Consumer Report Buying Guide 2011

188
consumer reports buying guide 2011
Product Ratings and

Brand Reliability
T
he product rating and brand reliability information that
follows is designed to help you zero in on the model you
want to buy. Start by reading the general buying advice
for the product you’re interested in. The page numbers
for these reports are noted on each Ratings page. Then
turn to the Ratings chart to get the big picture on performance.
For some products you’ll find full Every year we survey readers on repairs
Ratings charts that include every cur- and other problems they encounter with
rently available model we tested. For household products. From their respons-
other products, you’ll find Select Rat- es, we derive the percentage of a brand’s
ings charts that include the models rec- products that have been repaired or had
ommended for most people plus models a serious problem. The reliability graphs
that we designated as Best Buys. that accompany the Ratings give brand
To obtain Ratings, all models within a repair rates for 16 product categories.
category are put through weeks of testing, Our findings have been consistent over
side by side, so test results can be com- the 30-plus years we’ve surveyed brand
pared. We rank products by performance; reliability, though they are not infallible
products with equal scores are listed predictors.
alphabetically. A brand’s repair history includes data
CONSUMER R EPORTS checked to make on many models, some of which may have
sure most products rated in this Buying been more or less reliable than others. And
Guide were still available when the book surveys of a brand’s past models can’t an-
was published. However, depending on ticipate design or manufacturing changes
how long after publication you use this in its new models. Still, you can improve
book, you may find a Rating for a prod- your chances of getting a t rouble-free prod-
uct that is no longer available. Or, you uct by getting a brand that has been reli-
may not find a Rating for a model that is able in the past.
available because it hadn’t been tested as Product categories include appliances,
of publication. such as washers and ranges; electron-
Besides checking for similar models, ics, such as computers, digital cameras,
you can also refer to the brand repair televisions, and Blu-ray players; and
history charts for some products. Most power equipment, such as lawn mowers
products today are pretty reliable, but and tractors. Note that repair histories
some brands have been more reliable for different products are not directly
than others. comparable.
187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 188 9/17/10 1:10:15 PM

air conditioners 189
ratings
air conditioners
Fine cooling performance is a given. Top-scoring room air conditioners are also
energy-efficient and relatively quiet. An air conditioner’s air direction matters more
if your window is not centered in your room. Check the Airflow left and Airflow right
columns in the Ratings for this information. Below are Select Ratings.
Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features
Similar models, in
Recommendation
Comfort
Indoor noise low
Indoor noise high
Brownout
Ease of use
Airflow left
Airflow right
Btu/hr.
EER
Min window width (in.)
Max window width (in.)
Weight (lb.)
Remote control
small type, are
comparable to
tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
5,000 to 6,500 Btu/hr. (Cools 100-300 sq. ft.)

■
d Haier ESAD4066 $250 81 &N &M &C &N &M &V &C 6,000 12 23 37 57 •
■
d Friedrich CP06F10 280 80 &N &M &M &N & C & B & B 6,000 10.7 22 36 58 •
■
c Kenmore 70051 150 78 &N &M &M &N & C & M & B 5,200 11 22 39 43 •
■
d Friedrich CP06E10 250 78 &N &M &M &N & C & V & B 6,000 10.7 21 36 58 •
■
c Frigidaire
LRA074AT7 150 77 &N &M &M &N &C &C &B 6,500 10.7 22 39 45 •
■
d Sharp AF-S60PX
AF-S60NX
200 76 &N &M &M &C &C &V &B 6,000 10.7 22 34 49 •
■
d Frigidaire
FRA054XT7 140 75 &N &C &C &N &C &M &M 5,000 10.7 23 37 41 •

■
d LG LW8010ER 200 75 &N &M &C &N &M &B &C 8,000 10.8 23 37 60 •
■
c Kenmore 76081 200 73 &N &M &C &N & M & C & C 7,800 10.7 24 39 65 •
■
d Friedrich CP08E10 300 71 &N &C &C &C & C & C & B 7,800 10.8 21 36 64 •
■
d GE AEM08FM 250 8,000 10.8 25 41 55 •
AEW08FM, AEH08FM
70 &N &C &C &N & N & C & V
Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

c CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
d Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

190 consumer reports buying guide 2011
Similar models, in
Recommendation
Comfort
Indoor noise low
Indoor noise high
Brownout
Ease of use
Airflow left
Airflow right
Btu/hr.
EER
Min window width (in.)
Max window width (in.)
Weight (lb.)
Remote control
small type, are
comparable to
tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E

■
c LG LW1210ER L1210ER $300 76 &N &M &C &N &M &B &C 12,000 10.8 28 •
41 82
■
c LG LW1010ER L1010ER 250 75 &N &M &C &N & M & B &M 10,000 10.8 28 •
41 76
■
d Kenmore 75101 270 73 &N &M &C &N & C & V &C 10,000 10.8 27 •
39 80
■
d Kenmore 75121 300 73 &N &M &C &N & M & V & 12,000
C 10.8 27 •
39 83
GE AEM10AM
■
d AEW10AM, AEH10AM 300 70 &N &M &C &N & M & C &V 10,500 10.8 27 38 86 •
See report, page 78.

Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based mainly on comfort, noise, and energy efficiency. The displayed score is
out of a total of 100 points. Comfort is temperature and humidity control on low cool. The best
performers held temperatures to within one-and-a-half degrees of the setpoint. Indoor noise low
and Indoor noise high combine an objective measurement of noise at the low-cool and high-cool
settings using a decibel meter with a subjective assessment of noise quality (how annoying or
grating the particular sounds were). Brownout gauges the unit’s ability to run and restart during
extreme heat and low voltage. Ease of use reflects control-panel layout, including the clarity of its
markings, as well as how easy and intuitive the controls were to operate. Airflow left and Airflow
right show how well the louvers can direct air to the left or right of the unit when the user is fac-
ing it. EER is the energy-efficiency ratio as supplied by the manufacturer and as certified by the
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. Price is approximate retail.

b l u - r ay p l ay e r s 191
ratings
blu-ray players
You have many fine choices for a regular Blu-ray player at attractive prices. Full-fea-
tured, top-rated players from major brands now start at about $150, and prices could
drop even further this year. All models now have BonusView, a picture-in-picture
feature that lets you view additional content in a smaller window while the movie is
playing, and most new models now have BD-Live, enabling them to connect to the
Internet to access extra content. Below are Select Ratings.

Recommendation
HD picture quality
DVD picture quality
Versatility
Remote
Average load time
BD-Live
Multichannel
analog-audio outputs
DVD load time
Blu-ray load time
Wi-Fi capability
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
n
d LG BD590 $350 83 &N &N &C &N &M • No 14 13 Built-in
n
d LG BD570 250 83 & N & N & C & N & M • No 14 13 Built-in
n
d Oppo BDP-80 290 80 & N & N & C & M & M • 7.1 13 13 No
n
d Samsung BD-C6900 380 80 & N & N & M & M & N • 7.1 13 9 Built-in
Dongle
n Panasonic DMP-BD85
d 250 80 &N &N &M &N &C • 7.1 22 17 Supplied
n Samsung BD-C6500
d 230 79 &N &N &C &M &M • 7.1 13 12 Built-in
Dongle
n Panasonic DMP-BDT350
d 430 79 &N &N &M &M &C • 7.1 21 17 Supplied
n
c Panasonic DMP-BD65 150 77 &N &N &C &N &C • No 22 17 Optional
n
c Sony BDP-S570 250 76 &N &N &M &M &M • No 17 15 Built-in
n
c Sony BDP-S470 200 76 &N &N &C &M &M • No 17 13 Optional
n
c Insignia NS-BRDVD3 130 75 &N &N &C &N &C • No 20 19 No

Overall score is based primarily on picture clarity and ease of use. Displayed score is out of a
total of 100 points. HD picture quality indicates trained panelists’ evaluation of clarity and color
accuracy of a high-definition progressive scan (1080p) signal, such as that from a Blu-ray player.
DVD picture quality represents trained panelists’ evaluation of clarity and color accuracy of an
upconverted HD (1080p) signal, from a Blu-ray player playing DVD content on an HDTV. All signals
sent through an HDMI connection. Versatility includes streaming movies, audio/video outputs,
Wi-Fi connectivity, and 3D capability. Remote score assesses the user-friendliness of the remote
control for basic playback and control functions. Average load time score represents the average
time the player took to load a sample DVD and Blu-ray movie disc. Load time can vary from film to
film, and this represents a relative performance among models. Price is approximate retail.

Cell phones
Choose a conventional model if you need only voice and text messages, and perhaps a
music player and camera (most models are compact and are priced between $20 and
$150 or come free with a 2-year contract).
Most phones work only with a specific carrier, so you must decide whether to stay
with your current provider or select a new one when shopping for a phone. Below are
Select Ratings.

Recommendation
Ease of use
Voice quality
Messaging
Battery life
Camera (megapixels)
Broadband data
Bluetooth
Touch screen
QWERTY keyboard
Voice command
GPS navigation
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
AT&T cell phones

■
d Samsung Impression $130 68 &M &V &N &M 3.1 HSDPA VDS • • •
■
d LG Vu Plus 150 68 & M & V & N & M 3.1 HSDPA VDS • • • •
■
d Samsung Solstice 30 68 & M & V & M & M 1.9 HSDPA VDS • • • •
■
d Samsung Rugby II 100 64 & M & V & C & N 1.9 HSDPA VDS • •
■
d Motorola Tundra 180 64 & M & C & C & M 1.9 HSDPA VDS • •
Sprint Nextel cell phones
■
d Samsung Instinct HD 100 66 &M &C &M &C 5 EV-DO VDS • • • •
■
d LG Rumor Touch 50 65 & M & C & N & M 1.9 EV-DO VDS • • • •
■
d LG Lotus Elite 50 62 & M & C & N & C 1.9 EV-DO VDS • • • •
■
d Samsung Exclaim 50 62 & M & C & N & C 1.9 EV-DO VDS • • •
■
d LG Remarq 0 62 & M & C & N & C 1.2 1xRTT VDS • •
T-Mobile cell phones
■
d Samsung Gravity T 75 69 &M V & N & N & 1.9 HSDPA VDS • • • •
■
d Samsung Comeback 0 64 & V
M & N & M & 1.9 HSDPA VDS • • •
■
d Samsung Gravity 3 50 63 & V
M & N & M & 1.9 HSDPA VDS • • •

cell phones 193
ratings
Recommendation
Ease of use
Voice quality
Messaging
Battery life
Camera (megapixels)
Broadband data
Bluetooth
Touch screen
QWERTY keyboard
Voice command
GPS navigation
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
verizon cell phones
■
d LG enV Touch $150 74 &N &C &N &C 3.1 EV-DO VDS • • • •
■
d Samsung Alias 2 50 72 & M & C & N & M 1.9 EV-DO VDS • • •
■
d Casio G’zOne Brigade 200 71 & M & V & N & M 3.1 EV-DO VDS • • •
■
d LG enV3 80 69 & M & C & N & C 3.1 EV-DO VDS • • •
■
d Casio G’zOne Rock 150 62 & M & C & C & C 1.9 EV-DO VDS • •
■
d Samsung Convoy 70 62 & M & C & C & C 1.9 EV-DO VDS • •
■
d LG VX8360 0 62 & M & C & C & C 1.2 EV-DO VDS • •
■
d Samsung Jitterbug J 100 60 & C & C & C & C NA none V •


Overall score is based mainly on ease of use, voice quality, messaging, and battery life.
The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Phones are listed in performance order,
within categories. Due to test upgrades, results may vary from past Ratings. Ease of use
mainly considers how easy it is to access the phone’s various features and modes, the
number of step-saving functions for making and receiving calls, and display and keypad
readability under different lighting conditions. We also factor in features and capabilities,
such as camera, music, GPS navigation, Web browsing, and broadband connections, as well
as the phone’s size and weight. Voice quality considers listening quality, which reflects
what you hear, and talking, what’s heard by other phones. Tests were conducted in noisy and
quiet environments using live phone calls indicated by carrier used. We show the lower score
between listening and talking. Messaging mainly assesses keyboard and keypad ergonom-
ics, text-messaging features, support for Microsoft Outlook, and whether or not the phone
can open various e-mail attachments. Battery life represents mainly an average of talk time
from tests with strong and weak network signals, and also considers standby, display times,
and other factors. Price is approximate retail.

COFFEEMAKERS
How good your cup of joe is depends more on the coffee than the coffeemaker. But a
good-quality machine extracts more from your beans and can take the hassle out of
coffeemaking. Our tests show that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a good model.

Recommendation
Brew temperature
Convenience
Carafe handling
Programmable
Thermal carafe/mug
Small-batch setting
Brew-strength control
Dispenser-style
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
8- to 12-Cup Drip Models with Carafe
n
d Cuisinart Brew Central DCC-1200 $100 87 &N &N &N • •
n
d Kalorik CM25282 80 84 & N & N & M •
n
d Zojirushi Fresh Brew EC-BD15 90 79 & N & N & M • •
n
d Krups Coffee Machine FMF5 100 79 & N & M & N • • •
n
c Black & Decker DLX1050B 20 77 & M & N & N •
n
c Kalorik TKM-20208 45 77 & M & M & M •
n
c Mr. Coffee JWX27 40 76 & N & C & M • •
n
d DeLonghi Multi DCF-212T 50 74 & M & M & M • •
12-Cup Brew Stations
n Hamilton Beach BrewStation 47454
d 80 93 &N &N NA • NA • • •
8- to 10-Cup Grind & Brew Models
n Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal
d
DGB-600BC 150 72 &N &V &M • • •
n Cuisinart Grind & Brew DGB-700BC
d 150 72 &N &V &N • •
n Krups Grinder & Brewer KM7000
d 130 72 &N &V &M • • •
1- to 2-Mug To-Go Models
n Black & Decker Brew’N Go DCM18S
d $ 25 72 &M &M NA •
Dual Coffee/Espresso Models
n Emerson CCM901
c 90 70 &M M & & M •
n Krups XP1500
d 105 68 & M & M & M

coffeemakers 195
ratings
Recommendation
Convenience
Brewing range
First-cup speed
Repeat speed
Temperature
consistency
Size consistency
Noise
More coffee choices
Can use two pods
at a time
pod coffeemakers
Cuisinart Cup-O-Matic
n SS-1
d $200 63 &M &N &V &V &N &M &C • •
Senseo Supreme 7832 130 63 &M &M &M &N &C &N &C •
Senseo by Philips
HD7810 70 59 &M &C &M &N &V &N &C •
Flavia Fusion Drinks 120 54 &M &C &C &N &V &C &M
Station
Bunn My Cafe MCP 310 53 &M C & & V & N &M &V C &
Bosch Tassimo 170 48 & C & B & M & C & C & N & C •
Krups Dolce Gusto 170 48 & M & B & M & C & C & N & C •
Keurig-Breville
BKC600XL 300 48 &M &N &B &M &M &M &M •
Keurig Professional
Mini30 120 44 &M &B &C &B &M &N &C •
Keurig B40 Brewing
System 120 41 &C &B &V &N &M &M &M •


Drip: Overall score is based on convenience and carafe handling. The displayed score is out of
a total of 100 points. Brew temperature is the ability to reach 195° F or more for six minutes.
Convenience reflects ease of filling the reservoir, placing the filter, gauging the amount of coffee
remaining, cleanup, and clarity of controls. Carafe handling covers handle comfort, tendency to
drip when pouring, balance of a full carafe, and ease of emptying. Models with no score here brew
into single-serve containers, or are dispenser-style. Pod: Overall score is based on convenience,
brewing finesse, and selection of coffee. Convenience reflects how easy it is to operate a unit, re-
fill the water reservoir, and clean the appliance. Brewing reflects ability to produce weak to strong
brews using controls and varying the amounts of water and coffee pods. First-cup speed reflects
how quickly the machine produces the first cup of coffee. Repeat speed reflects how quickly the
machine produces the second cup. Temperature consistency reflects how closely the second
cup matches the first cup in temperature. Size consistency reflects how closely the second cup
matches the first cup in temperature and size, respectively. Noise reflects judgment of expert
panelists. Price is approximate retail.

COMPUTERS, Desktops
Recommended models are based on test results and features. We also consider brand
reliability, tech support, and overall value.

Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
3D gaming
Display
Speakers
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory (MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
All-in-one
Apple iMac 27-inch $1,700 78 &N &C &M &N &N &M 3.2GHz Core i3 4 1000 512
MC510LL/A
n Apple
d iMac 27-inch
MB952LL/A 1,470 75 &N &C &M &N &N &M
3.06GHz Core 4 1000 256
2 Duo
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 1,500 74 &N &C &M &N &M &M 3.2GHz Core i3 4 1000 512
MC509LL/A
n Apple
d iMac 21.5-inch
MC508LL/A 1,200 72 &N &C &M &N &M &M
3.06GHz
Core i3 4 500 256
Gateway One 930 70 &M &M &M &C &M &C Core i3-530 4 640 NA
ZX6900-01E
n HP
d TouchSmart
600-1120 1,100 69 &M &N &M &C &M &M Core i3-330M 4 1000 NA
Core 2 Quad
Acer AZ5600-U1352 970 68 &M &N &M &C &M &C Q8200 4 1000 NA
Apple iMac 3.06GHz Core 4 500 NA
21.5-inch 1,060 67 &N &C &C &M &M &M 2 Duo
MB950LL/A
HP TouchSmart Core 2 Duo
1,000 65 &C &N &M &M &M &C 4 750 NA
600-1050 T6500
n HP
d TouchSmart
300-1120 850 64 &C &N &M &C &C &C
Athlon II X2
235e 4 750 NA
Gateway One Athlon II X2
700 62 &C &N &M &M &C &C 4 640 NA
ZX4300-01e 235e
n Sony
d Vaio
VGC-JS450F/S 1,000 62 &M &M &M &M &M &V
Pentium Dual-
Core E5400 4 500 256
Pentium Dual-
Dell Inspiron One 19 600 57 &M &N &M &C &C &B 4 640 NA
Core E5400
HP Pavilion Athlon II X2
600 55 &V &N &M &C &C &V 4 320 NA
All-in-One MS235 250
Gateway One Pentium Dual-
700 55 &C &M &M &V &C &V 4 750 NA
ZX4800-02 Core T4300
Lenovo IdeaCentre Pentium Dual-
750 54 &C &M &C &V &M &V 4 320 NA
A300 4018-1DU Core T4400

computers, desktops 197
ratings
Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
3D gaming
Display
Speakers
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory (MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
All-in-one continued
Compaq Presario $380 35 &B &N &C &B &C &V Atom D410 1 160 NA
CQ1-1020
eMachines 410 30 &B &M &C &B &V &B Atom N270 1 160 NA
EZ1601-01 (Win XP)
Compact
n Dell Inspiron 580s
d 500 75 &N &N &M &C Core i3 530 4 320 NA
Pentium Dual-
Gateway SX2801-01E 520 73 &M &N &M &C Core E5500 6 1000 NA
HP Pavilion Slimline Athlon II X2
400 63 &C &N &C &C 4 500 NA
s5414y 215
n HP
d Pavilion Slimline
s5510y 460 63 &C &N &C &C
Athlon II X2
240 3 640 NA
eMachines Athlon II X2
370 61 &C &M &M &V 4 500 NA
EL1352-01e 215
eMachines Athlon
300 55 &V &N &M &V & V 2 500 NA
EL1333G-03w LE-1660
eMachines 310 52 &V &N &C &V Celeron 450 2 500 NA
EL1850-01e
Dell Inspiron Zino HD 380 48 &V &N &C &C Athlon 2850e 3 320 NA
Full-sizeD
n Dell Studio XPS
d
SX8100-1408NBC 950 89 &N &N &N &N &C Core i5-650 8 1000 1024
n HP
d Pavilion Elite
HPE-240f 1,100 88 &N &M &N &N Core i5-650 8 1000 1024
Gateway 1,200 88 &N &N &M &N Core i7-860 8 1000 1024
FX6840-03E
n Dell
c
8100
Studio XPS 700 85 &N &N &M &M Core i5 650 3 500 512
HP Pavilion Elite Phenom II X4 8 1000 512
900 84 &N &N &N &M
HPE-210y 945
n HP
d Pavilion Elite
HPE-112y 770 82 &N &N &N &M
Phenom II X4 8 1000 512
925



Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
3D gaming
Display
Speakers
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory (MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Full-sizeD continued
HP Pavilion Elite Phenom II X6
$900 82 &N &M &M &N 8 1000 1024
HPE-235f 1035T
n Dell
d Studio
XPS-7100 700 80 &N &N &M &M
Phenom II X6
1035T 4 1000 1024
Phenom II X4
n HP Pavilion p6540F
d 660 78 &N &N &M &C 830 8 1000 256
n
c Dell Inspiron 580 500 74 &N &N &M &C Core i3 530 4 320 NA
n
d Dell Inspiron Athlon II X4
600 73 &M &N &M &C &C 6 750 NA
I570-7034PBK 630
Dell Inspiron Athlon II X2
780 69 &M &N &M &C &C 4 500 NA
I570-7163PBK 240
n
d Asus Essentio Pentium Dual-
500 69 &M &M &M &C 4 1000 NA
CM5671-05 Core E5500
n
d Dell Inspiron Pentium Dual-
500 69 &M &N &M &C &C 4 500 NA
I560-2050NBK Core E5400
Asus Essentio Pentium Dual-
460 67 &M &N &M &C 6 750 NA
CM5571-BR003 Core E5400
Athlon II X2
HP Pavilion p6523w 500 66 &C &N &M &C 220 5 640 NA
eMachines Pentium Dual-
390 65 &M &N &M &V 4 750 NA
ET1831-07 Core E5400
Dell Inspiron Pentium Dual-
480 56 &M &N &M &B &C 6 640 NA
I545-1125NBK Core E5400
eMachines 340 51 &V &N &M &C Celeron 450 3 500 NA
ET1831-05
Compaq Presario Sempron
300 50 &V &N &C &V 2 320 NA
CQ5300F LE-1300

Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed
in order of precise score. Performance reflects speed while running productivity applications,
multimedia applications, and 3D games. Ergonomics represents quality of the keyboard and
pointing device, and accessibility of features. Versatility includes hardware, such as memory-
card slots and AV connections; software, such as security programs and productivity applica-
tions; and tech support and warranty provisions. 3D gaming covers performance while running
3D games. For all-in-ones, display is our judgment of clarity, color, brightness, and viewing
angle. Speakers covers fidelity, bass response, and loudness. Price is approximate retail.

computers, laptops 199
ratings
COMPUTERS, Laptops
Based on our surveys, laptop reliability has been mostly undistinguished. Apple had
the best technical support, while Acer/Gateway/eMachines had the worst. We didn’t
recommend some top-rated models because of their technical support, including the
Gateway NV59C09u, Gateway NV7915u, and the Acer Aspire AS7736Z-4088. Con-
sider those if tech support is not a concern for you.

Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory
(MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
11- to 13-inch models

Apple MacBook Pro $1,500 2.66GHz
13-inch MC375LL/A
73 &N &M &C &M &V 7.75 4.5 Core 2 Duo 4 320 256
■
d Apple MacBook Pro 1,200 72 2.4GHz
&N &M &C &M &V 7.25 4.5 Core 2 Duo 4 250 256
13-inch MC374LL/A
■
d Apple MacBook 1,000 69 2.4GHz
&N &M &C &M &C 6.75 4.8 Core 2 Duo 2 250 256
MC516LL/A
Apple MacBook Pro 1,060 2.26GHz
13-inch MB990LL/A
68 &M &M &C &C &M 6.5 4.4 Core 2 Duo 2 160 NA
Apple MacBook 2.26GHz
950 65 &M &M &C &M &V 5.75 4.7 Core 2 Duo 2 250 NA
MC207LL/A
■
c Toshiba Satellite 470 64 Pentium
&C &C &C &C &V 9 3.7 SU4100 3 320 NA
T135-S1305
HP Envy 13-1030NR 1,800 Core 2 Duo
62 &N &C &M &C &B 4 3.8 SL9400 3 250 NA
Alienware M11x 800 Pentium
59 &C &C &C &V &C 9.75 4.4 SU4100 2 160 1024
■
d Toshiba Satellite 710 59 Core 2 Duo
&M &M &M &C &V 4.5 4.9 P7450 4 500 NA
U505-S2970
Apple MacBook Air 1,430 1.86GHz
MC233LL/A
59 &C &M &V &M &B 4.25 3 Core 2 Duo 2 120 NA
HP TouchSmart tm2t 850 Core 2 Duo
59 &C &C &C &C &B 8.5 4.4 U7300 2 160 NA
Toshiba Satellite Turion Neo
580 58 &C &C &C &C &B 5.75 3.7 X2 L625 4 320 NA
T135D-S1324
Toshiba Satellite Athlon Neo
500 58 &V &M &C &C &V 5.5 3.7 MV-40 3 250 NA
T135D-S1320
Lenovo Thinkpad Athlon Neo
630 58 &C &M &C &C &V 4.75 3.9 X2 L325 3 250 NA
Edge 0197-27U
Toshiba Satellite Athlon Neo
425 57 &V &C &C &C &V 5.5 3.4 MV-40 2 250 NA
T115D-S1120
Dell Adamo Core 2 Duo
1,330 57 &C &C &C &C &V 5.25 4 U9300 2 128 NA
A13-050B-PRL


Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory
(MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
14-inch models
■
d Sony Vaio $ 840 68 Core
VPCCW21FX/L &N &M &M &C &B 4.75 5 i3-330M 4 500 256
Toshiba Satellite 900 66 Core
E205-S1904 &N &C &M &C &V 5.75 5.1 i5-430M 4 500 NA
■
d Lenovo Thinkpad
Edge 057826U 680 66 &M &M &M &C &V 3.5 5
Core
i3-330M 4 500 NA
Core 2 Duo
■
c Samsung R430-Black 560 65 &M &M &M &C &V 5 4.8 T6600 4 320 NA
HP Pavilion dv4-2155dx 750 Core
65 &N &M &M &C &C 3.5 5.3 i3-330M 4 320 NA
HP Pavilion G42-240US 700 Turion II
63 &M &M &M &C &V 3.75 4.9 P520 4 320 NA
■
d Lenovo IdeaPad
U450P 3389 600 63 & M
C & M & &V 7.5 4.5
& C
Core 2 Duo
U7300 4 320 NA
Toshiba Satellite Pentium
M505-S4972 650 61 &M &C &M &C &V 4 5.3 Dual-Core 3 250 NA
T4300
HP Pavilion 500 59 Turion II
dv4-2145dx &M &C &M &C &C 3.5 5.3 M520 4 320 128

