving CR provides the most comprehensive reli-
you a quick look at how tested vehicles ability information available to consum-
compare with their competitors in sev- ers. Our 2008 Annual Aulo Survey, for
eral areas. The Ratings charts also show instance, drew responses on more than
you the vehicles that meet our stringent L4 million vehicles.
requirements to be recommended.
FUEL ECONOMY
MODEL REVIEWS The fuel-economy figures printed on
Reviews give you an in-depth perspec- a vehicle's windi)w slicker and in auto-
tive on a vehicle's performance, comfort maker advertising and brochures are
and convenience, and driving character, estimates based on a lest created by the
as well as insight into deficiencies thai Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
might not be apparent on a test drive. We You can find a list of those figures at
recommond reading a variety of reviews. www.fuelcLOiiotTiy.gov. In CR's extensive
But keep in mind that most are in publi- real-world fuel economy testing, however,
cations or Wvb sites thai are supported we've found that past I'.PA estimates were
by automaker advertising, and no com- often much higher than you're likely to
pany wants to bite the hand that feeds get in normal driving, In 2008 the EPA
it. You might not find hard-^hitting anal- revised, their testing procedures to better
ysis or insight into safety or reliability reflect current driving conditions and the
issues. Only a few reviewers do their own resulting mileage. While the nunibt-rs on
instrumented testing, which allows more ihe window stickers are now more realistic,
accurate comparisons between different Iherc are still some figures ihal are higher
vehicles. than you are likely lo get. CR's real-world
(.;R conducts the most comprehensive fuel economy test results are in the Vehicle
aulo-testing program of any U.S. publi- Ratings charts (starting on page 115).
cation or Web site. We differ from other
reviewers in several significant ways: We SAFETY RATINGS
don't accept advertising; we buy all of our CONSUMER REPORTS provides a single
test vehicles from dealerships just like you overall safety Rating for many mtidels, basttl
do; and we conduct more than 50 tests and on a combination of government and insur-
evaluations on each vehicle over several ance-indu-stry crash-test results and our ac-
monthsand thiiusands of miles. cident-avoidance testing. A model loses full
Summary reviews of all models are in- points if eleclninic stability control (KSC) is
cluded in the model profiles that begin on not .standard and loses partial points if this
page 126. important safety feature is optional. Because
many models lack key crash-test results, we Rear-impact protection. Although rear-
are not able to calculate an overall satety enders are usually nol lifc-lhreatening,
Rating for every tested model. they have a high injury rate, especially for
Several different elements affect a whiplash neck injuries. 'Ihe design of a
vehicles overall safely capability: car's head restraints and seats are critical
Crash lests. Frontal- and side-impact factors in how severe a whipbsh injury will
crasb lests are conducted by tbe Insur- be. CONSUMER REPORTS evaluates head
ance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS; reslraints for all seating positions in every
www.iihs.oTg) and tbe National Highway tested vehicle. Any problems are noted in
Iratfic Safety Administralion (NHTSA; our road-test reports. An<tther good source
www. sajerair.gov). for information on rear-impact protection
Accident avoidance. A vehicle's abil- is the IIHS Web site, www.iihs.org. The
ity to help you avoid an accident is just as Institute conducts evaluations of head
important as ils ability to protect you in restraints and performs dynamic rear-im-
•,i cra.sh. For every accident there are nu- pact tests that measure how well the seat/
merous near misses that statistics don't head-restraint combinations in different
reflect. Several factors contribute to a ve- models protect against whiplash.
hicle's accident-avoidance capability, wilh Blind zones. F,very year, children are
ihe two most important being braking and injured and killed because drivers don't
ciiicrgeiwy handling. see them while backing up. A contributing
Rollover resistance. liollovers are involved factor is that some larger vehicles, .such as
with more than a tliird ot all passenger-vebi- SUVs and pickups, have larger blind zones
cle deaths and are of particular concern with —the area behind a vehicle that the driver
laller vehicles, such as SUVs and pickups. can't see. CONSUMER REPORTS measures
To help consumers compare vehicles, the Iheblindzoneo! every vehicle we lest and
NinSA provides a five-star rating system publishes ibe information free at www.
called the Rollover Resistance Rating (R1ÍR). ConsumerReports.org.
The RKR is calculated from two factors: a
vehicle's Static Stability Factor (SSF) and a RECOMMENDED SAFETY FEATURES
ilynamic roilo\'er test. Ihe SSV. which is de- Buyers «)tieii (tverlook important salely
termined from slalic measurements of the features Iwcause they aren't aware of them
vehicle, essentially indicates how top-heavy or don't understand their benefit. We rec-
it is. 'ITie dynamic test simulates a driver ommend that you consider the following
having lo make a series of sharp steering tor your vehicle:
maneuvers, as can happen in an enieiêncy. Antilock brake system (ABS). Without
Vehicles that tip up at any speed fait the lest. antilock brakes, a vehicle's wheels can lock
We believe tiiat a veh icie ihat tips up in this up (stop turning) during hard braking,
type ol situation has serious stability prob- particularly on slippery surfaces. When
lems, and we will not recommend it. RRR thai happens, the vehicle tends to keep
ratings are avaibble at www.siifercar.gov. plowing ahead in whatever direction it is
To see whether a vehicle tipped up in the going. You can't stet-r, and locked wheels
dynamic test, however, you need to click on can cau.se a vehicle lo slide sideways or even
the model's name or star ratings to get more spin. ABS prevents the wheelsfromlocking
information, then scroll down to RpIIover. up, allowing the driver to retain steering
control while braking and to maneuver the Safety-belt pretensiontrs instantly retract
vehicle around an obstacle, if necessary. It ihe belts to take up slack during a frontal
also helps keep the vehicle from sliding. impact. This helps position iKcupants prop-
Electronic stability control (ESC). Cf >N- erly to take full advantage of a deploying air
suMER REPORTS higiily recommends ESC, bag. Force limiters, a companion feature to
which helps keep the vehicle on its intended pretensioners, manage the force thai thi^
palh during a turn to avoid sliding or losing .shoulder belt builds up on Ihe occupaiii
control. It is especially helpful in slippery cbest. After the pretensioners tobten it, fbrct
conditions and accident-avoidance situa- limiters let the belt pay back out a liltle.
tions. Witb tall, top-heavy vehicles such as "Smart" (rental air bags. Frt>nt air bags
SUVs and pickups, it can also help keep tbe bave been standard in all new vehicles
vehicle from getting into a situation where since 1998, but some models offer a mul
it could roll over. Each automaker tends to tistage system Ibat can detect the presence
bave a proprietary name for its ESC system, and weighi of the person in ibe front pas-
making it confusing lor buyers to know senger seat, the driver's seat position, and
what's whal. If in doubt whether a car bas whether their safety belts are fastened. It
it, find out before you buy. can tben adjust tbe deployment oftbe air
Head-protecting air bags. II?IS side-im- bags to minimize the chance of injury to
p-act crash tests clearh' show tbe benefit of this occupants, including cbildren, in a crasb.
feature. To date,fewvehicles tested without
bead-pmtecting air bags have scored bigher Step 2: Conduct a test drive
than ptx)r. There are iwo types of these air A lot of vehicles look gmid on paper, but
bags. A standard sklc air bag deploys fri)m tbe test drive is your best chance to see
the seat or door trim. It typically protects a how a vebicle measures up to expectations,
fiersons torso, but many don't do an adequate to see how well it "fits" you, and to evalu-
job of protecting the head. We recommend ate its driving character, performance, and
tbat you look for a dedicated head-protection comfort. After all, you don't want any sur-
bag tbat deploys from above the .side win- prises after you've bought it.
dows. Tbe most common type is a curtain air You should make a separate visit to the
bag that covers the side windows in botb tbe dealership ju.st tor a test drive and walk-
front and rear, preventing occnapants from around inspection. Don't wait until tbe day
hitting tbeir beads and sbielding them from you're ready to buy or if your car breaks
flying debris. A curtain bag can also keep down. You won't bave enough time lo tbor-
people from being ejected during a rollover. ougbly evaluate the cars youre considering.
Safety-belt features. Wbile tbe safety It's important that you spend as much
belt is arguably tbe single most important time with the vehicle as possible, with an
piece of safety equipment, enbanced fea- eye on what it will be like to live with over
tures are helping safety belts do tbeir job the long haul. Here are some tips to make
more effectively. Adjustable upper ancbors your dealership test drive count:
belp position tbe belt across the cbest in-
stead of the neck to prevent neck injuries. BE ORGANIZED AND THOROUGH
Tbey also can help keep tbe belt from pull- • Before you go to tbe dealersbip, list tbe
ing down on a tall person's shoulder, mak- likes and dislikes with your current car
ing it more comfortable. and compare these witb the vebicie you'll
be driving, Take along a notebook so that need are a target price on the new vehicle
you can jot down impre.ssions. and the value of your current vehicle.
• Test drive all the models you are con-
sidering before you make a final decision. SET A TARGET PRICE
If more Ihan one person will be driving the The figure on a car's window sticker is
vehicle on a regular basis, make sure all have only a suggested retail price set by the auto
a chance ti> test drive it before you buy. manu facturer. Dealerships are free to sell
- Before you drive, evaluate the driv- vehicles at whatever price they want. An
ing piisition and interior. Set the seat in a informed buyer, prepared with accurate
comfortabledriving position and attach the price information, can often buy a vehicle
safety belt. Make sure ihat you're at least 10 for hundreds or thousands of dollars below
inches away from (he steering wheel and the sticker price.
ihal you can fully depress all the pedals. That's why il's important to calculate a
Make sure that you can reach all the con- reasonable la rêl price liefere you go to the
irtils without straining and that ihey're easy dealership to buy. To do this, start with a
to use and the displays are easy to see. figure that's based on how much ihe dealer
• Don'l be rushed; take at least 30 min- actually paid for the vehicle. By knowing
utes. Drive a route that includes different thi.s, you'll know how much profit margin
types of road surfaces and driving condi- ihe dealership has to work wiih,
tions. Take someone along to give you the To figure oui the dealer's real cost you need
passenger's viewpoint- If possible, take the to find the dealer-invoice price, any current
icsl drive wilhoul a salesperson, so you can Ixiiind-the-sceties dealer sales incentives, and
l>etter concentrate on the vehicle. thedealer'sholdlxick amount. Dealer-invoice
" As you drive, make sure that you can see prices are now so common that you can find
i>ul wdl, that you can judgi- the ends ofthe them on many Web siles and pricing guides,
vehicle, and that there iire no serious blind but you'll have to do a little more digging to
spots. Pay attention to atl of the vehicle's find dealer incentivesand the holdlwck.
< haracteristics—how it rides, handles, accel- CONSUMER REPORTS' New Car Price
(.rales. and slops, as well a.*; road noise. Record Reports do ihis work for you. Fach report
your impressions of the vehicle's comfort, shows atl three factors: the dealer invoice
handling, and responsiveness, and compare price, the amount of any national or re-
these with others ihat you tesl drive. gional dealer sales incentives, and the
• If you use child-safety seats, bring holdback amount. It als« includes the CR
ihem with you and take the time to install Boltoni Line Price, which takes att of those
them properly so that you can see how easy figures into con.sideration to give a close
ordifficult it is. approximation ofthe dealer's cost.
For most new models, I to S percent over
Step 3: Crunch the numbers the Consumer Reports Bottom t Jne Price
In many ways, ncgoliatiiig a good deal is reasonable, depending oh how popular
on a new vehicle h a game oliiumbers, I h e the model is.
best way to ensure thai you aren't manipu- It can ats*.) be helpful to check yijur target
lated is lo go in armed with accurate pric- price against those offered by dealerships
ing information, which lets you assess how affiliated with auto-buying Web sites. On
good the offer really is. Two key figures you those sites, you can ask tor a price quote
on a vehicle that's configured the way you SHOP FOR THE RIGHT TERMS
want it, and one or more dealerships will Compare interest rates at various finan-
reply by e-mail. The services are free and cial institutions, such as banks, thrifts,
you aren't under any obligation to buy. and credit unions. Also, call car dealer-
You can compare those quotes against ships in advance to check for any special
the target price range you calculated based promotions.
on tbe dealer's cost. Usually, the quotes The figure to focus on is the annual
will be higher. But if, by chance, a quote is percentage rate (APR). For comparison,
lower than yourfigure,this gives you more you can get a quick read on prevailing
leverage with which to bargain. rates at Web sites such as Bankrate.com,
Another point of comparison could be E-Loan (www.eioati.com), and LendingTree
so called transaction prices posted on some (www.tendingtree. com).
auto-buying Web sites. Those are intended Try to keep loan lengths as short as pos-
to reflect the average of what other buyers sible. A three-year loan costs you far less
are actually paying for new vehicles. overall than a four- orfive-yearloan at the
Because tho.se transaction prices are an same interest rate. But you need to balance
average ot nationwide sales prices, keep in the total cost ofthe loan aînst a monthly
mind that some actual prices were higher payment you can afford.
and some were lower. Those prices also
might not be accurate for your area. By PLAYING THE INCENTIVE GAME
having a target price based on the dealer's Automakers may offer aggressive, low-
cost, you might be able to do better than interest financing incentives on many
those transaction prices. At the very least, models, but there are catches:
during your negotiating process it's com- • Some low rates are available only for
forting to know approximately how much 36-nionth loans, meaning the payments
you should be paying for the vehicle. will be quite high.
• Without a stellar credit record, you
Step 4: Find the best might not qualify. Always phone the deal-
financing options ership before you visit to find out what
You might be a wbiz at getting a low price credit score qualifies a borrower for the
on a new car, but ifyou don't choose your fi- lowest financing rate and, if you don't
nancing carefully you could lose everything qualify, what the next best rate would be.
you saved on the vehicle's purchase price, • You often have to make a choice be-
and more. It's critical to comparison shop tween a low interest rate and a cash re-
and prequatify for an auto loan before buy- bate. Run the numbers both ways to see
ing. Thai allows you to keep the financial which offer saves you the most money.
arrangements out ofthe price nôtiations You'll find an auto-financing calculator
at the dealership. Otherwise, your choice of atCotisumerReports.org/cakulators.
loans is restricted to what the dealership can • Low interest rates or large cash incen-
offer you, and many dealers mark up the tives are no bargain if they lead you to buy
interest rate over what you actually qualify a car you're not happy with. It might make
for. That "interest-rate bumping" can cost betterfinancialsense over the long term to
you hundreds or even thousands of dollars buy a consistently reliable model at a little
more over the term of the loan. higher interest than an unreliable model
FIVE S T E P S T OG E T THE R I G H T CAR 1 0 9
Know the pros and cons before you lease

Choosing lo lease depends on your lifestyle, expectations, ana budget. Leasing usu-
ally gives you a lower monthly payment and a lower down payment, and you avoid
any resale or trade-in hassles. Leasinq caii also let you drive a higher-priced, better-
equipped vehicle (or the same monthly payment as buying a less-expensive model.
But leasing makes sense only if you stay within the annual mileage fimit (typically
12.000 miles), keep the car until the end of the lease (to avoid early-termination
penalties), maintain the car well to avoid excess wear-and-tear charges, and trade in
your car every two or three years.
Many people who lease end up paying more than they have to because they aren't
familiar with the process and don't try to negotiate the vehicle's price. Here are
some tips:
1. Negotiate the purchase price of the vehicle as if vou were going to buy it. Once you-
have a firm price, then bring up your desire to lease.
Z. Other negotiable elements include the mileage limit, down payment, and purchase-
option price, or how much you'll have to pay ¡t you want to buy tfie vehicle at the
end of the lease.
3. Avoid lease terms that extend past the vehicle's basic warranty,
4. The four-digit "money factor" is roughly equivalent to a loan's annual percentage
rate. To translate this into a percentage rate, multiply the money factor by 2,400,
5. Buy extra miles up front if there's a risk of running over the standard allotment.
Excessive mileage at the lease's end is typically charged at a higher rate.
6. Protect yoursell with gap insurance. In case you have an accident that totals the
car, this covers the difference between an insurance settlement and the actual pay-
off for the car. In some cases, gap insurance is included in the lease. If it's extra, we
recommend that you shop around. Prices can vary dramatically, so get a number of
guotes. If your own insurance company provides it, that could be vour best bet.
7. Understand your end-of-lease options, such as turning in the vehicle and walking
away, purchasing the car, or rolling into another lease.
at zero percent. Saving a few dollars each accurately evaluate the dealership's terms
month on your payments mighl not .seem so that you can make ihi- best decision,
worthwhile over the long run if you don't
like the vehicle. Step 5: The best deal for
. In addition, the credit markets have yoU, not the Salesperson
tightened considerably in the past year. When you go to ihe dealership, the
You may not be able lo use home equity salesperson will probably wanl lo focus on
lor il car loan, a practice that was common the vehicle's sticker price or on how much
up until last year. ota monthly payment you can afford.
l-vcn il a dealership is ofFering a special Don't go down ihis road. Using the
financing incentive, you should still do monthlypayment as the focus, thesalesper-
your homework by carefully shopping .wn will lump the whole process together,
,1 round tor the best loan offers. Tlial lets you including the price for the new vehicle, the
trade-in, andfinancing,if appropriate. You Your price will likely be somewhere be-
wind up with a "good price" in one area tween the Iwo. Give the salesperson your
while he makes up for it in another. In the rock-bottom target price. But don't di-sclose
end, this could cost you more overall. your competitive bids, which are the upper
Instead, insist on negotiating one thing at range of what's acceptable. Otherwise, the
a time. Your first priority is to settle on thesalesperson will ftxus on undercutting that
lowest price you can get on the new vehicle. higher figure by a token amount instead of
Only after you've locked that in should you working off the lower figure.
begin to discuss a trade-in or financing. For example, while the MSRP for a 2009
Chevrolet Tahoe 4Wr) LS i.s $41,975, the
ESTABLISH THE GROUND RULES CR Bottom Line Price is $37,667. Since laiê
When you first meet ihe salesperson, SUVs like the Tahoe aren't in particularly
you should sel the tone of your negotia- high demand, begin your negotiations with
tions by politely explaining the following: a lto 3 percent markup: lielween $38,044 to
• You have carefully researched the vehi- $38,797 Tell the salesperson yourfigureand
cle you want and have taken a test drive. ihat you want the lowest markup over that
• You know exactly what trim level and price you can get. Inch up if necessary, but
options you want, haveresearchedthe price, don't go over the lowest competing bid.
and know what the dealership paid for it. If the negotiations have stalled and the
• You have already calculated what you salesperson lets you walk out the door, you
are prepared to pay. Reassure her ihat your can reveal your lowest competing price to
olier will include a fair profit. show he isn't yel in Ihe ballpark. Ifyou can
• If he or she can meet your targel price agree on an acceptable price, ihen wrap up
you'll be ready to buy today; if not, you the deal. If not. move on to another deal-
intend to visit other dealerships. ership, now armed with the price that the
If the salesperson asks about a trade-in, first dealership gave you.
say that you have investigated various op- Never nôtiate under pressure. Salespeo-
tions for selling your old car and that you ples' favorite customers are those who seem
might be open lo a trade-in, but only after to be in a rush, because they tend to he the
you've agreed on the new vehicle's price. ones who don't negotiate the price and buy a
When asked, let Ihe salesperson know more expensive car than they planned to. In
that you are prcapproved for a loan, but that addition, a salesperson might lell you that
you mighl he willing to consider financing someone else is very interested in the same
through the dealership—provided the rate carand is comingby later—a common sales
is competitive and you can come to terms lactic. You should ne^'er feet that you have
on the purchase price of the new car. to make any deal immediately. There are
always other cars out there.
SET YOUR SIGHTS ON THE PRICE
When negotiating a vehicles price, GET THE MOST FOR YOUR TRADE-IN
you've got two arrows in your quiver: Betöre you go to ihe dealership, a.ssess
• Your target price, based on what the the value of your vehicle, focusing on the
dealer paid for the vehicle. u.sed-car wholesale price. It also helps lo
• Competing bids from other local deal- take the car to a couple of used-car dealer-
erships or car-huying Web sites. ships to see how much they'd be willing to
FIVE S T E P S T OG E T THE R I G H T CAR lit
Don't waste money on unnecessary extras

Dealerships often try to get you to buy extra services that are usually overpriced. Don't
waste your money. What could cost the dealer about $90 can cost you Sl.OOO or more.
Those extras can include:
Rustprooflnq and unde.rcoating. Today's vebictes are manufactured witb good, corro-
sion protection. In fact, according to CR's reliability surveys, rust problems have almost
vanished in modern vehicles.
Fabric protection. If you buy a vebicle with clotb seats, you might want to spend a few
bucks for ä can of fabric protector and apply it yourself.
Paint sealant. This is little more than vastly overpriced wax. You can easily purchase
a good protectant from any auto parts store and apply it yourself.
VIN etchlnq. This service entails etching the vehicle identification number (VIN) into
the windows to deter theft. Some states require that a dealer offer it to you, but none
require that you buy it. It's not unusual to find a charge for VIN etching already printed
on the purchase agreement, as if it's assumed that you will pay for this service. This has
been the case for several vehicles that we've bought for testing. We recommend that you
refuse this charge. Even if you decide you want VIN etching, you can have it done less
expensively elsewhere, or evenjJo it yourself with a kit that costs about $25.
Dealer prep fees. Inquire about any fees that the dealership is charging you for prepar-
ing the vehicle. The manufacturer pays the dealership to prepare the vehicle for you;
you shotJtdn't be charged for this service.
Don't accept unnecessary services and fees. If those items are on the bill of sate,
put a line through them.
pay for it in a direct sale. allowance on your trade-in.

Because appearance is important, it pays If you feel you're being lowballed, you
to spruce up y<iur vehicle belore you have can always seD your car loa used-car dealer,
it assessed by a dealer. Kither give itathor- Or you can sell the car yourself, v/bich will
ough cleaning yourself or take il to a profes- probably get you a higher price. But if you
sional detailer, wberc cleaning usually starts need the trade-in to make your down pay-
around $100. n your car needs repairs, get nienl, you'll have to sell your current car
ibem taken care of betöre you Irade il in. before you can purchase the new one.
And it might make sense to get small dents
and scratches fixed by an auto-lwdy shop. WEIGH EXTENDED WARRANTIES
Onceal the dealership, wait until you've An extended warranty takes effect after
settled on a price for the new car before yourfactory warranty expires, andean cost
discussing your trade-in. You should have hundreds of dollars. Most ncv^cars today
printouts from several pricing sources to come with at least a three-year/36.000-mile
support llu- value you calculated. Tell the factory warranty. So if you trade in your
salesperson that you simply want what you vehicle everyfiveyears or so. or if you lease
know the car is worth and that the new-car your new vehicle under a typical three-year
deal isn't final unless yuu get a satisfactory lease, buying an extended warranty would
be a waste of money. usually have a lower profile (sidewalt height)

As a generat rule, if the model you're than regular all seasons, and a larger wheel
buying has earned a very good or excellent rim—up to 22 inches in diameter.
CONSUMER RKPORTS predicted retiabit- The new standard here is performance
ity Rating (see page 155), it's probably not all season tires. Prices aren't that different
worth spending the money for an extended from conventional all-seasons. In general,
warranty. If the modct has a below-âverage you can expect better comeriug on wet and
record, and you ptan to keep it wetl past the dry roads and better braking, but sometimes
factory warranty period, it m ight be worth lessridecomfort and a shorter tread life.
buying the coverage. Another notch up are ultra-high perfor-
lîon't feel pressured to buy an extended mance tires. More compromises come in to
warranty when you buy the vehicle. You play here, where you may trade away some
can usually buy a ptan any time before the ride comfort, tread tite. and cold-weather
basic warranty expires. We suggest stick- capabilities in return for the ultimate in
ing to a plan offered by the automaker. warm-weather performance.
Third-party coverage varies enormously Winter tires are a gtx>d investment in
in quatity. coverage, and price. ptaces where winters are tong and harsh.
Review the service ptan carefulty to find These tires incorporate a tread that stays
out what is and isn't covered, who must pliable in cold weather, and are designed
perform repairs, and how to fite a claim. If to cope with snow and ice. But they shoutd
you're buying from a dealer, atways nego- come off when spring temperatures arrive,
tiate the price. And make sure the plan is as their tread doesn't give ideal traction on
transferable ifyou sell the car. dry and wet roads.
The most important thing you can do
to keep your tires running a long time at
peak performance is to make sure they are
TIRES properly inflated. Keep atl tires inflated to
the pressure stated on the sticker found on
GETTING STARTED the car, usually on the driver's doorjamb.
Tires have a direct impact on a car's han- Avoid potholes and other road hazards.
dling, braking,ride,comfort qualities, and
even fuel economy. More important, the WHEN DO YOU NEED NEW TIRES?
cornering grip, braking distances, and re- You shoutd reptace your tires before they
sistance to hydroplaning atso directly affect wear out completely. When the tread depth
your safety on the road, so gmxi tires that gets down to I/8th of an inch, that's the time
are in good shape can also save your I ife. to go shopping. You can get a tread-depth
Today's tires last tonger and perform gauge at an auto-parts store for a couple of
better than those ofthe past. The typicat all- dollars, but a quarter makes a perfectly ser-
season tires that come as standard equip- viceable substitute. Hold the quarter with
ment on most vehicles are apt to last 40,000 Washington's head pointed down into the
miles or more before needing replacement. main tread. If the tread is shattow enough
Luxury cars, sporty cars, and sports to reveal George's hairline, it s time to start
sedans tend to come shod with more ex- shopping. Of course, if your tires are bald-
pensive "performance" tires. Those tires ing in spots then you need to replace your
TIRE B U Y I N G A D V I C E t13
tires pronto. See "Early warning signs of tire tween price and performance, although the
failure" at ConsumerRepi.)rts.org. very cheapest tires rarely excel in our tests. In
our Ratings botlï expensive and moderately-
WHAT TO BUY priced tires are scattered high and kiw on the
The smartest choice is to buy tires that scoring .scale. That means you don't have to
match, in terms of size and type, those that spend top dollar to get a top-.scoring tire. It
came witb the car wbtii il was new. Auto- also means that buying the most expensive
makers take some care tofittbeir cars with tire available is no guarantee of superiority.
tires appropriate to the car's performance
capacities and requirements. HOW AND WHERE TO SHOP
Many replacement tires offer similar per- You'il lind g(KHÍ selections at lire-retailer
formance to the original-equipment tires. chains, large independent tire shops, and
But aftermarket tires may also be better warehouse clubs and big-box stores. You
than original equipment tires in some re- can also shop online at discounters such as
spects. You mayfinda tire thai lasts longer, T irerack.com and Discounttiredirect.com.
bandies better, rides better, is less noisy, or Remember that you'll pay for shipping as
has belter all-weather grip than the original well as mounting and balandng when
tires. Our Ratings can point you toward mail-order tires arrive. Ifyou have a brand
desired qualities. and model of tire in mind, use the Yellow
You may also consider getting larger dres Pages or online shopping inquiries to locate
and wheels tban those that came witb the the best deals near you.
car. In theory this can improve handling
qualities. CR tests indicate that moving up TYPEÇ AND FEATURES
one size, say from a 16-inch to a 17-inch ALL-SEASON
wheel migiit improve dry and wet grip and These are tbe tires that come standard
handling, but after that you start giung up a on most cars, minivan.s, and SUVs.
lot—in comfort or hydroplaning resistance, • Best for: Year-round traction, long tread
and steering feeL And putting extra-grippy life, and a comfortable ride. But they typi-
tires on an SUV can make it more pn)ne to cally lack the precise handling and grip of
rollover, so think twice about that. performance tires.
• Speed ratings: None, S (112 mph) T (118
WHAT YOU'LL SPEND mph}.
I ires are priced per tire and by size, but • Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to
most of the time you'll be buying them in 100,000 miles.
sets. We recommend replacing your tires • Typical wheel size: 14 to 16 inches.
all four at a time rather than just front or . Typical price: $35 to $120.
rear. 'lypical all-season tires generally run
from $35 to $120 each. Tbe increasingly PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON
widespread performance ail-season tires are These tires come standard on sporty cars
priced a littie higher, between $45 to $160. and on some cars marketed like them.
The more exotic ultra-bigh-perfbrmance • Best tor: Improved handling and grip
tires can often cost more than $200 apiece. over all-season tires on wet and dry pave-
Winter tires generally nm $40 to $170 each. ment. But they often have shorter tread
We've found no absolute correlation be- wear than many all-season tires.
t14 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U V I N G G U I D E Z O t O
- Speed ratings; H (130 mph). V • Typical wheel size: 14 to 18 inches.

(149 mph). • Price: $40 to $170.
- Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to
60,000 miles. SUV/PICKUP
• Typical wheel size: 15 to 17 inches. Ail-season and all-terrain tires are
. Price: $45 to $160. designed for the rigors of truck use.
• Best for: All-terrain models are designed
ULTRA-HIGH PERFORMANCE for light-duty off-pavement use; all-season
ALL-SEASON models are made primarily for on-road
These are found on high-end sports use. But some automakers recommend
cars, sports sedans, and some lower-priced staying with whatever type of tire came
sporty models. with your vehicle.
• Best for Wet and dry Iwukingand handling. • Speed ratings: S (112 mph for many).
But they trade ultimate warm-weather grip • Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 lo
for passable winter performance. 60.000 miles.
• Speed ratings: Z (more than 149 mph), • Typical wheel size: 15 to 20 inches.
W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). • Price: $55 to $150 or more.
• Tread-wear warranty: None or 30,000 to All tires are embossed on their sidewalls
40.000 miles. with ijiformation about size, .speed rating,
• Typical wheel size: 17 to 22 Inches. load capacity, manufacturing date, and
- Price: $80 to $200 or more. other data. For details go to ConsumerRe-
ports.org, "Deciphering tire codes."
ULTRA-HIGH PERFORMANCE
SUMMER BRANDS
Found mostly on high-performance Tlie tire industry is dominated by a few gi-
sports cars and sports sedans. ants such as Bridgestone, Goodyear. Michelin,
• Bestfor.Wet and dry braking and handling. Continental, and Pirelli, plus many smaller
But they usually don't perform well in cold makers from Asia, the U.S. and Europe,
weather, ice, or snow. Goodyear owns the Goodyear. Dunlop, ¿md
• Speed ratings: Z (more than 149 mph), Kelly--Springfield brands. Bridgestone and
W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). Firestone are made by one company. Con-
• Tread wear warranty: None for most. tinental and General by another. Michelin
. Typical wheel size: 17 to 22 inches, mariœts MkJidin, BFGooddch, and Uniroyal.
• Price: $80 to $230 or more. Falken, Sumitomo, and Yokohama are )apa-
nese brands, while Hankook and Kumho
WINTER TIRES are Korean. Bui tiresfromany brand may l>e
'fhese tires are specially made for use in made anywhere these days. Since tire makers
freezing temperatures and on snow and ice. often use the same brand and similar mtxiel
• Best for: Maintaining traction on snow names on diflerenl tires, it can be h&rd to tell
and ice. But fast wear and so-so wet and what's wliat. For instance, one Pirelli PZero
dry braking make then suitahie only for tire was near the lop ot one of our Ratings
cold-weather use. groups lately, while another PZt'm Rosso fin-
• Speed ratings: Q (99 mph) and higher. ished at the bottom, Our Ratings are Iheretore
• Tread-wear warranty: None, a better guide than any brand's reputation.
AUTO RATINGS 115
RATING THE 2010 MODELS
I
ncluded here are Ratings on nearly 300 will likely hold up, based on data from
vehicles that CR has recently tested. our 200S Annual Auto Survey. Owner
Wiihin each category, Ihey are ranked satisfaction also comes from our annual
by their overall road-test score. survey, and is based on a question where
Recommended models (Q) must we ask subscribers if they would definitely
perform well in our tcsling; have average buy or lease their vehicle again.
or better reliability; and, if crash-tested, Owner cost isa Rating of the five-year
pR)vide a good overall safety Rating. This projected cost to own a vehicle, includ-
Rating is a composite of accident avoid- ing depreciation, fuel, interest, insurance,
ance from our testing, and crash protec- maintenance/repair, and sales tax.
tion, based on crash tesis administered by Safety is an overall score based on the
the Insurance Instil ule for Highway Satety combination ol crash test and accident
and the National Highway Traffic Safety avoidance results. A model loses points if
Administralion. In addition, pickups and ESC is not offered and loses partial points
SUVs must not have lipped up in the gov- of it's optional.
ernment's rollover test or, if not tested, Fuei economy is the overall mileage a
must be available with electronic stability vehicle achieved in our real world tests,
control (ESC). based on results from several tests, and
Survey results include predicted reli- reflects a realistic mix of city, country
ability, our forecast of how well a new car road, and highway driving.
Make & model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

tested road-test score results cost economy
.s OJO
SUBCOMPACT HATCHBACKS ENTRY-LEVEL BUDGET MODELS

Honda FK Sport (MT)
© e
• Honda Fit (base)
© e
a Nissan v e r » ] S SI
O O © o
• Scion xD (Ml)
• Scion xD
Kia Rio; SX (MT)
NA NA # •
Nissan Vena L8 S (MT)
O O
Hyundai Accent GS(MT)
Ratings Key Êxcellent OVèrygood OGood d F a l r • P o o r Rwommwidwl

Make & model Price as Ovsratl Survey Owner Safety Fuel

"S
SUBCOMPAa HATCHBACKS ENTRY LEVEL BUDGET MODELS continued

Toyota Varis (tiase)
Chevrolet AveoSILi
15.355 B 9 ©
SMALL HATCHBACKS/WAGONS
Q Volkswasen Hatitrit 5
e e
Q Hyundai Elantra Tnnring
Q
Q Subaru lmpreuOiilba(kSpDti
Toyota Uatrti s (2.41)
e
Toyota Matrix (base, 1.8Ü
e
Scion xB
e
kia Soul Plus
HlnanCubel.8S
Q Mini Cooper clubman
Q Suzuki SX4 Touring o

Q Chevrolet HHRII IÎ.4I ©
Honda i n s ^ t EX e
Dodge CalilHrSXl o
WAGON5
Q Mazdas Touring O O
Q Volkswagen letta S£ {?.5) o now
Volvo XOO Q O
Kia Rondo LX (V6) o
e
BMW 32Sxi-
o o
VolnVSOTSMWD) NA o
SUBCOMPAa SEDANS
NKsan Versa 13S
KlaRiOLX NA NA
Hyimdii Accent GLS e Q
AUTO RATINGS 117
Make S model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

testetl road-test score results cost economv
* .is Si o
.^H IB
SUBCOMPACT SEDANS continued

Toyota Varts (base)
O e
Chevrolet A veo II NA
SMALL SEDANS
Q Hyundai Elantra SE
Q Honda Civic a (MTl
Q Honda Ctvic EX
Q MazdaliToiiimg(MT)
Q Honda Cfvk Hybrid

Q Subaru lmpreza2.Sr
Q FordFociHSES(MI)
Q Toyota Corolla l i
Q Toyota Conrfla (IUM, UT)
Q Hyundai £laiitraGi.S
Q Ford Focus SES
Q Suzuki SX4 IE
Mitsubishi Lancer ES
Q Nissan Semra?.O S
Chevrolel Cobalt t.T
ENTRY LEVEL FAMILY SEDANS
Q Honda AHord LX-P (4 cyt., UT)
Q O
Q T0Y0taCamrfLt(4-cy{.¡
Q HDiKta Accord LX-P M ^ . )
Q Kla Opllma IX (4'rvl.)
Q Hyundai Sonata GIS (4-cvl.)
© e
Q Volkswagen Jetta US)
Q
Q Uercury Milan (base. 4-(vl.l
118 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y t N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0
Make s model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

ENTRY-LEVEL FAMILY SEDANS continued

Q Chevrolet MaHbuL!
e e
new new
yttsubiäil Galant ES 14-cvl.) KA NA
Chrysler Sebring ¡Touring, 4-Cïl,) O •
FAMILY SEDANS
Nissan Altlma3iSt(V6| O a
Honda Accord tX-LIV6] e
o © ©
Volkswagen Passat .'.ÛT
o ©
Q Toyota Camnr Hybrid
m ©
Q Ford Fusion Hylniü
Q Hercury Mitatl Hybrii) ne«

Q Hvundâ) Sonata LnTiiird ( ©
Q O ©
Manla6 s Grand Toiiríng (V6) o
Ford Fuüon SEL [Val ©
Meitury Hilan Pri?miL'f (Vb) ©
Q Nissan Altima Hybrid e ©
Q ForrtTaurusumitecI O o ©
m HA e ©
Kia Optima ex (Vú)
m e © ©
Httuliislii Galant Sport {V6)
NA
NA o
Ctievroiet Impala 3LT (3.9)
O
o
O o
Oodge Avenger R/T (3.5. tf6) o
COMPACT SPORTS SEDANS
ln{initlG37ioumev
BUW JlSd
Cadillac CTS (base. ÎA1
• Acura T&x
Lexus IS 25D
Q
A U T O R A T I N G S 119
Make & model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

COMPAQ SPORTS SEDANS continued

AU(IIA42.ÚT
new new o
new new
Volkswagen CC Luxury
o
Bim »81
«ef ce(l«-fleoi OOO Sporl
e e o
o o Q
a 0 o O
Volvo S4O2,4J
UPSCALE SEDANS
Hyundai li?n«is 3.8
D Lexiis ES Í5O
•
Anira TL (base)
a Nissan MailmalSSV
• Hyundai Alera limited
• Lincoln HKZ
B BukltLuC«1K(V8J'
e
e
o
Chrysler » O CIVS)"
Chrysler íOOTouti ni (V6)
Dodge ChareerF(/l£vai'
V0tV0S602.5T
LUXURY SEDANS
Q lltfblittlUSXIAWD]*
Q Atura RI
Q BIIWS354
Cadillac STSLunury{V6)
Q CadilUcDTS luxury u
Make S model Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

road-test score results cost economy
g.^
T3 m
LUXURY SEDANS continued
• LeiUSGS300|AWD)* 0
• teïiisGSJ5uliHy&ri(1
Jaguar XF luxiirv
©
Volvo S80}..'
ULTRA LUXURY SEDANS

Lexus LS 4(iOL
Mercedes-Benz SSSO
AïKliâSL
Jaguar XJSVnnden Pias
PERFORMANCE/LUXURY SPORTS CARS
Chevrolet Corvette ZQ6 (MT)
• Mercedes-Beoi s i s a l NA
• BMW 6S0i roupe e

Jaguar XK Convenible e
Lexus se 430 e
DodgeVI|)nrSflliO(M!]* NA
2-SEAT SPORTS CARS Equipped wilh manual transmission.

Porsche Bonter*
Mazda MX-S Miata Grand Touring
Nissan VOZ Tuunng new
e O
Mercedes Beni SLKISO O o •
Chevrolet Corvette (base)* • •
Nissan 3S0Z Grand Touring ©
Lotus Elise NA NA •
MUSCLE CARS Equipped with manual transmission.
Q Ford Mustang Gt PremiuTTi (VS) e e ©
new neví 9
AUTO RATINGS 121
Make & model Overall Survey

road-test score results
i
3 i'S
^ 04s
MUSCLE CARS Continued

Hyunctai Genesis Cou)>e 3.S (V6)
Dodge Chailengerfi/KVS)
SPORTY CARS Equipped with manual transmission.

BMW 1)51
Q Subaru impreca WRXSTi
Q Mazda RX-8
Q Subaru Impreza WRX
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolulian GSR
Q Volkswagen GTI
Q Mini Cooper (base)
Chevioiei CohaH SS NA NA © e
Q Honda CMc Si O © © ©
Q Volvo CIO rs 1.0
Q Mini cooper s © ©
o í
Scion tc
© o ©
WssanSentraSE-RSpetV a3io NA HA @
Dodge Caiiber *>RT4 NA NA a ©
Mitsubishi Edi[n«GS14'Cvi.) 31.764 O Q
4SEAT CONVERTIBLES
ux
BMW }Z8i
Saab 9-12.0T
Volvo C70 rs
Mitsubishi EctipseGT(VM
Chrysler Sebring ijmited (IS, V6Í
MINIVANS
Q Toyota Sienna XIHFWW © © O

• Honda Odyssey LX © © O
• Toyota sienna Xti[AWD) © © o.
1Z2 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0

(U ~
MINIVANS continued
KlaSedonaEX
thprster Tmm I CountTY Umited [W)

Dndge Grand Caravan SXT (1.B)
COMPAa SPORTY SUVs

Q Subaru Forester ¿üxf Limiietl
Audi OS Premium Plus
Q Toyota uV4Umii«t(V6)
Volkswagen Tlguan SEL
Q BIIWX33.OSI
Q Infíniti EX loufney
Q Aiura RDX
iMit5ublstiJ Chillander XI.S (V6)
Votvo XC60 T6
Mercedes-Beiu GLKISO
Land R o w LR? St
SMALL SUVs
Q Subaru Fof«ster2.5X (MD
Q Toyota RAV4 (hase. 4-cvl.)
Q Subaru Forett«r 2M
Q Honda CR-vtx
Q MitsubishiOuttanderlSI4<VU
Q Nissan Rogue SL
Q Hyundai T I K S M S { ( V 6 )
Q Ford Escap« Hybrid

Q HaslaTrltwtcHvbrld
Q Herciirv Mariner HyDrid
Q Fwd Escape XLT(V6)
AUTO RATINGS 123
iMake & iTiodel Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

SMALL SUVs continued

Uazda Tribute s Sport (V6J
O HA ©
Mertury Mariner Lu>ufy (V6) O ©
• © © ©
• Mazda Tribute l Sport (4-tvl.) © NA © ©
• Mercury Mariner LtJxury (4 cyü © NA
e ©
• Kia Sportage £X (V6) © O © o
Suzuki Grand Vitara Pi^mhim (4-cyl.) iiew new ©
Honda Element EX © © ©
Jeep patiiot Sport © Q ©
Jeep Compas« Span O W ©
DodSG Nitro SLTU.7)
o o
Jeep Liberty Syori
o
MIDSIZED 3-ROW SUVs
Q Toyota Highlander Hylirid IÍÍHÍFM)
Q Toyota Highlander timiled
Chevrolet Traverse LT
CMC Acadia s m
©
Ford Flex SEL
Q Maida OI-9 CraniJ TOIÜ in^
Q HyundaiVeracruzÊ
Q Honda Pilot EX-L
Q Subaru Tríbeca límiieii
Kia Borrego EX (V6)

Suzuki X1-7 Lu VI jry
©
Q Nissan Pathtinder M (V6)
©
Dodge Journey SXT (Vb)
Ford Explorer EiJdle Sauer |VS)
Mercury Mountaineer Premier (VS) ©
FordEipiorerXLrfVó)
o^»..ra»j- 's

"5? "^ ^ •£—
MIDSIZED 3-ROW SUVs continued

Mercury Hountaine« Premier [V6) O
Jeep Commander Limiied 5.7 (V8)*
MIDSIZED 2 ROW SUVs