Apple MacBook Pro 2,000 78 2.53GHz
15-inch MC372LL/A &N &M &C &M &C 8.5 5.5 Core i5 4 500 256
■
d Apple MacBook Pro 1,800 78
15-inch MC371LL/A &N &M &C &M &C 8 5.5
2.4GHz
Core i5 4 320 256
15-inch MC118LL/A &M &M &C &M &M 7 5.4 Core 2 Duo 4 250 NA
Gateway NV59C09U 700 73 Core
&N &M &M &C &C 5.25 5.4 i3-330M 4 320 NA
Core
■
d Dell Studio 15 (1558) 975 72 &N &M &M &C &C 4.5 5.7 i5-520M 4 320 512
Dell Studio XPS 16 1,120 Core 2 Duo
71 &N &M &M &M &M 3.25 6.4 P8700 4 500 512
■
d Samsung
NP-R580-JSB1US 830 70 & M
N & M
& C
& V
& 4 5.6 Core
i5-430M 4 500 512
Dell Studio XPS 1,000 69 Core
X1647-5330BK &N &M &M &C &M 3.25 6.4 i5-430M 4 500 1024
■
d Toshiba Satellite
A505-S6005 650 68 &N &M &M &C &C 7.75 7
Core
i3-330M 4 500 NA
■
d HP Pavilion
dv6-2157wm 700 68 &N &M &M &C &M 4 6 Core
i3-330M 4 320 NA
■
d HP Pavilion
dv6-2155dx 680 66 &N &M &M &C &C 3.75 5.9
Core 4 500 NA
i3-330M
HP Pavilion 860 65 Phenom II
dv6-3040us &M &M &M &C &V 3.5 5.4 N830 4 500 NA

ratings
Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory
(MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
15- to 16-inch models continued
Asus U50F-RBBAG05 $ 650 Core
64 &N &C &M &C &V 4.5 5.4 i3-330M 4 500 NA
HP Envy 15-1050NR 1,800 63 Core i7
&N &C &M &M &C 2 6.3 720QM 6 500 1024
Sony Vaio 700 63 Core
VPCEB11FM/W &N &M &M &C &B 3.25 5.7 i3-330M 4 320 NA
■
d Sony Vaio
VGN-NW350F/S 730 63 Core 2 Duo
&M &M &M &C &V 3.75 5.7 T6600 4 320 NA
Pentium
d Dell
■ Inspiron 15
(1545) 500 62 &M &C &M &C &V 5.25 5.8 Dual-Core 4 500 NA
T4400
Asus G60JX-RBBX05 900 Core
60 &N &M &M &C &V 3 7.4 i5-430M 4 500 1024
Compaq Presario 520 59 Athlon II 3 250 NA
CQ61-420US &M &M &M &C &C 3 6 M320
Pentium
d Toshiba
■ Satellite
L505-ES5018 480 59 &M &M &M &C &B 3.75 6 Dual-Core 3 320 NA
T4400
Pentium
HP G60-635DX 480 59 &M &M &M &C &V 3.25 6.2 Dual-Core 3 320 NA
T4300
Pentium
Dell Inspiron 15z 550 58 &C &M &M &C &V 4.75 4.9 Dual Core 2 160 NA
SU4100
Gateway NV5378u 480 Athlon II
58 &C &C &M &C &V 3 5.7 M300 4 500 NA
Toshiba Satellite 500 57 Turion II
L505D-GS6000 &M &M &M &C &B 2.5 6.1 M500 4 320 NA
Dell Inspiron 750 Turion X2
I1546-2453JBK
57 &M &M &M &C &V 2.75 5.9 RM-75 4 250 NA
Toshiba Satellite 380 56 Celeron 3 250 NA
L455-S5000 &C &M &M &C &V 3.5 5.8 900
HP G61-429wm 450 Sempron 3 250 NA
55 &C &M &M &C &V 3 6 M120
Compaq Presario 340 3.25 6.2 Celeron 3 250 NA
CQ60-423DX
55 &C &M &C &C &V 900
Lenovo Essential 480 54 3 5.8 Athlon II 3 160 NA
G555 0873-25U &C &M &M &C &V M320
Compaq Presario 330 3.5 6.3 Celeron 2 250 NA
CQ60-615DX
53 &C &M &M &C &V 900
Toshiba Satellite 380 3 5.8 Sempron 2 250 NA
L455D-S5976
51 &V &M &M &C &V SI-42
Acer Aspire 350 3.25 5.6 Athlon 3 160 NA
AS5532-5535
50 &V &M &C &C &V TF-20


Recommendation
Performance
Ergonomics
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
Processor
Memory (GB)
Hard drive (GB)
Video memory
(MB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
■
d Apple MacBook Pro $2,300 80 2.53GHz
17-inch MC024LL/A &N &M &C &N &M 9.25 6.5 Core i5 4 500 512
17-inch MC226LL/A &N &M &C &M &M 6.75 6.5 Core 2 Duo 4 500 256
■
d HP Pavilion 890 75 Phenom II
dv7-4060us &N &M &M &C &M 4.75 7.2 N830 4 500 1024
Dell Studio 17 (1749) 965 73 Core
&N &M &N &M &V 4 7.3 i5-520M 4 500 NA
■
d Dell Inspiron 17 930 72 Core
(1764) &N &M &M &M &V 3.5 6.3 i5-520M 4 500 512
■
d Dell Studio 17 Touch 850 70 Core App
(1749) &M &M &M &C &M 3.75 8 i3-330M 3 250 NA
■
d Toshiba Qosmio 1,200 69 Core
X505-Q860 &N &M &M &M &M 4 10.2 i5-430M 4 500 1024 e
Asus G73JH-RBBX05 1,200 Core
69 &N &M &M &M &C 2 8.4 i7-720QM 6 500 1024
■ HP Pavilion Turion II
d dv7-3165dx 700 68 &M &M &M &C &V 4.5 7.1 Ultra M620 4 500 NA
Gateway NV7915u 600 68 Core
& C
N & M & &V 3.75 6.8
& M i3-330M 4 500 NA
Acer Aspire Pentium
AS7736Z-4088 500 67 &M &M &M &C &V 4.75 6.9 Dual-Core 3 320 NA
T4400
HP G71-340us 700 66 Core 2 Duo
&M &M &M &M &V 3.5 6.6 T6600 4 320 NA
HP Pavilion Pentium
G71-449wm 580 64 &M &M &M &C &C 3.5 6.7 Dual-Core 4 320 NA
T4300
Dell Inspiron 17 Pentium
■
d (1750) 450 63 &M &M &M &M &V 3 6.6 Dual-Core 2 160 NA
T4400
Toshiba Satellite 680 Turion II
P505D-S8007
63 &M &M &M &M &C 2.25 9 M520 4 500 NA


ratings
in order of precise score, out of a total of 100. Performance is based on performance while
running productivity applications, multimedia applications, and 3D games. Ergonomics repre-
sents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features. Versatility
includes hardware such as memory-card slots and AV connections, software such as security
programs and productivity applications, and tech support and warranty provisions. Display cov-
ers display size, clarity, color, contrast, brightness, and glare. Speakers covers speaker fidelity,
bass response, and loudness. Battery life (hr.) is estimated in hours while running productivity
applications. Weight (lb.) is the weight of the laptop as you would carry it around, including the
battery but without the power adapter. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reliable
Desktops Laptops
Fewer More Fewer More
repairs repairs repairs repairs
Apple (iMac) 13 Toshiba 16
Compaq 18 Sony 17
eMachines 19 Compaq 18
Dell 20 Acer 19
HP 21 Apple 19
Sony 22 HP 20
Gateway 23 Gateway 20
Dell 21
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Lenovo 21
Apple has been the most reliable brand of
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
desktop computers. That’s what we found out
when we asked more than 62,500 readers who
No one brand stood out as the most reliable
bought a desktop computer between 2005
among laptop brands. That’s what we found
and 2009 about their experiences. This graph
out when we asked more than 75,000 readers
shows the percentage of brands that have ever
who bought a laptop between 2005 and 2009
been repaired or had a serious problem. We’ve
about their experiences. Graph shows the per-
adjusted the data to eliminate differences due
centage of brands that have ever been repaired
to age or whether the computer was covered
or had a serious problem. We’ve adjusted the
by an extended warranty. Differences of fewer
data to eliminate differences due to age or
than 5 points aren’t meaningful. Although we
whether the computer was covered by an ex-
lacked sufficient historical data to include the
tended warranty. Differences of fewer than 3
Lenovo desktop brand in the chart, the data
points aren’t meaningful. Models within a brand
we have indicates that it has been a reliable
might vary, and changes in design or manufac-
brand. Models within a brand might vary, and
ture might affect reliability. Still, choosing a
changes in design or manufacture might af-
brand with a good repair history can improve
fect reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a
your odds of getting a reliable model.
good repair history can improve your odds of
getting a reliable model. Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey, Con-
sumer Reports National Research Center.

COMPUTERS, Netbooks
All are suitable as secondary systems for performing routine tasks. The best offer
lighter weight, larger keyboards and trackpads, and longer battery life. All include a
memory-card reader and webcam.

Recommendation
Portability
Ergonomics
Performance
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
LCD size (in.)
Processor
Hard drive (GB)

0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
10-inch models
Atom
■
d HP Mini 210-1092DX $380 60 &M &C &C &C &V &C 8.75 2.9 10.1 N450 160
■
d Toshiba Mini 400 59 Atom
&M &C &C &C &C &B 9.5 2.9 10.1 N450 250
NB305-N410BL
■
d Samsung 350 59
Atom
&M &C &C &C &C &V 7.75 2.5 10.1 N450 160
NP-N150-JA03US
Acer Aspire One Atom
300 59 &M &C &C &C &C &V 8.25 2.7 10.1 N450 160
532h-2730
Atom
Gateway LT2104u 310 57 &M &C &C &C &C &B 7.75 2.6 10.1 N450 250
■
d Dell Inspiron Mini 330 57
Atom
&M &C &C &C &C &V 8.75 3 10.1 N450 160
IM1012-687OBK
■
d Asus Eee PC 330 56
Atom
&M &C &C &C &V &B 9.5 2.9 10.1 N450 250
1005PEB-RRED01S
Atom
■
d HP Mini 210-1050NR 330 56 &M &C &C &C &C &B 8.75 2.9 10.1 N450 250
Toshiba Mini Atom
375 55 &M &C &C &C &C &B 9.5 2.9 10.1 N280 160
NB205-N325BL
Atom
Dell Inspiron Mini 10 300 55 &M &V &C &C &C &V 9.75 3 10.1 N450 160
■
d Asus Eee PC 300 54 Atom
&M &C &C &C &C &B 7.75 2.9 10.1 N270 250
1005HA-MU17-WT
Asus Eee PC Atom
300 54 &M &C &C &C &C &V 7.5 2.8 10.1 N270 160
1005HAB-RRED04S
Samsung Atom
350 54 &M &C &C &M &C &B 7 2.9 10.1 N450 250
NP-N210-JAO2US
Atom
Gateway LT2030u 310 54 &M &V &C &C &C &B 8 2.8 10.1 N270 250
Lenovo IdeaPad Atom
550 53 &M &C &C &C &C &B 9 3.4 10.1 N450 250
S10-3T-0651
Asus Eee PC Atom
400 52 & &C &C &C &C &V 5.25 2.5 10.1 N450
M 250
1008PB-CFE002S

computers, netbooks 205
ratings
Recommendation
Portability
Ergonomics
Performance
Versatility
Display
Speakers
Battery life (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
LCD size (in.)
Processor
Hard drive (GB)

0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
10-inch models continued

Asus Eee PC Atom
$400 52 &M &C &C &C &C &V 5 2.5 10.1 N450 250
1008PB-PCH002S
Asus Eee PC 1000HE Atom
385 51 &C &C &C &C &C &V 6.5 3.2 10.1 N280 160
(Win XP)
Sony Vaio Atom
450 51 &M &V &C &C &C &B 8.25 2.8 10.1 N450 250
VPCW211AX/P
eMachines EM250-1915 220 49 2.4 10.1 Atom
(Win XP) &C &C &C &C &C &B 3.5 N270 160
Nokia Booklet 3G 600 48 &N &V &V &C &C &B 9.5 2.7 10.1 Atom 120
Z530

Celeron
■
d Dell Inspiron 11z 375 51 &C &C &M &C &C &V 3.25 3 11.6 743 250
Atom
HP Mini 311-1037NR 620 47 &C &V &C &M &C &C 5.75 3.4 11.6 N270 160


in order of precise score, out of a total of 100. Portability reflects battery life and weight.
Ergonomics represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility
of features. Performance is assessed while running productivity applications. Versatility
includes hardware such as memory-card slots and AV connections, software such as security
programs and productivity applications, and tech support and warranty provisions. Display
covers display size, clarity, color, contrast, brightness, and glare. Speakers covers speaker
fidelity, bass response, and loudness. Battery life (hr.) is estimated in hours while running
productivity applications. Weight (lb.) includes the battery but without the power adapter.
Price is approximate retail.

COOKTOPS
Most cooktops are gas or smoothtop electric. But induction models—an electromag-
netic field that heats the pan more directly and efficiently—are falling in price, and
may be the wave of the future. Below are Select Ratings.

Similar models, in small type, are
Recommendation
High heat
Low heat
High-power elements
Medium-power
elements
Low-power elements
Expandable elements
Touch controls
comparable to tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
30-inch electric smoothtop models

n
d Electrolux Icon E30EC65E[SS] $1,200 85 &M &N 1 2 2 •
n
d LG LCE3081[ST] 1,050 83 & M & N 1 1 2 • •
n
c Kenmore 4273[2] 600 82 & M & N 2 0 2 •
n
c Whirlpool RCC3024L[Q] RCC3024R[ ] 500 81 & M & N 1 1 2
n
d Whirlpool Gold GJC3034R[P] 700 79 & M & N 1 2 1 •
n
d Frigidaire FEC30S6A[S] 580 78 & M & N 2 0 2
W
Induction cooktops K
n Frigidaire Professional
c
FPCC3085K[S] ⁄ 1,100 94 &N &N 1 3 0 • Fr
Kitc
n Kenmore Elite 4283[0]
d 1,850 93 &N &N 3 1 0 • J
n GE Profile PHP900DM[BB]
d 1,700 92 & N & N 2 2 0 •
n Kenmore Elite 4280[0]
d 1,700 91 & N & N 3 1 0 •
⁄Has radiant and induction elements.
Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor Wh

c CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Ke
Kitc
Guide to the Ratings The

Overall score reflects cooktop performance at high and low heat, as well as safety issues such
as surface temperature. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. High heat reflects
J
how quickly the highest-powered element heated water to near-boiling. Low heat reflects how
well the lowest-powered element melted and held chocolate without scorching and how the
most powerful element, set to low, held tomato sauce below a boil. Price is approximate retail.

cooktops 207
ratings
Brand & model Price Overall score Test Features
results
Recommendation
High heat
Low heat
High-power burners
Medium-power
burners
Low-power burners
Stainless steel
Glass ceramic
Porcelain enamel
Continuous grates
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
36-inch gas cooktops

n
c Kenmore Elite 3249[9] $1,250 83 &M &N 2 2 1 • •
n
d GE Profile JGP975WEK[WW] 1,250 80 &C &N 1 2 2 • •
n
d GE Monogram 1,400 79 &C &N 3 2 0 • •
ZGU385NSM[SS]
n
d LG LCG3691[ST] 1,350 75 &M &M 2 2 1 • •
n
d GE JGP637WEJ[WW] 800 66 & C & M 1 2 2 •
Electric cooktops Dacor and Viking were the most repair-

prone brands of gas cooktops, and Jenn-Air
Fewer More has been among the more repair-prone
repairs repairs
brands of both gas and electric cooktops.
GE 4 That’s what we found when we questioned
Whirlpool 5 more than 20,000 readers who bought a
Kenmore 5 cooktop between 2005 and 2009. The
Frigidaire 6 graph shows the percentage of models from
KitchenAid 8 each brand that needed a repair or had a
Jenn-Air 10 serious problem. Differences of fewer than
4 points aren’t meaningful, and we’ve
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
adjusted the data to eliminate differences
linked solely to the age of the cooktop.
Gas cooktops
These findings might not apply to electric
Fewer More cooktops that feature induction elements,
repairs repairs
and we lack sufficient data to comment on
Whirlpool 4 their reliability. Models within a brand might
Kenmore 5 vary, and design or manufacture changes
KitchenAid 6 could affect future reliability. Still, choos-
GE 7 ing a brand with a good repair history can
Thermador improve your odds of getting a reliable
9
model.
Wolf 9
Jenn-Air 11 Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,
Viking Consumer Reports National Research Center.
18
Dacor 18
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%

CORDLESS DRILLS & KITS

We found capable drills for $100—and good kits starting at $160. Below are Select Ratings.
Recommendation
Speed
Power
Run time
Charge time
Handling
Noise at ear
Weight (lb.)
Volts
Battery type
Battery recharge
time (in minutes)
Speed ranges
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
General use drill/drivers

n
d Panasonic EY6432GQKW $200 80 &N &C &N &M &M &C 4.8 15.6 NiMH 50 2
n
c Porter-Cable PC180DK-2 100 70 & N & M & C & M & C & C 5.1 18 NiCd 60 2
n
d Ryobi P815 160 69 & M & C & C & M & M & C 3.9 18 Li 60 2
n
c Craftsman 11588 120 66 & N & M & C & M & C & C 5.3 19.2 NiCd 60 2
n
d Hitachi DS12DVF3 80 55 & C & V & V & N & M & C 3.4 12 NiCd 30 2
Tougher job drill/drivers

n
d DeWalt DCD 940KX 280 85 &N &N &N &M &C &C 6.1 18 NiCd 60 3
n
c Hitachi DS18DMR 200 85 & N & M & N & N & C & C 6 18 NiMH 30 2
n
d Makita LXT BDF451 280 82 & N & M & M & N & M & C 4.9 18 Li 45 2
n
c Bosch 33618-2G 200 80 & N & N & M & M & C & C 5.9 18 NiCd 60 2
n
c Makita 6347DWDE 200 79 & N & M & N & M & C & C 5.4 18 NiMH 60 2
n
c DeWalt DCD 920KX 200 75 & N & M & M & M & C & C 5.7 14.4 NiCd 60 3
n
c Craftsman 11543 130 66 & N & M & C & M & C & C 5.5 19.2 NiCd 60 2


Overall score for drills is for speed, power, run and charge times, handling, and noise at ear level.
Displayed scores for all tools are rounded; models listed by precise overall score. Speed is for
drilling holes and driving screws. Power (torque) is twisting force. Run time is work per battery
charge. Charge time is to recharge fully discharged battery. Handling is weight, balance, and
effort to position head. Noise is at ear level. Overall score for kits is total for drill and saws. Price
is approximate retail with batteries and charger.

countertops 209
ratings
COUNTERTOPS
All countertops look good in the showroom, but keeping them pristine requires
durable materials or high maintenance. We stained, scratched, sliced, scorched, and
pummeled leading brands of 11 materials and found long-lasting, attractive counter-
tops no matter how much—or little—you want to spend.
Material Price per sq. ft. Overall score Test results
Abrasion
Impact
Stains
Heat
Cutting
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Quartz (engineered stone) $ 50-$100 87 &M &N &N &N &V
Granite 45-200 86 & M & N & N & N & V
Tile (ceramic and porcelain) 10-30 76 & C & N & N & M & C
Laminate 10-30 67 & N & N & V & C & M
Solid surfacing 35-100 53 & M & M & V & V & M
Paper composite * 50-100 49 & M & M & V & V & M
Concrete (penetrating sealer) 80-120 48 & V & N & C & V & B
Stainless steel 100-150 45 & M & N & B & V & B
Concrete (topical sealer) 80-120 37 & N & V & B & C & B
Limestone 60-100 34 & V & N & B & V & B
Butcher block (oil finish) 30-65 34 & V & M & B & V & B
Butcher block (varnished) 30-65 32 & N & B & B & B & B
Marble 50-140 19 & C & V & B & B & B
* Only Richlite’s product was tested. Results for other brands might vary.

Overall score summarizes performance in all tests. Stains shows resistance to 20 common foods
and household products. Heat gauges how well materials resisted damage and discoloration from
a pot filled with oil heated to 400° F. Cutting reflects resistance to damage from weighted chef’s
and serrated knives used in slicing and chopping motions. Abrasion is resistance to damage from
a weighted sanding block. Impact reflects ability to withstand blunt and pointed weights dropped
from up to 3½ feet. Price is the usual range per square foot, including installation.

DECK STAINS
Wood usually changes color quickly unless you apply a finish; top finishes from our
tests are listed below. Consider opaque stains for durability, semitransparent stains for
pressure-treated lumber, and clear stains to show off natural wood grains.
Product Type Price Overall score Appearance Resists

All products clean up with water
Recommendation
Per gallon
After 3 yr.
After 6 yr.
After 9 yr.
Cracking
Color change
Dirt
Mildew
Claimed VOCs
unless footnoted.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
FULLY TESTED Completed the equivalent of up to 9 years’ exposure (3 years’ for decks).
n Behr Deck Plus Solid Color Deck,
d Solid $26 67
Fence & Siding Wood Stain (200 line) &M &M &M • • • • 250
n Sears Weatherbeater Solid Deck,
d
Fence & Siding Stain Solid 21 51 &M &C &C • 90
Woodsman Solid Deck Stain Solid 24 13 &V • • • 250
Olympic Maximum Deck, Fence &
Siding Semi-Transparent Stain Semi 33 12 &V • 233
Sherwin-Williams Woodscapes Semi 36 11 &B 79
Semi-Transparent Stain
Wolman DuraStain Semi 22 11 &B 250
Semi-Transparent Stain
Olympic Maximum Clear 30 11 &B 230
Waterproofing Sealant


d ec k sta i n s 211
ratings
Product Type Price Overall score Appearance Resists
All products clean up with water
Recommendation
Per gallon
After 3 yr.
After 6 yr.
After 9 yr.
Cracking
Color change
Dirt
Mildew
Claimed VOCs
unless footnoted.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
STILL BEING TESTED Completed the equivalent of 3 to 6 years’ exposure (decks, 1 to 2 years’).
Sherwin-Williams Woodscapes
Solid Stain Solid $36 &M &C • • • 136
Behr Premium Solid Color Deck, Fence
& Siding Weatherproofing Wood Stain Solid 33 &M • • • • 100
Wolman DuraStain Solid Stain Solid 27 &M • • • • 100
Olympic Maximum Deck, Fence &
Siding Solid Stain Solid 33 &M • • • • 166
Sikkens Rubbol Siding Finish ⁄ Solid 36 &C • • • 200
Cabot Pro VT Solid Color
Acrylic Stain ⁄ Solid 32 &C • • • 100
n Sikkens
d Cetol SRD
Semi-Transparent Stain € Semi 40 &C • • 250
⁄Recommended only for siding and fences. €Clean up with mineral spirits.

Overall score is a weighted average of each year’s appearance for up to 3 years of
testing. Appearance after 3 years summarizes performance after 1 year of our accelerated
weathering (i.e. equivalent to 1 year on a deck or 3 years on a vertical surface). Testing
stops when appearance falls to Fair or Poor at which time the product must be reapplied.
Appearance after 6 years summarizes performance after 2 years of our accelerated
weathering (i.e., equivalent to 2 years on a deck or 6 years on a vertical surface). Testing
stops when appearance falls to Fair or Poor, at which time the product must be reapplied.
Appearance after 9 years summarizes performance after 3 years of our accelerated
weathering (i.e., equivalent to 3 years on a deck or 9 years on a vertical surface). Testing
stops after 3 years, whether or not the product appearance falls to Fair or Poor. Products
that at this point still rate at least Good for appearance are considered superior products.
Price is approximate retail.

DIGITAL CAMERAS, Point & shoot

The Ratings list models by overall performance. Recommended models usually stand
out for their combination of price and performance. All models offer Good or Very
Good overall performance and image quality.

Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
Widest angle (mm)
Battery life (shots)
Optical zoom
Manual controls
Touch screen
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Compact models
■
d Canon
PowerShot $330 60 &C &M &C &C &M &M &M &C &M &C 14 8 28 260 14 •
SX210 IS
Sony Cyber-
shot DSC-H55 230 58 &C &C &C &M &C &C &M &M &M &C 14 7 25 310 10 •
Fujifilm
FinePix F80EXR 230 57 &M &C &M &C &V &M &N &M &M &C 12 7 27 230 10 •
Panasonic
Lumix 300 57 &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &C 12 7 25 340 12 •
DMC-ZS5
Subcompact models
■
d Nikon Coolpix 300 65 &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &C &M &C 14 6 30 210 10
S8000
Canon Power-
Shot SD4000 350 64 &M &M &C &M &M &C &M &C &M &M 10 6 28 250 3.8 •
IS ELPH
■
d Canon Power
Shot SD940 IS 200 63 &C &M &C &M &M &M &C &C &M &M 12 5 28 220 4
ELPH
■
d Casio Exilim 190 61 &M &C &M &M &C &M &M &C &M &C 14 5 26 580 5
EX-Z2000
■
d Canon Power-
Shot SD1400 230 61 &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &C &M &C 14 5 28 230 4
IS ELPH
■
c Nikon Coolpix 100 61 &M &M &M &N &V &M &V &C &M &C 8 6 41 280 3.5
L21
■
d Sony Cyber-
shot DSC-HX5V 330 60 &M &M &C &M &M &M &M &C &M &V 10 7 25 310 10 •
Sony Cyber-
shot DSC-TX7 350 59 &C &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &M &C 10 5 25 230 4 •
Panasonic
■
d Lumix 140 59 &M &C &M &C &C &M &M &C &M &V 12 5 35 300 4
DMC-FP1

d i g i ta l c a m e r a s , p o i n t & s h o ot 213
ratings
Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
Widest angle (mm)
Optical zoom
Manual controls
Touch screen
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Subcompact models continued

■
d Canon Power- $180 58 &C &C &C &M &C &M &M &C &M &C 12 6 35 240 4
Shot A3100 IS
Nikon Coolpix 300 58 &M &C &M &M &C &C &M &C &M &C 12 6 28 220 5
S1000pj
■
d Pentax Optio 320 58 &C &C &M &M &C &M &V &C &M &C 12 6 28 205 5
W90
■
d Canon
PowerShot 150 57 &C &C &C &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 10 6 35 230 4
A3000 IS
■
d Nikon Coolpix
S70 300 57 &M &M &C &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 12 6 28 200 5 •
Pentax Optio 230 57 &C &C &M &C &C &M &V &C &M &C 12 6 28 250 5
I-10
Olympus 200 56 &C &C &M &M &C &C &C &C &C &C 14 5 26 NA 5
Stylus 5010
Olympus 240 55 &M &C &M &M &C &C &N &C &C &C 14 5 28 NA 7
Stylus 7040
■
c Canon Power 100 55 &C &C &C &C &M &M &V &C &M &V 10 7 37 150 3.3
Shot A490
Sony
Cyber-shot 180 55 &C &C &C &M &C &M &C &C &M &C 14 4 26 120 4
DSC-W350
Nikon Coolpix 140 55 &C &M &C &M &C &C &B &C &C &V 12 4 27 220 4
S3000
Panasonic
Lumix 170 55 &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &M &C 14 6 28 300 8
DMC-FH20
■
c Canon Power- 110 55 &C &C &C &C &M &C &V &C &M &V 10 7 37 150 3.3
Shot A495
Nikon Coolpix 230 54 &M &C &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 14 6 28 210 7
S6000
Casio Exilim 230 54 &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &M &V 12 5 38 300 3
EX-G1
Kodak Easy 180 54 &M &M &M &M &C &V &M &C &C &V 14 6 28 200 8
Share M580
Panasonic
Lumix 190 53 &M &C &M &C &M &M &M &C &M &C 14 5 35 300 4 •
DMC-FP3
Fujifilm
FinePix 220 52 &C &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &C 12 6 35 170 5 •
Z700EXR


Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
Widest angle (mm)
Optical zoom
Manual controls
Touch screen
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E

Casio Exilim
EX-FC150 $300 51 &M &C &M &C &M &C &V &C &M &C 10 6 37 300 5 •
Olympus
Stylus Tough 300 51 &M &M &V &M &C &B &M &C &C &C 14 6 28 NA 5
6020
Sony Cyber-
shot DSC-TX5 350 50 &C &C &M &C &M &M &C &C &M &C 10 5 25 250 4 •
Casio Exilim 130 50 &C &C &M &C &C &C &M &C &M &C 14 5 26 250 4
EX-Z550
Nikon Coolpix 120 50 &C &M &M &M &C &C &V &C &M &C 12 7 37 240 3.6
L22
Samsung
CL80 400 49 &C &C &M &M &C &M &C &C &M &C 14 7 31 NA 7 •
Olympus
Stylus 220 49 &M &C &C &M &C &B &C &C &M &V 12 6 28 NA 3.6
Tough-3000
Fujifilm 220 48 &C &C &C &C &C &V &V &C &C &V 12 5 36 165 5
FinePix XP10
Nikon Coolpix
S4000 200 48 &C &M &M &M &C &C &V &C &C &C 12 5 27 190 4 •
Kodak Easy- 80 48 &C &C &M &C &V &V &V &C &C &V 10 6 34 200 3
Share C142
Olympus
Stylus 400 48 &C &C &V &M &C &V &C &C &M &C 14 8 28 NA 5
Tough-8010
Sony
Cyber-shot 130 48 &C &C &C &V &V &C &M &C &C &V 12 5 28 220 4
DSC-W310
Sony
Cyber-shot 220 48 &M &C &M &C &C &C &C &C &M &C 14 6 34 230 7
DSC-W370
GE E1486TW 150 47 &C &C &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 14 5 28 160 8 •
Olympus 110 47 &C &C &M &M &C &V &V &C &C &V 14 7 36 NA 5
FE-47
Pentax Optio 180 47 &C &C &M &C &C &M &V &C &C &C 12 5 28 210 5
H90
Sony
Cyber-shot 110 46 &C &V &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &V 12 7 35 170 3
DSC-S2100
Kodak SLICE
R502 300 46 &C &C &C &M &C &V &C &V &M &V 14 6 35 200 5 •

d i g i ta l c a m e r a s , p o i n t & s h o ot 215
ratings
Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
Widest angle (mm)
Optical zoom
Manual controls
Touch screen
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E

Kodak Easy $120 46 &C &M &V &C &C &C &M &C &C &V 12 5 36 200 3
Share M530
Kodak Easy 160 46 &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &C &M &V 14 5 28 220 5
Share M575
Fujifilm 140 45 &C &C &M &C &C &C &V &C &C &V 14 5 28 180 5
FinePix JX250
Fujifilm 200 45 &C &C &M &V &C &C &C &C &C &V 14 6 28 230 10
FinePix JZ500
Fujifilm 130 44 &C &C &M &C &C &C &V &C &C &V 12 5 36 165 5
FinePix Z70
GE J1250 130 43 &C &C &M &C &V &C &V &C &M &V 12 5 35 190 5
Pentax Optio 100 43 &C &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &V 10 6 32 220 3
E90
Olympus 90 42 &C &C &M &M &C &V &V &C &C &V 12 4 36 NA 3
T100
Olympus 140 41 &C &C &M &C &V &V &V &C &C &C 14 4 26 NA 4
FE-4020
GE Create 21 180 41 &C &C &C &C &C &V &C &C &V &V 12 5 NA NA 3
(Jason Wu)
Superzoom models
■
d Nikon Coolpix
P100 400 68 &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M 10 18 26 250 26.1 •
■
d Nikon Coolpix 260 65 &M &M &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 12 18 28 270 15
L110
■
c Olympus 200 61 &M &C &M &M &C &C &M &C &M &C 12 17 28 NA 15
SP-600UZ
Olympus 350 60 &M &M &M &M &C &C &M &C &M &C 14 16 28 NA 30
SP-800UZ
Fujifilm
FinePix 250 56 &C &C &C &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 12 17 28 300 18 •
S2500HD
Samsung
HZ35W 350 52 &M &C &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &C 12 8 24 NA 15 •



Overall score is based mainly on image quality, ease of use, versatility, LCD-panel quality, and
flash and video quality. Image quality combines several tests, including regular photos, low-
light photos, and flash photos as well as color tests, among others. Regular photos reflects the
quality of a series of handheld shots, using natural light and flash, taken indoors and outdoors
under a range of light conditions. Low-light photos tests the quality of shots taken in low-light
conditions. Flash photos tests the quality of the built-in flash’s light output and evenness of
illumination. Video quality mostly reflects footage shot in regular and low light, with audio
quality and macro (close-up) capability also considered. Response time is an overall speed
judgment, including start-up time and the shutter delay for the first and later shots. Handling
shake reflects how well blur, distortion, and color defects are avoided with handheld shots.
Controls is a general assessment of basic operation. Versatility assesses controls, features,
menus, and settings. LCD quality is a judgment of images viewed under a number of lighting
conditions. Price is approximate retail.
Point & shoot Most cameras are very reliable, and few dif-
ferences exist among brands. That’s what
Fewer More we found when we asked almost 203,000
repairs repairs
readers who bought a digital camera be-
Panasonic 3 tween 2005 and 2009 about their experi-
Sony 4 ences. The graphs show the percentage of
Olympus 4 models for each brand that were repaired
Pentax 4 or had a serious problem. Differences of
Canon fewer than 3 points aren’t meaningful, and
4
Fuji we’ve adjusted the data to eliminate differ-
5
ences linked solely to the age of the digital
Kodak 5 camera. Although we lacked sufficient his-
Nikon 5 torical data to include Pentax SLRs in the
Samsung 6 chart, they do not appear to warrant reli-
Casio 7 ability concerns, according to our analysis.
Models within a brand can vary, and design
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
or manufacture changes might affect fu-
SLR ture reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a
Fewer More good repair history can improve your odds
repairs repairs of getting a reliable model.
Sony 3 Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,
Olympus 4 Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Canon 5
Nikon 5
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%

d i g i ta l c a m e r a s , s l r 217
ratings
DIGITAL CAMERAS, SLR
Most models were fine overall performers. Image-quality scores aren’t comparable
with those of point-and-shoots because the two types are factored differently.

Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
LCD size (in.)
Max. continuous
speed (fps)
Image stabilizer
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
SLR
n Canon
d
Digital
EOS 7D $1,900 73 &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M 17.9 50.3 3 8 L
n
d Canon EOS 900 71 &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &M 17.9 27.7 3 3.7 L
Rebel T2i
n
d Canon EOS 700 70 &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &C 15.1 27.7 3 3.4 L
Rebel T1i
Nikon D300s 2,100 69 &M M & M & C & M & N & M & M & M & C & 12.2 52.2 3 7 L
Pentax K-7 1,100 68 & C
M & N & M & C & N & N & M & M & M & 14.5 36.4 3 5.2 B
n
c Nikon D5000 700 67 & M
M & N & C & M & M & M & M & M & C & 12.2 32.6 3 4 L
n
c Sony 500 64 &M &M &N &M NA &N &N &N &M &C 10 28.1 2.7 2.5 B
DSLR-A330
Sony 850 64 &C &M &N &M NA &N &M &N &M &C 14 33.2 3 7 B
DSLR-A550
n
c Pentax K-x 500 63 & M
M & M
& M
& C & &N &M &M &C 12.2 31.4 2.7 4.7 B
& M
Sony 550 63 &M &M &N &N NA &N &C &N &M &C 14 28 3 2.5 B
DSLR-A380
Sony 650 63 &C &M &N &M NA &N &C &N &M &C 12.2 33.2 2.7 5 B
DSLR-A500
Olympus E-620 700 60 &M &M &M &M NA C
& M& M& M& C& 12.2 27.7 2.7 4 B
Nikon D3000 500 60 NA
&C &C &M &M M & C& M& M& C& 10 30 3 3 L



Recommendation
Image quality
Regular photos
Low-light photos
Flash photos
Video quality
Response time
Handling shake
Controls
Versatility
LCD quality
Megapixels
Weight (oz.)
LCD size (in.)
Max. continuous
speed (fps)
Image stabilizer
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
SLR-Like
Panasonic
Lumix DMC- $1,180 71 &M &C &C &M &M &N &N &M &N &M 12 32.8 3 3 B
GH1K
Panasonic
n Lumix DMC-
d 730 67 &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &C 12 20.2 3 3 B
GF1K
Ricoh GXR 600 63 &M &M &M &N &M &M &C &C &M &C 10 14.7 3 1.6 B
Olympus PEN 1,100 60
E-P2 &M &M &M NA &M &C &M &M &M &C 12.2 21.4 3 3 B
Samsung NX10 600 60 & C
C & M
& M
& C
& M
& B & &M &C 14 22.7 3
& M 3 L
Advanced point-and-shoots
n Canon Power- 500 65
d
Shot G11 &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &M &M 10 14.9 2.8 1.1 L
Casio Exilim 350 57 &C &C &M &M &M &C &N &M &M &C 10 8 3 40 B
EX-FH100


Overall score combines several tests, including regular photos, low-light photos, and flash pho-
tos as well as resolution, macro, veiling glare, vignetting, color and geometric distortion tests,
among others. Image quality combines several tests, including regular photos, low-light photos,
and flash photos as well as resolution, macro, veiling glare, vignetting, color and geometric
distortion tests, among others. Regular photos reflects the quality of a series of handheld shots,
using natural light and flash, taken indoors and outdoors under a range of light conditions.
Low-light photos tests the quality of shots taken in low-light conditions. Flash photos tests
the quality of the built-in flash’s light output and evenness of illumination. Video quality mostly
reflects footage shot in regular and low light, with audio quality and macro (close-up) capability
also considered. Response time is an overall speed judgment, including start-up time and the
shutter delay for the first and later shots. Handling shake reflects how well blur, distortion, and
color defects are avoided with handheld shots. Controls is a general assessment of basic opera-
tion. Versatility assesses controls, features, menus, and settings. LCD quality is a judgment of
images viewed under a number of lighting conditions. Price is approximate retail.

d i g i ta l p h oto f r a m e s 219
ratings
DIGITAL PHOTO FRAMES
Picture quality is by far the most important feature to consider when you’re buying a
digital frame. You might also want to look for a frame with built-in Wi-Fi to make it
easier to grab photos from your computer or an online photo-sharing service. Extra
memory is also a plus. Below are Select Ratings.

Recommendation
Picture quality
Viewing angle
Versatility
Ease of use
Viewable display
size (in.)
Display resolution
External memory
formats
Internal memory
(MB)
Aspect ratio
Audio playback
Video playback
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
6- to 8-inch display
n Digital Spectrum
d 800x SD, MMC,
Memory Frame $ 80 72 &M &V &N &N 8.5 600 MS, xD, USB 512 4:03 • •
MF-801
800x SD, MMC, 512 16:09
n Ipevo Kaleido R7
d 150 71 &M &V &M &M 7 480 MS, USB
n Pandigital
d
PAN7000DW 70 70 800x
&M &V &M &N 6.9 600
SD, MMC, 1024 4:03
MS, xD, USB • •
800x SD, MMC, 1000 16:10
n Sony DPP-F700
d 160 64 & &V &M &N 6.9 480
C MS, CF, xD
9-inch-or-larger display
SD, MMC,
HP DreamScreen 800x
n 100
d 200 71 &M &C &N &M 10.2 480 MS, lCF, xD, 2000 15:09 • •
MD, USB

Overall score is in performance order, based on picture quality, viewing angle, and versatility.
Picture quality includes image clarity, color accuracy, and contrast, based mainly on the judg-
ments of a panel that viewed photographs on each device, as well as lab measurements. View-
ing angle indicates the quality of images when viewed from 45 degrees of the center line both
horizontally and vertically. This is important if you are standing above the frame and looking
down, sitting at an angle to the frame, or sitting with the frame positioned above you. Versatil-
ity includes the presence of hardware and menu-based navigation features; the number of
memory-card and USB slots; built-in memory; brightness, color, and contrast controls; wireless
remote control; portrait and landscape stands; removable picture frames and any extra frames
included; audio and video playback; audio and video connections; computer-to-device image
transfer speeds; number and duration of slideshow timings; the ability to delete images; image
quantity; size and format limitations; and handling of non-compatible image formats. Ease of
use includes characteristics that aid in the usability of the frame. Price is approximate retail.

DISHWASHERS
Most of the dishwashers we tested rated at least a Very Good washing job even as federal
efficiency standards have become stricter. One downside of using less water is that dish-
washer cycles are longer, with some models requiring 3 hours for a normal cycle.

Recommendation
Washing
Energy use
Noise
Ease of use
Cycle time (min.)
Adjustable top rack
Self-cleaning filter
Cycle-time display
Ample flatware slots
Stainless-steel tub
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS All are Energy Star-qualified.

n Bosch SHE55M1[2]UC SHE55P0[ ]UC $ 850 82
d &N &N &M M & 120 • • • •
KitchenAid KUDE70CV[SS] ⁄
KUDE70FV
1,300 81 N
& N
& N
& & 140 •
M •
LG Steam LDF7932[ST] ⁄ 1,000 81 &N &M &M &N 130 • • • • •
n
c Kenmore 1374[2] ⁄ 1384[ ] 650 80 &N &M &C &M 125 • • •
Kenmore Pro HE1317[3] ⁄ 1,280 79 &N &N &N &M 145 • •
n KitchenAid KUDS40CV[WH] KUDS40FV 990 79
d &N &M &M &M 115 • • •
LG LDF6920[WW] ⁄€ 700 79 &N &M &M &M 125 • • • •
Bosch SHX45P0[5]UC ⁄ SHX45L1[ ]UC,
SHX45L0[ ]UC, SHV43P1[ ]UC
900 79 &N &N &M &M 115 • • •
KitchenAid KUDE60FV[WH] 1,340 78 &N &N &M &M 135 • •
Kenmore 1389[2] 500 78 &N &M &C &M 135 •
Whirlpool Gold GU2300XTV[Q] 550 78 &N &M &C &M 135 • •
Kenmore 1348[2] 500 77 &N &M &C &C 120 • •
Asko D5253XXL ⁄ 1,300 77 &N &M &M &M 180 • •
Whirlpool Gold GU2800XTV[Q] 700 77 &N &N &C &M 155 •
n KitchenAid KUDS30IV[WH]
c 675 77 &N &M &C &M 120 • • •
Whirlpool Gold GU3600XTV[Q] 800 77 &M &N &M &M 145 • •
n Bosch SHX43P1[2]UC ⁄ SHE43P1[ ]UC,
d SHV43P1[ ]UC, SHE43F1[ ]UC, SHE43P0[ ]UC 800 77 &N &N &C &M 115 • • •
n GE Profile PDWT500R[WW] ⁄
d
PDWT580R[ ], PDWT502R[ ]
1,300 77 &N &M &M &N 110 • • • • •
Bosch SHX6AP0[2]UC 700 77 &N &N &M &M 110 • • • •

dishwashers 221
ratings
Recommendation
Washing
Energy use
Noise
Ease of use
Cycle time (min.)
Adjustable top rack
Cycle-time display
Stainless-steel tub
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS continued

Miele Inspira G2142SC[WH] ⁄ $1,150 76 &N N & M & C & 145 • • •
KitchenAid KUDE50CV[SS] ⁄ 1,200 76 & N
N & M & M & 125 • • •
Whirlpool DU1055XTV[Q] € 400 76 & M
N & C & C & 125 •
Bosch SHE6APO[2]UC ⁄ SHE6AF0[ ]UC,
SHE5AL0[ ]UC, SHX5AL0[ ]UC, SHE4AP0[ ]UC, 600 75 &N &M &C &M 135 • • • •
SHX4AP0[ ]UC
n Bosch
d SHX65PO[5]UC ⁄
SHE65P0[ ]UC, SHV65P0[ ]UC 1,150 75 &M &M &M &M 120 • • • •
Maytag MDB7609AW[W] € 450 75 &N &M &C &V 120 • • •
Whirlpool DU1300XTV[Q] € 420 72 & N & C & C & C 140 •
n Maytag MDB8959AW[W] ⁄
d 750 71 & M & M & C & N 120 • • • •
Frigidaire Gallery
FGBD2431K[W] ⁄€ 350 70 & N & C & C & C 155 •
GE GDWF100R[WW] ⁄€ 600 120 • • •
GDWF160R[ ], GDWT200R[ ], GDWT260R[ ]
70 &N &M &C &M
Maytag MDB4709AW[W] ⁄€ 400 69 & N & M & V & C 125 •
Dacor Epicure ED24[S] ⁄ 1,550 69 & M & M & M & C 110 • • •
Whirlpool DU1030XTX[Q] ⁄€ 350 68 & N & M & V & C 130 •
Frigidaire Gallery FGBD2432K[W] ⁄ 380 145 • •
BBBD2432K[ ], LGBD2432K[ ], DGBD2432K[ ]
68 & M & M & C & M
Frigidaire Gallery FGHD2433K[F] ⁄
BGHD2433K[ ], FGHD2461K[ ], FGHD2471K[ ]
500 66 &M &M &C &M 135 • • • •
Electrolux Wave-Touch 1,200 135 • • • •
EWDW6505G[W] ⁄
65 &M &M &M &N
Jenn-Air JDB3200AW[W] ⁄ 1,100 64 & M & N & M & C 125 • •
GE GLD7400R[WW] ⁄ GLD7460RSS 600 62 & M & M & C & N 110 • • • •
Amana ADB1600AW[W] ⁄€ 350 61 & M & M & V & C 130 • •
Kenmore 1344[2] ⁄ 300 60 & M & C & V & C 110 • •
Kenmore 1324[2] ⁄€ 410 58 & C & M & C & C 125 • •
Asko D5233XXL[HS] ⁄ 1,500 56 ‹ M
& & M & M 180 • •
Hotpoint HDA3600R[WW] € 300 53 &C &N &B &V 115 •
GE GLD4408R[WW] ⁄€ LD4458R[CS],
GLD4468R[ ], GLD4406R[ ], GLD4456R[CS], 400 53 &C &M &V &C 135 •
GLD4466R[SS], GLD4404R[ ], GLD4464R[ ]


Recommendation
Washing
Energy use
Noise
Ease of use
Cycle time (min.)
Adjustable top rack
Cycle-time display
Stainless-steel tub
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
DISHWASHER DRAWERS All are Energy Star-qualified unless otherwise noted.

Fisher & Paykel DD24DCT[W]6 $1,000 120 NA • •
DCS DD224-P5
78 &N &M &C &M
KitchenAid KUDD03DT[WH] › 1,480 55 & M 125 NA
& C & C • & C
Maytag MDD8000AW[S] ⁄ › 1,400 49 & C 145 NA
& C & C • & C
Kenmore Elite 1334[2] ⁄ › 1,300 38 & V 130 NA
& V & C • & C
Jenn-Air JDD4000AW[S] ⁄ 1,600 32 & V 130 NA& C & •
C & C
⁄ Available in a stainless-look option. € Lacks adjustable tines. ‹ Wash performance was inconsistent, ranging
from Fair to Very Good. › Does not qualify for Energy Star.
See report, page 66. Fish

Overall score, based mainly on washing performance, includes energy and water use, noise,
cycle time, and ease of use. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in order of precise
overall score. Washing is normal-cycle results with very dirty full load. Energy use is energy
and water consumption for a normal cycle. Noise covers listener judgments and sound-level
measurements. Ease of use considers convenience factors and loading. Cycle time (rounded
to nearest 5 minutes) is for normal cycle with very dirty full load and includes temperature-
boost option and, if available, heated dry. Adjustable top rack increases loading flexibility. A
self-cleaning filter is convenient but adds noise. As cycle times lengthen, cycle-time display
is helpful. Ample flatware slots means baskets provide individual slots for silverware. A stain-
less-steel tub won’t discolor but boosts price. Price is approximate retail. Ratings of previously
tested models might differ from earlier reports because of changes to our scoring methodology.
Under Brand & model, a bracketed letter or number is color code.

dishwashers 223
ratings
Dishwashers LG and Fisher & Paykel were the most re-

pair-prone brands of dishwashers. That’s
Fewer More what we found when we asked almost
repairs repairs
114,000 readers who bought a dishwasher
Hotpoint 8 between 2005 and 2009 about their expe-
Whirlpool 8 riences. The table shows the percentage of
Kenmore 9 models for each brand that were repaired
Miele 9 or had a serious problem. Differences of
Bosch less than 4 points aren’t meaningful, and
10
GE we’ve adjusted the data to eliminate differ-
11
ences linked solely to dishwasher age and
Amana 11 usage. Although we lacked sufficient data
Jenn-Air 12 to distinguish between pull-out/drawer-
KitchenAid 12 type and standard dishwashers, pull-out
Frigidaire 13 dishwashers appear to be as reliable as
Maytag 13 standard dishwashers. Models within a
Asko 14 brand can vary, and design or manufacture
Fisher & Paykel changes might affect future reliability. Still,
18
choosing a brand with a good repair history
LG 23
can improve your odds of getting a reliable
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% model.
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,

Consumer Reports National Research Center.

DRYERS
All dryers get the job done, but our Recommended models use a moisture sensor to
do so with the least wear and tear on your clothes, especially delicate items. They also
scored Very Good or better for drying, capacity, and convenience. Gas and electric
dryers have performed comparably in our tests over the years.

Recommendation
Drying
Capacity
Convenience
Noise
Stackable
Custom programming
Steam option
comparable to tested model. Bracketed
letters or numbers are color codes.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
LG DLE2701[V] ⁄€ Gas: DLG2702[ ] $1,100 84 &N &N &M &N • •

GE Profile Harmony DPGT750EC[WW] •
n
d Gas: DPGT750GC[ ]
950 83 & N & N & M & N
LG DLEX2501[W] ⁄€ Gas: DLGX2502[ ] 1,050 83 & N & N & M & N • • •
Samsung DV419AE[W] Gas: DV419AG[ ] 1,200 82 & N & N & M & N • • •
Kenmore Oasis Steam 6808[2] ⁄ Oasis Steam 950 81 &M &N &M &N •
6809[ ] Gas: Oasis Steam 7808[ ], 7809[ ]
Whirlpool Duet Steam WED9750W[W] Gas:
Duet Steam WGD9750W[ ]
1,200 81 &N &N &M &M • •
Whirlpool Duet WED9450W[W]
Gas: Duet WGD9450W[ ]
1,100 81 &N &M &M &M •
Kenmore Elite 8219[2] €Gas: Elite 9219[ ] 1,300 80 &N N& M& N& • • •
n LG DLE2050[W] €Gas: DLG2051[ ]
d 700 80 & M
N & M& N & • •
Samsung Steam DV448AE[W]
Gas: Steam DV448AG[ ]
1,150 80 &M &N &M &N • • •
Maytag 5000 Series Steam MEDE500V[W]
Gas: 5000 Series Steam MGDE500V[ ]
1,100 79 &M &M &M &N • •
Kenmore Elite Oasis 6703[2] ⁄ 6704[ ], 6705[ ]
n
d Gas: 7703[ ], 7704[ ], 7705[ ]
680 79 &N &M &M &M
LG SteamDryer DLEX3001[W] € 1,300 79 &M &N &M &N • • •
Gas: SteamDryer DLGX3002[ ]
Maytag 9000 Series MEDE900V[W]
Gas: 9000 Series MGDE900V[ ]
1,200 79 &N N & M & C & • •
LG DLE5955[W] Gas: DLG5966[ ] 950 79 & N
M & M & N & • •
n LG DLE2516[W] Gas: DLG2526[ ]
d 700 78 & M
N & M & N & • •
Kenmore 800 Series 6982[2] 800 Series 6983[ ]
n
c Gas: 800 Series 7982[ ], 7983[ ]
510 78 &M &N &M &M
Bosch Vision 800 Series WTVC833[0]US Gas:
Vision 800 Series WTVC853[0]UC
1,200 77 &N &M &M &M • •

dryers 225
ratings
Recommendation
Drying
Capacity
Convenience
Noise
Stackable
Custom programming
Steam option
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
n Kenmore 8002[1] € Gas: 9002[ ]

d $ 650 77 &N M& M& M& •
GE Profile DPVH890EJ[WW]
Gas: Profile DPVH890GJ[ ]
1,200 77 & N
M & M& M & • • •
GE Profile DPSE810EG[WT] ⁄
n
c Gas: DPSE810GG[ ]
600 77 &N &M &M &C
Whirlpool Cabrio Steam WED6600V[W] Gas:
n
d Cabrio Steam WGD6600V[ ]
830 77 &N &M &M &M •
Whirlpool Duet WED9250W[W]
Gas: Duet WGD9250W[ ]
850 77 &N &M &C &M •
GE DCVH680EJ[WW] Gas: DCVH680GJ[ ] 700 77 &N &M &M &C • •
Maytag Bravos MED6400T[Q] ⁄ 750 77 &M &M &M &M
Gas: MGD6400T[ ]
Bosch Vision 500 Series WTVC533[0]US Gas:
n
d Vision 500 Series WTVC553[0]UC
930 76 &N &M &M &M • •
Maytag Bravos MEDB850W[Q]
Gas: Bravos MGDB850W[ ]
900 76 & N
N & M
& C
& •
Amana NED7200T[W] Gas: NGD7200T[ ] 600 72 &M M & C & N & •
Electrolux IQ EIED55H[IW] Gas: IQ EIGD55H[ ] 1,100 71 & N
M & M & V & • •
Maytag Bravos Steam MEDB800V[Q] 900 • •
Gas: Bravos Steam MGDB800V[ ]
70 & N
M & M & M &
Electrolux Perfect Steam EWMED65H[IW]
Gas: Perfect Steam EWMGD65H[ ]
1,500 70 &M N & M & M & • • •
Kenmore 8027[2] €Gas: 9027[ ] 750 69 & N
M & M & M & •
Maytag Bravos MEDB200V[Q] 740
Gas: Bravos MGDB200V[ ]
69 & M
M & M & C &
Whirlpool Cabrio WED6200S[W] 700
Gas: WGD6200S[ ]
68 &M M & M & M &
Miele Touchtronic T9800 Gas: T9820 1,300 66 & M
M & M & V &
Frigidaire Gallery GLEQ2152E[S]
Gas: Gallery GLGQ2152E[ ]
600 65 & C
M & M & M & •
Whirlpool WED5800S[W] Ï WED5700V[ ] 480 62 &C &M &M &C
Gas: WGD5700V[ ]
Kenmore 6962[2] 6963[ ] Gas: 7962[ ], 7963[ ] 420 61 & M
C & C
& M
&
Fisher & Paykel DE62TG1 DE62T27G 770
Gas: DG62TG1
59 &M &M &C &C
Frigidaire Affinity AEQ6000E[S] LEQ6000E[ ]
(Lowe’s), AEQB6000E[ ] (Best Buy) Gas: AGQ6000E[ ], 650 58 &C &C &M &M •
LGQ6000E[ ] (Lowe’s), AGQB6000E[ ] (Best Buy)
Asko TL751XXL[W] Gas: TL751GXXL[ ] 1,000 56 &C N& M& M&
Maytag Centennial MEDC500V[W] 490 56
Gas: Centennial MGDC500V[ ] & M
C & M& C &


Recommendation
Drying
Capacity
Convenience
Noise
Stackable
Custom programming
Steam option
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Fisher & Paykel DE60FA1 Gas: DG60FA1 $470 52 &C &C &C &M
GE DRSR483EG[WW] ⁄‹Gas: DRSR483GG[ ] 550 45 & V & M & M & C
Staber HXD2304E Gas: HXD2304G 800 39 & V & M & C & V
Amana NED4800V[Q] ‹ Gas: NGD4800V[ ] 400 36 & V & M & M & V
Hotpoint NBXR333EG[WW] ‹ 370 30 &B &C &V &M
Gas: NBXR333GG[ ]
Kenmore 6952[2] ‹Gas: 7952[ ] 380 30 &B &M &C &C
Roper RED4440V[Q] ‹ Gas: RGD4440V[ ] 300 28 &B &M &V &C
Ï Discontinued, but similar model is still available; price is for similar model. ⁄Has a porcelain top. €Has a duct-
blockage indicator. ‹Lacks a moisture sensor.