Q Nissan Murano SL O
Q Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 0.3) O ©
ToTOta Venza [VÑ) © m
Q Ford Edge SFL o ©
Q KisunXterraS © ©
Kia Sorento IX a o
itep Grand Oierokee Uretio 4.7 (VS) 36.930 Q a
Toyota FJ Cruiser }0,361 o ©
teep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara yam 13 o o
LUXURY SUVS
AairaMDX
lexus RX )5i
Buick Enclave CXL
Mefcedei-BenzGUn •
new
o
npw
•«
Volvo XCM1V8) 0 Q m
Infinit) F](35 new new 9
Audi Q7 4.2 (V8} # 0 • ©
Toyola Land Cruiser NA © •
Hercedes-BeniMU» O
BMW XS J.Osi Q © •
Volkmgen Touareg IVb) • Q •
Lincoln NavigatiK Ultimate O O •
• © •
Land Rover LRj(V8]* • M #
u n d Rwer H a « RowT Sport HSE- • NA #
CaditUc Escalade (hasp) • O •
Lincoln HKX O O e ©
AUTO RATINGS 125

' .12 O ¿s
•^ 's
LARGE SUVs
Q Toyota S«quaia limited (5.7} O o
Q Ford Expedition EL Eddie Bauer O o
Chevrokt SuburtHn LT3 &3)*
e o
(IMC Yukon »ISIJi 15.3)'
9 o
Q Nissan Annada LE
O NA
Chevrolet Tahoe Hytirid
NA NA
GMC Yukon HvbrkI
NA NA
Chevrolet Tahoe LI IB.i)*
O O
G«C ruhon SLÎ ¡5.3)'
O O
COMPAa PICKUPS
NIssanrronlierlEÍVé)
Toyota Tacoma TRO (V6)
DodfeE)aluitaSU(4.7)
Ford ixploref Sport TTK XÍ
Chevrolet Colorado IS Ui (5-cyL)'
GMC canyon 5LE m (tcvt.)-
Ford Ranger XU 1V6)
Mazda B4000 (V6}
FUU'StZEO PICKUPS
Q Chevrolet Avalandw LI (5Jl
O
Q Chevrolet Silverado 1500 l l (^.3) O o o
Q CMC Sierra ISOOSLT (5.3)
o o o
Q Toyota Tundra SRS (^.7)
o © ©
Q Rinir-lSOXLTfS.4]
o o e
tKKige Ram 1500 SLK5.7) new new o
Q IIÍS3anTHuiSE(S.6)
O O o
'Powrrirain tías cfianged since last test.
126 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y i N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0
REVIEWS OF THE 2009-10 MODELS
T
his rundown of all the ma- or better reliability; and, if crash-tested,
jor 2009-10 models can start provide a good overall safety Rating.
you on your search for a new This Rating is a composite of accident
car, minivan. SUV. or pickup. avoidance from our testing and crash
You'll find a summary of each protection, based on crash tests ad-
model, often based on recent road lests ministered by the Insurance Institute
that are applicable to this year's models. for Highway Safety and the National
Most models include Consumer Re- Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
ports' predicted reliability rating, an in- In addition, pickups and SUVs musl
dication of how problematic we expect not have tipped up in the government's
a model to be. It is based on our 2008 rollover test or, if not tested, must be
annual subscriber survey, where we available with electronic stability con-
asked owners about any serious prob- trol (ESC).
lems they've had with their vehicles in Entries include, where available, the
the previous 12 months. These data allow date of the last road test for that mode!
us to predict how this year's models are published in CONSUMER REPORTS mag-
likely to hold up. azine. These road-test reports are also
Recommended models ( ) must per- available to subscribers of our Web site,
form well in our testing; have avera'ge at www.ConsumerReports.org,
Predicted
reliability Description/with last road-test date
Acura @ The MDX has a refined and powerful 300-rip V6. It is more agile and
MDX quieter than its predecessor. The third-row seat folds easily into the
floor and is a better fit for kids than adults. The dashboard Is a sea of
tiny, similar-looking buttons. Crash-test results are impressive.
July 2007
Acura Q The RDX uses a ttjrt)ocharged four-cylinder that provides strong
RDX acceleration, but lacks Itie refinement of a six-cylinder. Handling is
agüe and secure, but the ride is stiff. The interior shows good atten-
tion to detail, but some controls could be better designed. Crash-test
results are excellent. Jan. 2 0 0 7
Acura RL Q The AWD RL is powered by a powerful V6. The powertrain Is polished,

but ride and handling don't stand out. The less-expensive TL has
similar interior room, and the RL's driver interaction system isn't
particularly intuitive. Feb. 2 0 0 9
Ratings Key Êxcellent @VeivgDod OGocd QFair •Poor Recommended

THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 127
Predicted
Acura TL 3 The TL's slick powertiain returns a good 23 mpg overall. Handling is
taut and poised, and Ihe ride compliant, but Ihe vague steering lacks
feedback. Road noise stands out in the otherwise quiet interior. The
rear seat is tight and ttie well-finished interior is cluttered with but-
tons. Feb. 2009
Acura TSX Q The redesigned 2009 TSX is a pleasant car with a smooth-revvinq
engine, siick transmission, and sporty handling. The ride is taut yet
supple. Handling is competent, bul the steering is vague. Interior fit
and finish is Improved, and the cabin is a bit roomier. June 2 0 0 9
Acura ZDX New The Acura ZDX Is a four-door luxury SUV that is slyled like a coupe.
It is based on the MDX SUV and will be priced above it. The ZDX is
basicaily a tail ail-wheel-drive hatchback. The powertrain is the 3.7-
liter V6 found in the MDX, RL. and TL, but it will be mated to a six-
speed automatic Iransmission, a first for Honda. -
Audi A3 ^ This sporty four-door hatchback has a tasteful interior. It uses a
quick turbocharged 2.0-liter, lour-cyiinder engine, and the optional
S-tronic automated manual transmission works well. An AWD
version is available and a diesel arrives for 2010. Crash test resuits
are impressive. Sep. 2 0 0 6
Audi A4 New The redesigned A4 is now a bit iarger than before, improving the
cramped rear seat. Interior fit and finish remain excellent. The 2.0T
four-cylinder is smoolher and quieter than before. The steering is
more direct and the ride is firm yet supple. The standard MMI driver-
interaction system is complicated. June 2 0 0 9
Audi AS NA The base AS coupe is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharqed four-
cylinder engine, while the high-performance S5 will get a new
3.0-titer supercharged V6. Both versions feature six-speed manual
and automatic transmissions, and convertible versions go on sale
later this year. -
Audi A6 Q The A5 sedan has a firm yet comfortable ride. Handling is respon-
sive and secure. The interior is very nicely finished but the MMl con-
troller is compiicated. A recent freshening brought a supercharged
V6 called the 3.0T. Crash-test results are excellent. Sep. 2 0 0 5
Audi A6 o ^'^^ * 8 features a strong V8. AWD, and an aluminum body. It is quiet
and agile, but the ride isn't special. The interior is well-crafted. A'V12
engine is optional. The MMI driver interaction system is cumtiersome
to use. Reliability has improved to average. Nov. 2 0 0 3
Audi 0 5 New Audi's A4-based luxury SUV uses a smooth and refined 270-hp,
3.2-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Handling
is aqlle and the ride is firm, yet supple. Sep. 2 0 0 9
Audi Q7 0 The 07 uses a 4.2-liter VB with a six-speed automatic, and a V6
and a diesel are also available. The third-row seat is snug. It is fairiy
nimble, but the low-speed ride is stiff. Braking performance is excel-
lent. The interior is quiet and well-finished. Nov. 2 0 0 6 '
Audi TT 0 The TT has responsive but not sporty handling, but the ride is better.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is punchy enough, and the
32-liter V6 is powerful. A 266-hp version of the four-cylinder is avail-
able in the sportier TTS. -
Predicted
BMW I NA The 1 Series is a small two-door coupe. A 3.0-liter six cylinder is in
Series the !28i, whiie the I35i uses a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder. It is spec-
tacular to drive with excellent steering. Although snug, the interior
features high levels of fit and finish. Options quickly drive up the price.
Oct 2008
BMW 3 Q The 3 Series has agile handling, a supple ride, and smooth, six-cylinder
Series engines. The snug interior is comfortable and luxurious. Handling is
taut and agile. Crash-test results are impressive, but the convertible
didn't do well in the IIHS rear-crash test, Dec. 2009
BMW 5 o ^ ^ ^ Series has agile handing and a comfortable and quiet ride.
Series The automatic transmission and engines are smooth. The turbo-
Charged engine in the 535i makes the sedan quick and returns
a commendable 22 mpg overall. We found the iDrive control system
tedious to use. Nov. 2007
BMW 6 Q The 6 Series coupe is powered by a smooth and punchy 4.8-liter V8,
Serfts Handling Is agiie for such a iarge car. The ride is a little choppy at
low speeds. The interior is quiet and luxurious. A convertible and a
high-performance VlO-powered M6 are available. Oct. 2006
BMW 7 New A redesigned 7 Series debuted in early 2009 with a 4.4-liter
Series turbocharged V8 that produces 400 hp. It also has a better
version of iDrive. -
BMW X3 Q The X3 has a 6-speed automatic, a strong 3.0-iiter, six-cylinder
engine, and a nicer interior than in past models. Handling is agiie,
but Ihe ride is still a bit stiff and choppy. The intenor is quiet and
^ roomy enough. Jan. 2007
BMW XS Q The X5 features a third-row seat that is best for kids only. The ride is
still stiff and choppy, but tiandling is capabie and secure. Both the
six- and eight-cylinder engines are powerful. The diesel improves fuel
economy but loses some refinement. The shift lever and iDrive driver-
interaction system are both needlessly compiicated. Dec. 20O9
BMW X6 NA Based on the X5 SUV, the new X6 seats only four passengers and is a
coupe-like SUV, but with four doors. Mosl versions will be powered by
a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder A new 4.4-liter V8 is also offered.
An even more powerful hybrid model is newly available, -
BMW ZA New The redesigned Z4 is now only available as a hard-top convertible.
The refined inline six-cylinder engines are impressive, providing •
plenty of smooth power. The ricJe is guite civilized. Fit and tinisti is
impressiv_e. -
Bulch Q This large car-based SUV has three rows of seats and can seat eight
Enclave adults. It shares a platform with the Chevrolet Traverse, Satum
Outlook, and GMC Acadia. All use GM's contemporary 3.6-titer V6.
We found the ride comfortable and quiet, and the powertrain
smooth. The interior is weil finished. July 2009
Buick New The outgoing LaCrosse was quite, with a tighl rear seat. A much
LaCross» improved 2010 redesign features two modern V6 engines, respon-
sive handling, more rear seat room, and better interior fit and finish.
AWD will be available, and a four-cylinder engine will arrive down
the road. -
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 129
Predicted
reliability Description/with last rosd-test date
Buick Q The Lucerne's standard V5 ¡s coarse and thirsty; the optional 4.6-
Lucerne fiter V8 is more refined. Braking and handling are below par, but the
ride is comlortable. Rear seat room is good. June 2007
Cadillac Q The CTS rivals the best sports sedans. Steering is direct and precise,
CTS and the ride Is firm yet supple. The quiet interior is well finished but
the rear seats are snug. The standard V6 is smooth and refined. The
V8-powered CTS-V is sporty and quick. Wagon and coupe versions
are new. Mar. 2 0 0 8
Cadlltac Q The DTS is a large front-wheel-drive sedan powered by a smooth
DTS 275-hp, 4.6-liter V8. Accommodations are ample and luxurious, and
the rear seat roomy and comfortable. The ride is quiet and comfort-
able, but handling js clumsy. Reliability has been average. Mar. 20OB
Cadillac 0 The Escalade uses a powerrui 62-iiter VB engine. Acceleration is
Escalade strong, even when towing, but fuel economy is poor. The plush
interior Is quiet and the ride is comfortable, but handling is clumsy.
Reliability has been well below average. Nov. 2006
Cadillac New A redesigned 2010 model arrives this summer with more (uel-
SRX efficient engines and an improvetl interior, but It won't have a third-
row seat. It is smaller than the model that it replaces and will be
equipped with front- or all-wheel drive. Our initial impressions show
that it has better controls and improved interior fit and finish. -
Cadillac Q The rear-drive STS uses a 3.6-liter V6 or the 4.6-iiter Northstar V8.
STS The V6 Is quick and responsive and both engines are smooth, AWD
is optional. The ride is firm yet supple. Handling is taut and agile,
and the cabin is quiet, but the rear seal is snug. Mar 2008
Chevrolet Q The Avalanche full-sized crew-cab pickup has an innovative partition
Avatanche fhat can be folded down to extend the cargo bed Into the back of
the cab. The ride is comfortable and quiet. The 5J-liter VS provides
decent acceleration bul is thirsty. There is a very large rear blind
zone. Feb. 2007
Chevrolet Q The Avec sedan and hatchback are Daewoos rebadged as Chevrolets.
Aveo They handle clumsily. Acceleration and fuel economy are unimpres-
sive for an economy car. The ride is jittery, noise is constant, and the
seats are uncomfortable. Reliability is t}elow average. Mar. 2 0 0 9
Chevrolet New A modern interpretation of the classic original the Cámaro handfes
Cámaro capably but its girth undermines agility, The V8 provides blistering
performance and sounds good. Braking performance is excellent
and the ride is taut but not punishing. Visibility is poor Oct. 2009
Chevrolet Q The Cobalt's 22-liter Four-cylinder is a bit noisy and not fuei-e(ficient.
Cobalt Handling isn't agile but the ride is relatively comlortable. Overall this
sedan is not competitive with the best in the class. The sporty SS
model has a turbocharged engine and is fun to drive. July 2 0 0 8
Chevrolet ^ The Colorado's five-cylinder engine is unrefined and has worse fuef
Colorado economy than competing V6s. Handling is sound but unexceptionaL
The ride is unsettled, and the body constantly quivers. ESC is stan-
dard. Overall, it trails the competition. July ZOOS
Chevrolet ^ The Corvette delivers impressive performance. The ride is comfort-
Corvette able, and handling is capable but less agile than other sports cars.
The interior is roomy for a sports car. The sportier Z06 has a 7.0-liter,
505-hp va and much better handling. Oct. 2 0 0 5
Predicted
Chevrolet New The Cruze will replace the unimpressive Cobalt in early 2010. tt will
Cruze be powered by a !.4-Iiter, turbocharqed four-cylinder or a I.e-liter
four-cyiinder. Both the automatic and manual transmissions offered
will be six-speed units. Standard safety gear will include side-curtain
air bags and electronic stability control. -
Chevrolet New The redesigned Equinox has a roomy rear seat. Ride and handling
Equinox are pleasant. Access is easy. The four-cylinder gets competitive
fuel economy. The V6 is more refined, but doesn't feel much faster.
Both have slow to-downshitt six-speed automatics. Nov. 2 0 0 9 . -
Chevrolet Q The HHR has easy cabin access and a flexible cargo space. Handling
HHR is secure bul not aqlle. We got 24 mpg overall with the noisy 2.4-liter
engine. Outward visibility is compromised, the driving posilion is
cramped, and interior quaiity is unimpressive. Aug. 2009
Chevrolet Q The impala's 3.9-ilter \/6 manages 20 mpg overall, but sounds
Impala coarse. The optional 5.3*liter V8 is quick but easily spins the front
tires. Handlinq is sound, but body lean is noticeable, interior quaiity
has been improved. Rear seat room is unimpressive. Mar. 2006
Chevrolet ^ The Maiibu is very competitive. II is quiet, rides weil, and has respon-
Malibu sive and secure handling. The interior is roomy and mostly well
put together. The V6 is quick and refined, and the four-cylinder gets
25 mpg with the six-speed automatic. ESC is standard. Jan. 2 0 0 9
Chevrolet O The Chevrolet Silverado and its GMC Sierra twin are weil-rounded
Silverado pickups with optionai full-time 4WD and a qenerous payioad capacity.
1500 Ride quality is decent and handling is secure. The new six-speed auto-
matic siightly improves fuel economy and acceleration. May 2009
Chevrolet Q The Suburban can tow a heavy trailer ano swallow more cargo than
Suburban most minivans. There is room tor up to nine people, but typical
versions seat seven. The third-row seat sits too low and is uncom-
fortable. The standard 5.3-liter V8 is ¡ust adequate and returned
14 mpg overall. Aug. 2007 .
Chevrolet Q The Tahoe's ride is supple, but handling and braking are so-so. Traiier-
Tahoe towing capability is impressive, but there is iittle cargo space behind
the very cramped third-row seat. The hybrid version got 19 mpg in our
tests, far better than the 14 mpg from the 5.3-liter V8. July 2006
Chevrolet New The Chevrolet version of GM's large, car-based SUV can seat seven
"n-averse or eight people comfortably. Handling is responsive, ttie ride is
comfortable, and the well-finished interior is quiet. The transmission
sometimes hesitates to downshift. July 2009
Chrysler Q The RWD 300 offers two V6 engines and a powerfui V8. Interior
300 materials aren't impressive. Outward visibility is limited because of
styling. Reliability of the V8 is average, but the car scores too low
to recommend. A long-wheelbase version is available. Jan. 2005
Chrysler Q The Sebring isn't competitive with most (amilj' sedans. We found the
Sebhnq 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine noisy and unrefined. The 3.5-liter V6 is
better. The ride is unsettled and handling is ungainly, but secure. Inter-
ior panels are cheap and don't fit well. An optiohal retractable hard top
convertible Is available, and did well in the IIHS crash tests. Mar. 2OO7
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 131
Predicted
reliability Descrlption/witti last road-test date
Chrysler Chrysler's minivans are disappointing. Handling, lit and finish,
Town & acceleration, braking, and fuel economy are all unimpressive,
Country rtal-folding second- and third-row seats are still available, with
swivelinq second-row captain's chairs optional. Jan. 2008
0 The unimpressive Avenger is Dodge's version ol the Chrysler Sebring.
Avenqer Avarfatile engines are a noisy 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a more refined
3.5-titer V6. Handling is ungainly and the ride ¡s stifl and unsettled.
' The styling compromises rear-seat access and visibility. F«b. 2 0 0 8
Dodge Q The Caliber is a four-door hatchback with a noisy engine and medio-
Caliber . ere fit and finish. Handling is lackluster but ultimately secure. Fuel
economy wasn't impressive. The R/T trimline includes a 2.4-llte four-'
cylinder. The SRT4 is guick but crude. Sep. 2006
Dodge New The Challenger is a comfortable cruiser with strong acceleration
Challenger from its V8. but handling lacks agility. Based on the Dodge Charger/
Chrysler 300, it rides like a large sedan and is quiet inside. Braking Is
unimpressive. Expect only 18 mpg from the 5.7-liter Hemi VQ: a six-
cylinder is available. Oct. 2 0 0 9
Dodge Q This sedan has an optional 5.7-liter HemI V8 that is powerful. The
Charger 3.5-liter V6 is adequate but returned just 17 mpg. The ride is stiff.
and the steering feels darty. Rear seat headroom is marginal.
Curtain air bags are standard for 2010. The styling hurts yisibility.
Mar. 2006 _ _ ^ ^
Dodge ^ The Dakota offers a V8 engine and impressive towing capacity. The
Dakota ride is buoyant, the truck lacks agility, and body roll is pronounced.
Interior guaiity could be better. E5C is not available. ReliatjIDty has
been tjelow average. July 2005
Dodqe ^ Chrysler's minivans are disappointing. Ride comfort is improved, but
Grand handling, fit and finish, acceleration, braking, and fuel economy are
Caravan all unimpressive. Flat-foltJinq second- and third-row seats are still avail-
able, with swiveling second-row captain's chairs optional. Jan. 2008
Dodge New The Journey seats five passengers, and the optional third row
Journey increases seating to seven. A noisy 2.4-liter engine and four-speed
automatic are standard, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine optional. AWD
Is available only with the larger engine. The ride is a bit unsettled
and handling lacks agility, but it is ultimately secure. Auij. 2 0 0 6
Dodqe ^ The Nitro shares its platform with the Jeep Liberty. The 3.7-liter V6
Nitro engine returned 16 mpg in our testing. The ride is stiff and snappy,
and can be buoyant on the highway. The foot wells are extremely
narrow and visibility is poor. ESC and curtain air bags are standard.
May 2007
Dodge New A 2009 redesign brought some big improvements to the Ram. The
Ram 1500 ride is comfortable and the cabin is quiet. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 has
plenty of power and a subdued, pleasant sound. Handling is secure.
The crew cab's rear seat is roomy, but it's slill a high climb to get in,
ESC and curtain air bags are standard. May 2009
132 C O N S U M t R R E P O R T S B U Y Í N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0
Predicted
Dodqe NA The Viper features explosive acceleration Irom its loud VIO engine.
Viper but the clutch is heavy. Handling was capable but lacked finesse.
Cornering limits are very high, with lots of grip, but the harsh ride,
noise, poor driving position, and lack of creature comforts take
their toll. Oct. 2 0 0 6
Ford Edqe Q Ttie Edge uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic.
AWD is available. The ride is good, Dut the strong powertrain lacks
refinement. Handling is ultimately secure interior fit and finish is
unimpressive. IIHS crash-test results are commendable. AU9. 2007
Ford Q The Escape has a roomy interior, spacious rear seat, and good cargo
Escape space. Fit and finish is unimpressive and the engines are loud. The V6
provides strong acceleration, while the four-cylinder is adequate. The
hybrid drivetrain works well, returning 26 mpg overall. May 2009
Ford Q The Expedition has a decent interior and â good ride. The comlortable
Expedition third-row seat lolds flat into the fioor. ESC and three-row curtain air
bags are standard. The noisy V8 (elt sluggish and returned 13 mpg
overall. Towing capacity Is generous. Aug. 2007
Ford Q The Explorer's V6 engine returned 15 mpg and the VB got 14 mpg.
Explorer Handling is secure thanks to standard ESC but the ride is stifl. The
4WD system is permanently engaged. Reliability of the V8 has been
betow average, but the V6 is average. July 2 0 0 6
Ford . Q The Sport Trac has a stiff ride and so-so handling. The rust-proof
Explorer composite bed grew larger with the last redesign, with useful storage
Sport Trac underneath. The well calibrated electronic stability control system
is standard. Our tested V6 returned jUSt 14 mpg. Feb, 2007
Ford F-150 Q The freshened F-150 gained standard ESC. Acceleration from the
coarse 5.4-liter V8 is improved. The cabin is very quiet with a very
roomy rear seat. Handling is somewhat clumsy but secure and
braking performance is vastly improved. The ride remains stiff and
jumpy. May 2 0 0 9
Ford New This stylish and agile European subcompact will arrive in the U.S. in
Fiesta 2010 as a four-door sedan or hatchtîack. Ford says the U.S, version
wili look much like the European model. -
Ford Ffex New The Flex's vast cabin is configured to seat seven aduits comfortably.
The ride is comfortable anb tlie interior is quiet, with nice fit and finish.
EKpect 17 mpg overail. A turbocharged 3.5-iiter V6 is new for 2010.
The narrow footwell compromises the driving position. Nov: 2 0 0 8
Ford Focu5 Q The Focus is (airlv agile but handling isn't as crisp as its predecessor's.
Cabin access is easy. The ride is firm yet supple but the car is noisy
and interior guality is lackluster. ESC and curtain air bags are standard
tor 2010.26 mpq overall is mediocre for a small sedan. July 2 0 0 8
Ford g The Fusion has sharp handling, a controlled ride, and good accelera-
Fusion tion. The cabin is well-finished and mostly quiet. Front- and all-wheel-
drive versions are available. The hybrid version gets excellent fuel
economy of 34 mpg overall and can drive up to 47 mph on electric
power alone. Sep. 2 0 0 9
Ford Q The Mustang offers a coarse V6 or a muscular V8. Handling is nimble
Mustanq and the Mustang has good steering, but ride motions are frequent.
interior materials have been improved for 2010 and ESC is now
standanJ. The convertible is free of body shake. Oct. 2OO9
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 133
Predicted
reliabilitv Description/with last road-test date
Ford Q The dated Ranger has a stiff and choppy ride. The V6 engine is
Ranger rough and inefficient The seats are thin and low, and despite small
jump seats, the rear of the SuperCab is suitable only for cargo.
July 2OO9 _^_
Ford Q This large sedan gets a redesign for 2010, wiih a standard 3.5-liter V6
Taurus and an optional turbocharged 3,5-liter V6 in the Taurus SHO. Both are
mated to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, with
all-wheel drive optional on the base model and standard on the SHO.
The trunk is roomy and the interior is well finished. Feb 2 0 0 8
Ford New This tall, commercial-use van is based on the Focus, It packs an
Transit impressive amount of room inside a small footprint. It steers nicely
Cortnect and has a commanding driving position. A rear seat is available, but
the noisy, bare-bones interior limits its appeal as a people hauler, -
GMC Q The Acadia is GMC's version of the GM large, car-based 3-row SUVs.
Acadia it uses a refined 3,6-llter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic that
can be reluctant to downshift. The ride is comfortable, the handling
is responsive, and tfie interior Is quiet. July 2 0 0 9
GMC The Canyon's five-cylinder engine Is unrefined and has worse fuei
Canyon economy than competing V6s. The ride is unsettled, and the body
constantly quivers. Overall, it trails the competition. July 2 0 0 5
GMC Q THe Chevrolet Silverado and its GMC Sierra twin are well-rounded
Sierra pickups witii optional full-time 4WD and a generous payload capacity.
1500 Ride quality Is decent and handling is secure. The new si):-speed auto-
matic slightly improves fuel economy and acceleration. May 2 0 0 9
GMC New The Terrain is based on the redesigned Chevrolet Equinox but wltti
Terrain more angular stylinq. It features a 2-4-liter, four-cylinder engine, and
a 3,0-liter V5 is optional. Standard safety features include electronic
stability control, six air tiags, and a rear backup camera. -
GMC Q Tfie Yukon has better handling, braking, ride, and interior materials
Vuhort tfian its predecessor. 4WD models have a selectable full-lime system
that can remain engaged indefinitely. ESC is standard. A hybrid version
gets 19 mpg, a big improvement over the normai 14 mpg. July 2006
OMC Q This twin of the Chevrolet Suburban i can tow a heavy Irailer and
Yukon XL swallow more cargo than most mlnivans. There is room for up
to nine people, but typical versions seat seven. The third-row seat
srts too low and is uncomfortable. Tiie standard 5.3-liter V8 is just
^ adequate and returned 14 mpg overall, Aug. 2007. Aug. 2007
Honda 0 The Accord has a roomy cabin, agile handling, and a steady, compli-
Accord ant ride, it is larger than the previous generation'and the four- and
six-cylinder engines are more powerfui. We got 23 mpg with the four-
cylinder and 21 mpg with the V6. Visibility is impressive, but road
noise remains somewhat high, Feb. 2 0 0 8
Honda New Derived from the Accord sedan, the Crosstour is a raised version
Accord of the Accord, combining wagon and hatchtiack appearance and
Crosstour versatility. It will compete with Toyota's Venza. -
Honda The CR-V's refined four-cylinder returned 21 mpg overall. The five-
Q CR-V speed automatic is very smooth and responsive, Handiing is fairly
agile and secure, and the ride is firm, yet supple. Road noise has
been reduced. The rear seat Is roomy and the flat floor enhances
leg room. Feb. 2007
Predicted
Honda a The Civic has responsive handling sud a steady, compliant ride. Road
Civic noise is pronounced. The l.8-liter engine returned 28 mpq with the
automatic and 31 mpg with the manual. The hybrid returned 37 mpg
overall. ESC is only available on the uplevel EX-L, Hybrid, and Si.
Crash-test results are imprgssive. FetK 2006
Honda @ This boxy, small SUV has responsive handling, but the ride is very
Element stiff and choppy, and road noise is pronounced. The large roof pillars
compromise outward visibiiity. and the driving position is awkward.
The spacious interior has a washable, plastic covered floor.
Feb. 2007
Honda Fit Q ^^¡S small four-door hatchback offers easy access and very good
visibility, and has an amazing amount of interior room. While not
overly powerful, the Fit feels responsive, with a smooth and willing
engine, and agile handling. The ride is a bit choppy. Mar. 2009
Honda New The five-passenger Insight uses Honda's mild hybrid system to get
Insight 38 mpg overall in our tests, but the car is noisy and slow. Rear seat
room and access are tight. The ride is stiff and choppy, and handling
can get tricky at its limits. ESC is not available on the base model.
Aug. 2009
Honda Q The Odyssey has a flexible interior and impressive fit and finish.
Odyssey Handling is agile and precise, and the ride (s steady. The V6 is
smooth and quiet, but road noise is pronounced. Expect 19 mpg
overall. Reliabitity improved to above average. Crash-test results
are impressive. Mar. 2 0 0 5
Honda Q The second generation Pilot is larger and offers seating for eight.
Pilot The powertrain is smooth and ride and handiing sound. However.
' acceleration, braking, and interior fit and finish isn't very impressive.
Road noise is very pronounced. Crash-test results are impressive.
Nov. 200B
Honda & This crew-cab pickup has a supple and steady ride and a.gile handling,
RIdqellne Its 5-foot-long composite cargo bed features an all-weather, iochabie
trunk. The 3.5-iiter, V6 engine is quiet, smooth, and responsive.
Electronic stability control is standard. July 2 0 0 5
Hyundai ' ^ The Accent offers basic transportation as a sedan or a two-door
Accent hatchback. The ride is relatively quiet and compliant. It is powered
by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. Standard curtain air bags is
a positive, but it may be hard to find a model with AB5, Pec. 2006
Hyundai Q The Azera has a smooth 3,8-liter V6. The roomy interior is well-
Azera finished and quiet, with straightforward controls. The ride is
reasonably comfortaiJie and handiing is fairly responsive. IIHS
side-crash-test results were only acceptable. Aug. 2006
Hyundai The Elantra has a comfortable ride and low road noise, but It isn't
Elantra particularly agile. Expect 27 mpg overall on the sedan. The roomy
interior has very good fit and finish. ESC is standard on the SE trim
and Touring wagon, which have better grip and braking. IIHS side-
crash scores are marginal- July 2 0 0 6
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 135
Predicted
Hyundai New I he Genesis is very impressive, especially for the price. The refined
Genesis V6 deiivers quick acceleration and qets 2t mpg overaii. Handling is
responsive and secure, but the ride is somewhat nervous. The
roomy interior is very quiet and well-finished with a large rear seat.
Feb. 2009
HyufKlal New Despite the similar name to the Genesis sedan, the Genesis coupe
Genesis is quite different. Handling is quite capable and nimbfe, and the
Coupe 3.8-liter V6 is powerful. The ride is very stiff and fhe shifter and
heavy ciutch are awkward, making smooth shifts difficult. The 2,0-
liter turbocharged engine is somewhat noisy. Oct, 2009
a Hyundai
Santa Fe
g The pieasant Santa Fe has a refined 3.3-liter V6. Steering response
is lairiy quick, and fhe interior is roomy, well-finished, and quiet.
We found the ride compliant and weli-controiled. Head room is a bit
tight tor tall drivers. May 2007
Hyundai The Sonata has a roomy, quiet interior and lots ol features for the
Sonata price. The four-cylinder returns an impressive 26 mpg overall, while
the smooth, powerful V6 gets 22 mpg. Tfie ride is comfortable, but
can become buoyant on highway undulations. Handling is secure
but not agile. Jan. 2009
Hyundai ^ The Tucson is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The optional 2,7-
TUcson liter V6 delivers unimpressive fuel economy. Handling is not very
agile, but standard ESC makes it secure. The rirte is comfortable and
the rooniy cabin is quiet. A 2010 redesign is on the way. Aup, 2005
Hyundai Q This seven-passenger SUV has a smooth 3.8-liter V6 engine. The
Veracruz ride is comfortable, but suspension noise is evident. Handling is
secure but not particularly aqiie. The interior is very quiet and well-
finished. Controls are simple. Aug. 2007
InfinttI EX @ The EX is essentially an Infiniti G wagon. It has agile handling, but
this small pseudo-SUV is quieter and has a slightly more comfort-
able ride. The rear seat is very snug and the cargo area is tiny.
Styling has compromised rear visibility somewhat. Crash-test results
are impressive. Sep. 2008
Infiniti FX New The TX has an eager powertrain and responsive handling. The 3.5-iiter
V6 provides plenty of power and 18 mpq overall. The rifle is quite
stiff. Well-finished and fairly roomy, the stylish cabin is quiet. Outward
visibility suffers from the styling. Cargo capacity is modest. Juty 2009
tnfintti G @ The G37 is quick, sporty, and pleasant. Handling is agile and predict
able, with a taut yet compliant ride. The interior has high-quality
materials and easy-to-use controls. But the cabin is a bit snug and
the trunk is small. AWD is optional on both the coupe and sedan.
A hardtop convertible version is new. June 2009
InfinftI M g The M35's 3.5-liter V6 engine is strong and gutsy. Ride and handling
are quite capable- Road noise is a bit pronounced. The interior is
plush and well constructed. Audio and navigation functions are coh-
trolled via a dash-top knob or voice activation, Nov. 2007
Infiniti OX Q The Infiniti version of the Nissan Armada has a powerful V8 and
a five-speed automatic. Our Armada returned 13 mpg overall.
Handling of our tested Armada was quite responsive. The ride was
stiff, and engine noise was pronounced. Reliability has improved
to average. -
136 C O N S U M E R REPORT'S B U Y I N G G U I O E 2 0 1 0
Predicted
reliabilitv Description/with last road-test öate
Jaguar XF New íhe XF has agile handling, responsive steering, and a comfortable
riöe. Acceleration is effortless. The snug interior is nicely trimmed,
but the coupe-like styling cuts into rear-seat room and access.
Many controls, like the confounding touch screen and pop-up shifter
knob, are overcomplicated. Feb. 2 0 0 9
Jaguar XJ NA The XJ8 features an aluminum body and luxurious interior, but trails
the leaders in the luxury class. The powertrain is strong, but the
ride isn't luxurious. Handling is nimble, but steering is light. A long-
wheelbase model is available. A redesign is on the way. Nov. 2003
Jaguar XK Q The XK has a powerful 4.2-liter ve and smooth six-speed automatic.
Handling Í5 athletic and capable. The ride is very supple and controlled.
The soft-top convertible roof is well-insulated. The control touch
screen washes out in sunlight and operates very slowly. Oct. 2006
Jeep 0 The Commander based on the Grand Cherokee, but with cramped
Convrando- second- and third-row seats. Rear visibility is compromised. The V6
is lackluster and the powerful Hemi VB is thirsty. Handling is secure
but not agile, and the ride is unsettled over undulations. Reliability
^ is well below average. July 2006
Jeep Q We got 22 mpg overail from the noisy 2.4-titer engine and CVT. Ride
Compass and handling are not impressive. Interior fit and finish is lackluster,
the driving position is narrow, and visibility is compromised. Reliabil-
ity is average, but the Compass scores too low to be recommended.
Feb. 2007
Je«p 0 The Grand Cherokee offers a lackluster 3.7-liter V6, and a powerful
Grand 5.7-|iter Hemi V8. Handling is secure and the ride is sound. The rear
Cherokee seat is too low to give adeguate support. Fit and finish is disappoint-
ing. ESC and curtain air bags are standard. A redesign based on the
fvlercedes-Benz ML is due in 2010, Sep. 2 0 0 8
Jeep Q The Liberty has clumsy but secure handling. The noisy 3.7- liter V6
Liberty feels lethargic and returned just 16 mpg overall. We found the cabin
rather narrow and access awkward. The Liberty is suitable for off-
road duty and has a steadier ride than the Dodge Nitro. Aug. 2 0 0 8
Jeep @ The Patriot's 2.4-liter engine and CVT returned 22 mpg overall, but
Patriot acceleration is slow. The ride is okay but handling lacks agility. The
driving position is narrow and visibility is inhibited. It has some off-
road capability, but not for serious off-roading. The Patriot scores
too low to be recommended. May 2009
Jeep A The Wrangler has a stiff, but steady ride, with vague steering and
Wrangler low cornering limits. The 3.e-liter V6 delivers just 15 mpg overall.
Off-road capability is extremely impressive. Reliability has been well
below average. MHS side-crash-test results without the optional side,
air bags are unimpressive. Jan. 2OO7
Kia New Kia's first midsized, seven-passenger SUV has a traditional body-on-
Borrego frame construction. The Borrego is available with either a 3.8-liter
V6 or the 4.6-liter V8. It has a stiff ride, but handling is ultimately
secure. The V8 has a7,500'pound towing capacity. July 2009
Kia Forte New Kia has replaced the Spectra with the Forte. The 2010 model went
on sale this spring and has a tauter suspension than the Spectra.
Antilock brakes and electronic stability control are standard, -
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 137
Predicted
reliatiility Description/with last road-test date
Kia The Optima ranks among the belter family sedans. It is pleasant
Optima and a good value, with a roomy back seat and comfortable ride.
Handling is not particularly agiie but is uitimateiy secure. Curtain
air bags. ABS, and ESC are standard. Sep. 2009
Kla R(o ,^¿ The Rio sedan and Rio 5 hatchback have a relatively pleasant, 1.6-
liter, four cylinder engine. Fuel economy is good but trails the class
leaders. The ride is comfortable and guiet. Handling isn't particularly
agile. ABS is very hard lo find. IIHS side-crash-!est results are poor
even with the standard curtain air bags. Dec. 2006
Kla Rondo ^ This small wagon is very roomy and has seating for seven. The stan-
dard 2.4-iiter lour-cyiinder and optional 2.7-titer V6 are shared with
the Optima. Fit and Mnish is very good and the ride and handling are
sound. Stability control and curtain air bags are standard. Dec. 2007
Kia The Sedona is a pieasant minivan with generous standard equipment
Sedona and a roomy, flexible interior. The 3.8-liter V6 and five-speed auto-
matic are refined, but fuei economy is not great. Handling lacks agility
but is ultimately secure. Reliability is below average. Sep. 2006
Kta The Sorento's 3.3-liter V6 is quite spirited and returned 1Ï mpg
Sorento overall. The interior is fairly roomy, with good fit and finish. The
Sorento is competent off-road. Handling is clumsy, though stability
control makes it ultimately secure. Aug. 2008
Kia Soul New This small four-door hatchback packs a iot of room into a small foot-
print, has easy access, and spacious rear seating. The Soul rides stiffiy
and is noisy, but handling is nimble. The 2.0-iiter lour-cyiinder gels the
job done: the base engine is a 1.6-llter. ESC is standard. Aug. 2O09
Kla Q The roomy and comfortable Sportage has a standard four-cyiinder
Sportage engine with front-wheel drive. Fuel economy with the V6 AWD is i8 mpg
overall. Handling is secure, but not aqile. ESC and head protection air
bags are standard. Reliability has been above average. Dec. 2007
Lartd Rover The LR2 provides good off-road ability. The ride is firm but steady
LR2 and the car benefits from good steering. In our accident avoidance
test, the LR2 disconcertingly lifted two wheels at its handling limits,
reducing driver confidence. The controls are confusing. Sep. 2 0 0 8
Land Rover The smooth V8 struggles to move the heavy LR3 and returns just
LR4 13 mpg overall. The ride is comfortable but handling is lumbering.
Off-road capability is terrific. ReliatDility remains well below average.
For 2010. the LR3 is renamed LR4 and gets a redesigned interior
and larger engines. Nov. 2O0S
Land Rover ^ The Range Rover delivers smooth, strong acceleration and a very
Range comfortable ride, but isn't agile. The seats are very comfortable, and
Rover the wood and leather interior is upscale. Reliability has been well
below average. 2010 brings a more powerful engine, said to be more
fuel-eEf icient. -
Land Rover A The Sport is biased toward on-road handling, but isn't as agile as some
Range competitors. The ride is guite stiff. The VS does the job, but works
Rover hard. 2010 brings stronger engines. Off-road capabiilty is impressive.
Sport Visibility is very good, and the rear seat is accommodating. The inte-
rlor is luxurious, but the controls are frustrating. Dec 2 0 0 6
Predicted
Lexu5 ES Ô The ES 350 (S a solid and sedate sedan. The punchy powertiain delivers
23 mpg overall. The ride is very comfortabie. Handling is not sporty
but is ultimately secure, nt and finish is impressive, and the car is very
quiet. Rear visibility is iimited by a high rear deck. June 2007
Lexus OS a The GS isn't as sporty or engaging as some of its competitors,
A 3.5-liter V6 and 4.6-liter V8 are offered. The hybrid is quick, yet
returns 23 mpg overall. The interior is quief and the ride comfort-
able, but (ess so in the hybrid. Passenger room is tight, and head
room Is very snug. Nov. 2007 ^_
Lexus GX New The GX is based on the Toyota 4Runner and combines comlorl,
luxury, and ofi road capability. It is a bit smaller than the LX but also
offers a third seat. The ride is comfortable and qijiet, but it becomes
unsettled. Cornering isn't very agile, but is ultimately secure,
Interior fit and finish is impressive. 2010 brings a redesigned GX. -
Lexus HS New The HS hybrid is smaller than a Toyota Camry hybrid and uses its
HybrW powertrain. It comes with a lot of standard equipment and has far
more luxury features than the Camry hybrid or Prius, In our tests
.< of the Camry hybrid we got 34 mpg overaii, -
Lexus IS â The iS has a cramped interior that is well constructed. The 2.5-iiter
V6 is refined and gets 24 mpg overall, while the 3.5 V6 is very quick.
We found the ride fittery, and handling isn't very sporty. Crash-test
results are impressive. A high-performance, V8-powered F model is
available, as ¡s a hard-top convertible. May 2006
Lexus LS ^ The LS Is luKurious and highly refined, with a comfortable and
serene ride. The spacious cabin is exceptionally quiet, and controls
are user-friendly. Handling has been improved, but the LS is still
not an engaging driver's car. The powertrain is very smootti and
responsive. A hybrid is available but costs over $100.000. Nov. 2007
Lexus LX NA This luxury SUV is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser. It uses the
Toyota 5.7-liter va, making for a slick and strong powertrain. It has
i3 comfortable ride and a guiet, niceiy appointed cabin. A power-
^____ folding third-row seal is new, but it limits cargo space. -
Lexus RX New The redesigned RX iS one of tfie mosl well-rounded upscale SUVs.
It balances a refined powertrain and comfortable ride with a very
guiet interior. The optional navigation system uses a mouse-like
controller. The strong 3.5-Iiter V6 returned 21 mpg. Cargo capacity
^ is modest. July 2009
Lexus SC â The SC Isn't as sporty or luxurious as its competitors. The ride
IS stiff and fidgety, with noticeable boby lean in corners. The
power hard top folds into the trunk with a push of a button. The
well-trimmed interior is tight and feels closed in. The controis are
refreshingly easy to use. Reliability fias been excellent. Oct. 2006
Lincoln New This iarge sedan is based on the redesigned Ford Taurus and powered
MKS by a 3.7-liter V6. A turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive is available.
The interior is roomy, but the driving position is narrow and a high
rear deck limits rear visibility. Handling Is secure, but ttie MKS lacks
aijility. The ride is comfortable but not always settled. Feb. 2009
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 fiÔDELS 139
Predicted
Lincoln New Lincoln's three row car-baseö SUV has a very roomy interior and
MKT offers many luxury amenities, but visibility is compromised. Base
models use a 3.7-liter V6. and a turbocharqed V6 is available. An
available ultrasonic-based system allows hands-free parking. -
Lincoln O This upscale version of the Ford Edge uses the same unrefined 3.5-
MKX litef, V6 engine and six-speed automatic. Fuel economy is unimpres-
sive. The ride is reasonably comfortable but handling lacks agility.
Interior materials are disappointing and many buttons are difficult to
read at dusk. IIHS crash'-test results are impressive. July 2007
Lincoln Q The MKZ uses a 3.5-liter V6. Handling is sound and responsive.
MKZ The ride is firm, supple, and controlled, and the cabin is very quiet.
The interior is trimmed in leather and wood, but the details fall
short. ESC is standard. Reliability has been above avsrage. and IIHS
side-crash-test results have improved to Good. -
Lincoln O The Navigator comes in standard and long versions, the latter with
NavlQator increased cargo space. The V8 is sluggish and thirsty. The thtrd-row
seat is power operated, folds flal into the floor, and is very comfort-
able. Three-row curtain air bags and ESC are standard. July 2007
Lotus NA This lightweight midengined roadster is super-quick. Power comes
Elise from a high-revving four-cylinder from Toyota. The interior Is spartan
and the cabin is difficult to access. Cornering limits are very high,
but the car is hard fo control once past them. The Exige is a more
powerful coupe version. Oct. 2 0 0 5
Mazda O The CX-7 has responsive handling and secure cornering, but the ride
CX-7 is so-so, Midrange power is ample, but there is a lag at low revs, Fuei
economy is not particularly good. The interior is weil put together.
but the rear seat is not very roomy and is too low. A non-turbo FWD
version is new. Jan. 2007
Mazda Q This SUV 5hares the Ford Edge platform, but is guieter. more agile, and
CX-9 has a nicer interior. The third-row seat fs small but easy to access.
Power comes from a 3.7-liter V6, Handling is agile and the ride is firm,
yet comfortable. Curtain air bags and ESC are standard. Nov. 2006 '
Mazda g . The MX-5 IS fun and agile, yet lairly civilized and affordable. The
MX-5 2.0-liter four-cylinder and standard siK-speed manual are a joy to
Mlata use, A pafldle-shifting six-speed automatic is optional. A power
retractable hard top is available. Reliability has been above average.
Juna 2006
Mazda O The RX-8 is a fun coupe that revs exceptionally smoothly, and the
RX-8 ride IS impressive (or a sports car. Handling is agile and the steering
is communicative. The Rotary engine is smooth, but lue! economy
is disappointing. The rear-hinged rear doors ease back seat access
Dae. 2003
Mazda 0 The Tribute has a roomy interior and spacious rear seat. Fit and
Tribute finish is unimpressive and the car is noisy. The V6 provides strong
acceleration and 19 mpg overall, while the four-cylinder gets 21 mpg
overall. The hybrid's 26 mpg overall is the best of any SUV we've
tested. May 2009
Predicted
Mazda3 g The freshened f-1azda3's standard 2.0-liter, lour-cylinder engine is
relatively quick and sparing with fuel; the new 2.5-liter is strong and
refined. Handling is agite and sporty ior this class. Interior quality is
very good. ESC is included on most trim lines. The hatchback version,
available only with the 2.5-liter, improves cargo fiexibility. Aug. 2009
UazàaS This six-passenger small minivan provides the utility of a miniuan
O with easy maneuverability, ail at an affordable price and with good
fuel economy. The second- and thirö-row seats can be folded flat.
Reiiabilitv has been average. Stability control is standard for 20)0,
Jan. 2006
Mazd«6 New The Mazda6 is larger and more refined than its predecessor. The car
is quite nimble, with nice steering and a supple and controlled ride.
Interior fit and finish is slightly improved. The rear seat is roomier
' than before but access is tight. Jan. 2009
Mercedes- Q The C-Class is a capable car, with a smooth and strong 3,0-liter V6
Benz that returned 21 mpg overall on premium fuel. The cabin is snug
C-Class but quiet, and the seats are supportive. AWD is offered on the C300,
The sporl suspension makes the ride a bit choppy at low speeds,
and the steering is overly tight. Mar. 2 0 0 8
Mercedes- NA This coupe version of the S-Ciass luxury sedan is just as fast, com- '
Benz CL fortable, and iuxurious. There is room in the back for two aduits
to sit comfortably. The 5.5-iiter V8 supplies an abundance of accel-
eration, never mind the twin-turbocharged V12 engine in the more
powerfui CL600. -
Mercedes- a ^^^ ^LS is a four-door sedan with a swoopy roof and seating for just
Benz CLS four passengers. Rear-seat room is tight, and the angle of the roof
limits head room. The sedan is luxurious and comfortabie, with
strong performance and agile handling. Reliability is below average.
Oct. 2006
Mercedes- New The old E-Ciass blended spirited acceleration and respectable fuel
Benz economy with qreat ride and handling characteristics. A powerfui
E'Ctass and economicai diesel version got 29 mpg overall in our tests. A
redesigned 2010 modei is on sale, along with a coupe version based
on the C-Class. -
Mercedes- m The GL is based on the M-Class. but with seating for seven. The
Benz 4.6-liter V8 returned 15 mpg. It is very quiet, with a comfortable ride
GL-Class and responsive handling. The third-row seat is roomy enough for
adults. Some controls are overly complicated. The diesel version got
19 mpg but is sluggish off the line. D«c. 2009
Mercedes- New The GLK is based on the C-Class and joins the ever-qrowing smaii
Benz upscale SUV class. The 3.5-liter V6 is powerful and smooth.
GtK-ClBSS Handling is aqile, but the steering is a bit light. The low speed ride
is a bit tossy. It's quiet in the luxurious cabin, but wide door siils
get in the way. Rear seat leg room is tight. Sep. 2009
Mercedes- Q ^^^ -Class has responsive handling ana a firm, yet supple ride. The
Benz smooth V6 returned only 16 mpq overall and the 7-speed automatic
M-Class doesn't always shift at the appnDpriate moment. Oiesei and hybrid
versions are available. Some controls can be confusing. Nov. 2005
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 141
Predicted
Mercedes- The three-row R-Class shares the same AWO p[at(orm with the
Benz M-Class. Access is easy and room for six is very good, but the long
R-Ctass rear doors easily bump into adjacent vehicles. The ride is comfort-
able and quiet, but handling is not sporty. A 3.5-Iiter V6 and a diesel
are available. Reliability has been well below average. -
Mercedes- Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan is roomy, quiet, and luxurious. The
Benz S550 is powerful and athletic, with agile handling and a very com-
S-Class foftable ride that is among the best we've ever tested. The controls
can be complicated. Many high-tech options, like night vision, are
available. A hybrid version is new. Nov. 2007
Mercedes- r\ This coupe/convertible uses a power folding hard top. The V8 is
Benz SL smooth and powerfui, the AMG model even more so. The SL eûmes
with an extensive list of safely and high-tech features. Reliability has
improved to average, allowing us to recommend the SL, Oct. 2006
Mercedes' This roadster features a folding hard top and a strong 3.5-liter V6.
Benz SLK The manual shifter and clutch are more user-friendly than In the
first-generation SLK. Handling is more agile than the previous version,
and the ride is reialively comfortable. Reliability has improved to
average. Oct. 2005
Mercury Q The Mariner has a roomy interior, spacious rear seat, and good cargo
Mariner space, rit and finish is unimpressive and the engines are loud. The V6
provides strong acceleration, while the four-cylinder is adequate. The
hybrid dnvetrain works well, returning 26 mpg overall. May 2009
Mercury g The Milan has sharp handling, a controlled ride, and good accelera-
Milan tion. The cabin is weil finished and mostly guiet. Front- and ali-
wheel-drive versions are available. The 34-mpg hybrid version gets
GJiceilent fuel economy and can drive up to 47 mph on electric
power alone. Sep. 2009
Mercury Q The Mountaineer's base engine is an adequate, but coarse 4.0-liter
Mouitalneer V6. The noisy and stronger 4.6-liter V8 gets just 14 mpg overall.
The ride is firm and controlled, and handling is sound. ESC and
curtain air bags are standard. Reliability of the V6 is average, but
the VS is below average. Juty 2 0 0 6
Mini Q The Mini has very agile handiing, with quici^ precise steering and
Cooper • little body lean, but the ride is a bit choppy. The base engines are
refined and the Cooper S has a punchy turbocharged one. The rear
seat is very tight and some controls are confusing. The Clubman
is a small wagon. Sep. 2 0 0 8
Mitsubishi O The GT's powerful engine is the major appeal. The cockpit is very
Eclipse cramped, and the rear seat is unusable. Handling lacks agility. The
four-cylinder engine is noisy and Ihe manual transmission is clunky.
The Eclipse scored too low in our testing to be recommended. IIHS
crash-test results for the convertible are impressive. May 2 0 0 6
Mitsubishi NA The Galant is a sound car. We found the V6 quick and nicely trimmed,
Galant but it has too much torgue steer and fuei economy is just 20 mpg. The
four-cylinder engine is spirited but noisy, and returns 23 mpg. The ride
is choppy and stiff even on smooth pavement. May 2004
t42 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 0
Predicted
reiiabiiity Description/with last road-test date
Mitsubishi NA The Lancer is a major improvement over its dowdy predecessor, and
Lanwr we found it much more agile in our testing. It shares its engine with
Hyundai and Chrysler, and tends to moan a bit at hiqh revs. The CVT
transmission works very well. Standard curtain air bags are a plus.
Oct, 2007
Mitsubishi Q The Outlander's smooth 3.0-liter V6 provides a lot of punch and
Outlander returns 19 mpg overall, and the four-cyiinder gets 22 mpg. Handiing
is fairly agile and the Outlander is secure at its iimits, due in part
to its standard ESC, The ride is fairly stiff. Interior fit and finish is a
bit disappointing. The lop-level V6 oflers a third-row seat. Reliability
has been above average. Aug. 2006
Nl5san The Aitima has a 2.5liter four-cylinder that got 25 mpg overall in
O our tests, and an optional 3.5-iiter V6 that got Z3 mpg overall. The
Aitima
Hybrid got 32 mpg In our tests, but the trunk is small. Interior quality
is very good, but rear seat room is tighL Stabiiity control is not avail-
able on the 2.5 S, but it is standard on the hybrid and optional on
top-trim versions of the V6. Mar. 2007
Nissan Q This large SUV has seating for eight. Power comes from a 5.6-liter,
Armada V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic. Ivto- and four-wheel
drive versions are avaiiable, and it features an independent rear
suspension. Reliabiiity has improved to average. Mar. 2 0 0 4
Nissan New The small but roomy Cube holds five passengers. Access is super
Cube easy. When mated to the CVT the 1.8-liler engine provides slow
acceleration but returns 28 mpq. The Cube's small size makes it
maneuverable, but handling isn't sporty and braking distances are
a bit long. Wind noise is noticeable. Nov. 2009
Nissan @ We found Hie Frontier quick and nimble, with a stiff but tolerable
Frontier ride. The powerful 4.0-liter V6 revs smoothly. Base models use
a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Rear-seat room is tight in the crew cab.
Reliabiiity has been above average. Juiy 2005
Nissan New The GT-R is Nissan's premium sports car that was previously known
GT-R worldwide as the Skyline GT-R. It is powered by a 480-hp, twin-turbo V6
that drives ail four wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox. -
Nl5san New Nissan's flagship sedan has a powerful 290-hp V6, it gets 22 mpg
Maxima overall and has quick acceleration. The steering is oddly weighted
and hurts handling. The ride is comfortabie and the cabin is quiet,
but the low roofüne hurts visibility and access. Feb. 2 0 0 9
Nissan The Murano has a nice interior, standard ESC. and a comfortable
Murano e ride. Its 3.5-iiter V6 is powerful and gets a respectable 19 mpg.
Handling is responsive and secure. The interior is stylish and
functional, but rear visibility is limited. ilHS crash-test results are
impressive. Sep. 2 0 0 8
Nissan Q The Pathfinder fias a strong 4,0-liter V6, independent rear suspen-
Pathlinder sion, and third-row seal. Expect 15 mpg overall. The ride is stiff,
tfiough handling is responsive. The second- and third-row seats are
snug. ESC is standard. A va is optional, Reiiability has been average.
Nov. 2005
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 143
Predicted
reliabilitv Description/with last risad-test date
Nissan Q The Quest uses Nissan's powerful V6 engine, but acceleration is
Ouest only adequate, txpect 18 mpg overall. Both the second- and third-
row seats fold flat when not in use. A five-speed automatic is the
only transmission. Reliability has been below average, but crash-test
results are impressive. May 2007
Nissan Q The small Nissan Rogue SUV is compact, pleasant, and competitive
Rogue in Ihe small SUV class. The l70-hp, 2.5-llter engine gets a bit raspy
at high revs, txpect 22 mpg overall. The ride is supple and handling
is fairly nimble and secure, ESC and curtain air bags are standard
Aug. 2008
Nissan O The Sentf a has a 2.0-iiter four-cylinder engine mated to a CVT, and
Sentra returned 26 mpg overall. Ride and handling are good and the rear
seat is roomy. Bu! the Sentra tends to fishtail at its handling limits
and braking distances are long. ESC is optional for 2010. Oct. 2007
Nissan O The Titan is powerful and has a comfortable ride. The engine is
Titan strong but loud. Payload capacity has been improved, and a long-
wheelbase version is avaiiable. ESC and curtain air bags are
standard for 2010. Reiiabiiity has improved to average. July 2 0 0 4
Nfssart
Q Versa
Q The Versa packs a relatively spacious interior in a short body The
engine is civilized bul not overly powerful. The ride is comfortable
and the rear seat is roomy. Handling isn't particuiariy nimble. ABS
and ESC are standard on the SL for 2010. Oec. 2006
Nl5san Q The Xterra has good off-road capability and is reiatively civilized.
Xterra The 4.0-liter V6 delivers quiCk acceleration but just Î7 mpg. The
4WD system is still part-time. The interior is weii-assembled, ESC
and head-protection air bags are standard. Reliability has been
above average. Aug. 2005
Nissan Z New The Z is a two-seater powered by a smootfi-revving 3,7-liter V6. The
manual gearbox has short throws and is easy to use. Handling is agile,
but ride comfort suffers. Interior materials are significantly improved,
but the cabin is still tight. The convertible tías a power-operated ftp
Oct 2009
Porsche O Tlie 911 has agile handling and the ride is fairly civilized. Coupe and
911 a convertible are offered. Both the 3.6- and 3,8-liter engines are
powerful and sound good. Reliability has been average, allowing us
to recommend the 911. Oct. 2 0 0 6
Porsche Q This roadster's handling and braking are superb, and the ride is firm
Boxster but not punishing. It is relatively guich and fun to drive. The two
trunks give it a bit ol practicality. The power top can be operated at
low speeds. Oct. 2005
Porsche 0 The Cayenne is a midsized, luxury car-based SUV with all-wheel
Cayenne drive. Low-range gearing and advanced electronics promise some
off-road capability. It comes with a choice of engines and available
adjustable ritJe height. Reliability has been well beiow average
Oec. 2 0 0 8
Porsche O Based on the Boxster, the Cayman coupe uses a midmounted, 2.9-liter,
Cayman fiat-six engine that produces 265 hp. The higher-perlormance S has
320 hp. The coupe seats two passengers .ind uses a hatchback design
that increases the rear storage area compared with the Boxster. -
Predicted
Saab 9-3 The 9-3 uses a turbocharged 2,0-iiter, four-cylinder engine that ts
O relatively powerful and quiet. The Aero uses a smooth 2.8-iiter. turbo-
charged six-cylinder. Handling is secure but not sporty. The ride is
stiff with road and wind noise. IIHS crash-test results are impressive.
May 2006
Saab 9-5 The Saab 9-5 has very secure handling but isn't very agile The ride
e is stiff and unsettled. Road and wind noise are pronounced. The turbo-
charged four-cylinder engine has spirited performance but sounds
coarse. The front seats are comfortable and the rear seat is quite
roomy. A long overdue redesign is in the works. June 2007
Scion tc a The tC coupe uses a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. It drives nicely
but isn't particularly sporty. Rear seat room is generous for a coupe,
and there is a lot of standard equipment for the money. We don't
recommend the tC because of its unirrpressive IIHS crash-test
results and the lack of available stability control. Pec. 2 0 0 5
Scion xB â The xB has a 2.4-liter four-cylirKJer engine but fuel economy Is 23 mpg,
which is worse than the old model. Handling is responsive and the
ride is less choppy. The rear seat is enormous and the cargo area is
large. Visibiiity is impaired by low windows and thick roof pillars.
Curtain air bags and ESC are standard. Oct. 2007
Scion xD a The small xD is nimble, but has a jittery, unsettled ride. The 1.8-liter
four-cylinder gets 29 mpg overall with the automatic and 34 with
the manual. The cabin is noisy and the driving position is awkward,
particularly for taller drivers. The rear is roomy for two adults. ESC
is standard for 2010, June 2006
Smart @ This tiny two-seater features a 1,0-liter, three-cyiinder engine that can
ForTwo keep up with traffic. We measured 39 mpg overall. The ride is harsh,
handling clumsy, and the automated manual transmission causes the
car to lurch. ESC and side air bags are standard. Nov. 2008
Subaru The Forester's base 2.5-iiter four-cylinder returned 22 mpg, and the
O powerful turbocharged engine in the XT got 20 mpg. It rides and
Forestar
handles weli, with responsive steering. The rear seat is roomy and
ESC is standard. Crash-test results are impressive. Aug. 2 0 0 6
Subaru 0 The Impreza uses a four-cylinder and four-speed automatic, Stan-
lmpr«2a dard AWD hurts performance and fuel economy, at just 23 mpg
overall. The ride is compliant and handiing is agile. The rear seats
are roomy enough, and cabin materials are acceptable. ESC is
standard and crash-test scores are impressive, Oct. 2009
Subaru New The redesigned 2010 Legacy has considerably more interior room
Leqacy than the previous Legacy. The standard engine is a bit siuggish with
the CVT; the 3,6R is more powerful. The GT's turbocharged engine
is now available only with a manual transmission. ESC is standard.
Dec 2009 '
Subaru New The 2010 Outback raised wagon has more rear seat room now. It
Outback isn't quick with the standard engine and CVT, but it is fuel efficient.
The six-cylinder 3.6R has more power. Ride and handling are pleas-
ant. Nov. 2009 _ _ ^ ^
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MODELS 145
Predicted
Subaru Subaru's SUV is available in two- and three-row versions, but both
Tribeca are cramped. Power comes from a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine
mated to a five-speed aulomatic. Ride and handlinq are very good.
Reliability has been above average. Jan. 2 0 0 8
SuzuRf New This is basically a rebadged Nissan Frontier. We found the Frontier
Equator quick and nimble, with a stiff, though tolerable ride. The strong 4.0-
liter V6 revs smoothly and feels (ike a V8, Base models are powered
by a 2.5-litef, four-cylinder engine. Curtain air bags are standard
and ESC are available.-
Suzutii New This car-based SUV uses a noisy and sluggish 2.4-liter four-cylinder
Grand that gets just 19 mpg. A 3.2-liter V6 is also available. Handling is
Vitara reluctant but secure, and the ride is stiff and jittery. Curtain air bags
and ESC are standard. Two-wheel-drive versions power the rear
wheels. May 2 0 0 9
SuiuKl g This small hatchback uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. We got 22
SX4 mpq overaii in the AWD Crossover hatchback model ano 26 mpg in the
(ront-wheel-drive sedan. Curtain air bags and ABS are standard, and
ESC Is optional. Access and visibiiity are excellent, but ride and noise
are so-so. A CVT replaces the regular automatic for 2010. Mar. 2 0 0 9
SuzuKi The XL-7 is based on the old Chevrolet Equinox, but it offers sealing
XL-7 for up to seven passengers. Its 3.6-liter V6 returned 17 mpg. Ride
and handling are better than in the old Equinox, but the turning
circle IS wide. ESC and curtain air bags are standard. The XL-7 is
discontinued tor 2010, May 2007 .
Toyota New The 4Runner is roomy and has an optional third-row seat. Fuel
4Runner economy for the 4.0-!iter V6 was unimpressive at 16 mpg. A V8 is
available, ano mated to full-time 4WD, Stability controi Is standard.
A ?Q10 redesign is around the corner, -
Toyota Q The Avaion has a roomy rear seat and impressive interior. The ride
Avalor> is very comfortable but tends to »oat at highway speeds. Handling
is responsive but far from sporty. The V6 with a six-speed automatic
feels smooth and punchy, Crash-lest results are impressive
Reliability has been above average. Sep. 2005
Toyota Q The Camry is quiet, comfortable, and refined. The 3.5-liter V6 returns
Camry 23 mpg overaii. A new, refined and responsive 2.5-liter four-cyiinder
engine with a six-speed aulomatic improved fuel economy. The inte-
nor is spacious. Stability controi is standard for 2010. Dec 2 0 0 9
Toyota @ The redesigned Corolla is a good small sedan, despite being rather
Corolla bland. A 1,8-liter is the base engine, and the 2.4-iiter is found in tfie
XRS trim. Eiectronic stabiiity control and curtain air bags are stan-
dard for 2010. We got a very impressive 32 mpq overall in our test
of the l,B-iiter, the best for a current non-hybrid or diesel four-door
sedan. July 2 0 0 8
Toyota FJ ^ The FJ is superb off-road, but so-so for daily use. Visibility is
Cruiser compromised by the thick roof pillars and small windows, and the
rear doors are awkward to use. The V6 gets jusf 17 mpg. ESC is
standard. Reliability has been above average. Crash-test results are
excellent, but the FJ scores too low in our testing to be recom-
mended, Jan. 2O07
Predicted
Toyota ^ The Highlander has a quiet interior, very good ride comlort, and a
HiQhlender roomy second-row seat. Its 3.5-liter V6 delivers 18 mpg overall The
hybrid model gets 24 mpg and drives similarly. Handling is sound
and secure, but not particulariy agile and the steering feels vague.
The third-row seat is tight and does not told in a 50/50 split.
Jan. 2 0 0 8
Toyota NA Toyota's flagship SUV uses the poweiiul 5.7-liter V8. The Land Cruiser
Land is guiet, comfortable, and refined, but not agile. The interior is roomy
Cruiser and well finished. The Land Cruiser promises good off-road ability
and features a trawl mode for challenging terrain. Dec. 2008
Toyota Ö The Matrix has easy cabin access, a roomy rear seal, and good cargo
Matrix versatility. Fuei economy is impressive. Engine and road noise levels
are high. The ride and handling are sound. ESC is stantJartJ for 2010.
The driving position is awkward, and fit and finish is unimpressive.
June 2008 [
Toyota New The new Prius uses a 1.8-liter engine and is less noisy at high revs.
Prlus It got 44 mpg overail in our tests. Ride and handing are competent,
but the steering feels vague. The seat and driving position have been
somewhat improved. Rear visibility is impaired by the split window,
Reliability of previous models has been outstanding. Nov. 2009
Toyota ^ The RAV4 has a flexible, well-designed interior. Handling is agile and
RAV4 secure with standard ESC. Tîie rear seat is roomy. A îiny third-row
seat is optional. The optional 3.5-liter V6 is guick and returns 22 mpg.
The new 2,5-liter four-cylinder gets 23 mpq overall. May 2009
Toyota Q The eight-passenger Seguoia has a base 4.6-liter V8 for 2010. A
Se<|uoia five-speed automatic is standard, and the 5.7-liter gets a six-speed
unit. The independent rear suspension allows the third-row seat
to be folded into a weil. Standard safety gear includes curtain air
bags and ESC. Nov. 2 0 0 8
Toyota Q Our top-rated minivan rides very comfortably and Quietly. The third-
Sienna row seat folds into Ihe floor. The 3.5-liter, V6 engine is smooth and
strong, and returned Í9 mpg. The optional AWD results in 18 mpg
overall and a firmer ride. Handling is secure and responsive. Crash-
test results are impressive. May 2007
Toyota Q The Tacoma has a strong 4.0-liter V6. The ride trails some competi-
Tacoma - tors and the driving position is too low. Payload capacity is small.
Reliaöility has been above average. Electronic stability control and
curtain air bags are standard. Crash-test results are impressive,
July 2005
Toyota Q The Tundra offers three engines and three cab sizes. Handling is
relatively responsive, but the ride with the TRD package is stiff.
The 5.7-liter V8 is very powerfui. The tailgate is easy to raise and
lower. Reliability of the V8 4WD models has improved to average.
Sep. 2007
Toyota New The Venza has easy cabin access, a guiet interior, and a roomy rear
Venza seat. The 3.5-liter V6 has plenty of power. Handling is secure but the
steering is short on feedback and the ride is Jittery. Visibility is im-
paired by the styling. Crash-test results are impressive. June 2 0 0 9
THE 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 MOOELS 147
Predicted
reliabiiity Description/with iast road-test date
Toyota The Yaris is available as a hatchback or a four-door sedan. The 1.5-
Yarls liter four-cylinder engine returned 33 mpg with the automalic. Road
noise is pronounced and the center-mounted gauges are annoying.
ESC is standard for 2010. The Yaris scored too low in our testing to
be recommended. Mar. 2009
New This four-door coupe is lower than the Passat sedan, with compro-
CC mised visibility and less convenient access. The 2.0-liter turbo-
charged 4-cylinder is strong and gets 24 mpg. A stronger 3.6-liter
V6 wllh AWD is also avaiiable. The four-person accommodations
iimit the CC'S practicality. June 2009
Volkswaqen Q The Eos has a folding metal hard top that offers a sunroof-only
Eos position. We got 25 mpg with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-
cylinder, A manual transmission is standard, with Volkswagen's
automated manual OSG transmission optional. IiHS crash-test
resuits are impressive. May 2 0 0 8
Votkswaqen The GTi gets a freshening for 2010, but remains mostly the same.
GTi It's quick and agiie with a gutsy turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
that sounds good, all of which make it fun to drive. A four door
version is available. June 2006
Volkswaqen The Jetta has a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine and optional 2.0-liter
Jetta turbo. We found the ride comfortable and handling agile. The interior
is very roomy. MHS crash-test results are impressive. Reliability of the
2.5-liter has improved to average. The diesel version got 33 mpq
overall and 47 mpg on the highway. Aug. 2009
Voikswaqen The New Beetle rides and handles well. The fronl seats are support-
New ive, but the rear is cramped. The power-operated convertible top is
Beetle well-insLilated from wind noise. Reliability is below average and the
Beetle scored a Poor in the IIHS side-crash test. -
Voikswaoen Q The Passat's turbocharged fDur-cylincler engine has excellent perfor-
Pt mance. Handling is agile and responsive. The front seats are comforl-
able and supportive. Crash tests are very good for the sedan. A wagon
is available. Reliability has dropped to below average. Mar. 2006
The Golf name returns for 2010, replacing Rabbit. The noisy 2.5-liter
Golf five-cylinder isn't very fuel efficient. Handling is responsive and
forgiving with electronic statiility control, and the ride is compliant.
The hatchback bodystyle adds versatility. June 2 0 0 6
W&lkswagen New The Routan is a Chrysler minivan with some Volkswagen styling
Routan cues and slightly better ride and steering. It uses the same 3.8- and
4.0-liter engines that we found noisy and not very fuel efficient in
the Chryslers. The six-speed automatic was responsive. Electronic
stability control is standard. Nov. 2009
VoJkswaqen New The Tiguan uses the Rabbit piatform and seats five passengers.
Tiquan The Split-folding rear seat provides flexible cargo and seating
room. The sole engine is the familiar 2.0-iiter turbocharged four-
cylinder. Sep. 2 0 0 6
VoliiswBqen ^ This large car-based SUV has low-range gearing and a locking center
Touareq 2 differential, making it capable off-road. The V6 is thirsty and under-
powered; fhe V8 is stronger but expensive. The interior is elegant
but not very roomy. Reliability has consistently been below average
Sep.2O08
Predicted
reliability Descririt ion/wit h last road-test date
Volvo C30 a This two-door hatchback competes with other hatchbacks such as
the Audi A3 and Mazda3. Power comes from the luröocharged
2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that delivered good performance in
our tested V50 wagon. Oct, 2 0 0 8
Volvo C70 Q The C70 has a metal folding top thafs power-operated and works
well. It comes only with a turbocharged 2.5-liter, five-cylinder
engine. Handiing is sound but unexceptional. The ride is somewhat
stiff. Crash-test results are impressive. May 2 0 0 8
Volvo S40 Q The S40 sedan corners fairly nimbly bat has a slifl ride. The standard
2.4-liter engine sounds raspy, A stronger turbochaiged engine
powers the T5, The interior is well-finished. The front seats are sup-
portive, but the rear seat is very tight. All-wheel drive is available,
Nov. 2004
Volvo 560 a The S60 has a quiet interior and tfie front seats are comfortable.
Handling is secure but not particularly agile, and the ride is stiff, Ttie
rear seat is cramped. Volvo improved the confusing radio controls.
Ail-wheel drive is avaiiable. Feb. 2004
Volvo S80 » The S80 offers a smooth V8 on AWD models and a six-cylinder
on FWD ones. A turbocharged six-cyiinder is also available. The
optional blind-spot monitoring system and active cruise control
work well. The rear seat is less spacious than the previous genera-
tion. Handling has been slightly improved, but the ride remains a
bit Stift. Nov. 2007
Volvo Û The V70 Is a wagon version of the S80 sedan. The XC70 has all-
V70/XC70 Wheel drive and a raised ride height. The powertrain Is a pleasant
3.2-liter six-cylinder mated to a si»-speed automatic. The XC70
delivers adequate performance, but its 18 mpg overall is ¡ust so-so.
Ride and handling, and interior fit and finish is improved over the
previous generation. Sep. 2 0 0 8
Volvo New This small upscale SUV showcases many safety features, including
XC60 one that automatically brakes to avoid low-speed rear-end colli-
sions. The 281-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder is responsive.
Handling is secure but ttie ride is rather stiff. A 3,2-liter 6-cylinder
engine and front-wheel drive have just been added. S«p. 2009
Volvo This seven-seat SUV has a flat-folding third row. The slability-control
O system is standard. The VS engine is strong and smootti, and a new
XC90
six-cylinder is standard. Reliability improved to average for all versions,
Nov. 2006
THE BEST & WORST USED CARS 149
USED CARS: THE BEST & THE