Overall score for dryers is based mainly on drying, capacity, convenience, and noise. Because
of changes in our scoring scheme, some scores of previously tested models might have
changed. Drying performance is measured for multiple fabrics and load sizes. Noise reflects
panelists’ judgments. Price is approximate retail for electric dryers. Add $50 to $150 for gas.

dryers 227
ratings
Electric dryers Fisher & Paykel was the most repair-prone

brand of electric dryers. That’s what we
Fewer More found when we asked more than 100,000
repairs repairs
readers who bought a dryer between 2005
LG 4 and 2009 about their experiences. The
Bosch 5 graphs show the percentage of brands that
Whirlpool 5 needed a repair or had a serious problem.
GE 6 Differences of fewer than 3 points aren’t
Frigidaire 6 meaningful, and we’ve adjusted the data to
Kenmore eliminate differences linked solely to age
6
and use of the appliance. Models within a
Maytag 6
brand might vary, and design or manufac-
Roper 7 ture changes might affect future reliability.
Amana 9 Still, choosing a brand with a good repair
Fisher & Paykel 12 history can improve your odds of getting a
reliable model.
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Gas dryers
Fewer More
repairs repairs
LG 6
Whirlpool 6
GE 6
Kenmore 7
Maytag 8
Frigidaire 8
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%

E-BOOK READERS
E-book readers judged best for readability will be the easiest on the eyes. Readers with
the best scores in versatility will have more features. If you’re going to get books from
multiple e-book stores and public libraries then look for readers with the highest file
support Ratings.

Recommendation
Readability
Versatility
Responsiveness
Page turn
Navigation
File support
Claimed battery life
Viewable display
size (in.)
3G carrier
Wi-Fi
Internal memory (GB)
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
8-inch-or-Larger Display
n Amazon Kindle DX $360
d 65 &M M& C& M& N& V& 7-14 days 9.6 AT&T 4
iRex DR 800SG 400 49 & M
C & B& C& C& M& NS 8 Verizon 0
6- to 7-inch Display
n Amazon Kindle
c 190 63 &M &C &C &N &N &V 7-14 days 6 AT&T 2
Sony Reader Daily 300 60 & N
C & M
& C
& N
& N
& 7-17 days 7.1 AT&T 2
Edition PRS900BC
Sony Reader Up to 14
Touch Edition 170 56 &C &M &M &M &N &N days 6.1 NA 1
PRS600SC
Barnes & Noble
Nook 200 52 &C &M &V &M &C &M 10 days 6 AT&T • 2
4,000
BeBook Neo 300 51 &C &C &C &C &M &N pages 6.1 NA • 1
5-inch-or-Smaller Display
Sony Reader Up to 14
Pocket Edition 150 51 &C &V &M &C &C &M 5 NA 1
days
PRS300RC
24 hrs.
Aluratek Libre continuous/ 5.1
170 43 & V
C & B
& N
& C
& &N 30 days NA 0
eBook Reader Pro
standby


e-book readers 229
ratings
Overall score is in performance order, based on display readability, e-reader versatility,
responsiveness, page turn, navigation, and support for file versatility. The displayed score
is out of a total of 100 points. Readability is a measurement of how well the e-reader can
be viewed in various lighting conditions. E-readers are tested in bright sunlight, a room
replicating an average lit room, and a dimly lit room. Versatility mainly includes charac-
teristics that aid in usefulness and convenience. Those include the presence of hardware
and menu-based navigation features. Also considered are the number of memory-card
slots, built-in memory, power and headphone jacks, touch screen, physical keyboard, Wi-Fi,
and accelerometer, among other features. Responsiveness is a speed measurement of
how quickly an e-reader can turn on from full off, resume from sleep, open an e-book,
and transfer an e-book from a computer via USB. Page turn is mostly a performance
measurement of how quickly an e-reader can turn to the next page of an e-book. It also
takes into account the page-turning experience and such qualities as whether or not the
screen blinks while page turning, if there are dedicated page forward and back buttons,
placement of those buttons, and presence of a physical keyboard. Navigation includes
the ability of the e-reader to rotate to landscape and portrait mode, automatically and
manually bookmark a page, search for an e-book, search through an online bookstore,
and the presence of an accelerometer. File support is a Rating of typical e-book formats
supported as well as other typical file formats you may want to read on an e-reader. The
following formats are rated; EPUB, PDF, MOBI, Word documents, TXT, RTF, JPEG, and GIF.
Viewable display size is the size of the display screen, measured diagonally to the near-
est 10th of an inch. Price is approximate retail.

FLOORING
Top performers did best in our everyday abuse tests. For baths, we suggest vinyl or
ceramic tile for its moisture resistance. Below are Select Ratings.
Product Price per Sq. ft. Overall score Test results

sq. ft. per box
All engineered-wood, plastic-laminate,
Recommendation
Wear
Scratches
Dents
Stains
Sunlight (UV)
and linoleum products can be floated
unless otherwise indicated.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
PREFINISHED SOLID WOOD Usually nailed to a subfloor at grade or above; all are ¾-inch thick.
c
n EcoTimber Woven Honey WBH061 ⁄ $ 5.75 23 69 &M &N &M &N &C
n
d Bruce Dundee Plank CB1210 5.70 22 57 &N &C &B &M &B
d Lumber
n Liquidators Bellawood Natural
Red Oak HUSR03N38V 4.50 40 54 &M &M &B &N &C
ENGINEERED WOOD Can usually can be nailed or stapled anywhere in the house. Some can float.
Teragren Synergy Strand with Xcora
n
d Java ⁄ 6.00 23 65 &C &N &V &M &N
n
d Home Legend Hand Scraped Oak Gunstock 4.00 21 64 &C &N &B &N &N
Click-Lock (Home Depot) HL16
n
d Mannington American Hardwoods 5.90 36 57 &C &M &B &N &N
American Oak Plank
PLASTIC LAMINATE Can usually be floated anywhere in the house.

Armstrong Coastal Living L3051 White
n
d Wash Walnut 3.50 14 77 &N &N &V &N &N
c
n Pergo Accolade 3.00 18 68 &C N& M& N& N&
n
d Pergo American Cottage 3.40 18 68 & N
C & M& N& N &

flooring 231
ratings
Product Price per Sq. ft. Overall score Test results
sq. ft. per box
All engineered-wood, plastic-laminate,
Recommendation
Wear
Scratches
Dents
Stains
Sunlight (UV)
and linoleum products can be floated
unless otherwise indicated.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
VINYL Can usually be glued down anywhere in the house.

Congoleum DuraCeramic Sierra Slate SI-74
n
d Golden Greige $6.50 17 86 &N &N &M &N &N
c
n Nafco PermaStone Natural Slate NS-660 3.90 27 72 &N &C &N &C &N
Sand Stone
LINOLEUM Can usually be glued down or floated anywhere in the house.

Armstrong Marmorette Oak Brown
n
d LP066 € 4.50 85 69 &C &M &M &M &N
⁄ Bamboo product. € Cannot be floated.


Overall score based mainly on resistance to wear, scratches, dents, stains, sunlight, moisture,
and slips. Moisture resistance, not shown, based on damp sponge left overnight (minor spills)
and soaked samples (long exposure). Slip resistance, not shown, is friction listed by precise
overall score. Wear is how quickly surface wear was noticeable during test using abrasion
machine. Scratches is ability to withstand damage from simulated dragged object. Dents is
resistance to blunt and pointed weights dropped from various heights. Stains indicate how
resistant the floor is to staining from various products such as coffee, bleach, grape juice, motor
oil, tar, ink, etc. Sunlight (UV) is exposure to high levels of ultraviolet light for more than 300
hours. Price per square foot is based mainly on price paid. Square feet per box is as claimed.

GAS GRILLS
You’ll pay $300 to $500 for a grill that can handle most of your cooking needs. Spending
more will get you more stainless-steel styling and additional convenience features, but
not necessarily better performance. Several midsized models that cost less than $500
performed as well in our tests as others that cost much more. Below are Select Ratings.

Similar models, in small
Recommendation
Evenness
Grilling
Convenience
Stainless-steel grates
Coated cast-iron grates
All or mostly stainless
Long-warranty
burners
Side burner
Infrared burner
type, are comparable to
tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Large models
Rotisserie,
■
d Jenn-Air 720-0709 $800 80 &N &M &N • • • searing burner
■
c Brinkmann 810-1575-W 380 73 &M &M &M • • • Rotisserie, side
(Walmart) burner
■
d Char-Broil Commercial
Quantum 463247310 500 72 &M &M &M • • • Main burners
[item #154596] (Lowe’s)
■
d Kenmore 16649 700 71 &M &M &M • • • • Rotisserie,
burner
side
■
d Bond GSC3218WA 600 69 &M &M &M • • none
Medium-sizeD models
■
d Weber Genesis E320 700 86 • • • none
Genesis E310 &N &N &N
■
d Char-Broil Red
• • • Main burners
463250509 (Home Depot) 450 81 &N &M &M
Red 463250510 (Home Depot)
■
d Brinkmann 810-8410S
200 76 • • none
(Home Depot) &N &M &M
810-8411-5 (Home Depot)
■
c Kenmore 16641 350 76 &M &M &M • • • none
■
c Char-Broil Commercial
Series 463268008
[Item #242266] (Lowe’s) 300 75 &M &N &M • • • • none
Commercial Series 463247010
[Item #242266] (Lowe's)
■
c Grill Master 720-0697 200 74 &M &M &M • • none

gas grills 233
ratings
Similar models, in small
Recommendation
Evenness
Grilling
Convenience
Stainless-steel grates
Coated cast-iron grates
All or mostly stainless
Long-warranty
burners
Side burner
Infrared burner
type, are comparable to
tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Medium-sized models continued

■
c Uniflame GBC1059WB
(Walmart) $250 74 &M &M &M • • none
■
d Kenmore 16657 400 72 &M &M &M • • • Main burners
■
d Ducane Affinity 3400 450 70 &M &M &M • • none
30731301
Portable or Small models
■
c Char-Broil Red Patio
463250210 (Home Depot) 270
78 &M &N &M • • Main burners
■
d Weber Q 200 396002 200 65 &M &M &C • none


Overall score denotes performance, features, and convenience. Displayed scores are rounded;
models are listed in order of precise overall score. We tested evenness at high and low settings.
Grilling is the ability to cook on low without burning. Convenience includes construction and
materials, shelves, rack space, flare-up, and ease of use. Price is approximate retail.

GPS navigators
Portable GPS navigation systems differ most in ease of use and their features. For our
Ratings, we factor heavily the qualities that make it easy to input destinations and give
the most helpful directions. Below are Select Ratings.

Similar models, in
Recommendation
Entering
destination/POI
Info for driver
Routing options
Use of controls
Mount design
Display
Portability
Routing time
Traffic interface
Tested battery life (hr.)
Weight (oz.)
Screen size (in.)
Bluetooth hands-free
calling
Spoken street names
small type, are
comparable to
tested model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Navigators with traffic optional

Garmin Nuvi
n 1350
d $170 70 &N &M &C &M &M &M &M &M &M 2.8 5.7 4.4 •
n TomTom
c 140 S
One 100 67 &M &M &M &M &C &C &N &C &M 3 4.9 3.5 •
n Garmin
d
Nuvi
1200 Nuvi 1250 120 66 &M &C &C &M &M &M &N &M &M 3 4.7 3.5 •
Traffic-ready navigators
Garmin Nuvi
n 3760T
d 400 76 &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M 2 4.1 4.3 • •
TomTom Go 740
n
d Live Go 740 TM Live 250 74 &N &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &N 2 7.6 4.4 • •
Garmin Nuvi
n
d 1490T Nuvi 1490LMT 250 74 &N &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M 2.5 8 5 • •
Garmin Nuvi
n
d 765T Nuvi 755T 250 73 &N &M &M &C &N &M &M &M &M 2 6.5 4.4 • •
Motorola
n
d Motonav TN765t 280 72 &M &M &C &N &M &N &M &N &C 1.8 6.2 5.1 • •
Magellan
n
c Maestro 4350 150 70 &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M 2.8 7.2 4.4 • •
TomTom XL 340
n
c S Live 150 70 &M &M &M &M &C &M &N &C &N 2.8 6.6 4.4 •


g p s n av i g at o r s 235
ratings
Overall score mainly reflects how easy a navigation system is to use, combined with factors
such as information given, portability, and routing options. The displayed score is out of a total
of 100 points. Entering destination/POI is based on the logic and ease of programming an
address or Point Of Interest into the system. Includes whether the database allows dynamic
searching for addresses, if letters are grayed out, ease of entering into navigation menus upon
startup, and ease of finding POI. Info for driver reflects the onscreen and audible informa-
tion given to the user during navigation. Includes type and font size of onscreen information,
ability to speak proper street names, languages supported, and amount of audible information
given including descriptions of the next maneuver. Routing options is based on the number of
options for fine-tuning the route plotted by the system. Includes multidestination routing, avoid-
ance of toll roads, biking routes, walking routes, and RV/truck use. Also includes availability of
foreign map databases. Use of controls is based on the design of the physical interface with
the system. Includes size of onscreen icons, presence of hard keys, need to use a stylus instead
of a fingertip, and ease of adjusting common functions like volume, brightness, and map zoom
setting. Mount design considers how the mount is engineered, factoring size, security, and
ease of installation. Display is based on display size, brightness, contrast, and glare/reflections
in bright sunlight. Considers ratio of screen size to overall device size for packaging efficiency.
Portability reflects the size and weight of the unit, as well as the size of the mount and the
ability to easily detach the mount for packing. Routing time is based on measurements of cal-
culation time for plotting various trips with GPS reception active. Also includes system response
time when operating data-entry menus, such as POI searching. Traffic interface rates the
presentation of the traffic information and the ability to put the data into use. Rating factors
include antenna design, color coding for traffic severity, depth of information, estimated time
for delay, and tools for rerouting around congestion. However, we do not rate the accuracy or
timeliness of the traffic information itself. Tested battery life (hr.) is the length of time in hours
that the fully charged unit remained on, while set to full brightness. Price is approximate retail.

GPS phone apps

Smart-phone navigation applications are evolving rapidly, offering new features and
improved guidance with each successive release. The best apps approximate the con-
venience seen with dedicated portable navigation devices, with simple menus, spoken
street names, and reality view.
Brand & model Price Version File size Spoken Overall score Test results
street
names
Recommendation
Entering
destination/POI
Use of controls
Info for driver
Routing options
Traffic interface
Integration
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Preloaded database
n Navigon
d
MobileNavi-
gator North America $80 1.5.1 1.46 GB • 64 &N &C &C &C 4 5
n Magellan
d
RoadMate
2010 North America 80 1.2 1.36 GB • 63 &N &M &M &V NA 3
n TomTom
d Canada
U.S. & 70 1.3 1.41 GB • 62 &M &M &M &C 4 3
n CoPilot
c America
Live North 30 8.0.0.660 1.33 GB • 62 &M &V &C &M 4 4
G-Map U.S. & Canada 50 2.0 1.98 GB • 58 &M &C &M &C 3 3
Sygic Mobile Maps
North America 60 8.0.1 1.83 GB • 56 &M &C &M &M NA 1
iGO My Way 2009
Navigation for 55 1.1 1.03 GB • 52 &M &V &C &V NA 3
North America
Server-based database
AT&T Navigator 70 1.5i 2.3 MB • 58 &M C & C & V & 3 4
n MotionX-GPS Drive
d 25 3.5 7.6 MB No 46 & C & V
M & V & NA 4
Gokivo GPS Navigator 40 4.4.3 2.7 MB • 46 & C & C
C & V & 3 3


gps phone apps 237
ratings
Overall score reflects ease of use and factors such as information given, portability, and rout-
ing options. Displayed score is out of a total 100 possible points. Entering destination/POI is
based on the logic and ease of programming an address or Point Of Interest. Includes whether
database allows dynamic searching for addresses, if letters are grayed out, ease of access-
ing navigation menus upon startup, and ease of finding points of interest. Use of controls
assesses size of onscreen icons, use of hard keys, and ease of adjusting common functions like
volume, brightness, and map zoom setting. Info for driver is based on the onscreen and audible
information given to the user during navigation. Factors the type and font size of onscreen
information, ability to speak proper street names, languages supported, and amount of audible
information given, including descriptions of the next maneuver. Routing options reflects the
number of options for fine-tuning the route plotted by the application. Includes multidestina-
tion routing, avoidance of toll roads, biking routes, walking routes, and RV/truck use. Traffic
interface rates the presentation of the traffic information and the ability to put the data to use.
Rating factors include color-coding for traffic severity, depth of information, estimated time of
delay, and tools for rerouting around congestion. We do not rate the accuracy or timeliness of
the traffic information itself. Integration is based on how well the application integrates with
common iPod/iPhone functions, such as playing music, routing to contacts, and resuming after
phone calls. Price is approximate retail.

GUTTER GUARDS
The best systems kept out debris while keeping in rainwater. But even the best pro-
installed products let some water pour over during our simulated severe storms. Below
are Select Ratings.
Brand & model Price Type Overall score Test results

per ft.
Heavy flow
Severe flow
Recommendation
Buildup
Ease of
installation

0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
PRO-INSTALLED These include installation and, often, free clog-clearing, but they’re pricey.
n
d LeafFilter ⁄€ $20 Screen (fine mesh) 86 &N &M &C NA
n
d Gutter Topper ⁄ 23 Surface tension 80 & N & M & C NA
n
d LeafGuard ⁄‹ 30 Surface tension 80 & N & M & C NA
n
d Waterloov 20 Surface tension 80 & N & M & C NA
HOMEOWNER-INSTALLED These can also be installed by a contractor, and they cost much less.
n
d Gutterglove Pro ⁄ 8.95 Screen (fine mesh) 89 &N &N &N &V
n
c Amerimax 85198 € 0.30 Screen 86 &M &N &N &N
n
d Amerimax 85246 ⁄ 3.95 Screen 84 &N &N &N &V
n
c Amerimax 854054 ⁄ 0.40 Screen 80 &M &N &N &N
n
d Raindrop € 4.75 Screen 77 &M &N &N &V
OPEN GUTTER WITHOUT A GUARD (For comparison)
Unprotected gutter NA Conventional 27 &B &M &C NA
⁄Metal. €Plastic. ‹Includes integrated gutters.


Overall score is based mainly on ability to prevent buildup and handle simulated heavy and
severe rainfall, and (for do-it-yourself systems) ease of installation. Displayed scores are rounded;
products are listed by precise overall score. Buildup is based on leaves and other debris over 16
months outside with no upkeep. Heavy flow is ability to contain equivalent of 31/2 to 41/2 inches
per hour of water over typical roof section. Severe flow is ability to contain equivalent of 6 to
71/2 inches per hour. Ease of installation includes cutting, drilling, and other work. Price per foot
is for product and installation; for do-it-yourself systems, approximate retail for product only.

lawn mowers 239
ratings
lawn mowers
We found cordless and electric models that handled well, but gas-powered models are
better for larger lawns and include more safety features.

Similar models, in
Recommendation
Evenness
Mulching
Bagging
Side discharging
Handling
Ease of use
Forward speeds
Drive wheels
Deck size (in.)
Electric start
Blade brake clutch
Engine size (cc/volts)
small type, are
comparable to tested
model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Self-propelled mowers
Honda
HRX2172HXA $ 700 85 &N &N &N &C &M &N Variable Rear 21 • 190
Toro Super Bagger 690 84
■
d 20194 Super Bagger 20197 &N &N &M &N &M &N Variable Rear 21 • 160
Toro Super Recycler 530 83 &M &N &M &N &M &M Variable Rear 21 190
20092
Toro Recycler
■
c 20333 400 82 &M &N &M &N &M &M Variable Rear 22 • 190
Honda HRX2172VKA 600 81 & N
M & N & &M &M Variable Rear 21
& C 190
Honda
HRR216K3VXA 500 80 &M &M &M &M &M &N Variable Rear 21 • 160
■
c Toro Recycler 20332 350 79 & N
M & M & &M &C Variable Rear 22
& N 190
Honda 400 78 &M &N &M &C &M &M Variable Rear 21 160
HRR216K5VKA
■
d Craftsman 37659 360 72 & M
C & &M &M &M Variable Front 22 •
& M 190
Honda 440 72 &M &M &M &M &C &M 3 Rear 21 160
HRR216K3TDA
■
c Toro Recycler 20330 300 72 &M &N &M &N &C &C 1 Front 22 190
Craftsman 37435
■
d 37436 300 70 & C & M & M & M & M & M Variable Rear 22 190
Craftsman 37654 350 70 & C & M & M & M & M & M Variable Front 22 160
Craftsman 37108 500 68 & M & M & M & M & M & M Variable Rear 21 175
■
d Yard-Man 12A-18M7 280 68 & M & M & M & M & M & M 1 Rear 19 173
Craftsman 37454 340 68 & M & C & M & C & C & M Variable Rear 22 190
John Deere JS46 500 67 & M & C & M & C & C & N Variable Rear 22 • 190
■
d Brute BTXPV22700E 350 66 & M & C & M & C & M & M Variable Rear 22 • 190
Troy-Bilt TB340 370 66 &M &M &M &M &V &M 4 Rear 21 175
XP 12AI869F
John Deere JS26 350 66 & C
M & M & &M &M Variable Front 22
& C 190


Similar models, in
Recommendation
Evenness
Mulching
Bagging
Side discharging
Handling
Ease of use
Forward speeds
Drive wheels
Deck size (in.)
Electric start
Blade brake clutch
Engine size (cc/volts)
small type, are
model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Self-propelled mowers continued

Cub Cadet $ 270 64 &M &M &M &C &C &C 1 Rear 19 173
12A-18MC
Craftsman 37639 290 63 &C &M &M &M &C &C 1 Front 22 190
Husqvarna 330 63 &C &M &M &V &C &M Variable Front 21 173
XT721F
Lawn-Boy 10641
■
d 10642 270 63 &C &M &M &N &C &C 1 Rear 20 190
Brute BTX- 270 62 &M &C &M &C &M &C 1 Front 22 190
P226750HW
Craftsman 37624
■
d 37061 330 62 &C &M &M &M &C &M 1 Front 22 • 190
Snapper 400 61 &C &C &C &C &C &N 4 Rear 21 190
SPV21675E
Snapper
SPV22675HW 320 61 &C &C &C &C &M &M Variable Front 22 190
SPV2270HW
Cub Cadet 290 60 1 Rear 19 • 173
12A-E18M 12A-E18JA &M &C &M &C &C &M
Craftsman 88933 1,300 56 • 344
88733 &M &C NA &M &V &C 4 Rear 33
Troy-Bilt TB230 290 54 &C &C &C &V &C &M Variable Front 21 190
12AVB26M
Ariens 500 50 &C &C &C &C &C &C 1 Rear 21 173
BR21SP/911152
Cordless electric self-propelled mower
48
Ryobi RY14110 400 57 &C &M &C &V &C &N 1 Rear 20 • NA volts

Overall score is mostly cutting performance, handling, and ease of use. Displayed scores rounded;
models listed in order of precise overall score. Evenness shows average cutting performance
for available modes. Mulching is how well clippings were cut and distributed onto lawn. Bagging
is effective capacity with full bag(s) or clogged chute. Side discharging is how evenly clippings
were dispersed onto lawn. Handling includes ease of using drive controls, pushing, pulling,
U-turns, and other maneuvers. Ease of use is ease of starting, using blade-stopping controls,
changing speeds, and adjusting cut height. Price is approximate retail for mowers and attach-
ments; attachment prices for riding mowers are from manufacturers.

lawn mowers 241
ratings
Similar models, in
Recommendation
Evenness
Mulching
Bagging
Side discharging
Handling
Ease of use
Can bag
Can mulch
Can side discharge
Deck size (in.)
Engine size
(cc/volts/amps)
small type, are
model.
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
Gas-powered push mower

■
d Lawn-Boy 10640 $240 67 &C &M &C &N &M &C • • • 20 190cc
■
c Cub Cadet 11A-18MC
11A-18M9, 11A-18M9 240 66 & M & C & M & C & M & M • • • 19 173cc
Craftsman 38909 220 66 & C & C & C & C & M & M • • • 21 190cc
■
c Husqvarna
38451 (Sears)
6021P 200 65 & C & M & C & C & M & C • • • 21 149cc
Craftsman 38903 200 65 & C & C & C & C & M & C • • • 21 190cc
Troy-Bilt TB110
11A-A26M 200 64 &C &C &C &C &M &C • • • 21 190cc
Craftsman 38911 240 64 &C &C &C &C &M &M • • • 21 190cc
Bolens 11A-414A 180 64 &C &C &C NA &M &C • • 21 158cc
Yard Machines
11A-414E029 180 63 &C &C &V NA &N &C • • 21 158cc
Cordless electric push mower

■
d Toro 20360 420 70 &M &M &V NA &M &M • • 20 36 volts
■
d Black & Decker 400 66 &C &M &M &C &M &N • • • 19 36 volts
CM1936
Black & Decker
CMM1200 400 64 &C &M &C &M &M &C • • • 19 24 volts
Craftsman 37048
CC500BAT 400 62 &C &C &C &C &M &M • • • 19 48 volts
■
d Black & Decker 350 61 &C &C &C &C &M &N • • • 18 36 volts
CM1836
Neuton CE 6.4 470 49 &C &V &V NA &M &N • • 19 36 volts
Worx WG 780 430 48 &C &V &V &V &M &C • • • 19 24 volts
Earthwise 60120 320 42 &C &V &V &V &M &C • • • 20 24 volts
Corded electric push mower
■
d Black & Decker
MM875 240 63 &C &M &M &M &C &M • • • 19 12 amps
Black& Decker
MM1800 220 58 &C &C &C &C &C &N • • • 18 12 amps
Earthwise 50120 160 40 &C &V &B &V &C &M • • • 20 12 amps


Push mowers John Deere was the most repair-prone

brand among self-propelled mowers. That’s
Fewer More what we found when we asked readers who
repairs repairs
bought 11,643 push mowers and 34,797
Troy-Bilt 7 self-propelled models between 2005 and
Toro 8 2009 about their experiences. The graphs
Honda 9 show the percentage of models for each
Craftsman 9 brand that were repaired or had a serious
Yard Machines/ 9 problem. Differences of less than 5 points
Yard-Man aren’t meaningful, and data are adjusted
Lawn-Boy 12
to eliminate differences linked to age and
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% usage. Models within a brand may vary,
and design and manufacturing changes
may affect future reliability. Still, choosing
Self-propelled mowers
a mower brand with a good repair history
Fewer More can improve your odds of getting a reli-
repairs repairs able model.
Husqvarna 14
Toro 14 Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Craftsman 14
Lawn-Boy 16
Yard Machines/ 17
Yard-Man
Snapper 17
Honda 17
Troy-Bilt 18
John Deere 24
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%

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copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written
permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.
c o m pa r i n g r e ta i l e r s 7
Comparing Retailers
O
ur product testers can tell you which dishwasher or netbook
delivers the most value. But then you have to find the
hottest deal. To help you find the best places to shop, tens
of thousands of Consumer Reports subscribers are sur-
veyed regularly about their experiences buying appliances,
electronics, and computers at walk-in and online retailers.
Appliance shopping: Seeking The hunt for low prices

satisfaction Most people who responded to our
If you’re in the market for new appli- Shopper Satisfaction survey said they
ances, you probably want to find a store had decided on a store because they were
with reasonable prices, good selection, looking for low prices. That was especial-
trained help, and a smooth shopping ly true in the hunt for small appliances.
experience. But results of two recent sur- An annoying problem to watch out for,
veys from the Consumer Reports National according to our Home Gripes survey:
Research Center show that no one retailer excessive delivery or installation costs.
was able to provide all of those things. Bottom line. Only Abt Electronics
We did find some cause for hope. scored better than average on price for
Abt Electronics, in the Chicago area, major appliances. The almost 25 percent
and independent local stores garnered of Abt shoppers who bought via the In-
high praise from shoppers who bought ternet or by phone got a bonus: free ship-
a major appliance in the past year. ping for many products and, if outside
For small appliances, independents also the four-state regional delivery area, no
rated highly, along with Costco, though sales tax.
the standout was Amazon.com, as in For small appliances, Amazon.com and
past years. Costco got our readers’ highest marks for
The rankings for shopper satisfaction price for the second year in a row.
come from more than 21,000 respondents
to our 2009 Appliance Shopper Satis- Service makes a difference
faction Survey. We also commissioned Besides price, the expertise and man-
a separate, nationally representative ner of a store’s sales staff were important
Home Gripes survey of 1,405 homeown- reasons for the choice in a major appliance
ers about their experiences shopping at retailer, according to the Shopper Satisfac-
home stores. tion survey. But respondents to our Home
From those surveys, we found what Gripes survey cited difficulty in finding
was most important to most people when a useful salesperson at all as one of their
shopping and where they were most likely chief shopping annoyances. Salespeople
to find satisfaction. who were arrogant or even nasty were
007-012 BG11 Comparing Retailers.indd 7 9/14/10 2:59:11 PM

especially bothersome for women. ifornia received top marks for having
Bottom line. Independent retailers, salespeople knowledgeable in major
Abt Electronics, and Pacific Sales in Cal appliances. The trio also stood out for
Appliance retailers In order of highest reader score within appliance type

Retailer Reader score Survey results
Price
Selection
Product quality
Shopping ease
Service
Checkout ease
Knowledgeable staff
0 100
MAJOR APPLIANCES
Abt Electronics 92 &M &N &N &C &N &N &N
Independents 88 & C & C & C & C & N & N & N
Pacific Sales 85 & C & N & M & C & M & C & N
Lowe’s 85 & C & C & C & C & C & C & C
hhgregg 84 & C & C & C & C & C & C & C
Home Depot 83 & C & V & C & C & C & C & C
P.C. Richard & Son 83 &C &C &C &C &C &C &C
Sears 83 &C &C &C &C &C &C &C
Best Buy 82 & C & C & C & V & C & C & B
SMALL APPLIANCES
Amazon.com 93 &N &N &N — — &N —
Independents 90 & C & M & N &N &N &N &N
Costco 87 & N & C & M & V & C & M —
Sears 83 & V & C & C & M & M & C &C
Lowe’s 83 & C & C & C & M & C & C & M
Target 81 & C & C & C & C & V & C —
Sam’s Club 80 & C & V & B & B & V & V —
Home Depot 80 & C & C & C & C & C & V &V
Best Buy 80 & C & C & C & M & C & C & C
Walmart 76 & C & C & V & B & V & V & C
Ratings Key Better Worse
N M 3 2 1

service rendered; Best Buy scored below to be returned, but others make certain
average for its staff. For staff expertise product categories nonreturnable. Laptop
and service in small appliances, inde- computers are the most common exclu-
pendent local retailers scored best. sion, but sometimes camcorders, cam-
Among major retailers, only Lowe’s staff eras, desktops, TVs, and other items are
stood out, and for service, Sears scored also excluded.
above average. On the positive side, some Web sites
For our Ratings of appliance stores, see with associated retail stores, including
opposite page. Costco.com and Sears.com, allow you to
return items to a store even if you ordered
Electronics shopping: them online.
Finding the best deals Some retailers charge so-called re-
Most people still buy their gear at stocking fees, keeping up to 25 percent of
walk-in stores, despite the recent demise the purchase price of a return. Restock-
of the Circuit City and Tweeter chains. ing fees are most common for computers,
Yet the best online retailers outscored though usually only if the box has been
the best walk-in stores in our Ratings of opened. But some retailers charge fees on
places to buy major electronics items and other items, too.
computers. Bottom line. With electronics sales
down, retailers are surprisingly willing
STUDY the return policy to negotiate on price, our recent survey
Price was among the most important suggests. Of those customers who asked
determinants of where survey respondents for a better price, more than half were
bought their electronics gear. But price successful. Average savings were substan-
shouldn’t be your only criterion. In partic- tial: $200 for those who dickered on the
ular, pay attention to return policies—and price of a flat-panel TV, $100 for buyers
not just the number of days they run. Some of audio equipment, and $50 for camera
retailers allow any major electronics item and camcorder buyers. Survey respon-
Guide to the Survey

The Ratings are based on 21,068 subscribers to ConsumerReports.org who reported on 28,260 appliance-
purchase experiences in the 2009 Consumer Reports National Research Center Appliance Shopper Satis-
faction survey. Respondents might not mirror the U.S. population. Small appliances include air conditioners,
grills, and vacuum cleaners; major appliances include ranges, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and others.
Because of differences in methodology, scores for major and small appliances are not directly comparable.
Reader score reflects readers’ assessments of their overall buying experience and is not limited to factors
under survey results. A score of 100 would mean all respondents had been completely satisfied; 80 would
mean very satisfied, on average. Differences of less than 4 points are not meaningful. Displayed scores are
rounded; stores are listed in order of precise overall score. Price, selection, product quality, service, and
checkout ease scores reflect percentage of respondents who rated the store as excellent on each factor.
Shopping ease is percentage of people who did not face shopping hassles. Knowledgeable staff reflects
percentage of respondents who felt that sales staff was well informed. Scores for shopping ease, service, and
knowledgeable staff reflect in-store rather than online purchases. Higher scores mean the store was rated
more favorably compared with that attribute’s median score. Attributes for small and major appliances are
not comparable. “–” signifies not applicable or insufficient sample size.

dents had better luck getting a discount computer, and most said it was because
at independent stores and two regional of how they customized the systems
chains, hhgregg and P.C. Richard, than they bought.
at Best Buy or Sears. The best Web sites for PCs were Ama-
Yet fewer than one in five in-store zon.com, Newegg.com, PC Connection/
shoppers tried to negotiate the price of MacConnection, TigerDirect.com, and
their purchase. How to ask? Be direct: PC Mall/MacMall. All were rated above
“This was online for $200 less. Can you average for selection and price.
match that?” Many stores even have Among walk-in stores, Costco stood
price-matching policies, though they out for price among other retail shops.
usually apply only to the exact model. You have 90 days to return a computer
For our Ratings of online and walk-in for a full refund, but selection is very
electronics stores, see page 12. limited. For the best all-around walk-
in experience for PC buyers, try Micro
Where to buy Computers Center, though its stores are located in
Even the lowest-rated computer retail- only 16 states and computers had to be
ers pleased most customers, according returned within seven days. (Always
to our survey results. But return poli- check return policies as they will often
cies vary, including whether the retailers change.) If you’re looking for a Mac,
even accept returns. Restocking fee Apple’s own outlets provided the best
policies vary as well, usually 15 percent shopping experiences, whether walk-in
on returns of nondefective computers. or online. But buying from Apple can
In addition, 12 percent of respondents be pricey.
paid more than they expected for a For our Ratings, see page 11.
Guide to the Surveys

COMPUTER RETAILERS. Results are based on more than 50,000 responses from subscribers who
bought new desktops and laptops from January 2008 through June 2009. Reader score reflects respon-
dents’ satisfaction with their purchase experience and is not limited to the factors listed in the survey
results. A score of 100 would mean all respondents were completely satisfied; 80 would mean very satis-
fied, on average; 60, fairly well satisfied. Differences in scores of fewer than 5 points are not meaningful.
Survey results reflect how each vendor did in comparison with the average of all others. Respondents
rated vendors on their selection of computers, price, and service (including knowledge and helpfulness
of staff for walk-ins, usability for Web sites). Survey results might not reflect the U.S. population as a whole.
ELECTRONICS RETAILERS. Based on 35,543 purchases of TVs, digital cameras, camcorders, DVD players
or recorders, PDAs, and audio components by more than 31,144 Consumer Reports readers, January 2008
to June 2009. Results might not reflect the U.S. population. Reader score reflects overall satisfaction with
the shopping experience. A score of 100 would mean all respondents were completely satisfied; 80, that
respondents were very satisfied on average. Differences of fewer than 5 points are not meaningful. The rat-
ings listed under survey results reflect how each retailer did in comparison with the average of all retailers.
Customer service reflects online or phone support for Web sites and in-store service for walk-in stores. For
buying ease, higher scores indicate a lower incidence of problems such as unavailability of advertised sale
items or lack of online product details, user reviews, or comparison tools.

Computer retailers In order of highest reader score

Selection
Price
Service
0 100
WEB SITES/CATALOGS
n
d Amazon.com 90 &M &M &M
n
d Newegg.com 88 & N & N & M
n
d PC Connection/MacConnection 87 & M & M & C
n
d TigerDirect.com 86 & M & M & C
Costco.com 85 & B & M & C
QVC.com 85 & V & C —
n
d PC Mall/MacMall 84 & N & M & C
Buy.com 84 & C & M & V
Best Buy 81 & C & C & C
MANUFACTURER WEB SITES/CATALOGS
n
d Apple.com 91 &M &V &N
Toshiba 81 & M & C & C
Sony 81 & M & B & C
HP/Compaq 81 & M & C & C
Lenovo 81 & M & C & V
Dell 80 & M & C & C
WALK-IN STORES
n
d Apple 90 &N &B &N
n
d Costco 84 & B & M & V
n
d Micro Center 83 & M & C & N
OfficeMax 80 & B & C & C
Sam’s Club 80 & B & C & B
Office Depot 79 & V & C & C
Staples 79 & B & V & C
Fry’s Electronics 77 & M & C & C
Best Buy 77 & C & V & C
CompUSA 75 & C & V & C
Walmart 75 & B & C & B
“—” indicates we lacked sufficient sample size to include in analysis.
Better Worse d Recommended

Ratings Key c CR Best Buy
N M 3 2 1

Electronics retailers In order of highest reader score
Price
Selection
Product
quality
Customer
service
Buying ease
0 100
ONLINE STORES
n Vanns.com
d 95 &N &N &C &N &M
B&H (bhphotovideo.com) 95 & C & N & N & M & M
Crutchfield.com 94 & C & N & M & N & N
n Amazon.com
d 94 & M & N & M & M & M
n Newegg.com
d 94 & N & N & M & M & M
n Beachcamera.com
d 94 & N & N & M & C & M
n Costco.com
d 93 & N & B & B & C & C
n JR.com
d 92 & M & N & C & C & C
n Buy.com
d 91 & N & N & C & C & C
n TigerDirect.com
d 91 & M & M & V & C & C
Dell.com 90 & C & V & B & V & V
Sony.com 90 & V & C & B & C & C
n Abe’s of Maine (abesofmaine.com)
d 88 & M & N & C & B & V
Walmart.com 88 & C & B & B & B & B
BestBuy.com 86 & V & C & V & B & V
WALK-IN STORES
n
d Independents 90 &V &C &N &N &N
n
d Apple 90 &B &B &N &N &N
n
d Costco 90 &M &B &M &B &C
n
d Ultimate Electronics 90 &C &N &N &N &M
Video Only 89 &C &M &M &N &N
Sony 88 &V &C &M &M &C
n Ritz Camera
d 88 &B &M &N &N &N
Army-Air Force Exchange 87 &C &V &C &C &M
Sam’s Club 86 &C &B &B &B &V
hhgregg 86 &C &M &M &M &C
BJ’s Wholesale 86 &C &B &C &B &C
P.C. Richard & Son 86 &C &C &M &M &C
Sears 86 &C &C &M &C &C
Staples 84 &C &B &C &C &C
Office Depot 83 &C &B &C &C &C
BrandsMart USA 82 &C &M &M &C &B
RadioShack 82 &V &B &B &C &M
Best Buy 82 &B &C &C &C &V
Target 82 &C &B &B &B &C
Fry’s Electronics 81 &V &C &C &B &B
Walmart 79 &C &B &B &B &B
⁄ Policies differ for some products; some categories might be excluded from returns or subject to restocking fees.
€ Unlimited; polic ies might differ for some products. ‹ No refunds, only store credit, for any opened items. ›Only
defective items accepted for return.
Better Worse d Recommended
Ratings Key c CR Best Buy
N M 3 2 1

Electronics:
A World of Choices
E
very year brings a host of enhancements and new develop-
ments to consumer-electronics products, opening up a
world of new choices for consumers. You can now enjoy
3D when watching TV, perusing home videos and still
photos, and playing video games. Internet connectivity is
expanding, allowing you to buy on eBay, browse YouTube, and watch
streaming movies on your TV, iPod, or phone, with no need for a com-
puter. Meanwhile, devices like Apple’s iPad and Amazon’s Kindle and
rivals all offer new entertainment options.
standard TV, you won’t be able to appre-

Blu-ray & ciate the benefits it offers.
DVD players TYPES

Blu-ray player. Blu-ray discs contain
Home-entertainment options are 1080p video, currently the highest-reso-
expanding. High-definition Blu-ray lution HD. Prices have been dropping as
players are steadily gaining favor, manufacturers battle for market share,
although regular DVD players are and are likely to continue falling over
still available. time. Players generally start at about
$130, though you may find some models
If you have an HDTV, we strongly rec- on sale for less. Many full-featured mod-
ommend that you buy a Blu-ray player. A els from major brands are going for $200
basic high-def player won’t cost you much to $300. The first 3D-capable players on
more than a standard DVD player, and the market are selling for $200 to $400.
the superior picture quality of Blu-ray is These can play 3D Blu-ray discs as well
well worth it. On the other hand, if you as regular Blu-ray discs, DVDs, and CDs.
have a standard-def TV and don’t plan to There are already many thousands of Blu-
buy a high-def set anytime soon, it makes ray titles, both movies and TV episodes,
little sense to buy a Blu-ray player, even on the market, and 3D Blu-ray titles are
though it can play regular DVDs. On a starting to appear. Most Blu-ray players
013-060 BG11 Electronics.indd 14 9/15/10 2:44:32 PM

b l u - r ay & D V D p l ay e r s 15
are single-disc models that hold only one by model within a brand. The most basic
disc at a time, but Sony has a 400-disc BD-Live models can access only extra on-
changer, and LG has a player that also line features related to a specific Blu-ray
has a built-in hard drive for storing mu- disc, such as outtakes and video games
sic, photos, and home videos. or movie trailers. Other models can also
Standard DVD players. As the tran- stream movies and visit specified sites
sition to high-definition DVDs gains such as YouTube, eBay, and others. A
steam, you’re likely to see fewer stan- growing number of players can connect
dard-def models being introduced, and to the Internet through your wireless
retailers may not stock as many models home network, handy if you don’t have
as they used to. an Internet connection near the player
Almost all new DVD players are pro- and don’t want wires running all over the
gressive-scan models. These players can house. Wi-Fi access is sometimes built in,
convert (or deinterlace) the interlaced but for models called “wireless-ready,”
video (480i) contained on DVDs and out- you need an adapter, or dongle, to enable
put it to your TV as a 480p video signal. wireless connections. The adapter may be
With a TV that can display high-defini- included with the player, or you may have
tion images, you can expect a smoother, to buy it separately for about $70. Models
more detailed image. That’s because HD without BD-Live are typically less expen-
sets can support the player’s progressive- sive, but there are fewer available.
scan 480p mode, drawing 480 consecu- Video streaming. Many Blu-ray
tive lines on the screen in a single pass. models with BD-Live can also receive
Prices for progressive-scan players start streaming movie services from compa-
as low as $25, and many major-brand nies such as Amazon Video on Demand,
models are priced from $50 to $75. Blockbuster on Demand, Netflix, and
Vudu, and can also access YouTube vid-
Features eos, photo-sharing sites such as Picasa
Getting a Blu-ray or DVD player with and Flickr, Internet radio stations such
all the right features will increase your as Pandora, eBay, and other sites. Some
long-term satisfaction and enjoyment. content, such as YouTube, is free, but you
Internet connectivity/BD-Live. Most have to pay for movies. Generally, it’s a
newer Blu-ray players have a feature pay-per-view arrangement, but Netflix
called BD-Live that enables them to con- subscribers with an unlimited plan can
nect to the Internet. With some models, stream as many movies or TV episodes
you must provide extra memory, via a as they like. (Unlimited subscriptions
USB flash drive or memory card, to en- start at $9 a month.) Available services
able the BD-Live feature. An Internet-en- could change over time if the manufac-
abled player does not have a full-fledged turer makes different arrangements with
browser enabling you to surf anywhere Internet companies. Updates might be
on the Web. You can go only to specific automatic, but in some cases you might
sites and access specific content as ar- have to search for new content.
ranged by the player’s manufacturer. 3D capability. The first 3D-capable
The online content you can access from Blu-ray players are now on the market.
a player varies by brand and sometimes When used with special 3D discs, 3D

glasses, and a 3D TV, they enable you choose dialog or subtitles in different
to see honest-to-goodness 3D images. languages for a movie. Parental control
They can also play normal Blu-ray discs, is a player feature that lets you lock out
DVDs, and CDs. films by their rating code.
Surround sound. Another benefit of BonusView. All Blu-ray players have a
Blu-ray and standard DVD players is the feature called BonusView, a PIP (picture-
ability to enjoy movies with multichan- in-picture) feature that displays bonus
nel surround sound. To reap the full content on some Blu-ray discs in a win-
sound experience of the audio encoded dow while the main feature is onscreen.
into standard DVD titles, you’ll need a Navigation. DVD and Blu-ray play-
Dolby Digital receiver and six speakers, ers enable you to navigate the disc in
including a subwoofer. (For 6.1 and 7.1 a number of ways. Unlike a VHS tape,
soundtracks, you’ll most DVDs and Blu-ray players are sec-
need seven or eight tioned. Chapter preview lets you scan
Shop smart speakers.) Dolby the opening seconds of each section or
A basic Blu-ray Digital decoding chapter until you find what you want. A
player won’t cost built-in refers to a related feature, chapter gallery, shows
you much more DVD player that thumbnails of section or chapter opening
than a standard
decodes the mul- scenes. Go-to by time lets you enter how
DVD player.
tichannel audio many hours and minutes into the disc
before it gets to the you’d like to skip to. Marker functions
receiver. Without the built-in circuitry, allow easy indexing of specific sections.
you’d need a decoder built into the Blu-ray interactivity allows you to navi-
receiver or, in rare instances, a separate gate the disc’s menus and other content
decoder box to take advantage of the without leaving the movie.
audio. (A Dolby Digital receiver will Picture control. DVD and Blu-ray
also decode an older format, Dolby Pro players give you all sorts of control over
Logic.) Most players also support Digital the picture. The aspect-ratio control DVD
Theater System (DTS) decoding for titles player feature lets you choose between
using 5.1-, 6.1-, or 7.1-channel encoding. the squarish 4:3 viewing format of con-
When you’re watching a movie, dy- ventional TVs (4 inches wide for every 3
namic audio-range controls help keep inches high) and the 16:9 ratio of newer
explosions and other noisy sound effects wide-screen sets. Picture zoom lets you
from seeming too loud. Some Blu-ray zoom in on a specific frame. Black-level
players support a few additional multi- adjustment brings out the detail in dark
channel formats, including Dolby Digital parts of the screen image. If you’ve ever
Plus and DTS High Resolution Audio, wanted to see certain action scenes from
higher-resolution 7.1-channel audio, and different angles, multiangle capability
new lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS- gives you that opportunity when used
HD Master formats that are bit-for-bit with discs that include this feature.
reproductions of the movie’s master A/V connections. Almost all Blu-ray
soundtrack. players have HDMI and component-
Most players also provide features such video connections, which are required
as multilingual support, which lets you to view high-definition pictures on an

b l u - r ay & D V D p l ay e r s 17
HDTV. Most also have composite-video not play JPEG, WMA, or video CDs, or
outputs, and some have S-video connec- DVD-/+/R/RW or DVD-RAM discs
tions to use with older TVs. 3D Blu-ray you’ve recorded.
players use newer HDMI 1.4 connections,
but can connect to a TV using standard Shopping tips
high-speed HDMI cables. Most standard Here are some issues to consider:
DVD players also have HDMI connec- Video streaming options. If you want
tions now, as well as component-video a Blu-ray player that can stream video,
and composite-video outputs; some have make sure it offers the movie services of
S-video, too. All players will support at interest to you.
least 5.1-channel sound through the dig- Upconverting. Most new DVD players
ital-audio outputs. Blu-ray players will can upconvert regular DVDs to pseudo-
also support high-resolution audio from HD when used with an HDTV; you’ll see
Blu-ray discs. no benefit with a standard TV. (Note that
USB connections and memory-card you must connect the player to an
slots. Many players now include a USB HDTV’s HDMI input to get upconverted
port or a memory-card slot that allows video.) But don’t buy
you to play digital media files, such as a new DVD player
music, photos, or videos on your TV. simply to get the Tech tip
Some have a slide-show capability for upconverting fea- Many DVD players
digital photos. ture. An LCD or will play back or
Disc capacity. Most standard DVD plasma set automa display other disc
and Blu-ray players accommodate a sin- tically upconverts formats, including
gle disc at a time. Other standard players the video from audio CDs.
have carousels that can hold several (gen- any DVD player to
erally three or five) discs. DVD jukeboxes match its native screen resolution. The
hold 100 discs or more. Sony has a juke- main benefit to using an upconverting
box that holds 400 discs. player is to have the option of seeing
Disc formats. In addition to com- whether it does a better job of upcon
mercial DVD titles, DVD players often verting than your TV. In either case, up-
support playback or display of many converted video is not nearly as good as
other formats. They include CD-R/RW true high-def from a Blu-ray player,
recordings of standard audio CDs; the which is a much better choice for use
recordable DVD formats DVD+R/RW, with an HDTV.
DVD-R/RW, and DVD-RAM; Video CD Audio capabilities. All DVD and Blu-
(VCD); and DVD-Audio. They can also ray players support 5.1-channel surround
play CD-R/RW discs containing MP3 sound (some offer 7.1) and can pass along
and Windows Media Audio (WMA) files digital signals. They can also decode the
and JPEG picture files. All Blu-ray play- signals and pass the analog output (stereo
ers can play commercial Blu-ray discs and sometimes multichannel) to a receiver
and standard DVDs. All current Blu- or TV with analog inputs. Most new
ray players play commercially released Blu-ray players support high-resolution
CDs, and may play CDs burned with multichannel audio formats such as
MP3 files. A given model might or might Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD Master Audio,

though some can internally decode those Access (CDMA) technology, while AT&T
signals, while others pass them to a capa- and T-Mobile use Global System for
ble receiver for decoding. Mobile communication (GSM) technol-
Related CR Report: March 2010 ogy. All of these carriers also support
Ratings: page 191 high-speed data networks. The network
plays a big part in the capabilities your
phone will have and, to some extent, its
CELL PHONES & performance.
When you’re ready to buy a phone,
SMart Phones you’ll first have to decide which of the
two types, conventional cell or smart,
meets your needs and budget. Choose a
Cell phones are evolving to allow conventional model if you mainly need
faster texting, Web surfing, GPS voice and text-messaging capability,
navigation, and social networking and perhaps a music player and camera.
while keeping up with their day Smart phones, with their advanced oper-
job—voice calling. ating systems, larger displays, QWERTY
keyboards, and other computerlike fea-
Smart phones like the iPhone are lead- tures, are a better choice for people who
ing the charge. Thanks to their computer need frequent access to e-mail accounts,
like operating systems, they can run all an organizer for appointments and con-
types of applications, from Twitter to tacts, the ability to open Office docu-
games, restaurant guides, shopping as- ments, and Internet-based services.
sistants, and more. Conventional cell Useful features such as support for
phones aren’t gathering dust, though. wireless Bluetooth headsets, GPS navi-
Many of the newest models have large gation, and high-speed data access can
displays, keyboards, and Internet capa- greatly enhance user satisfaction.
bilities. Their e-mail and applications
aren’t as robust as a smart phone’s, but TYPES
they’re less complicated to use. And Conventional cell phones. Most mod-
there still are phones with fewer bells els are priced from $20 to $150, but they
and whistles for users with more straight- often come free with a two-year con-
forward needs. tract. You can also buy prepaid phones,
Before you set out to buy a phone, which are quickly becoming the leading
though, consider the service provider. low-price option in cellular. Keypad and
Service providers determine which phone overall operation is generally straightfor-
models work on their networks. So when ward. All allow you to store frequently
you’re replacing your phone, use this cell- used numbers and to send and receive
phone guide to help you decide whether text messages. Many have cameras and
you’ll stay with your current cellular ser- support for wireless Bluetooth headsets
vice carrier or switch to a new one. Major for hands-free communication. Many can
carriers rely heavily on two incompatible access high-speed data networks to enjoy
digital networks. Sprint and Verizon net- music and video-based services. Other
works use mainly Code Division Multiple capabilities might include a touch screen,