ONES TO AVOID
T
hese lists guide you to the we compiled from the longer lists: They
most reliable vehicles for 10 cover the models for which we have suf-
model years, 1999 through ficient survey data for at least three years,
2008. and alert you to those and have either performed notably well
that have been problematic. or have been especially troublesome.
Reliable vehicles and vehicles ib avoid CONSUMER REPORTS considers prob-
include all models that showed above- or lem.s with major engine and transmission
below-average overall reliability (Used components, engine cooling, and drive
Car Verdicts) in our 2008 Annual Car systems to be more seriou.s, and they are
Relibibitity Survey, which drew respon.ses weighted more heavily than other areas.
on more than 1,4 million vehicles. For detailed reliability Ratings on the six
Pay particular attention to the Best of latest model years, see the charts starting
the Best and Worst of the Worst, which on page 155.
- -
Reliable Vehicles
These models earned better- or much-better-than-averaqe Used Car Verdkis in our 2008
survey (see page 155). Vehicles are listed bv price range and alphatietically by manufacturer.
Price ranges (rounöed to the nearest $1,000) are approximately what you should expect to
pay for a typically equipped model witti average miles.
LESS THAN $4,000 (turbodlesel, 2WD) '99; Toyota Avalon 99; Camry
Ford F-t50 <V6, 2WD) 99 Ranqer <2WD) 9 9 0 0 '99; Camry Solara '99-00;
Mazda B-Serles (2WD) '99 GMC Sierra 1500 (V6, Célica '99; Corojla '00-02;
Subaru Imprexa '99 2WD) '00-01 Echo '02-03; RAV4 '99;
Toyota Corolla '99; Echo Honda Accord '99-00; CMc Sienna '99-00
*00-0! '99-01; CR-V'99; Insight 00
Hyundai Accent 04-05; $6,000-$8,000
$4,000-$6,000 Elantra 04; Santa F« Acura CL 01-02; Integra
Acura CL 99; Integra (V6) 01; XG350 03 '01; RL '99-00; RSX '02;
•99-00; TL '99-00 Inflnltl G20 99 00, 02 TL'Ol
Buick Century '03 Lincoln Continental 00 01 Buick Century 'OA
Chevrolet Prizm 99-02; Mazda B-Serles (2WD) Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Silverado 1500 (V6, •00-Üt; Protege -01-02 (V6, 4WD) 00 01; Sil-
2WD) 00-01; Tracker '02 Mercury Grand Marquis verado 1500 iVa. 2WD)
Ford Crown Victoria '99 0); '99-01 '00-01; Silverado 2500
F-150<V6. 2WD) 00; Mitsubishi Galant VO: (2WD) 00; Tracker 03
F-T50 (V6, 4WD) 00-01; Lancer'02 Ford Crown Victoria '0203;
F-^150 (Ve. 2WD) •99-01; Nissan Altlma '99; Frontier Escape (4-cyl.) 04;
F-150 (Va, 4WD) 00; '99; Pathfinder 99 00 Escape (V6, FWD) '02;
F-250 (2W0) '99; F-250 Subaru Legacy 99 F-150 <V6, 2W0) 02 04;
150 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2 0 1 0
F-150 (V6, 4WD) '02-03; (V8, 2W0> 02; Silverado Highlander '01-02; Matrix
F-ISO (V8, 4W0> 01; 2500 (2WDÏ 01-02 '04: Prius 02-03: RAV4
F-250 (2WD) 01; 00-01; Ford Crown Victoria 04; •01-02; Sequoia '01-02;
Focus tiatchback '05; Escape (4-cyi.) 05; Sienna 0203; Tacoma
Mu5tanq (V6) 00, 0203; Escape <V6, AWD) 04; '01: Tundra '02-03
Mustang (V8) ^g-OI; Escape (V6) 03; F-150 Volvo S60 (FWD) '02
Ranger <2WD) 01: (V6, 2WD) 05; F-150
Taurus 04 (VB) '02-03: F-250 $10,000-$12,000
GMC Sierra 1500 <V6, (turbodtesei. 2WD) 02; Acura MDX 02-03; RSX 04
4WDÍ 00-01; Sierra 1500 Focus '06; Mustang IVß) BMW Z3 '99
(V8, 2WD) 00 01: Sferra 02: Ranger (2WD) 03-04; Buick LeSabre 05
2500 (2WD) 00 Taurus ' 0 5 0 6 Chevrolet Mallbu (4-cyl.)
Honda Accord 01 02; Civic GMC Sierra 1500 (V8, '07
02-03; CR-V *D0: Element 2WD) 02; Sierra 2 5 0 0 Ford Crown Victoria 05-06;
'03; Prelude '99-00 (2VÍD) 01-02 Escape (4-cyl.) 06:
Hyundai Santa Fe (V6) 02; Honda Accord '03; Escape (V6) 05; Escaiw
Sonata (V6) 03-04; Civic Od; civic Hybrid (V6, FWD) 06: F-150
Sonata 05; XG350 04 '03: CR-V •01-02; Eiement (V6, 2WD) '0Ó: Focus
Infiniti 130 gg-Ol, 135 02; 04; Odyssey 02; Piiot '07: Mustang 04: Ranger
0X4 99 •03:Preiude'0l (ZWD) 05-06; Taurus 07
Kia Optima 06: Spectra '06 Hyundai Accent 07: Etantra HoiMta Accord 04; Civic 05;
Lexus ES '99-00 •06: Santa Fe (V6) 03; Civic Hybrid 04; CR-V
Lincoln Continental 'Q2; Sonata (4-cyi.) '06: Tuc- •03-04; Eiement '05:
Town Car 00 son '05; XG350 '05 Odyssey 03-04: Piiot 04:
Mazda B-Series (2W0} infinit! Í35 '03: Q45 '99; S200D 'OO-Ol
'03-04; MX-S Mlata '99: 0X4 -01-02 Hyundai Etantra 07;
Protege 03; Tribute Kia Rondo 07; Spectra 07 Santa Fe (V6) 04-05:
(4-cyl.) 04: Tribute (V6, Lexus ES 01-02; GS (6-cyi.) Sonata 07; Tucson
FWD) 02 '99-00; GS (VB) '99; iS (4-cyi.) 06
Mercury Grand Marquis '01: LS '99; RX '99-00 infiniti 135 04
'02-03: Sable *04 Lincoin Town Car 0102 Kia Optima 07: Sfrartage
Mitsubishi Galant 03-04; Mazda B-Series (ZWD) 05: '06-07
Lancer 03; Ootlander '03 MPV 05: MX-5 Miata '00; Lexus ES '03: OS (6-cyl.)
Nissan Frontier 00; Tribute (V6, AWD) 04; '01-02; GS <ve) '01:
Maxima '99. '02; Tribute (V6) 03; 6 sedan iS '02-03: LS '00;
Xterra '01-02 (4-cyi.) '03; 6 sedan '04 RX '01; SC '99
Subaru Impreza '03 Mercury Grand Marquis '04: Mazda B-Series (2WD> '06;
Toyota 4Runner '99; Avaion Sabie '05 MPV 06: MX-5 Miata
'00-02: Camry "OO-Ol; Mitsubishi Endeavor 04; 01 04: Tribute (V6, FWD)
Camry Solara 01-02: OutiandBf 04 06; Tribute ÍV6X 05;
Ceiica 00-01; Coroila '03: Nissan Aitima 03; Aitima 3 sedan 04; 6 sedan
Echo '04-OB; Matrix 03; {V6) 02: Frontier '01-03; (4-cyl.) 06
Prtus 01; RAV4 00; Si- Maxima '03: Xterra '03 Mercedes-Benz CLK '00
enna '01; Tacoma '99-00; Ponttac Vibe 03-04 Mercury Grand Marquis
Tundra'00-01 Scion xA 04-05; xB '04-05 05-06: Mariner (4-cyl.)
Subaru Forester 03; 05 06, Mariner (V6) 05
$8,0OQ-$10,OOO Impreza 04; Impreza Mitsubishi Endeavor'05
Acura CL 03: MDX 01: RL WRX/STt 03; Legacy 04 Nissan Frontier 04;
'02:RSX-03;TL'02-03 Toyota 4Runner 00; Avaion Pathfinder 03; Xterra '04
BuicK Century 05 03; Camry 02-03; Camry Pontlac Vibe 05
Chevroiet Siiverado 1500 Sotara 03-04; Célica
•02-04; Corolia '04-05; xB 06
THE 8EST & WORST USED CARS 151
Subaru Baja '03: Forester WRX/STI 04; Legacy WRX/STI '05; Legacy
'0-1; Impreza 05 (4-cyl.) 05: Outback 'O^^ <4-cyI.) 06: Outback
Suzuki SX4 07 Suzuki SX4 08 (4-cyl.) 05
Toyota 4Runner '01-02: Toyota 4Runner 03; Camry Toyota 4Runner '04; Camry
Avalon 04: Camry '06, Corotia •08; Solara 06: Highlander
'04-05: Camry Sotara Highlander 05; Land 06; Matrix 08; Prius
'05: Corolla •06-07; Cruiser 00: Matrix '05-06; RAV4 06: Si-
Highlander 03-04; Land '06-07; Prlus '04; RAV4 enna (FWD) 'Ob: Tacoma
Cruiser '99; Matrix '05; 05: Sequoia 04; Si- '06-07; TUndra '06
RAV4 •Q:Í-04: Sienna '04; enna (FWD) 05; Tacoma Volvo S40/V50 (turbo.
Tacoma 02 03: Tundra '04-05; Tundra '05 FWD) 05; S60 (FWD) 06;
'04: Yaris '07-08 S80 {6-cyl., FWD) 04;
Volkswagen Rabbit 07-08
Volvo V70 (FWD) 02 Volvo S60 05: S60 {FWD) V70 (FWD) 04
'04; S80 (5-cyL) '04
$1Z,000-$t4,000 $16,000-$18,000
Acura MDX '04; RL "04: $14.000-$16,000 Acura MDX 05: RSX '06;
RSX 05 Acura TL 04; TSX 04-05 TL 05: TSX '06
8MW 3 Series coupe & BMW M3'02;Z4'03 BMW 3 Series (RWD) '05;
convertible 01: M3 '99; Bulck LaCrosse '07; X3 '04-05: 24 '0-1-05
Z3 01-02 Lucerne <V8) 06 Bulck LaCrosse '08
Ford Crown Victoria 07; Chevrolet Mallbu (4-cyl.) ford Edge (FWD) 07;
Escape (V6, FWD) 07: •08 Escape (V6, FWD) 08:
Escape Hybrid OS; F-150 Ford Escape (4-cyl.) 08; Escape Hybrid '06. F-150
(V6, 2WD> 07; F-150 (V8, Fusion ^07 (VS. 4WD) 07; Fusion
2WD) 06; Focus sedan Honda Accord 06; Civic 08; '08: Mustang '07
'08; Fusion 06: Ranqer CR-V 06: Element 06-07; Honda Accord '07; Civic
(ZWD) 07 Fit 08; Pilot 05; Rldge- Hybrid 06; Element 08;
Honda Accord 05: Civtc llne '06; S2000 '04 Pilot 06; RIdgelfne 07;
•06-07; Civic Hybrid '05; Hyundai Santa Fe (V6) 07 S2000 05
CR-V '05; Fit 07; S2000 Inflnttl FX3S 03; G35 Inflniti FX35 04: G35
'02-03 sedan (RWD) 04 sedan (RWD) 05
Hyundai Elantra 08; Santa Lexus GS (6-cyl.) 05: IS Lexu5 ES 05: GX470 '03;
Fe (V6) 06; Sonata '08; '04; LS '02; LX '99 LS '03; LX '00; RX '04
Tucson •Q/ Lincoln Town Car 05: Mazda Tribute (V6,
intlnltl G35 sedan '03 Zephyr'06 FWD) 08
Lexus ES 04; GS (6'cyL} Mazda MX-5 Miata 07 08; Mercury Mariner (4-cyl.)
'03-0-1: LS '01; RX '02-03 3 '08; 5 *08; 6 Sedan 'O8:Mlfan'O8
Lincoln Town Car '04 (4-cyl.) 07; Tribute Nissan 350Z 05; Murano
Mazda B-Serles (2W0) '07; (4-cyl.) Oß '07; Rogue '08: Xterra '08
MX-5 Miata 05-06; Mercedes-Benz CLK 02-03 Porsche Boxster 01
3 '05-07 Mercury Mariner (V6, FWD) Subaru B9 Tribeca 06;
Mercury Grand Marquis '07; '07: Mlian '07 Forester 07-08; Impreza
Mariner (V6, FWD) 06; Mitsubishi Outlander 07 WRX/STI 06: Legacy
Milan 06 Nissan Frontier 07; Maxima (4-cyl.) '07; Outback 06
Nissan Aitlma 0506; '06: Murano 06: Toyota 4Runner '05; Avalon
Frontier '06: Xterra '06 Pathfinder 06 05 06; Camry (4-cyi.)
Pontiac Vibe 06-07 Pontiac Vibe 08 07; Camry Solara 07;
Porsche Boxster '99 Porsche Boxster '00 Highlander 07: Land
Scion tc 07: xD 08 Scion tc 08; x8 '08 Cruiser 02; RAV4 '07;
Subaru Forester '05; Subaru Forester '06; Slenrta (FWD) 07;
Impreza 06: Impreza Impreza '07-08; Impreza Tacoma (4-cyl.> '08
152 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2010
Volvo S40/V50 07; S80 $20,000-$Z4,000 $24,000-S 30,000