cell phones & Smart phones 19
a QWERTY keyboard, a full browser, a 3-megapixel cameras or higher if you

multimegapixel camera, memory-card intend to print some of what you shoot.
storage for music and pictures, and more Those models take photography more
options for custom ring tones, games, seriously by pairing sharper image sen-
and other services. sors with high-grade lenses, auto focus,
Smart phones. Long used by corpo- zoom, and brightness controls for greater
rate travelers to keep up with e-mail and photo control. However, like older digi-
appointments, smart phones have caught tal cameras, higher-megapixel camera
on with consumers. A smart phone can phones may be a bit sluggish at taking
typically handle multiple e-mail accounts pictures.
(including corporate types), has a sophis- Document editing. All smart phones,
ticated organizer, and can handle Micro- and some conventional cell phones, allow
soft Office files. Some allow you to create you to review documents. Some models
and edit spreadsheets and documents, add the convenience of creating, delet-
and they usually come with Microsoft ing, and editing them without adding
Outlook or other personal information any hardware or software.
management software for your PC. Their GPS navigation. All phones have some
advanced operating systems give them type of location-based technology to help
access to a host of applications: produc- emergency responders find you when
tivity tools, shopping, multimedia, games, you dial 911 or 112. Many of them sup-
travel, news, weather, social, finance, ref- port GPS-navigation services that access
erences, etc. information wirelessly over the carrier
network. They integrate GPS with maps
FEATURES and search engines to give you real-time,
Today’s cell phones come equipped spoken, turn-by-turn directions to an
with many useful calling and multi- entered address, and also traffic info.
media features. You can even find nearby businesses by
Bluetooth. This technology enables name or category. Menus and features are
the phone to work with wireless head- similar to other portable systems. Having
sets and most hands-free car systems for GPS on your phone eliminates the need
tangle-free calls. (But avoid using any to carry an additional device for naviga-
phone, even hands free, while driving.) tion, and you’ll have the ability to call
Some phones support stereo Bluetooth ahead to a destination with the push of a
headsets for music and other multime- button. The service is sometimes free, but
dia. And some can wirelessly exchange more typically adds about $10 per month
pictures, contacts, and other files with to your cell-phone bill. You can also
other compatible Bluetooth devices, such order it by the day for about $3—handy
as a computer, cell phone, or PDA. if you need directions only occasionally.
Camera. Most new phones have cam- Hearing-aid compatibility. Some
eras with resolutions of 1 megapixel and phones interfere with hearing aids. Even
up that are capable of producing respect- those with hearing-aid-compatible des-
able snapshots, though many lack a flash, ignations are not guaranteed to work
which is helpful when taking pictures in with all hearing aids. Your doctor can
dark environments. Look for models with help you choose a phone compatible

with the aid you use. Or go to www. assign functions to the phone’s controls
accesswireless.org. (touch screen, jog dial, etc.) so that you
Mac compatibility. Many phones let can quickly access contacts, text messag-
you synchronize appointments, contacts, ing, and other frequently used features.
and documents with both Windows- QWERTY keyboard. Keyboards make
based and Macintosh computers, but composing and editing text and e-mail
some can do that only with Windows messages much easier than a keypad
computers. does. Some phones have keyboards that
Media player. Most phones have very try to save space by having some letters,
competent media players, allowing you numbers, and symbols share a key. Those
to view videos and sort music tracks “condensed” keyboards, though still
according to genre, album or artist, play- more convenient than a keypad, are not
lists, etc. They also typically have more quite as easy to handle as full QWERTY
than one playback keyboards.
Speakerphone. A built-in speaker-
Shop smart option, such as
repeat and shuffle. phone allows hands-free use in a car or
Phones displaying Some phones, such elsewhere. (But avoid using any phone,
numbers in even hands free, while driving.)
as the iPhone, have
large black type
against a white media capabilities Standard headset connector. The
background are better than other standard connector on the handset, also
the easiest stand-alone play- known as a 2.5-mm or 3.5-mm connec-
to read. ers. The small tor, is compatible with most aftermar-
number of phones ket wired headsets. Some phones with a
that lack those convenient features are proprietary connector might include an
rather cumbersome to use. adapter to a standard connector.
Memory card. Many phones have slots Touch screen. Full touch-sensitive
that accept memory cards, typically displays respond to light contact with a
microSD, to expand storage capacity by stylus, finger, or both. They provide an
as much as 32GB. The removable cards alternate, and sometimes more direct,
can also serve as an easy way to shuttle method to input data and launch phone
files between your phone and other features and controls. But they often
devices—p rovided that the phone’s require two hands to operate, and they
maker didn’t bury the card slot behind smudge more frequently than their non-
the battery cover. touch counterparts.
Preset and custom text messages. Be- Voice command. This feature allows
sides providing a quiet means of com- you to dial numbers from your phone
munication, text messages have been book by speaking the name, without
known to get through even when net- training. You can also dial numbers by
works are overloaded. Most phones come pronouncing the digits.
with preset messages, such as “running Wi-Fi. Cell-phone data networks—
late” or “call home.” And most allow you even those designated “3G broadband”—
to program customized messages for an are much slower than the broadband
emergency or frequent use. Internet connections many people have
Programmable shortcuts. These let you at home. But a growing number of phones

cell phones & Smart phones 21
have a built-in Wi-Fi radio that gives Consider a keyboard. A phone’s

them faster Internet and e-mail access shape and size are largely determined by
through home networks and Wi-Fi its keyboard and display. Some models
hotspots. On some phones, the Wi-Fi is have a QWERTY keyboard that slides
just for Web browsing; on others, you can out from behind the phone and tucks
use the connection to swap files with a away when not in use. Others open like
PC or make calls using Voice over Inter- an eyeglass case to reveal a keyboard, or
net Protocol (VoIP). leave the keyboard in plain sight. Still
other models have a virtual keyboard on
SHOPPING TIPS their touch-sensitive displays. Overall,
Consider shape and size. Phones that we found pecking out messages on their
fold, slide, or swivel are typically more mirror-smooth, buttonless surfaces to be
compact when closed. Phones shaped a challenge.
like candy bars can be used without first If you plan to do a lot of typing, look
being opened. The best choice depends instead for a keyboard with keys that are
largely on personal preference, so visit raised, clearly labeled, well-spaced, and
a store and hold the phone if possible. well-sized. Make sure that the keys pro-
Make sure that you can comfortably use vide solid tactile feedback. The keyboard
most major functions such as making should be easy to read under different
and taking calls and messaging with one lighting conditions. Overall, we’ve found
hand. Make a test call and access menu that a full QWERTY keyboard, similar to
items. We’ve found that flat or virtual a computer keyboard, is best for compos-
keypads make dialing without looking ing and editing text and e-mail messages.
difficult. Other call clunkers include keys Some keyboards cram multiple letters,
that are small, oddly shaped, or arranged numbers, and symbols on a single key
in unusual patterns, especially if you’re to save space. But those “condensed”
trying to dial a number in dim light. keyboards, though still more convenient
Check the display. Most screens are than keypads, are not as easy to handle as
fine in dim and normal light, but some full keyboards.
are harder to see in daylight or under
bright light. Try the phone outside or Smart-phone buyers
under bright light. In our tests, phones Consider the operating system. Smart
that displayed incoming and outgoing phones run on various operating systems
numbers in large black type against a (OS), each with its own character. The op-
white background were the easiest to read erating system affects a phone’s capabili-
under most conditions. Also make sure ties, ease of use, and other conveniences.
indicators such as battery life and signal Android. This is well suited for
strength are clearly visible. Touch-screen advanced Google searching and profi-
displays provide an alternate, and some- cient with multimedia, but you can’t edit
times a more direct, method to input data Office documents, such as Word and
and launch phone features and controls. Excel files, without adding software. The
But they often require two hands to op- OS can drive large touch-screen displays,
erate, and they smudge more frequently and some versions support multitouch
than their nontouch counterparts. displays and multitasking. Its open-source

architecture enables a broad community Symbian or Series 60. Found primar-

of software developers to create applica- ily on Nokia phones, the basic version
tions that run on the phones. There are can be a bit difficult to use, especially
more than 60,000 applications currently when setting up and using e-mail. And it
available on Android Market. can be tricky to navigate. Also, you can’t
BlackBerry. This well-established create and edit Office documents, such
device is best known for its messagi ng as Word and Excel files. The more pow-
capabilities and easy e-mail setup and erful version, available on touch-screen
account management. Most BlackBerry models, is easier to manage and better
phones have easy trackball navigation at those tasks. The home screen offers
but lack touch-screen support. And on customizable shortcuts to applications,
many models, you can’t create and edit contacts, and widgets. Some advanced
Office documents such as Word and Symbian models let you edit Office docu-
Excel files. Some models have a more ments. There are more than 6,500 “con-
powerful operating system, Office docu- tent items,” videos, and applications on
ment editing, and even a touch screen. the Nokia Ovi Store.
There are more than 5,000 applica- Windows Mobile. Entrenched among
tions currently available on BlackBerry business users for its Microsoft Office and
App World. Outlook capabilities, this OS’s familiar
iOS 4. Known for innovative features, interface makes navigation intuitive for
including the best of the iPod multi PC users. It synchronizes easily with Mi-
media capabilities, iOS 4 has the larg- crosoft Outlook. It’s easy to switch be-
est, most diverse body of applications, tween apps and run multiple programs,
with more than 200,000. This OS drives though that might slow performance. The
a large, high-resolution, multitouch basic version only allows you to view doc-
display and provides intuitive naviga- uments in Office apps and lacks touch-
tion and support for rich HTML and screen support. A more powerful version
advanced searching and map functions, supports a touch screen and full-featured
but you can’t edit Office documents out e-mail and Office programs. Microsoft’s
of the box. Marketplace for Mobile has more than
Palm webOS. Palm is recognized for 1,000 applications.
its strengths in organizing, contacts, and Consider the data plan. Using a phone’s
calendar features. Found on the Pre and extra, network-dependent capabilities re-
Pixi, this operating system drives the quires a regular (voice/text) phone plan
user-friendly touch-screen interface that and a data plan for Web surfing and send-
provides easy access to many features and ing and receiving e-mail. Depending on
applications. It enables multiple apps to the carrier, prices for the two combined
run concurrently, links functions more start at $45 to $80 a month with a two-
intuitively, and adds more-advanced Web, year contract. But you can easily spend
multimedia, search tools, and messaging. much more than that as you add minutes,
You can shuffle apps on the touch screen messaging, and other services.
much as you would a deck of cards. More Consider syncing options. Syncing
than 1,500 apps are now available in the your phone with your computer has some
Palm App Catalog. advantages. For example, you’ll most

computers 23
likely find it easier to update calendar better deal—either a deeply discounted

events and contact data using your com- price or even a free phone—when you’re
puter’s larger keyboard and display. signing a contract. Be aware that some
You’ll also have peace of mind knowing rebates are offered only if you also sign
all your documents and personal data up for a data plan.
will be safely backed up should your Check the return policy. Make sure
phone be lost or stolen. But before you you can return the phone if you’re not
buy, check with the carrier or phone happy with it. Some stores attach stiff
maker to be sure the phone is compatible service-cancellation fees on top of what
with your computer or its operating a carrier might charge.
system. Also confirm phone compati Don’t buy phone insurance. Cell car-
bility with your company if you plan riers will insure your phone for about
on setting up corporate e-mail and cal- $4 to $8 a month with a $25 to $100 or
endar access. more deductible, but they can replace
Check for updates. Manufacturers and your lost, stolen, or damaged phone with
carriers often use updates to improve talk a repaired, refurbished one. We don’t
time or even add new features. To update think insurance or extended warranties
your phone, look for “update” under the are worth it. Only 17 percent of buyers
settings menu, and follow the instructions. we’ve surveyed got a new phone because
Make sure you’re in a good reception area the old one broke, and only 3 percent be-
to ensure that the file downloads fast and cause the phone was lost or stolen. A bet-
error-free. You should also periodically ter idea: Keep your old phone until the
look up your phone on the Web sites of new phone’s contract ends. If you lose or
your carrier and phone’s manufacturer. break the new phone, reactivate the old
Look for useful features. Today’s one and use it until you qualify for a free
phones come equipped with many use- or low-cost phone.
ful calling and multimedia features, Related CR Report: September 2010
including a media player, a camera, and Ratings: pages 192, 271
Web browsing, as well as child-location
and call-management services. Some fea-
tures, such as programmable shortcuts,
Bluetooth, speakerphone, and voice com-
COMPUTERS
mand make the phones easier to use.
Check for special prices and promo- Meaningful differences in speed
tions. Rebates and special offers can be between desktops and laptops
substantial, but they change frequently. have largely disappeared. But each
To get the best deal, check the carrier’s design has its own advantages and
offerings online and in its retail stores, trade-offs.
and then see what independent dealers
offer at their Web sites and in their out- The choices among desktop and lap-
lets. If at all possible, buy a new phone top computers can be confusing. New
when you’re switching carriers or sign- desktops can be smaller and less con-
ing a new service commitment with your spicuous than some laptops. Meanwhile,
existing carrier. You almost always get a some portable computer laptops offer

features and capabilities that rival tradi- type of desktop, they are the least expen-
tional desktops. Here are the types of sive and the easiest to upgrade and repair.
computers—and the pros and cons—you Full-size desktops offer the most features
need to consider. and options.
Gaming. The sky’s the limit for these,
Types which are geared primarily toward gam-
ers. You get the fastest quad-core pro-
Desktops cessors, the most sophisticated graphics
The desktop computer has become cards, multiple large hard drives, and
just another appliance you use every day. plentiful RAM. Cases are usually large—
However, consider these pros and cons of and, in some cases, offer a fair amount of
desktop computers in general: bling—with lots of room for expansion.
Desktops deliver more performance
than laptops. They are less costly to repair. Laptops
They allow for a more ergonomically Laptops let you use your computer
correct work environment. They let you away from your desk, but you pay for
work on a larger screen, and they can be that mobility with a smaller screen and
equipped with better speakers. keyboard, and often at the expense of
Desktops are available in various styles performance. Technological advances
and configurations, all designed to appeal have lessened the performance compro-
to different tastes—and uses. mises somewhat, though. Whether por-
They take up a lot of desk space, even tability or power is your main consid-
with a thin LCD monitor. eration, screen size will be an essential
All-in-one. These incorporate all com- factor in deciding which type of laptop
ponents, including the monitor, into one is right for you:
case. The components are tightly packed 12- to 13-inch. If you’re planning to
behind and underneath the display, mak- carry the laptop around with you fre-
ing it difficult to upgrade or repair. Meant quently, a 12- to 13-inch model is probably
to be space savers, they’re also designed the right choice. In our tests of 13-inch
to look less stodgy than a traditional systems, we found that you might have to
computer. You’ll pay a premium price sacrifice some speed, and you’ll spend a
for these models. few hundred dollars more than you
Compact. If you don’t have the space would for a larger laptop. But you’ll also
under your desk or you plan to put the lighten your load by at least a pound, and
computer on top of your desk, consider you’ll find many of the same features on
a compact or slim desktop. These are these laptops that are available on larger
less than half the size of a full-size desk- models, including web cams and memory-
top. Like their larger brethren, compact card readers. Some models shave a few
desktops tend to be inexpensive. But ounces by removing the DVD drive.
they may be more difficult to upgrade 14- to 16-inch. Laptops with a 14- to
and repair. 16-inch screen generally offer the ideal
Full size. If you have the space for a balance of performance, portability, and
tower under your desk, consider a full- price. They weigh about 5 to 6 pounds or
size desktop. While they are the largest more. They’re a good choice for those who

computers 25
need to take a laptop along less frequent- rivals its 27-inch iMac counterpart. Bat-
ly, and a system in the 14- to 16-inch size tery life on the Wi-Fi version was 10
range can easily be configured to serve as hours. Archos offers a 7-inch tablet for
a desktop replacement. $200. Others are expected from most
17-to-18-inch. For a full-blown, enter- major computer manufacturers.
tainment-oriented desktop replacement,
consider a 17- to 18-inch model. You’ll Features
get better performance, a good-sized Many components play a key role in
screen, and better speakers. It will cost how a computer performs, including the
more than a comparable desktop, but it’s processor, memory, operating system,
handy if you have space constraints or if hard drive, video adapter (with video
you’re planning to use it in areas of your memory), optical drive, and display (mon-
house other than the home office. itor). Laptop computers have additional
Netbooks. Inexpensive and portable, features and considerations that are im-
netbooks are downsized laptops with a portant. Where applicable, we’ve noted
10- to 12-inch screen that weigh 2 to 3 feature information that is important and
pounds and cost $250 to $500. They are distinctive to the type of computer.
designed chiefly for Internet use and light Processor. Also known as the CPU
word processing. They are not meant to (central processing unit), the computer’s
replace the full-functionality of your “brain” is responsible for processing
laptop or desktop. Many newer netbooks information. Speed is the most important
run Windows 7. factor when choosing a processor, so pay
Not much larger than a hardcover attention to the processor’s family, the
book, netbooks are lighter, smaller, and number of cores, and the clock speed.
less expensive than most standard lap- Intel and AMD are the dominant man
tops. They’re great for travel and might ufacturers of processors. Intel’s proces-
also make a good computer for a child. sor families include the low-end Atom,
Netbooks have small displays, key- Celeron, and Pentium; the midrange
boards, and touchpads, and performance Core 2 and Core i3; and the high-end
is slow. They have no optical drive Core i5 and Core i7. AMD’s processors
(although you can add an external one), range from the low-end Neo, Sempron,
so you can’t easily install shrink-wrapped Athlon, and Turion to the midrange
software or play CDs or DVDs. Netbooks Phenom and high-end Phenom II.
are a relatively new category, and we cur- Processors with multiple cores can
rently have no reliability data. process more data at the same time. You
Tablets. Lightweight and highly por- can usually tell how many cores a proces-
table, tablets are made to be carried sor has by looking at its name. A Core 2
wherever you go. They’re multifunctional, Duo has two cores and a Core 2 Quad has
serving as Web browser, e-book reader, four cores. A Phenom X3 has three cores.
digital picture frame, movie viewer, and But it’s not always that clear; a Core i5 or
music player. Some will also include i7 has four cores.
phone functionality. Apple’s iPad was Clock speed, measured in GHz (giga-
the first major tablet to market. It weighs hertz), determines how quickly it can
1.5 pounds and uses a bright display that process information. Within a processor

family, the higher the clock speed, the at the same time and use a 64-bit operat-
faster the computer. Clock speeds typi- ing system. Netbooks typically come with
cally range from 2 to 3GHz. 1GB of memory, which is adequate.
Power consumption is another impor- Log-on security. For laptops: Some
tant factor when choosing a processor. notebooks include fingerprint scanners as
This is especially true for laptops—lower a convenient alternative to typing a pass-
power consumption translates to longer word when logging in. Some of Lenovo’s
battery life. laptops use face-recognition technology,
When buying a computer, make sure as do some from Toshiba and other man-
the processor will be fast enough to han- ufacturers. Lenovo’s new IdeaPad uses
dle your needs. If you are buying a desk- VeriFace technology when you log in.
top or a laptop, avoid computers that use With VeriFace, your face is scanned, via
the AMD Neo or Sempron processor, the the laptop’s webcam, and then scanned
Intel Atom or Celeron processor, or the again to make sure it matches the initial
Via Nano processor. For basic tasks like scan every time you log in.
browsing the Web and checking e-mail, Operating system. Many people
you’ll do fine with a low-end dual-core choose PCs running Windows because
processor like the Intel Pentium Dual- they’re less expensive than Macs. Others
Core and AMD Athlon/Turion X2. If you choose PCs because they have a wider
plan to use your desktop or laptop for selection of games or they want to be fully
entertainment like watching videos or compatible with Windows programs. If
playing games, get a faster processor such you go with a PC, you have a choice of
as the Intel Core 2 Duo/Quad, Intel Core several versions of Windows 7, each with
i5, or AMD Phenom/Phenom II. If you’re its own hardware requirements. We rec-
a hard-core gamer or plan to edit high- ommend Home Premium as the Win-
definition video, buy a computer with a dows 7 version for most home users.
high-end processor like the Intel Core i7. Macs are more expensive but are styl-
For less intensive uses like productivity ish, and they’re also immune to most,
tasks, the Core i3 should suffice. If you’re if not all, viruses and spyware. Apple’s
in the market for a netbook, stick to the support has been tops in the industry in
slow but low-power-consuming Intel our surveys. While the company’s phone
Atom processor. support is only available free for 90 days,
Memory. The computer’s memory, or you can get unlimited technical support
RAM (random access memory), is used through the Genius Bar if you live near
to temporarily store data while in opera- an Apple store. Apple released its most
tion. Computers with more memory tend recent version of OS X, called Snow Leop-
to be faster than those with less, up to a ard, in September 2009.
point. Memory is measured in GB (giga- Video adapter and video memory.
bytes). Most brand-name desktops and Also known as the video card, video accel
laptops sold today have at least 4GB of erator, or graphics card, this is responsible
memory, although 3GB is sufficient for for drawing what you see on your screen.
most people. Any more than that is prob- There are two types of video adapters:
ably not beneficial unless you plan to run integrated and discrete. The vast majority
multiple memory-intensive applications of computers sold have integrated video,

computers 27
which is slower and uses up part of your hard drive. These connect to your comput-
system’s memory. That said, integrated er through its USB, FireWire, or eSATA
video is perfectly fine as long as you don’t port. Some desktops offer portable hard-
plan to play complex 3D games like The drive bays, which save space by letting
Sims or World of Warcraft. Otherwise you insert a removable hard drive inside
choose discrete video, which is faster and the desktop.
uses its own video memory. If you choose Some high-end desktops and laptops
discrete, make sure that it has at least can be configured with a RAID (redun-
256MB of video memory. Hard-core dant array of inexpensive disks) array.
gamers should get 512MB to 1GB of These computers have two or more hard
video memory. drives. There are several types of RAID
Video outputs. If you’re buying a desk- arrays, the most common being RAID
top, check to see which video outputs it 0 and RAID 1. RAID 0 distributes your
has. Almost all desktops have an analog data across multiple hard disks, which
VGA output, which is compatible with can greatly improve speed. But if one
flat-panel LCDs and older CRT moni- drive fails, you’ll lose data on all your
tors. Some have a digital DVI output for hard disks. On the other hand, RAID 1
use with LCDs; this delivers a much automatically copies data from one hard
cleaner and crisper image on the screen. disk to the other. There is no speed boost,
If you’re buying a laptop, a VGA output but if one crashes, all your data will be
can be used with a projector for deliver- safe on the other one.
ing presentations. The newest desktops SSDs (solid-state drives) are on the
and laptops might have an HDMI (High- cutting edge of storage technology, allow
Definition Multimedia Interface) output ing your computer to access data without
to feed video to an external HDTV. the moving parts required by a tradi-
Hard drive. Also known as a hard tional hard drive. So-called flash drives
disk, this is where your programs, docu- don’t have the spinning disk of a conven-
ments, music, photos, and videos are tional hard drive, so they use less power,
stored. Bigger is better. Hard-drive sizes work more quietly, and should be more
are measured in gigabytes (GB) and com- resistant to damage from rugged use.
monly range from 160 to 1,000GB. While And because there are no moving parts,
size matters, speed is equally important. they promise quicker access to data. Net-
Speed is measured in RPMs (revolu- books are an exception; they may be
tions per minute). A slow hard drive will bundled with very small solid-state
take longer to start up programs such as drives that perform worse than tradi-
Windows and complete tasks (such as in- tional hard drives.
stalling programs or scanning your hard Optical drive. This lets you read
drive for viruses). For a desktop, make and write to CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray
sure it has a 7,200RPM hard drive. For discs. DVD burners (also known as
a laptop, make sure it has a 5,400RPM DVD+/-RW) are standard gear on today’s
hard drive. computers. DVD burners can read and
Hard drives often fail, and when they write to CDs and DVDs so you can
do you need to have a backup to recover back up your home-video footage or dig-
your data. The best option is an external ital photos, for example. Recordable CDs

(CD-R) can hold up to 700MB of data. Re- able lithium-ion battery for power. Lap-
cordable DVDs (DVD+R, DVD-R, or tops go into sleep mode when used inter-
DVD-RAM) can hold up to 4.7GB of data mittently, extending the time between
(single layer) or 8.5GB of data (dual layer). charges. You can lengthen battery life if
Blu-ray Disc (BD) drives are the newest you dim the display, turn off wireless
standard. BD drives are capable of play- when not needed, and use only basic ap-
ing the growing list of Blu-ray movies plications. Playing a DVD movie uses
and can store up to 25GB of data (single more battery power than other functions,
layer) or 50GB of data (dual layer), almost but most laptops should be able to play
six times the capacity of a DVD. one through to the end. Many laptops
Monitor. For desktops: Most are wide- can accept an “extended” battery, adding
screen, which are designed to fit wide-screen size and weight but giving as much as
movies better without the black bars, but twice the battery life.
give you less screen Case. For desktops: Form factors for
area per inch over computers are more varied now. In addi-
Tech tip a non-wide-screen tion to the most common tower format,
With no display. Those who you can find all-in-one and small-form-
moving parts, plan to edit photos factor (SFF) computers. Mainstream
solid-state drives or videos may want computers usually come in towers, which
promise to pay attention to fit on top of or underneath a desk. The
quicker access
to data. differences in color, all-in-one form factor, such as the Apple
viewing angle, con iMac, packs all the components into the
trast, and bright- same enclosure as the LCD display. Only
ness. You can often obtain a discount on the keyboard and mouse are separate.
an LCD monitor by buying it bundled Sony, HP, Dell, and Gateway also have
with a new computer. all-in-one models. SFF cases include
Display. For laptops, a 15- to 16-inch the Dell Studio Hybrid and the Apple
display, measured diagonally, should suit Mac mini.
most people. Displays that are 13, 14, and Networking. For connecting to the
17 inches are also common. The screens Internet, all desktops come with an Ether-
on most laptops are glossy instead of net port that lets you run a wire between
matte. Glossy screens have more saturat- your desktop and your router. But if it’s
ed colors and deeper blacks, but are also not possible to run such a wire through
much more prone to glare. Like desktop your home, you may want to consider a
displays, most laptops have wide-screen Wi-Fi wireless adapter. Some desktops
displays to fit wide-screen movies better. have this feature built in, while others
LED-backlighted displays provide require you to buy one and install it
more efficient use of power, resulting separately. You’ll also need a wireless
in longer battery life. Color on LED- router. All laptops come with wireless
backlighted screens is in most cases not built in, and most have a wired Ethernet
significantly different than that on other port as well.
types of displays. Wireless adapters mostly use the newer
Battery. For laptops: When not plugged 802.11n standard (which is backward-
into a wall outlet, laptops use a recharge- compatible to the older 802.11g). Unless

computers 29
you have an exceptionally large house, boards have CD (or DVD) controls that let
there’s no reason to buy an 802.11n wire- you pause, play back, change tracks, and
less adapter. 802.11g is slightly less expen change the volume. Still other keyboards
sive and fast enough for most people’s also have additional keys to expedite get-
needs, and its range is wide enough to ting online, starting a search, launching
cover a medium-sized house. If you do programs, or retrieving e-mail. Like mice,
select an 802.11n adapter, make sure your keyboards can also be wireless.
router supports 802.11n as well. Sound system. Computers for home
Mouse. Desktops typically come with a use feature a high-fidelity sound system
mouse to move the cursor on the screen. that plays CDs or downloaded music
Most mice bundled with desktops are files, synthesized music, game sounds,
optical mice, which have light sensors on and DVD-movie soundtracks. Some
their underside to track movement. Ap- computers have three-piece speaker
ple offers its Magic Mouse, which has a systems with a subwoofer, providing
touch-sensitive top surface that works in deeper, more powerful bass. Others with
a similar manner to a multitouch touch- surround-sound systems can turn a PC
pad. Mice come in all shapes and sizes. into a home theater. Many computers
Some are ergonomically contoured to have connections for an external audio
match the shape of your palm, while oth- source (such as a microphone) and for
ers are designed to be stylish. They can headphones.
also be either wired or wireless. If you For laptops: The small speakers built
have a wireless mouse, you won’t have into laptops often sound tinny. And a
to deal with a cord, but you will have to brand name like Altec Lansing or Har-
recharge or replace the batteries every mon Kardon doesn’t guarantee that
few months. they’ll sound good. Headphones or exter-
Touchpad. Most laptops use a small nal speakers deliver much better sound.
touchpad in place of a mouse; you slide But some larger laptops include much
your finger across it to move the cur- better speakers and even a subwoofer for
sor. You can also program the pad to deeper bass.
respond to a “tap” as a “click,” or scroll Touch screens. Touch screens are
as you sweep your index finger along beginning to show up on some desktops
the pad’s right edge. Touchpads come and laptops. These allow you to use your
in various sizes; the larger ones let you fingertip right on the display to control
move the cursor farther across the what you’re doing, for example making
screen without lifting your finger. Some the screen larger or smaller, selecting
models let you use multifingered ges- menu items, and more.
tures for zooming and rotating images. Ports. The ports to look for on a com-
An alternative system uses a pointing puter include USB, FireWire, Ethernet,
stick the size of a pencil eraser in the and S-video or HDMI. USB ports let you
middle of the keyboard. You can attach connect many add-on devices, such as
a USB or wireless mouse or trackball if digital cameras or external hard drives,
you prefer. as well as a memory drive for copying
Keyboard. Most computers come with files to and from the hard drive. Having
a standard wired keyboard. Some key- these ports at the front of the case makes

connecting devices more convenient. An Wallet.com, and Ebates, which tend to

Ethernet port or wireless network card provide information on rebates.
lets you link several computers in the Macs aren’t often discounted, so it’s a
household to share files, a printer, or a good idea to take advantage of the price
broadband Internet connection. FireWire cuts that usually occur around the time
or IEEE 1394 ports are used to capture Apple announces new models. That’s
video from digital camcorders and when other retailers, such as Amazon.
connect to other peripheral devices. An com, MacConnection, and MacMall,
S-video or HDMI output jack lets you tend to clear out older stock. Models
run a video cable from the computer to from PC brands may also be discounted
a television so you can use the com when their successors arrive.
puter’s DVD drive to view a movie on Or buy à la carte. If you have spe-
a TV instead of on the computer mon cial needs, order from the manufac-
itor. Media-center PCs (equipped with turer’s Web site. Menus show you all the
TV tuners) can also capture video options and let you see how a change
from a VCR, letting you copy tapes to affects the overall price. You might de-
DVDs. Other slots to look for on a new cide on a more-expensive processor and
computer are memory-card readers for a bigger hard drive. Configure-to-order
flash cards. will often give you choices that you won’t
Most laptops let you attach those de- get if you decide to buy an off-the-shelf
vices without a docking station. At least model. But be sure to double-check your
two USB ports for easy hookup of, say, choices before ordering, and look for
a printer, digital camera, or scanner are unwanted items that some manufacturers
standard. A wired network (Ethernet) include by default.
port is also standard. A FireWire port Shop at the right time. January, July,
for digital-video transfer is common. An and October are good times to shop;
internal wireless-network (Wi-Fi) adapter new models are expected to show up in
is standard. Another option is an internal stores at those times, which means older
Bluetooth wireless adapter to link to a inventory needs to be cleared out to make
Bluetooth-capable cell phone, camera, or room. If a computer you like isn’t on sale,
another laptop. ask for a better price. Apple usually offers
Docking station. For laptops: Some free iPods and educational discounts to
notebooks offer a connection for a dock- students buying computers during the
ing station, a $100 to $200 base that makes back-to-school season. Otherwise, the
it easy to connect an external monitor, best time to buy an Apple is right after
keyboard, mouse, printer, network, and the company makes a new-product an-
power in one step. nouncement and retailers are selling off
old inventory.
Shopping tips Try before you buy. Especially when
Shop at an online retailer. Our sub- you’re buying a laptop, you should try it
scriber surveys have found them gener- before you buy it, if you can. Look for a
ally superior to walk-in stores for selec- keyboard with keys that don’t feel mushy.
tion and price. You can also save money Touchpads should be large enough so
by using sites such as Techbargains, Fat that your finger can cover the span of the

computer monitors 31
screen without repeatedly lifting it, and

touchpad buttons should be easy to find
and press. The touchpad should also have
COMPUTER
a dedicated scroll area. Carry the laptop MONITORS
around for a few minutes and make sure
it’s not too heavy or too big. The laptop
Like TV screens, computer moni-
shouldn’t get hot during use (89 to 100
tors are continuing to go wider
degrees F is a good range), and it should
and bigger. The squarish 17-inch
run quietly.
monitors are now almost obsolete,
Check the screen for glare. Glossy
replaced by wide-screen models.
screens are now standard on most lap-
Their larger size allows for easier
tops. Several have added antireflective
side-by-side page viewing or more
coatings, with mixed results, so view
spreadsheet columns with less
the screen under bright lighting to see if
scrolling.
there’s a problem.
Think green when you buy. Some com- Prices keep falling on LCDs, even for
puters meet the Energy Star standard for bigger screens. You can now get a 17-inch
efficient power use. Energy-use guidelines LCD for not much more than $100 and a
cover three operating modes—standby, 24-inch for as little as $225. If you’re buy-
sleep, and running—with systems en- ing a monitor bundled with a new com-
tering sleep mode within 30 minutes of puter, as many consumers do, you can
inactivity. Power supplies also need often upgrade from the standard display
to operate more efficiently. You prob- to a larger one for a modest amount—$50
ably won’t notice much difference in the to $150 or so.
operation of your computer, but your Before you start shopping, consider
electric bill might go down a bit. Look for whether you really need a new monitor. If
the Energy Star label on qualified com- you’re still using a CRT, it’s probably time
puters. Prices won’t increase because of for an upgrade. Low prices on flat panels
the new standard, according to a spokes- leave little justification for sticking with
person for the Energy Star program. that space-hogging relic of the 20th cen-
Another standard is EPEAT, which offers tury. If you already own a flat panel, good
guidelines on what materials can be used reasons to upgrade include switching to a
in a computer. Depending on how well bigger display for more screen real estate,
each computer meets their criteria, they or to a wide screen if you want to watch
are rated bronze, silver, or gold. A list of movies on your computer. Or you may
EPEAT compliant systems can be found want a monitor with a built-in TV tuner,
at www.epeat.net. speakers, or USB ports.
Recycle when you toss. Most manufac- Which LCD? Even if you could still
turers also have recycling programs that buy an old-style CRT monitor (they’re
help you to dispose of your old computer, essentially extinct), the reasons for
but the programs vary considerably from choosing an LCD are many, among
one company to another. them no image flicker, sharper image,
Related CR Report: September 2010 no glare, low electromagnetic emissions,
Ratings: pages 196, 199, 204 reduced energy consumption and, the

most obvious, space efficiency. able to find a monitor with very good dis-
Standard or wide screen. Even some play quality for under $300.
LCDs are on the endangered list. With 24-inch. Prices rise pretty quickly once
wide-screen displays now the norm, only you hit the 24-inch mark, but hard-core
a few squarer (4:3 aspect ratio) screens gamers and multimedia mavens looking
remain available, mostly 17- and 19-inch for a big screen to watch movies and TV
models. Some offer good value and you shows will appreciate this size.
may even prefer that shape—if horizontal
space is limited or the extra vertical space features
better suits your needs. Display quality, the most important
Decide on a screen size. Unlike a CRT, monitor feature, isn’t a major worry
whose viewing area is smaller than its thanks to a generally high standard of
diagonal size, an LCD has a nominal im- performance. But today’s monitors have
age size and a viewable image size that other features that you should consider.
are the same. More screen real estate is Resolution. A monitor’s resolution re-
always a good thing, and we recommend fers to the number of picture elements,
buying the largest screen you can. So the or pixels, that make up an image. More
decision comes down to what fits your pixels mean finer detail. Most monitors
space and how much you want to spend. can display at several resolutions, gener-
Expect to pay $100 and up for a 17-inch ally from 640x480 to 1920x1200, depend-
LCD, $130 and up for a 19- or 20-inch, ing on the monitor and the computer’s
$150 and up for a 22-inch, and $225 and graphics card. An LCD usually displays
up for a 24-inch. its sharpest image when set to its “native”
resolution—typically 1024x768 pixels for
Types a 15-inch screen; 1280x1024 (17 inches);
The vast majority of monitors on the 1440x900 (19 inches); 1680x1050 (22
market are lightweight, flat-panel LCDs. inches); or 1920x1200 (24 inches). Typi-
They come in a variety of sizes includ- cal resolutions for wide-screen monitors
ing the types of monitors listed here. The are 1280x800 (15 inches) and 1440x900
smaller monitors suffice for office work, (17 inches).
but if you consume a lot of media or play The higher the resolution, the smaller
games, you might prefer a larger screen. the text and images, so more content can
17-inch. If you’re really pressed for fit on the screen. Higher resolution is
space or can find a particularly good deal, preferred for working with photos and
a 17-inch monitor could provide enough graphics.
screen real estate for you. But 19-inch Response time. A flat-panel display’s
and even some 20-inch models don’t cost response time indicates how fast the
much more. pixels can turn on and off.
19- to 20-inch. For spreadsheet work Contrast. This is a measure of the dif-
or home photo editing, a 19- to 20-inch ference between the brightest white and
monitor offers a good amount of screen the deepest black found on the screen,
space for a reasonable price. and is expressed as a ratio. Higher con-
22-inch. This is the sweet spot for trast results in images that are more vivid
gamers and media fans. You should be and punchy. But because a monitor’s

computer monitors 33
contrast can vary across the screen, the photos onscreen, and iPod docks for
number isn’t always a reliable measure. viewing images or playing music through
Monitors have brightness controls, so the monitor. Plug-and-play capability
you can adjust to your liking. makes it simple to add a new monitor to
Brightness. A bright screen is impor- an existing computer. A built-in TV tuner
tant if you’re working in a brightly lit is another feature to look for if you want
room. The spec is expressed as candelas your monitor to double as a TV.
per square meter, or cd/m2. But all you
need to know is the higher this number, Shopping tips
the better. You can also control an LCD’s The most important attribute in a
brightness with knobs or onscreen con- monitor, display quality, isn’t a major
trols. Most monitors also have controls worry, thanks to a generally high stan-
for color balance (usually called color dard of performance. Many monitors
temperature), adjusting the screen geom- tested for our latest Ratings of recom-
etry, and similar functions. mended models had very good display
Connectors. Virtually all new moni- quality. Even among the other models we
tors have the DVI ports needed to take tested, the worst performers received
advantage of higher-end video cards for good scores, which
a sharper image, but not all include the is adequate for
necessary cable (about $10). And many many people. Tech tip
include HDMI (high-definition multime- A note to video Plug-and-play
dia interface) ports, also found on some viewers: Don’t ex- capability makes
newer computers and electronics equip- pect TV images it simple to add a
ment such as DVD players. One of the to look as good as new monitor to an
advantages of the HDMI interface is it they do on your existing computer.
allows for video and audio to be sent over flat-panel TV. Even
the same cable (useful only if the moni- the best monitors fell short of most LCD
tor has built-in speakers). If you choose TVs, with blacks that aren’t as deep, slight
a monitor without one, you can buy an haziness, and some light leakage around
adapter for $25 or less that turns a DVI the edges of the screens.
port into an HDMI connector, but you Check the viewing angle. Few moni-
won’t get audio. tors measure up to the best LCD TVs for
Another port you may find is for viewing from a wide angle. That won’t
high-bandwidth digital content protec- matter for typical computer use. But if
tion (HDCP). This prevents the copying you often share your screen with a crowd,
of video and audio content, and with- say for slide shows or games, you may
out it you may not be able to view copy- want to pick a model that experiences
protected material. less image degradation when viewed at
Extras. Some monitors include a micro- an angle. When comparing specs, the
phone, one or more USB ports, integrated bigger the number, the better.
or separate speakers, and HDMI inputs Consider easy adjustments. Virtu-
for viewing the output of a DVD player or ally all new displays tilt up or down for
camcorder. You may also see LCDs with a quick adjustment. For extra flexibility,
memory-card readers, so you can display look for monitors that allow you to adjust

their height. Such models may also be

able to rotate 90 degrees, from a land-
scape to portrait mode, which is espe-
DIGITAL
cially useful for viewing a larger portion CAMERAS
of Web pages or text documents.
Also look for conveniently placed con-
trols that adjust contrast, brightness, and Buying a digital camera can be
other settings that affect images. We pre- disorienting. There are hundreds
fer a dedicated front-positioned contrast/ of cameras available at many dif-
brightness control. ferent types of retail outlets (on-
Check for ample connections. Many line and in traditional stores), with
new monitors feature at least one USB prices ranging from $75 to several
port, which can provide convenient con- thousand dollars.
nectivity for peripherals if your computer A digital camera takes information
doesn’t have many USB ports, or access- from its image sensor and processes
ing the ones it has is difficult. Virtually and stores it as a collection of tiny dots,
all new monitors have DVI ports and or pixels, in a digital file, usually on a
HDMI ports. memory card inside the camera. A digi-
Take a shine, or not. LCD monitors tal photo image is made up of thousands
are showing up with glossy instead of of these pixels. A camera that captures
matte-finish screens. The glossy screen 8 million pixels, for example, is called
can make dark areas of the image appear an 8-megapixel camera.
deeper and less washed out in bright, The number of megapixels a camera
ambient light. But a glossy screen can features can also help to determine the
also reflect light-colored objects in the size photos you can print or the amount
room like a mirror. Some antireflective of cropping you can do.
surfaces help minimize this problem. For example, a 4-megapixel camera
View the screen in bright light before may be enough for snapshots, but if you
buying, if possible. want to print poster-sized images or crop
Look for a long warranty. Many heavily, 8 megapixels (or greater) are
monitors come with a three-year war- more suitable.
ranty on parts and labor, but others have A 6-megapixel camera might be
only one-year coverage. It’s worth look- all you’ll need because higher resolu-
ing for the longer coverage, especially tion doesn’t necessarily produce better
if you’re purchasing a more expensive prints. Lenses and other factors affect
model. Another consideration is the quality too. But most cameras today
manufacturer’s defective-pixel policy. have at least 10-megapixel sensors. The
Some consider a certain number of size of the sensor, and the size of each
stuck, dead, or hot pixels acceptable, individual image sensor element, which
while others will replace a monitor dur- corresponds to pixels, can affect photo
ing the warranty period if it has even a quality.
single faulty pixel. But remember, the number of megapix-
Related CR Report: June 2010 els alone doesn’t determine the quality of
Ratings: page 249 a digital camera’s images.

d i g i ta l c a m e r a s 35
Types the-lens viewfinder (in fact, most have no

In our Ratings, we divide models into viewfinder). They’re smaller and lighter
two main types: basic cameras, which than an SLR (single lens reflex) but usu-
are simple point-and-shoots with just ally larger than a point-and-shoot.
the features needed for routine shots, and SLRs. These have the most features,
advanced cameras, which are feature- with interchangeable lenses and the larg-
laden models that include sophisticated est sensors for the best image quality in
point-and-shoots and models that let low light, and a through-the lens view-
you change lenses. These can be further finder. Controls are extensive. They’re
divided into several subcategories. also the heaviest, most expensive cam-
Subcompacts. Among the many types eras. Most SLRs are now able to capture
of digital cameras, the largest category HD-resolution video.
is subcompacts—small cameras that fit
in a pocket, weigh a few ounces, and can FEATURES
be carried everywhere. Most don’t have Before you buy, consider the follow-
manual controls or viewfinders, but some ing features, which are included on most
include a variety of useful features, such digital cameras.
as touch-screen LCDs. Some have zoom Exposure modes. Most digital camer-
lenses as long as 14x. as, including SLRs, are highly automated,
Compacts. Mainstream compacts are with features such as automatic exposure
too big for pockets but small enough for control, which manages the shutter speed
most handbags. Many are simple to use and aperture according to the available
and are great for everyday events such light. In that mode, the camera generally
as family gatherings. Some don’t have handles setting ISO and autofocus too.
manual controls for exposure and com- But there are other program modes that
position, limiting you to the camera’s allow you to control specific settings, in-
assortment of preset scene modes, as with cluding shutter priority, aperture priority,
subcompacts. and special scene modes. Some cameras
Superzooms. Superzoom cameras include full manual controls, which let
are characterized by a very long zoom you set shutter speed and aperture.
range—15x or greater, which is good for Zoom lenses. This type of lens, which
sports, travel, or nature shooting. They’re is actually made up of several different
generally bulkier and heavier than com- lenses or lens elements, allows you to vary
pacts and subcompacts. Some models the focal length. That provides you with
have zooms as great as 30x. flexibility in framing shots and closes
Advanced point-and-shoots. These the distance between you and your sub-
cameras have a nondetachable lens but ject, which is ideal if you want to quickly
differ from basic models in that they have switch to a close shot. The typical 3x
lots of manual controls, a hot shoe for an zoom on mainstream cameras goes from
external flash, and support for RAW files. a moderately wide-angle view (35mm) to
It’s the lightest advanced type. moderate telephoto (105mm). You can
SLR-likes. These cameras, which include find cameras with extended zoom ranges
Micro four-thirds models, accept inter- between 5x and 30x, giving you added
changeable lenses, but they lack a through- versatility. If you want a greater view

angle for more panoramic landscapes or lens because it’s not built into the camera
group portraits, look for cameras with a body. Image stabilization is a feature you
wide-angle end of the zoom range as low should look for, especially if the camera
as 28 or 24mm. has an optical zoom greater than 3x.
One common feature of zoom lenses Face detection & “smart camera”
is that they generally protrude from the features. This digital camera feature
camera when you turn it on. But some attempts to find a face in the image to
subcompacts and a few compacts and set focus, exposure, and color balance
superzooms have nontelescoping lenses. so that faces appear in focus and well
On larger compacts or superzooms, you exposed. When we’ve tried it, we found
might also find a manual focus ring simi- that it usually worked well. In some
lar to the one on an SLR lens, although cameras, you have to turn on the fea-
manual focusing on a point-and-shoot ture. In others, it’s enabled at the factory,
works differently than that on an SLR. but can be turned off. Other types or
Optical zooms are much better than variants of face detection are beginning
digital zooms, which merely magnify to appear in newer cameras too, such
the center of the frame without actu- as a smile shutter mode, which shoots
ally increasing picture detail. Almost a photo of the subject when a subject
all point-and-shoot digital cameras in- smiles. Other types include blink warn-
clude zoom lenses. SLRs, which can use ing, which alerts you to shots in which
interchangeable lenses, often ship with a subject might have blinked, and intel-
a zoom lens, but also accept prime or ligent ISO.
nonzoom lenses. Focus. In addition to being able to
Image stabilization. More and more automatically set exposure, digital cam-
cameras, including many with powerful eras automatically adjust the focus of the
lenses, now come with an image stabi- lens with autofocus features. But more
lizer, a device that compensates for hand- advanced cameras include additional
held camera shake. Often, the IS device focusing functions. Be sure to look care-
lets you shoot with a slower shutter speed fully at the types of additional features
than you otherwise could without pro- available on your camera, including man-
ducing blur due to hand shake (although ual focus. On SLRs, look for the number
it won’t compensate for a subject’s mo- of AF (autofocus) points they have and
tion). Optical (in the lens) and mechani- what types of AF modes are available.
cal (in the camera body) image stabilizers SLRs include additional types of AF
are the best types to use, although some (often called dynamic AF) that group
cameras include simulated stabilization. focus points into a field to more accu-
In SLRs, some brands include mechan rately track moving subjects.
ical stabilizers, which can use IS with Shooting modes. Most cameras
every lens. But some SLR brands only have three options for shooting still
include optical IS in telephoto or long images: single image, burst mode, and
zoom lenses, which are the ones that need self-timer. The burst mode allows you
it most. The optical-based IS generally to fire off a series of shots quickly, for
produces better results than mechanical- several, dozens, and sometimes scores of
based IS. But you won’t have IS on every shots. Some SLRs can shoot more than

d i g i ta l c a m e r a s 37
a hundred shots in a burst, and do so an image at 1/250 of a second in order

very quickly (measured in frames per to “freeze” the action, but you have only
second, or fps). Some newer advanced enough light for a shutter speed of 1/125
point-and-shoots are also able to cap- of a second, one option is to change the
ture many shots per second. As the aperture to let more light in. But if you’re
name implies, the self-timer mode pro- already at the widest aperture, you can
vides a delay between the moment the instead increase the ISO from 100 ISO to
shutter button is pressed and the photo 400 ISO, and you should be able to set the
is captured. Some cameras let you set higher shutter speed.
how long this delay is and the number But high ISO settings on point-and-
of shots you can take. shoot cameras, which have smaller sen-
Playback modes. All digital cameras sors than SLRs, often suffer from image
let you review images on the LCD, along noise, which will make your photos look
with exposure and other information grainy and degrade image quality. So,
embedded in the image file. So you can even though point-and-shoots include
quickly see what the image actually looks ISOs up to 3200 or higher, you may be
like and delete it if you don’t like it. Many disappointed in the results. There is also
cameras have automatic orientation fea- concern about the relationship between
tures that turn the photo vertically or high megapixel counts and sensor sizes.
horizontally to correspond to how you The more megapixels manufacturers cram
shot the photo. When reviewing, you can onto the same-sized sensor, the more vi-
use the zoom control to magnify portions sual flaws can appear in the images.
of the image file. You would also use the LCD viewers. Although optical view-
LCD screen to access the camera’s menu finders were once ubiquitous on cameras,
system to change various settings and ac- hardly any subcompacts or compacts in-
cess features. A few types of digital cam- clude them anymore. The reason is that
eras include either touch-screen LCDs they’ve been replaced by larger, sharper
or LCDs that swivel. The best LCDs also color LCD viewers. Some are now as large
don’t change in color or tone (often called as 3.5 inches. These displays are accurate
solarizing) when viewed at an angle, al- in framing the actual image you get—
though we don’t test for that. Selected better than most optical viewfinders—but
models include slide-show features, and they might be hard to see in bright sun-
some even let you play music or create a light. This live-view functionality, avail-
multimedia slide show. able in point-and-shoot for years, has
ISO. This setting expresses how sen- also been appearing on more and more
sitive the sensor is to light. Many cam- SLRs, which have traditionally used the
eras allow you to set various ISO settings LCDs only for playing back or reviewing
(anywhere from ISO 100 to ISO 3200, al- images. A camera with both an optical
though some ranges can be even greater, and an LCD viewfinder is more versatile,
particularly on SLRs). The advantage especially when you shoot in bright light
in being able to set a higher ISO is that or need to conserve battery power. Also,
you can then have more flexibility in select point-and-shoots and SLRs include
adjusting either the aperture or shutter swiveling displays, which are helpful for
speed. For example, if you need to shoot taking hard-to-reach shots.