(5-cv(.| 06; V70 (FWD) Acura RL 06; TL 06; Acora RDX 07 08; RL '07;
'05; XC70 '05 TSX 08 TL '07 08
BMW X3 '06; Z4 '06 BMW 3 Series (RWO) '07
$18,000'$20,000 Chevrolet Corvette 03 Chevroiet Corvette 'OA
Acura MDX 06; RL '05; Ford Escape Hybrid 'OT. Ford Escape Hybrid 06
TSX 07 F-15D (V8, 2WD) 08 intinltf EX 08; FX3S 07-08;
BMW 3 Series coupe & Honda Accord 08; Ctvic G35 sedan 08; M35
convertible 05; M3 '03 Hybrid 08; CR-V 08; •07-08: M45 •06-07
Buick Lucerne (V8) 08 Odyssey 07; Pilot 08: Lexus ES 07; GS (V6. AWD)
Chevrolet Corvette 02 Ridqeilne 08; S2000 07 '06; GX470 '05-06;
Ford Edqe 08 Hyundai Santa Fe (V6) '08 iS '06-07; LS '06;
Honda Civic Hybrid 07; Infiniti FX3S 06; LX 03 04; SC '05
CR-V '07; Odyssey '06: G35 coupe 06; G35 UncolnMKX tFWD)'O8
Pilot 07; S2000 '06 sedan '07; M35 '06 Mercedes-Benz CLK 07
Infintti FX35 05; G3S Lexus LS -04-05; RX '06; Mercury Mariner Hybrid 08
coupe 05; G35 sedan 06 SC '03-04 Toyota Camry Solara 08;
Lexus ES 06; GX470 04; Lincoln MKX (FWD) 07: Hiqhiander Hybrid 07-06
RX 05; SC '02 MKZ 08; MKZ (FWD) '07
Lincoln Town Car 07 Mercury Mariner Hybrid 07 $30,000 AND UP
Mercury Mariner Hybrid Nissan 3501 07; Aitima Acura MDX 07 08; RL'08
05; Mariner (V6, Hybrid 07-08; Aitima BMW 3 Series (RWD) 08;
FWD) '08 (V6) 08; Frontier 06 3 Series coupe and conv.
Nissan 350Z 06; Maxima Subaru Trfbeca '08 '07; 6 Series 05-06
'07 Toyota 4Runner '07-08: Infiniti G37 coupe 08
Porsche Boxster '03 Camry Hybrid 07 08; FJ Lexus ES 08; GS (V6. RWD)
Subaru Baja 06 Leqacy Cruiser 08; Highlander 06-07; GS450h (hybrid)
(4-cyl.} 08; Outbach '07; 08; Hlqhiander Hybrid '07;GX470'08;IS'08;
Outback (4-cyl.) 08 '06; Land Cruiser 03-04; LS ^07 06; LX '05-06;
Toyota 4Runner 06; Avaion Prius 08; Sequoia '07; RX •0708; SC '06
07; FJ Cruiser '07; Pflus Tundra (V6) 07; Tundra Mercedes-Benz CLK '08
•07; RAV4 '08; Sienna 08 (VB. 2WD) 07 Porsche Boxster '06-07
Volvo S60 (FWD) 07; Voivo S80 (6-cyi.. FWD) Toyota Land Cruiser '06
XC7D 06 '07; V7D (FWD) V7;
XC70 07
Vehicles to avoid
This is CR's list of unreliable vehicles based on our 2006 survey. The vehicles earned below-
averaqe Used Car Verdicts, meaning they proved worse- or much-worse-than-average for the
model years listed.
Audi A3 06, •OB; A4 (4-cyL) 3 Scries (RWD) GO: X5 (V8) •01/03-04.'06-08

'99-05; A4 (V6) "99, •01. '03; 3 Series (turbo, AWD) 07; Buick Century 00. 02;
A6 (V6) 00-03, VB; A6 5 Series {6-cyi.) '08; S Enclave (AWD) '08; Rendez-
Allroad '01-04; A8 '04-05; Series (V8) 99 03, 07-08; vous 0? 03; Rendezvous
Q7 '07; S4 01; TT 01 7 Series '99-01; X3 '08; (AWD) '04-06; Terraza
BMW 3 Series (AWO) 'Ot. 08; XS <6-cyl.) '01 02. -07-08; '05-06
T H E B E 5 T & W O R S T U S E D C A R S 153
Cdiltllac CTS'03,'05-08; ' Nttro 07-08; Ram 1500 Sorento '03-05:

DeVllie •99-O.i: DTS 08; •99-00: Ram 1500 (4WD) Spectra '03. '05
Eldorado '99: Escalade '0! 02, •06-07; Ram 2500 Land Rover Discovery '99,
'07-08: Seville 01 03; (4WD) 03 0-1: Ram Z500 •03-04; LR2 '08; LR3
SRX 04 08; STS <V6) (turbodiesei, 4WD) 04, '05-06; Ranqs (lover '06:
'06 08: STS (V8) 'OS 06 '06-OB; Ram van/waqon Range Rover Sport Ob
Chevrolet Astro '99'05: 00 01; Stratus coupe '01; Lincoln Aviator 03-05; LS
Avalanche 03-06, Aveo Stratus sedan (4-cy(.) '99, '00, '04-05; MKX (AWD) '07;
•O-l-ÜS, '07: Blazer '99-04: 02, 04; Stratus sedan (V6) Navigator 03-05, '07
Cobalt 5edan 06; Colorado '01. '02, OA Mazda 8-Serles (2WD) 08;
OA: Colorado (4WD) '05-07; Ford Econoltne 'OA. '06; Excur- CX-7 -or. Mllienia 01: MPV
CarvBtte 05-08; Equinox sion '01, '03-05: Expédition •02; RX-8'04-05; 6 sedan
05, '07: Express '99-03, '03: Explorer '0204, '06; (V6) 03; Mazdaspeed6 06
05: HHR 06: impala (V6) Explorer (V6. 4WD) 05: Mercedes-Benz C-Class
'00-02, '05 06; Impala Enpiorer (VS, 4WD)'08; (4-cyl.) 05; C-Class(V6,
(V8) '06 07: Lumina '00; Explorer Sport Trac (V8) RWD) '01, 01. '07: CLK
Maiibu (V6) '99-04: Maiibu '07: F-250 (4WD) 0506; •05-06; CLS ^06; E-Class
Maxx '04-05, '07: Monte F-250 (turbodiesei 2W0) (turbodiesei) OS; E-Class
Carlo {V6Í'99 02, 04, 05: F-250 (turbodiesei (V6, AWD) '01 02, 06-07;
'Ufa; S-10 14WD) '99-04: 4WD) 03 08; Focus hatch- E-Class (V6, RWD) 08;
Silverado 1SO0 (Ve, 2W0) back '00, 02: Focus sedan E-Class (V8) 03, OS, '07;
•05, '07-08: Silverado '00: Focus waqon 01-02, GL-Clas5 08; GL-Class (VB)
1500 (V6, 4WD) 05 06; 'O');Fre#star'O4.'06; 07; M-Class (turbodiesei)
~ Silverado 1500 (V8, 4WD) Mustanq (V8) 06: Ranqer 08; M-Ctass (V6) 01.
03 06: Silverado 2500 (2W0)'08; Taurus'99: '04 06; M-Class (VB) 06;
(2WD) 04; Silverado 2500 Thunderbird 02: Windstar R-Ciass 06: S-Ciass (V8)
(4WD) '0:i, 08: Silverado '99 01. '02 •00, ^04; SL '03, '05;
2500 Iturbodiesel, 4WD) SLK 06
'03, '07 08; Suburban '99, GMC Acadia 07 08; Canyon
'03-05, '07-08; Tahoe '99. 04; Canyon (4WD) 05 07; Mercury Grand Marqiris
05, 07; TrallHlazer (6-cyl,) Envoy '06; Enyoy (V8) 08: Monterey '04, '06;
06; TrallBIaier (VB) 0203, '02-03. 07-08: Jimmy Mountaineer ^02 04, "06;
'99-01; S-15 Sonoma Mountaineer (V6, 4WD)
06 08; Uplander'05-07: (4W0) 99 04; Safari 'O'y. Mountaineer (VB,
Venture '99-03, '05 '99-0^>; Savana '99-03. '05: 4W0) 08: Sable '99;
Chrysler 300 (V6) 07 08; Sterra 1500 (V6, 2WD) 05, Viiiaqer 99
300 (VB) 06; Crossítrt 07 08: Sierra 1500 (V6, Mini Cooper convertibie 05:
04, LHS '99; Pacifica 04, 4WD) íYrOb: Sierra 1500 Cooper convertibie S '06;
07 OS; PT Cruiser (non- (V8, 4W0) 0 3 06: Sierra Cooper hatchbacK 02 03,
turbo) 02 04: PTCrulMr 2500 (2W0) Ü4; Sierra 05; Cooper hatchback S
(turbo) 03 06; Sebrinq 2500 (4WD) •02. '08; Si- •03, '05-06
convertible '0104. OR: erra 2500 (turbodiesei Mitsubishi Montero 01
Sebrinq coupe OV, Sebrlng 4W0) 03, 07-08; Yukon XL Nissan Armada 04-05. '07;
sedan (4-cyl.) 02. 04; '99, -03-05, •07-08; YuKon Pathfinder 05, 08: Quest
Sebrinq sedan 1V6) 0102, •99, -05, -07 '01 02, 04-06: Titan (4WD)
04, 07; Town & Country Honda Passport '99-00, '02 '04-05: Versa sedan 07
(FWD) 01-05.'07 08; Town Hummer H3 06-07 Oidsmobile Aiero '99 02, 04;
& Country (AWD) 99 05; Hyundai Accent 01; Entou- Aurora 01-02; Bravada
Voyaqer (4-cyl.) '02-03; raqe 07; Sonata (4-cyl.) •99-00, 02; intrigue'99:
Voyaqef(V6) 01-03 "02: Sonata (V6) 00; Siihouette '99 03
Dodqe Avenger 08, Caravan Tiburón 03; XG300 01 Piymouth Breez« '99, Neon
(4-cvl.t •Ü;.'-O.Í, Ofr Caravan Isuiu Rodeo '99-00, '02: '99 00
( V e r o i OS, 'Oi';Charqer Trooper 01 Pontiac Aztek 01 04; Bonne-
(V6) 06: Dakota 06 07; Jaguar S-TVpe 00, '02 03; XJ viii* 00-02, 05: G6 (V6)
Dakota (4WD) 01, 05; Dur- Series 01; XK Series '07; '05-08; Grand Am '99-03,
anqo '99 02: Grand Caravan X-iype '0?, '04 05: Grand Prix '9903;
(FWD) 'Oi-05, '07-08: Grand Jeep Commander 06-07; GTO Ofj: Montana '9903.
Caravan (AWD) '99 OS; Grand Cherokee '99-08; 05: Montana SV6 05 06;
Intrepid '99, '02, '04; Uberty (V6) 06-08; Solstice (nonturbo) '0607;
Maqnum 05; Maqnum (V8) Wrangler '0608 Solstice (turbo) 07 08
Od: Neon '99-00. '02-03; Kia AnumU '04; Scdona '02-06; Poncht 9» 04, 07;
Cnyenn« '04-06, '08 AWD) '02 06, '08; Vue New Beetle '99-07; Passat
Saab 9-3 '03-06; 9-3 convert- Green Line (hybrid) '07 (FWD) '99-04. '06-07;
ible 00, '03-04,-06:9-5 Suzuki Gr«nd Vitara '06; Passat (V6, AWD) 00-01.
'99-05 XL-7 '07 '07; Touareg '04-06, '08
Saturci Aura XC (V6) 08: ton Toyota Camry (V6> 08 Volvo S40/V50 06; S40/V40
coup« 05, 07; L-Sertts Volkswagen Cabrio '99, '0V02; (turbo) 00; S80 (e-cyl.,
(V61 00-01, 03-04; Outlook Eos -07; Golf *O2-O3; GTI FWD)'99-00,'03; V70
'07-08; Relay •05-07; Sky (turbo) -02-03, '06-07; (AWD) '04: V70 (FWD) 01;
07: Sky tturtw) OS, Vue Jrtta (4-cyl.) '99 00. 03. XC70 '99-01, '08; XC9D
(4-cyl., AWD) 'OX Vue '05; Jettn(turt(o)'Ol 04. (6-CVl.) 03-07; XC9D
(FWD) 03. 06; Vin (V6, 06; J c t U (V6} '00-01, '03; (V8) '06
CR Best of the Best & Worst of the Worst

BEST OF THE BEST These 1999-2008 models (except where noted) have perlormed well
in our road test and have had several years of öetter-ttian-average reliability. WORST OF
THE WORST These have had multiple years of much-worse-than-avera(}e reliability amonq
1999-2008 models. All are listed alphabetically.
B«st of the BOTt Lexus RX Toyota Camry Solara Chrysler Town &
Acura Inteqra Lexus SC Toyota Célica Country (AWD)
Acura MDX Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr Toyota Corolla Dodge Grand
Acura RL (FWD) Toyota Echo Caravan (AWD)
Acura RSX Mazda3 Toyota Highlander GMC Canyon (4W0)
Acura TL Mazda Miata Toyota Land Cruiser GMC Jimmv
Acura TSX Mazda Protege Toyota Matrix GMC S-15 Sonoma
BMWM3 Mercury Milan Toyota Prius (4WD)
BMW Z3. Z4 Mitsubishi Outiander Toyota RAV4 Jeep Grand
Buick Lucerne (V8) Nissan 350Z Toyota Sequoia Cherokee
Ford Fusion Nissan Aitima Toyota Sienna Kia Sedona
Ford Mustang (V6) Nissan Frontier Toyota Tacoma Land Rover
Honda Accord (•05-08) ('05-08) Discovery. LR3
Honda Civic Nissan Maxima Toyota Tundra Mazöa RX-8
Honda CR-V Nissan Xterra Volvo $60 Old s mobile Bravada
LJ M f\ri
I UD util
Honda Pilot Worst ot the Worst Silhouette
Pontiac Vibe
Honda Ridgeiine Porsche Boxster Audi A6 Allroad Pontiac Aztek
Honda S2000 Scion tc Audi A8 Pontiac G6 <V6)
Hyundai Santa Fe Scion xB BMW X5 (VB) Pontiac Montana.
infiniti FX35 Subaru Baja Buick Rendezvous Montana SV6
Infiniti G20 Subaru Forester (AWD) Porsche Cayenne
Intiniti G35 (sedan) Subaru Impreza Cadillac SRX Saturn Relay
Infiniti 130.135 Subaru Impreïa Chevrolet Blazer Volkswagen Cabrio
Infiniti M35 WRX/STi Ctievroiet Colorado Volkswagen Jetta
Infiniti 0X4 Subaru Outback (4WD) . ÍV6)
Lexus ES (6-cyl.) Chevrolet S-10 (4WD) Volkswagen New
Lexus IS Subaru Tribeca Chevrolet uplander Beetle (turbo)
Lexus LS Toyota 4Runner Chevrolet Venture Volkswagen Passat
Lexus GS (5-cyl.. Toyota Avalon Chrysler Pacifica (V6, FWO)
RWO) Toyota Camry Chrysler Sebring Volkswagen Touareg
Lexus GX (except '08 V6) convertible .Volvo XC90(6-cyt.)
AUTO R E L I A B I L i T Y 155
DETAILED AUTO RELIABILITY
T
he charts on the following pages problems they had with their vehicles in
give you a model's complete re- any of [he trouble spots, included in the
liability picture tor both it.s iised following charts, during the previous 12
versions (2003 through 2008) months. Ihese were considered serious
and Ihe new one currently on because of cost, failure, safety, or down-
sale. Ihese detailed reliability Ratings are time. Because high-mileage vehicles tend
based on our 2008 Annual Car Reliability to have more problems than low-mileage
Survey, for which we received responses on ones, problem rates are standardized to
more than 1.4 million vehicles. minimize differences related lo mileage.
The Annual Car Reliability Survey The 2008 models were generally less than
is sent to .subscribers of CONSUMER six months old at the time of ihe survey
REPORTS and ConsumerReports.org. and had been driven an average of about
Respondents reported on any serious 3,000 miles.
How to use the charts

average model. Similarly,
MAJOR REDESIGNS Average Problem Rates
models that score a e are
A model y&ar in bold identi- 1MMBU
5M}TS 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 W not necessarily problem-
lies the year the model was EnglM
1 î 2 2 1 1 1 <¡ *1 *1 free, but they had relatively
introduced oi underwenl a EMI«
9 7 6 5 4 I 2 1 1 <I few problems compared
major redesign. Wnw
Engins
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 I i l <1 With other models.
TROUBLE SPOTS 3 3 3 3 2 1 I 1 «1 «I Because problem rates In
To assess a used car in Tram, some trouble spots are very
uinof 4 j 3 3 2 2 2 t 1
more detail, looV at ttie OrtN low, we do not assign a • or
Sfitm 6 5 5 5 4 4 3 2 2 1
Individual Ratings For each FMlSTStin e unless the model's prob-
10 1! 11 9 7 5 4 3 2 t
of the 17 trouble spots. lem rate exceeds 3 percent.
flKtrkil 8 7 7 6 5 4 î 2 2 1 If a problem rate is betow
They will pinpoint a model's CUmitf
11 9 8 7 6 4 3 1 1 2 percent, it will be assigned
strengths and weaknesses. System
Ratings are based on the SlHp«Mhm S 8 8 6 6 S 4 3 I I a O; below I percent, it will

percentage of survey BtakM 9 9 9 9 8 7 6 4 2 1 be assigned a©.
respondents who reported (ilwst 4 3 3 2 I ! <l <1 <l <l
problems for Ihat trouble F»lnt/rrlin 9 7 6 5 4 3 3 2 2
USED CAR VEROiCTS
I
spot, compared wilh the Bed« To check the overall reliability
MtcgnlV
tl 10 9 S S 7 7 â 5 2
average of all vehicles for of a used car, look at the Used
Hènhntt 13 13 12 10 9 B 6 S 4 2
that year. Car Verdict. This Rating shows
PS. Id 9 9 S 7 7 6 5 4 2 whether the model had more
Modeis that score a * tedM
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2
SYltiPi or fewer problems overall than
are not necessarily unreli- «DCM
VIRDKTS the average model of that
able, but Ihey have a higher
IRWCU year. The verdict is calculated
problem rate than the
(rom the total number of
156 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUiDE 2010
proDlems imported by subscrib- mounts, pnqine knocit or ping. Suspension: Shocks or struts.
ers in all trouble spots. Because Engine, cooiinq: Radiator, cool- ball joints, tie roiSs, wheel bear-
problems with major emjine and ing fan, antifreeze leaks, water ings, alignment, steering linkage
transmission systems, cooling pump, thermostat, overheating. (includes rack and pinion), power
system, and drive system can Transmission, major Transmis- steering, wheel balance, springs
be 5erious and expensive to sion rebuild or replacement. or torsion tiars, bushings, elec-
repair, our calculations give extra torque converter, premature tronic or air suspension.
weight to them. clutch replacement. Brakes: Premature wear, pulsa-
Transmission, minonGear tion or vibration, sgueahing.
NEW CAR PREDICTiONS selector or linkacje, coolers and master cylinder. A8S, parking
To determine the New Car Pre- lines, rough shifting, slipping brake, brake failure.
diction, we averaged a model's transmission, leaks, transmis- Exhaust Muffler, pipes.
Used Car Verdict for the most sion computer, transmission catalytic converter, eichaust
recent three years. provitJed sensor or solenoid, clutch manifold leaks.
the vehicle did not change aciiiistment, hydraulics (clutch Paint/trim: Paint (fading, chalk-
significantly in that time and master or slave cylinder). ing, cracking., peeling), loose
hasn't been redesigned for 2010 Drive system: Driveshaft or exterior trtiri or moldings, rust.
or 2009. We have found that axle. CV loint, wheel bearingis), Body integrity: Squeaks or
several model years' data are a differential, transfer case. 4WD/ rattles, seals, and/or weather
better predictor than the single AWD components, driveline stripping, air or water teaks, •
most recent model year. vibration, traction control, sta- loose interior trim and mold-
One or two years'data billty control, electrical failure. ings, wind noise.
may be used if the model was F\iei system: Check engine Body hardware: Windows.
- redesigned in 2008 or 2007, or light, sensors (includes 02 locks and fatchesîaiigate.
if there were insufficient data or oxygen sensor), emission hatch or trunk, sliding doors,
for more years. Sometinnes we control devices [includes EGR), mirrors, seat mechanismfs),
Include a prediction for a model engine computer, fuel cap, fuel safety belts, sunroof, convert-
that is new or has been rede- gauge/sender, fuel iniection ible top, glass defect.
signed, provided Its reliabiiity system, engine computer fuel Power equipment and acces-
history or the manufacturer's pump, (uel tank, fuel leaks, stall- sories: Cruise control, heated
track record have been con- ing or hesitation. or cooled seats, body control
sistently above average. "NA" Electrtwri: Alternator, starter. module, keyless entry, wiper
means there were insufficient battery cables, engine harness. motor or washer, tire pressure
data for a prediction. CDit. Ignition switch, electrical monitor, interior or exterior
ignition, distributor or rotor light, horn, gauges. 12V power
WHAT THETOOUBLESPOTS failure, spark plugs ano wires plug, alarm or security system.
INCLUDE failure, sensors or module. backup camera/sensors.
Enqine, major: Engine rebuild Climate system: Blower Audio system: Navigation
or replacement, cylinder head. (fan) motor. A/C compressor. systems, radio speakers, CD
head gasket, turbo-OTsuper- condenser, evaporator, heater or DVD player and changer
chiarger, timing chaia system, automatic climate con- cassette player, antenna.
EnQine, minor Oil leaks, timing trol, defrost, refrigerant leakage. satellite radio, video screen.
belt, accessory belts, engine electrical failure. communication system.
AUTO RE L I A B I L I T Y 157
TROUBLE
SPOTS
•O3'M'O5O6DT'O8 'O3'04'05'06'07'08 'O3'IM'OS'M'0T'0fl 'oawosaft'OT'Ofl

Enqltií, nw)of *
Enqinc, minor
*©© 3 ©5©
Engine Coollnq
© @3|@
Trans. Major
Ttdnj. Minor m *|© 0
* ©••Id
Orive S ï i t i n ) o
Fuel System
* o
ooso * 099
*
DOOS
©b 9 9 ©I© • 99 o
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158 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYiNG GUiDE 2010
TROUBLE
SPOTS
'03'M'05*06'OT'08 'OîWOS'M'OT'Oa
©© ©*9S*
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TROUBLE
SPOTS
AUTORELIABILITy 159
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Chevrolet HKR
'03'04'OStl6'07'Oe
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1500
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AUTO R E L I A B I L I T Y 161
TROUBLE Chrv5!er 300 Chrysler PT

SPOTS Cruiser
mi (non-turbo)
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Chrysler Town
Doüge Avenqer I I Dodge Caliber
í Country
(ext)
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average• average©
TROUBLE Dodge Charqer Dodge Oakota

SPOTS (V6) {AW)
•03WOSW07M 'O31M'O5'06'0T'M '03*04'05'06'07X6 '03'0-1'05'06'07'08
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o|©j©p©* © 9 * 0 0©©©00 ©©9
OO9O©* OO O* ©O©©©©
0 9 O'* Ö©* * ©©©909 ©bb*
©©* ©* ob|©)©|©b
Average O
Better than BeRerthan Worse than otojo*
AverageO
averaije© averaqe© average©
TIRES
within tvpes, In p«rfofmsnee order. C r i u hoy numbers indfcateQuick Picks.
Brand & model Three-season Winter Comfort

driving driving
3 ^
100
s
P \Í E
ALL-5EAS0N T-SPEED RATED

Michelin HydroEdgP 1 © © © © 0 0 o o ©
Hankook Optimo HVJ © © o © © © © © 0 0
3 Pireili P4 Four Seasons © 0 a a © ©
Goodyear Assurante Tf ipleTred © © 0 a 0 0 o © o o
5 PiretliCinturatoP5 0 © 0 © © O' © ß o
(. Kumho Solus KR21 © © o © o o 0 o 0 ©
7 Maxils Escapade MA-Tt O © © © Q 0 0 © 0 ©
s Toyo Enten'in AA o o o O © o © o o
9 Toyo Versa{te LX © © 0 © 0 © © o
0
10 BFGoodrtch Tracimn T/A T © e e
O o 0 © o 0
©
II General Miimsn RT
o © o © e © © 0 o
12 Yokohama Avici TRZ © m o 0 © o
13 Dayton Quadra LE o © 0 © o O © o o o
14 Cooper CS4 Touring o © o o © O o o 0
15 Uniroyai Tiger Paw Tour SR
IS speed rating) © © e © o o © 0 ©
to Yokohama Avid Toufing-S © © o o o o o © © ©
17 Cooper Lifeliner GIS o © o © © o o 0 ©
18 Yokohama Avid T4 0 © o © e o © o
Í9 Etridgeslone Turanza EL400 o © Q © o o © o
20 Faiken Sincera SN828 0 © 0 0 • o o © o •
21 Duniop SP 60 (S speed rating) 0 o o o © o • Q ©
22 Sumitomo HTfl T4 0 a
0 © o o o ©
23 Fireône FR710 o mo o 0 o 0 o o ©
Ratings Kej ©Excellent ©very good O G O H J ©Fair
TIRES 161
Within types, tn performance order. hey numbers Indicate Quick Picks.

Brand & model Three season Winter Comfort
driving driving
n u I vGi I
PERFORMANCE AUSEASON H-SPEED RATED

iHiclwlin PrimacY MXV4 © © © 0 © ©
e e e o
Falken ¿m ZE912 © a © d 0 © •
Nokfan WRG2
e © © © o o © 0 © '0
Yokohama Avid M4s © a © • e 0 0 Q
Kumho Solus KH16
e © o 0 o 0 © © O 0
6 Continental ContiProContaci e a a © o 0 © 0 © O
7 Michelin Piloi Exîlro A/s © © o © o 0 0 a Ö 0
8 Falken 2iexZE5I^ e m o 0 0 o •
9 Cooper CS4 Touring e © o © o o 0 *© o e
10 Generat Altimax HP o e © © 0 0 © o e
11 Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max © © o © o o 0 0 © e
12 Pirelli P(i Four Season'^ o a 0 © o o © © •
13 Hankook Optimo H418 o © o © o c © © ©
14 FuzJon HRi
e e © © e o o e • e
Ratings Key ©Excellent GVerygood OGood OFair
Quick Picks
ALL SEASON TIRES T-SPEED RATED PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON H-SPEED
Best for three season (non-wlnter> drivinq RATED
and long tread ilfe: Best for ali weather conditions:
; Michelin HycJroEdge 1 MictiGjin Primacy MXV4
i Kumho Solus KR21 3 Nokian WR G2
Best for all weather conditions: 5 Kumho Solus KH16
.r HanKook Optimo H727 Best for three seasons <non-winter) driving;
•a Goodyear Assurance TripleTred 2 Faiken Ziex ZE:912
4 Yokotiama Avid H4s
1B2 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2010
Within types, in performance order. Grov key numbtrs indicate Quick Picks.
Brand fi model Overall score Three-season Winter Comfort
drivinf driving
2 C
D IDO
P I F I G I VGI I
PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON V SPEED RATED

MklMl)n Pilot Exalto A/S © ©
e o o o © o
Firestone Firetiawk GTV © © o © ó Q
BtidgKtone Turanza.serenitv @m © o 6 o © e
Dunlop Signature
me © © o O o o Q o
Toyo Venado LX
me © 0 0 e Q
6 o e © mo Q © © 9
7 Yokohama Avfd V4s @© © m • • © © e •
8 Continental ContlProContait e e © © o © o o
9 Goodyear Eagle GT e © © © O © o « •
10 Bridgestone Potenza G019 Grid mm© © « • 0
11 Goodyear Eagle Re5ponseEcfge e e © © Q e o © 9
12 KtimhofrtsaLXPiatinum o e © © O o o e
13 Pirelli P6 Four seasons o © o © O o © © Q •
14 Hankook Optimo H4I8 o e o © O e © e O e
15 FuztonVRI
e © 0 © o o o •
Ratings Key Êxcellent ©Verv@»d OGood QPait #Poot
Quick Picks
PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON Best (or three seasons (non-winter) driving:

V-SPEEO RATED z rirestone firehawk GTv
Best tor all weather conditions: 3 Bridgestone Turanza Serently
> Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S 5 Toyo Versado LX
4 Dunlop Signature 6 General Altimax HP
TIRES 183
Within tvpft5, In performanc« order, hey numbers Indicate Qutck Picks.

Brunei 8 model Overall score Three-season Winter comfort
drivine driving
100
F i G i VGl E
ALL-SEASON UHP
Falken 2iexZE9i2 O O ©
NittO HPO Geti ZR e ©o
3 Yokohama ArivanS-i
4 Falken Zit'x ZESl?
5 General Fxclaim UHP

Continental
funiitxiremeConiaci
7 Michelin PiloiSporl A/S
8 Kumho ECSTAASX
Sumitomo HTR *
10 Pirelli P7eio Nero M'S

11 BridgestoiK Potenza RE960
AS Pole Position
12 Tovo Proxes 4
13 Cooper Zeon Sport A/S
14 Avon Tt'LliM55O A/S
15
R a ü l ^ Key Êxcellent Oiterygood OGood •Poor
Quick Picks
ALL SEASON UHP TIRES Tor more winter tr«ction:

Best for three season drivlnq: 6 Continental ContiExtremeContact
I Falken Z\e\ 2E912 9 Stjnfiitomo HTR+
Z Nltto Neo Cen ZR
164 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U i D E 2 0 1 0
Within types, In performance order. Gr^y key numbers indicate Quick Picks. NA= Not AvaiiabI«.
BnndSmodei Three-season
driving
g i 2 i
^ fa .£3 ro
« Î ^ Î
0 100
P I F U ( Vbt t
SUMMER UKP
Hlchelin Pilot Spori PS? © Q
: Pirelli PZero
e© o ©
© © © © ©
©
NA
3 BFGOodridig-ForceT/A KDW2 © © m © © • 0
'1 Bridgestone Potenza RE 050 A
Pole Position © © © © © 0 © o
^ Michelin Pilot Exalto PE¿ e © © © © o o © m
: Continental ContiSporîContacl 3 6 © © © © 0 © ©
7 Dufllop 5P Sport Maxx 0 © a © o © © ©
s Goodyear Eagle F! GS-D3
e © © © © o © ©
9 Kumho ECSTASPT © © © o © o © ©
10 Fuzion ZRi © © © © © 0 0 •
11 ToyoProxesTlfl © o o © © © o •
U Falken FK452 o o © © o o o Q
13 Yokohama Advan Sport
o o © o © o © © m
14 Firestone Firehawk Wide Oval © © © o © o Q w
15 BFGoodrkh g-Force Sport © © © o o o o O o
16 Hankook ventus SI evo K07 o © o o © © © © Q
17 Pirelli P-Zero Nero
o o © o © o © e •
18 Avon Tei!i M500
o- 0 © o © o © w
19 Nlttoinvo
o © © o o © o o o
20 Nitto NT 555 Extreme ZR © o © o o 0 e e ©
21 Pirelli P Zero Rosso 0 Q o Q m 0 o 0 •
Ratings Key ©Exceifenl ©Very good OGood OFair #Po«
Quick Picks
SUMMER UHP TIRES Other Qood chotees:
Best summer UKP tires overall: 4 Bridgestone Potenia RE 050 A F>ole Position
1 Michelin Piiot Sport PS2 5 Micheiin Piiot Exalto PE2
2 Pireili P-Zero 6 Continentai ContiSportContact 3
8 Goodyear Eagie Fl GS-D3
TIRES 1S5
WKhln types, in performance order. key numbers Indicate Oukk Picks.

Brand s model Overall score Winter Three-season Comfort
driving driving
DA bfl on UÛ DO
^ O £ C = C Ç
Q 100
I i
P I f U I VGI Í
PERFORMANCE WINTER
Continental contiwiniercomati
IS8I0
Bridgestone Blizâk LM-2S H © © © © © ©
o © NA
NokianWR All weather Plus
DuntopSP Wmler Sporl M3
Continental ContiWJnterContact
V l o © © © t NA
TS810S
V o o © © o © © © NA
NokianWfl All Wealtier Plus V © o o © o © 0 o NA
Mkhelln Pilot Alpin PU V o © 0 © © © 0 o NA
8 Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2 H o © © © 0 © o 0 NA
9 Hankook lœt)eiirW300 H • © 0 © © © 0 0 NA
10 Pirelli Winler 210 Sonozero H o o © © © o © NA
tt DuntopSP Winler Sport M3 H o © © © NA
WINTER LIGHT TRUCK
HictielinLaiitiideX-lte 0 © © • • 0 o © © O
Bridgestone Bh27cík DM Z3 0 © © • • © 0 © o o
3 Cooper Discoverer MSS s © • • • o © © e
4 WintertorceU'S s e • • • o © o o o
Ratings Key SExcellent 6\tety(|ood OGood Qfait #Poor
Quick Picks
PERFORMANCE WINTER WINTER LIGHT TRUCK
Best for severe winter performance: Best for winter driving;
¿ Btidqestone Blizzak LM-25 H 1 Michelin Latitude X-lce
If freczinq weather is Infrequent: 2 BrJclge5tone BiizzaK DM-Z3
I Continental ContiWinterContact TS810 H
5 Continental ContiWinterContact TS810S V
186 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUiDE 2010
Within types, In performance ordtr. •. •, key numbers Indicate Quich Picks.

Brand & model Overall score Winter Three-season Comfort
driving driving
c pft olí Ml on ai
,S ,S -E S .S S
S 5
100
PI I G iVGl E
WINTER TIRES
Michelin X-ice XI2
•- General Altimax Arctic
> Nokian Hakkapeliitta S
4 Michelin Primacv Aipin PA3
5 Nokian Hakkapelütta R
6 Continentat
ExtremeWinterContact
7 BridgestoReBliznikWS6O
8 PireriiSollozem 210 Series II
9 DunlapGraspicDS-2
10 HankoDh Winter l'Pike
u Glslaved NonJfn)$t 5
12 Toyo Observe G-02 Plus
13 Yokohama ice Guard iG2Q
14 Goodyear UUra Crip ice
15 Firestwie Winterforce
16 CooperWcatlier-HaslerS/T?
17 HankDDkkebearWBQO
Ratings Key Êxcellent @Very good OGood OFair •Poor
OuIcK Picks
WINTER TiRES
Best for severe winter conditions:
1 Michelin Xlce XI 2
2 General Altimax Arctic
3 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5
TIRES »87
Within tvpe5, in performance order, i-r.:^ hey numbers Indicate OuicK Pictis.
Brand 8 model Three-season Winter Comfort
driving driving
m
Pi F IVGi F
ALL-SEASON TRUCK
General Grabber HTS
Continental CrossCüniaci u
3 KumhoRoatl Venture APT K ü l
cooper Discoverer a s
5 Mkheiln ITX M/S

6 Yokohama Geoiandar H/T-S G05t
7 Firestone Destination LE
8 Bridgestone Dueier H/L Alenda
9 D i y t o n Tlml]er]ine HT II
to Pirelli SiorpionSTR A
It Goodyear Wrangler SR A
12 Dunlop Radial Rover A/T
13 Hankook DynaPro AS ftHOa
t4 Goodyear Forîera TripieTred
15 Toyo open country HA
16 Nltto Dura Grappler Higiiway
Terrain
17 Dunlop Grandtrek ATZO
18 Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country
19 BFGoodrich Rugged Traii T/A
20 Falken Zie)(S/TZ-04
Ratings Key Êxcelient Ovferygood OGood OFair • P o o r
Quick Picks
ALL SEASON TRUCK TiRES For lonqcr tre«d life:
Best for three season drivinq: 2 Continentai CrossContact LX
1 General Grabber HTS 4 Cooper Discoverer CTS
2 Continentai CrossContact LX
Within types, In performance order. G^-^v key numbers Indicate Oulch Picks.
Grands inodei O\f(!rall score Winter Three-season Comfort i
driving driving '
2 ^
X} Oí
IDO
M FI G
ALL TERRAIN TRUCK
Pirelli Scorpion ATR O © @ © 0 © o © •© o©

Yokohama Geoiandar A/T-5
o • © © 0 © o o
Briitgestone Oueler A/T Revo
e © e 0 o o e © ©
Michelin ax A/T i © 0
o © © o 0 o ©
Tovo Open Couniry A/T • ©
Kumho Road Venture AT KL-78
0 e © e © © ©
Firestone Destination AA
a © © o ©
© o
© ©
NittD Terra Grappler All Terrain

o 0 e 0 © e m o
© 0 © 0 © o o o
Cooper Discoverer ATR
0 © o © o © o © ©
10 FuzionXTi
0 © © 0 o © o 0 © ©
U Kelly Safari Trex
0 © o © © o e e © o
12 Dayton TiintierNne AT II
© • o © o © o © © ©
u eoodyear wrangler SilentArmor
14 General Grabber AT 2
e • 0 © 0 0 o • ©
© • • © o @ © • • o
Ratings Key ©Excellent ©Vefygood OGood ©Fair • P o o r
Quick Picks
ALL TERRAIN TRUCK TIRES For longer tread life:
8est for three season drivinq: 1 Pirelli Scorpion ATR
r Pirelli Scorpion ATR
3 Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo
Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based on 12 lo 14 tests, with braking, emergency handling, and tiydroplaning resis-
tance weighed most heavily tor most tires. Braking tests on dry pavement are from 60 mph; on wet
pavement, from 40 mph; and on ice, from 10 mph. Handling combines how well a tire did in wet and
dry cornerirnj grip, steering feel, and an emergency tiandling maneijver. Wet handling for ultra-high-
perfonnance tires is evaluated t)y driving the car through a wet slalom course. Hydroplaning denotes
a tire's atjilltv to resist skimming along the surface ot standing water and causing loss ol steering
ability. Snow traction tests denote how far a vehicle has to travel to accelerate from S to 20 mph
on flat, moderately packed snow. Ride comfort and Noise are evaluated subjectively, on rough and
smooth roads. Roiling resistance, as measured on a dynamometer, is a factor in (uel economy.
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Autos

102 Your inside track for new &

Your Inside Track for

T vehicle. Starting off on page 103, we detail the 5 Steps to Get

THE CONSUMER REPORTS DIFFERENCE

Buying a new car in today's climate can be AUTOMAKER WEB SITES

you want it on a dealership's lot. Keep in RELIABILITY

Know the pros and cons before you lease

Don't waste money on unnecessary extras

pay for it in a direct sale. allowance on your trade-in.

be a waste of money. usually have a lower profile (sidewalt height)

- Speed ratings; H (130 mph). V • Typical wheel size: 14 to 18 inches.

RATING THE 2010 MODELS

Make & model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

SUBCOMPACT HATCHBACKS ENTRY-LEVEL BUDGET MODELS

Ratings Key ^Excellent OVèrygood OGood d F a l r • P o o r Rwommwidwl

Make & model Price as Ovsratl Survey Owner Safety Fuel

SUBCOMPAa HATCHBACKS ENTRY LEVEL BUDGET MODELS continued

Q Suzuki SX4 Touring o

Make S model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

SUBCOMPACT SEDANS continued

Q Honda Cfvk Hybrid

ENTRY LEVEL FAMILY SEDANS

Q Honda AHord LX-P (4 cyt., UT)

Make s model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

ENTRY-LEVEL FAMILY SEDANS continued

Q Hercury Mitatl Hybrii) ne«

Make & model Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

COMPAQ SPORTS SEDANS continued

• Hyundai Alera limited

Make S model Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

LUXURY SEDANS continued

ULTRA LUXURY SEDANS

PERFORMANCE/LUXURY SPORTS CARS

Chevrolet Corvette ZQ6 (MT)

• BMW 6S0i roupe e

2-SEAT SPORTS CARS Equipped wilh manual transmission.

Make & model Overall Survey

MUSCLE CARS Continued

SPORTY CARS Equipped with manual transmission.

Q Toyota Sienna XIHFWW © © O

Make & model Overall Survey

thprster Tmm I CountTY Umited [W)

COMPAa SPORTY SUVs

Q Ford Escap« Hybrid

iMake & iTiodel Price as Overall Survey Owner Safety Fuel

SMALL SUVs continued

Kia Borrego EX (V6)

Make & model Overall Survey

"5? "^ ^ •£—

MIDSIZED 3-ROW SUVs continued

MIDSIZED 2 ROW SUVs

Buick Enclave CXL

Make & model Overall Survey

REVIEWS OF THE 2009-10 MODELS

Acura RL Q The AWD RL is powered by a powerful V6. The powertrain Is polished,

Ratings Key ^Excellent @VeivgDod OGocd QFair •Poor Recommended

USED CARS: THE BEST & THE

Volvo S40/V50 07; S80 $20,000-$Z4,000 $24,000-S 30,000

Audi A3 06, •OB; A4 (4-cyL) 3 Scries (RWD) GO: X5 (V8) •01/03-04.'06-08

Cdiltllac CTS'03,'05-08; ' Nttro 07-08; Ram 1500 Sorento '03-05:

CR Best of the Best & Worst of the Worst

DETAILED AUTO RELIABILITY

How to use the charts