Flash. Available on almost every digi- them on flash-memory cards, although

tal camera, a flash (or strobe) allows you occasional models also have had onboard
to illuminate subjects by using a short f lash-memory capacities greater than
burst of light. Nearly all have auto-flash 1GB. SecureDigital (SD) is the most
modes, a setting that will automatically widely used format. Other memory cards
fire a flash whenever the camera senses used include Compact Flash (CF), mostly
there isn’t enough illumination for a on SLRs, Memory Stick Duo, and xD.
correct exposure. Most include other Although those storage cards were once
flash modes, including red-eye reduc- quite expensive, they have recently
tion mode, which minimizes a common dropped significantly in price. New cam-
flash camera problem (although you can eras can also accept special, higher-
also fix this in an image-editing program capacity versions of SD cards, such as
when the image is stored on your com- SDHC and the latest, SDXC, a format that
puter). There are primarily two types of allows memory-card manufacturers to
flashes associated with consumer-level produce cards with capacities as large as
cameras: A built-in (onboard or, in some 2 terabytes.
cases, pop-up) strobe is generally posi- Connections. To save images, you
tioned directly above or diagonally above transfer them to a computer, typically
the lens. An external strobe, sold sepa- by connecting the camera to the com-
rately as an accessory, fits into a camera’s puter’s USB or FireWire port, or inserting
hot shoe, which lets you attach this acces- the memory card into a special reader.
sory on to an advanced point-and-shoot, (Many computers now have built-in card
SLR-like model, or SLR. Many cameras readers.) Cameras can also be connected
include a number of flash modes that to printers, or you can insert the memory
allow you to alter the type of flash or the cards directly into select printers. Both
strength of the illumination. options allow you to print photos without
Image file formats. The most com- the need to transfer them to a computer.
monly used file format is the JPEG, a Most cameras also include a video output
compressed image format that allows that lets you view images on your TV.
you to use the file for a number of differ- Some even include an HDMI output (on
ent applications, such as printing photos, the camera body or camera dock) that
but also for using on Web pages and can be attached to an HDTV. But the
e-mailing as attachments. Advanced cords and docks might cost extra.
point-and-shoots and all SLR-likes and Video. Basic point-and-shoots have
SLRs can also capture images in a file for- been able to capture video for many
mat commonly known as RAW. This years, but SLRs have only recently added
format is most often uncompressed and this feature. Most cameras include HD-
the image isn’t processed inside the cam- resolution video, although some still cap-
era, as with JPEG files. RAW files can ture in standard definition, which may
yield the best quality images and give you not look as sharp on an HDTV. Some
the most flexibility when manipulating models with HD video quality are good
the photos with software. enough to avoid the cost and inconve-
Memory cards. Instead of film, nearly all nience of a separate camcorder. One con-
digital cameras record their shots and store venient video feature many cameras now

d i g i ta l f r a m e s 39
include is a dedicated video button, Keep your other cameras in mind. If

which lets you quickly record video when you own a film camera with interchange-
you’re shooting still images. Also, if you’re able lenses, you can often use the lenses
buying a basic or advanced point-and- on digital SLRs of the same brand. But
shoot, check to see whether the camera there are exceptions. For example, some
can zoom while capturing video. Not all new Nikon bodies only operate autofocus
models can. on its AF-S or AF-I lenses.
Forgo the extended warranty. Over-
Shopping tips all, digital cameras have been among the
Don’t buy into megapixel hype. most reliable products in our subscriber
Despite the prevalence of 10-, 12-, and surveys. Only about 5 percent of those
14-megapixel cameras, 6 megapixels is purchased from 2005 through 2009 have
all the resolution most people need. If been repaired or had a serious problem.
you often crop or drastically enlarge your Yet in our latest electronics-buying sur-
images, get at least 8 megapixels. Higher vey, 68 percent of digital camera buyers
resolution doesn’t necessarily produce were pitched an extended warranty in
better prints, so don’t let a salesperson stores and 11 percent bought one. We
push a camera solely based on its mega- don’t think it pays to buy an extended
pixel count. warranty for a digital camera.
Shop by brand. Before diving into Related CR Report: August 2010
specific models, consider some charac- Ratings: pages 212, 217
teristics by brand, culled from our years
of digital-camera tests. For example,
Fujifilm offers image sensors with pro
prietary technology that produce high
DIGITAL FRAMES
image quality at high ISO settings.
Kodak emphasizes simplicity and ease of A digital photo frame could be a
use. Canon, Nikon, and Olympus offer good idea for anyone who’s tired of
full lineups for every type of user. Casio seeing the same old lineup of pho-
specializes in ultraslim models. Samsung tos on the mantel. That’s because
offers cameras with high styling and mul- you can make the pictures inside
timedia features. Panasonic uses image the frame change automatically.
stabilizers and Leica lenses throughout
its line. Sony often uses Zeiss lenses, a Most frames let you simply insert your
brand well-known in the camera world. camera’s memory card and choose the
Try it out. The smallest, lightest models photos you want to show, but there are
aren’t necessarily inexpensive cameras. other options as well, one of which is the
And the biggest and heaviest aren’t nec- use of wireless connections.
essarily found at the high end. If pos- Most frames contain built-in memory,
sible, try cameras at a store before you so you can store photos in the frame
buy. That way you’ll know which one fits and then return the memory card to
your hands best. In our tests, some of your camera. Some can store and play
the smallest didn’t leave much room even digital music to accompany photos and
for small fingers. others can play short digital video clips,

although not all of those can play audio most digital cameras shoot at 4:3 and
with the video. digital SLR cameras shoot at 3:2. But an
Frames generally range in size from increasing number of frames utilize the
about 3x5 to 10x12 inches. What’s more wide-screen 16:9 ratio typical of digital
important is the display area within the TV sets. Many cameras can shoot im-
frame. We tested 7- and 8-inch frames, ages at 16:9, but only if you change the
measured diagonally. Our tests showed camera’s default setting. If you shoot at
that a number of models have some the standard 4:3 or 3:2, displaying those
glitches that affect setup and use, and images on a 16:9 frame can distort the
menus that can be confusing. But many images, because the frame stretches and
of those issues can be overcome with a crops to make the pictures fit. You can
little effort. also select a 4:3 setting on those frames,
but that leaves black bars on each side of
features the image. Frames with 4:3 aspect ratio
Certain features, like aspect ratio and provide the best view for most people.
image quality, can help ensure your sat- Controls. With most frames, you
isfaction with a digital picture frame long insert your camera’s memory card into a
after you buy it. Here are some of the slot, turn the frame on, and watch your
more important features to consider. photos display in slide-show fashion.
Image quality. This is a frame’s most With others, though, you must decide
important attribute. The screen surface whether to display a still image or slide
also might affect how well you see the show each time you turn on the frame.
picture. Many models have matte, non- The multiple layers of controls for tasks
reflective screens. Others place the screen such as choosing only to view certain
under a piece of pictures or showing pictures from a
glass that creates a memory card can be frustrating. Some
Tech tip bit of glare in some frames have onboard software and
Unless you take cases, even if the controls for selecting images stored on
pictures using a
glass has an anti- a card or in the frame’s internal mem
16:9 aspect ratio,
stick to frames glare coating. ory and, in most cases, for setting slide-
with a normal Display resolu- show timings, transitions, and bright-
(4:3 or 3:2) tion. As stated by ness. Frames with the controls in front
aspect ratio. the manufacturer, are easier to use. While controls placed
this is the number on the side or back of the frame are out
of pixels, horizontally by vertically, that of sight, they’re also harder to reach, and
the frame can display. We recommend you’re forced to tilt the frame back and
frames with a pixel resolution of at least forth to see the settings you’re changing
800x600 or 800x480, which produces on the screen.
a visual resolution of about 100 pixels Versatility. Most frames can be set to
per inch. either the wider “landscape” mode or the
Aspect ratio. This represents the rela- taller “portrait” mode. But not all offer
tionship between an image’s height and that versatility, so check before you buy.
width. Most frames use either a 4:3 or A number of frames can automatically
3:2 aspect ratio. They work well because rotate individual photos to their proper

d i g i ta l f r a m e s 41
orientation, but only if the pictures were Motion JPEG video with sound, others
taken by a camera that records orienta- can play it without sound, and a few can
tion as it shoots. Some frames can be also play MPEG1 and MPEG4 digital
hung on walls, but many frames require video formats. A few frames include a
AC power, so there is a power cord to built-in iPod dock for showing photos
contend with. Generally, digital frames and playing music. But keep in mind that
are best suited for use on a desk or cre- the speakers on the frames are not the
denza. Frames with removable outside best for listening to music.
borders can be customized to match a Connections. Not all frames that work
room’s decor. with Windows computers also work with
Built-in storage. Some frames have Macs. Look specifically for models that
built-in memory that can store images, work with Macs if that’s what you have.
which is more convenient than leaving Remote. A wireless remote makes the
your camera’s memory card in the frame. frames easier to use.
Look for at least 256MB.
Memory cards. Most models can Shopping tips
accept the common types of memory Make picture quality your top prior-
card, such as SD, Compact Flash, or ity. After all, you’re looking at your favor-
Memory Stick. Make sure the frame can ite family photos and memories.
use the same type as your camera. Fit the frame to the recipient. Some
USB port. If you want to transfer digi- frames require only the ability to plug in
tal images directly from your computer, a memory card. Others might have con-
look for a frame with a USB port. (Those fusing menus or require wireless set-
with a USB 2.0 port, noted in the Rat- up. Make sure the person who will be
ings, have faster transfer rates than those using the frame has some tech savvy if
with 1.1.) the model you’re considering is a bit
Wi-Fi. If you get a frame with Wi-Fi tricky to use, or make sure you’re avail-
connectivity, you might be able to down- able to help with the setup.
load photos from your computer’s hard Skip the wide-screen models. Unless
drive (provided that it also has a network you take pictures using a 16:9 aspect ratio
connection). Many frames also connect (something most cameras allow, but not
with particular photo-sharing sites. Most by default), stick to frames with a normal
are free, but some let you retrieve photos (4:3 or 3:2) aspect ratio. Otherwise, the
only from a Web site that requires a sub- frame will display bars above and below
scription fee. or on the sides of the picture, or you’ll
Bluetooth. A few frames let you con- have to stretch it to fill the screen.
nect via Bluetooth. If your camera or cell Get at least a 7-inch frame. This will
phone has Bluetooth, it might be a handy allow you to display a full 4x6 photo.
way to get photos to your frame. Consider your photo-sharing service.
Audio and video extras. Some models If you use an online photo-sharing site
allow you to accompany slide shows with like Snapfish or Flickr, choose a wireless
music or narration. It’s fairly simple to do frame that supports your site.
with some frames and a bit more involved Related CR Report: July 2009
with others. Some models can play AVI Ratings: page 219

iPad have their own e-book apps, too. But

E-BOOK multipurpose devices are generally less
suited to e-book reading than dedicated
READERS readers. Their LCD screens typically dis-
play type less crisply than reader screens,
they run for hours on a charge rather
E-book readers are portable devices than days, and they’re more prone to
with 5- to 10-inch screens optimized wash out in bright light.
to show the electronic text of digi- How do I get e-books onto my reader?
tal books. They’re usually downloaded directly
Most electronic book readers offer from an e-book store maintained by the
additional capabilities, including wireless reader’s manufacturer. Many readers
access to virtual bookstores and to Web come bundled with unlimited access to a
sites, and they even play audiobooks or 3G cellular network that allows wireless
other digital multimedia files. downloads from those stores wherever
They’re quite light—mostly 10 ounces you have network coverage—a significant
or so—and are about as thin as many plus. A book generally requires a minute
smart phones. Prices generally range or less to download.
from $140 to $500, though you might see Some readers, and some multipurpose
a model or two for $100 or so. e-book devices such as some iPad models,
Most use technologies such as E Ink connect wirelessly only over a Wi-Fi con-
that rely on reflected ambient light to nection to a home network or hotspot.
illuminate their screens, and so use Other units, including some of the Sony
much less energy than the LCD screens Reader models, require you to connect
of laptops and many phones. That gives the device to a computer to download
them a relatively long battery life— content. Downloads using a USB cord
thousands of page turns, or upward of a and a computer are an option with all
week or so in standby mode. But reader units, even wireless ones.
screens typically aren’t backlit, so they What do e-books cost? E-books can
can be as difficult to read as printed be less expensive than printed books.
books in dim light. Prices range from free to $30 and up.
E-book readers offer other capabilities, New best-selling titles often cost less as
such as built-in music players, but they’re e-books than as hardcovers. Many clas-
designed primarily for reading. You select sic titles that are in the public domain
content and turn pages using buttons, cost only a few dollars or are available
bars, or (on touch-screen models) an free from the Google Books database of
onscreen swipe. Here are some questions more than 500,000 public domain titles.
to consider if you’re thinking of buying an E-book retailers frequently offer free
e-book reader. sample chapters.
Can I read e-books on other devices? The selection of e-books on all the
You can. The same e-book applications major devices is large and rapidly ex-
found on readers are also available for panding. That said, not every printed
many smart phones, PCs, and Mac com- book is available in e-book form and the
puters. Some tablet models such as Apple’s e-book release is sometimes delayed

e-book readers 43
somewhat, to maximize sales of hard- whereas dedicated readers may have

cover editions. none, or only a limited one.
Is other content available? Yes, most
readers also allow you to buy magazines Shopping tips
and newspapers, either as single issues Consider screen size. Measured di
(typically for prices comparable to buy- agonally, screens range from about 5 to
ing their printed counterpart) or as sub 10 inches. A 6-inch screen offers a good
scriptions, which can cost less than combination of adequate size and moder-
subscribing to the printed versions. ate price for most people. It will be small
Is an e-book reader right for you? and light enough to slip into a handbag
E-book readers are much thinner and or briefcase.
lighter than a single hardcover book, Consider screen capabilities. At the
and can hold thousands of titles. Buying moment, no devices sold primarily as
an e-book reader makes the most sense e-book readers have color, at least on
if you’re a voracious reader or someone their main screen, though it’s coming
who often lugs books among several within a year or so (and is available now
favorite reading locations. on multipurpose mobile devices that have
A reader can also be a fine choice for e-book capability, such as smart phones
the visually impaired. Type size can be and Apple’s iPad tablet computer). On
enlarged, sometimes to sizes that exceed some readers, you can use touch capabil-
those of large-print books and periodi- ity to help you choose content and turn
cals, and a few models also allow fonts to pages. But on some models we’ve evalu-
be changed. Amazon Kindle models will ated, the additional “touch” layer of the
even read text to you, albeit in a some- screen has tended to make type a little
what mechanical voice. less crisp than on nontouch models.
Consider connectivity vs. cost. A
Types model with wireless 3G access offers the
Dedicated e-book readers. These most flexibility for obtaining new content
devices, including Amazon Kindles, Sony for the reader, but models with Wi-Fi–
Readers, and Barnes & Noble Nooks, only access generally cost less. E-readers
focus primarily on displaying e-books that must be connected to a computer
and are included in our Ratings. Many also can be the least convenient to use, but
offer newspaper and magazine subscrip- they are likely to be the lowest-priced.
tions as secondary capabilities that are You’ll have to choose between cost and
compromised somewhat by their mono- convenience. In any case, don’t expect to
chromatic screens. Most have E Ink screens, use 3G or Wi-Fi access to the Internet for
and so offer decent or better type and long much except downloading content from
battery life. the e-reader’s dedicated store. At best,
Multipurpose e-book readers. This readers have Web browsers that are very
type, which include such devices as the limited, and our testers have found most
Apple iPad, typically offer a color screen, to be virtually unusable.
supplemented on a few models by a sec- Consider performance differences.
ond, monochromatic E Ink screen. They Readers vary in the clarity of type on
usually also have a full Web browser, their screens, and in the contrast between

the type and the screen background—

both important to readability. In addition, GPS NAVIGATION
the E Ink screens of these devices turn
black when changing pages, and some
models take noticeably longer to complete Portable GPS navigation systems
these page turns than others. There are can guide you through unfamiliar
also differences in how quickly competing areas, suggest an alternative route
readers are usable. While these devices’ around rush-hour traffic, and per-
frugality with power means you can leave form an increasing array of info-
them on almost for days and even weeks tainment functions.
without running the battery down, some In today’s competitive market, GPS
models are a few seconds quicker to wake prices are coming down and budget-
up from sleep mode, or a few minutes priced units include features previ-
faster to boot up ously available only on more expensive
from off mode, than models, such as spoken street names,
Tech tip their competitors. speed warnings, a music player, or a
Most e-book Consider versa- photo viewer. Higher-priced models
readers also serve tility and flexibil- can include such features as a wireless
as a basic MP3 ity. Books ordered FM transmitter and Bluetooth-phone
player or digital from the reader’s compatibility, which allows you to ac-
photo frame.
dedicated e-book cess phone numbers from your cell
store all come for- phone or call a number displayed on
matted for the device. Some readers, in- your GPS unit. Bluetooth connectiv-
cluding the Barnes & Noble Nook, can ity can be handy for hands-free phone
also accept books from other e-book operation, or even making a reserva-
stores natively—that is, without the need tion at a restaurant while en route
to convert their format—and also support based on the GPS points of interest
documents of other types, such as Word information. Premium services, such as
documents. Other readers are more lim- traffic and weather reports, are becom-
ited in their support. With Kindles, for ing widely available, although they can
example, Word documents and photos in require a subscription. However, free
JPEG format must be sent to Amazon for traffic information supported by small,
conversion before they can be loaded. onscreen advertising is quickly becom-
Most readers have the capability to be ing the norm.
a basic MP3 player or basic digital (albeit Extra features aside, our testing has
monochromatic) photo frame. Virtually shown that all GPS guide devices will
every reader brand has other distinctive typically get you to your destination, but
capabilities. Kindles can read content not always by the most efficient route.
aloud, in a somewhat mechanical voice. While there is no substitute for local
You can lend e-books from Nooks. Some knowledge of roads and traffic situations,
Sonys allow you to handwrite notes or some of the latest devices have features
even drawings, using a stylus. such as historical traffic data and the
Related CR Report: July 2010 ability for users to modify maps to add
Ratings: page 228 some local intelligence.

g p s n av i g at i o n 45
Types more compact models, which can make

Shoppers looking for navigational aid them even more appealing to frequent
can choose from many types of GPS flyers. As a bonus, prices start at under
devices, including aftermarket portable $100, and even lower prices can be found
or in-dash units, cell phones, factory- with sales and incentives. Basic models
installed in-dash units, telematics sys- with 4.3-inch-wide screens are generally
tems, and even laptop computers. All have the more expensive ones in this group.
advantages and disadvantages, and choos- Price: $80 to $300.
ing the right one for you depends on your Traffic optional. These products are
needs and budget. ideal if you’re not sure you need traffic
Aftermarket portable systems. Today’s info now, but might want to add it later.
portable units offer most of the features Keep in mind that adding traffic later on
of carmaker built-in systems, and some means buying a separate receiver, which
have features that you can’t get in a built- can cost up to $100. Models in this price
in system. Plus, they’re compact enough bracket often also add a few key features,
to carry with you. They can easily be like lane assistance. The added features
moved from car to car, and their light vary by brand; check our Ratings for
weight and small size make them easy to the ones important to you. Price: $100
pack in luggage. With prices from about to $300.
$80 to $450, portable units are much less Traffic ready. A top-of-the-line, premi-
expensive than built-ins, at $1,500 to um unit usually comes traffic-reporting
$2,000. And features available in porta- ready with a built-in or included exter-
bles have been advancing in recent years. nal receiver. These devices include the
Real-time traffic reporting is available features we recommend, plus add extras
even on more-affordable units, and some like a music and video player, Bluetooth
offer voice-command capability. connectivity, FM transmitter, and a wide
But portables have smaller screens that screen. Price: $150 to $450.
can be harder to read at a glance. You Map software and GPS receivers for
also have to securely mount the device computers. You can turn your laptop
to prevent possible injury in an accident, into a navigation device with an add-on
make sure it’s out of the way of possible GPS receiver and map program. These
air-bag deployment, and remember to are available from companies such as
hide or take it with you when you leave DeLorme, Garmin, and Microsoft, start-
the car. (Theft of GPS units is growing.) ing at less than $100. While they provide
If the unit’s battery loses its charge, you functions similar to a dedicated GPS
will also have to deal with a cord running device, a laptop can be difficult to secure
to a power outlet. in a car, and you should never use a key-
Basic. These are no-frills navigators, board or touch screen while driving. Also,
ideal for those who don’t need a lot of laptop screens can be difficult to see inside
bells and whistles like Bluetooth con- a car due to glare. Price: $60 to $150.
nectivity for hands-free cell-phone use Handheld GPS hiking devices. GPS
and MP3 players. The least-expensive navigation has many nonautomotive
models in this category generally have applications, including handheld units
3.5-inch screens and are some of the for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking GPS

devices can include a map, compass, and more general “right turn ahead” or simi-
sometimes altimeter, while adding the lar generic instruction. This GPS feature,
ability to program routes, plot a trail, often called text-to-speech, helps you
and share information. Many hiking to keep your eyes on the road and less
units include what is called a base map, on the GPS unit. It is especially useful
enabling them to show your location on in busy, unfamiliar areas where driving
a basic roadway map. But these devices is challenging and intersections may be
don’t show the level of detail common on close together.
a dedicated portable car unit, and they Real-time traffic reports. Units with
typically don’t offer turn-by-turn navi- traffic information can alert you to a
gational aid. What they can do is inspire problem or slowdown ahead in time to
trail adventures, including geocaching— avoid it. Some will even ask if you want
GPS-based treasure hunting. And they to find another route and will detour you
can provide an extra safety margin when at the touch of a button. The real-time
exploring off the beaten path, with the data is available to subscribers through a
ability to follow your trail back to the car cell-phone network, FM signal, or satel-
or share your specific coordinates in case lite radio service. But the service is cur-
of an emergency. Price: $150 to $600. rently available only in some cities, and
coverage is normally limited to major
Features roads. The quality of information—like
All portable navigation devices on the any traffic reporting—can vary or be
market today include preloaded maps less than current. Still, we have found
and provide spoken directions and auto that it can help. We’re seeing more and
matic rerouting if you miss a turn. The more devices with free, advertising-
following are additional features to look supported traffic information, but some
for when comparing models, depending are still subscription-based, and some
on your needs. require an additional receiver costing
Screen size. We’ve tested portable up to $100. Free traffic information is
systems with screens ranging from 2.5 supported by small banner ads that
to 7 inches. The smallest can be hard to pop up occasionally. Garmin, Magellan,
see, and their small touch-screen buttons Motorola, and Nextar all offer this fea-
can make it tedious to enter an address. ture on some models. Another emerging
On the other hand, the largest units can trend is that some new models factor
be bulky to carry, and when mounted to in historical traffic data and can route
the windshield tend to obstruct more of around known congestion patterns such
your view of the road. A 3.5-inch screen as rush-hour traffic.
measured diagonally is an acceptable Predictive data entry and dynamic
compromise, but 4.3-inch-wide screens search. These GPS features make enter-
are easier to read and use. Manufactur- ing a city name or address faster. With
ers are also beginning to offer a 5-inch predictive data entry, as you type, the
screen size. screen’s keyboard will highlight only let-
Spoken street names. Better systems ters that help complete a known name. If
tell you to turn onto a street, highway, or you type “Pitt”, for example, the system
route number by its name rather than the will then highlight “S” as the next letter

g p s n av i g at i o n 47
for Pittsburgh. The latest Garmin units into the unit. We’ve found the most con-
offer word prediction similar to smart- venient to use are mounts that allow you
phone texting applications. to snap the unit in and release it with the
Almost all models have dynamic search. push of a button. If the power cord plugs
This common GPS device feature helps into the mount, that makes it easier to
narrow things down as you tap in an ad- quickly remove and reinstall the unit.
dress. With dynamic search, if you type Power supply. All portable systems can
“San”, the unit might offer up a list of be powered through a car’s 12-volt socket,
choices including San Diego, San Fran- and most have an internal recharge-
cisco, Santa Barbara, etc. You can then able battery. An
pick one from the list or just keep typing. interna l power
Detour feature. If you see traffic build- supply helps to Tech tip
ing up ahead, a manual “detour” button minimize a tangle A screen size of
will find you an alternative route. Some of cords in the car. 3.5 or 4.3 inches
models allow the user to select a specific We found that is easy enough
distance to route around a problem. Traf- those units typi- to read without
fic-capable devices integrate their traffic cally operate for making the unit
too bulky.
information with detouring functions, 2–4 hours on a
prompting a user to choose an alternative charge, although
route when traffic conditions are unfa- testing revealed sign ificant variance
vorable. That can be helpful in evaluating among models. Internal power also al-
options before changing course. lows you to practice using the system and
Routing options. Some systems can program driving destinations while you
alert you to toll roads on your chosen are away from the car, or to use the de-
route and often allow you to select a route vice as a handheld tool when traveling,
that avoids them. Other routing options walking, or bicycling.
you might want to look for include mul- Bluetooth compatibility. This allows
tiple trips, or routes for biking or walking you to make and receive telephone calls
that avoid highways and let walkers go using the unit’s internal speaker, micro-
against one-way traffic. phone, and screen, and automatically
Mounts and mounting. Most portable quiets directions while the call is being
systems mount to the windshield using a made. Units with this feature can also
large suction cup. Manufacturers have display the user’s telephone book, show
typically used either an angled rigid caller ID onscreen, and allow you to call
arm or a flexible gooseneck to attach the point-of-interest locations found in the
unit to the suction cup. We recommend GPS device. This requires a Bluetooth-
the rigid arm mount because the less- compatible telephone.
common goosenecks tend to vibrate MP3 player. With a music player,
when the car is in motion. the device can store and play preloaded
Something else to look for is a unit audio files, either through its speaker
that is easy to install and remove from or through the car stereo using an FM
the mount. Typically, a unit slides onto transmitter or a cord from the GPS head-
a mount or snaps into it. The power cord phone jack to the car’s auxiliary port.
either plugs into the mount or directly This GPS feature means the unit can

also be used as a portable music device both. Then consider what, if any, extra
away from the car. File capacity varies by features you want.
unit. Most navigation units have SD card What type of driving do you do? If
expansion slots for file storage. most of your driving is spent commuting
Video player. Some models show vid- along the same route or running local
eos previously downloaded to the unit’s errands on familiar roads, you might not
hard drive or stored on an SD card. Using get much use from a GPS guide device.
this GPS feature normally disables navi- On the other hand, if you often en-
gation while the video is being shown, counter traffic congestion, a nav system
but it can be handy for families on road can help you get around it by showing
trips and frequent flyers. surrounding roads and plotting an alter-
Photo viewer. The viewer allows users native route. It also may be worth paying
to display previously loaded photos or extra for real-time traffic information,
photos stored on an SD card, as a single which can warn you of traffic conges-
image or as slide shows. tion, accidents, or road construction, and
Foreign languages. Many units offer plot a route around it before you even get
spoken and displayed directions in to the trouble area. But traffic reporting
Spanish and French in addition to Eng- on GPS units is not perfect; like other
lish, and several have even more choices. sources of traffic information, it can be
Some TomTom models can provide inaccurate or outdated.
spoken directions in more than 30 lan- Where and how often will you use it?
guages, but can’t display them all on the If you’re buying a new car, check to see
screen. For specific language needs, it if a built-in system is available and how
is recommended that you check with much it costs. These are nicely integrated
the device manufacturer for the latest into the car. But they can be more com-
out-of-the-box abilities and additional plicated to use and are typically more
language features that might be avail- expensive than portable systems, initially
able by download. and for subsequent map updates. Still,
if most of your driving is done in one
SHOPPING TIPS car, or if you’d prefer not to have a unit
Before you buy a GPS navigator, think mounted on the dash or windshield, and
about your typical driving conditions, you’re not on a tight budget, you might be
how often you’re in unfamiliar areas, happier with a built-in system.
and the features that are most important If you often fly to new places and rent
to you. vehicles, or if you own more than one
Next, focus on how well the system car, a portable system might be the way
works for navigation. The highest-rated to go—especially with prices for entry-
models we’ve tested make it especially level systems now starting at less than
easy to enter destinations, and they give $100. And portables are now available
the most helpful directions. Look for a with high-end features once found only
GPS guide device that scored well for on built-in models.
entering a destination. Some interfaces Another increasingly popular option
are more intuitive than others, and low is a cell or smart phone with navigation
scoring units can be awkward, slow, or capability. With these, you don’t have to

printers 49
pay for an expensive in-dash system or ink, which can give a smoother look in
worry about carrying around a portable light areas of a photo.
GPS guide unit. Most inkjet printers output black-and-
There are two types of phone-based nav- white text at 2 to 9 pages per minute but
igation available. One is a subscription- are much slower for color photos. Vari-
based service from your service provider, ous models we tested took from 1½ to 10
which typically costs about $3 dollars a minutes or more to print a single high-
day or $10 dollars a month. Download- quality 8x10.
able navigation applications are the other Printing a 4x6 snapshot can take as
option, which range in price from free little as one minute, and cost as little as
to as much as $80. Whichever option you 25 cents. The cost of printing a color 8x10
choose, you’ll also need to purchase a photo can range from 75 cents to $2.30,
mount, car charger, and possibly a data including ink and paper. The cost of
plan for your phone. printing a black-text page with an inkjet
Related CR Report: August 2010 varies considerably from model to model,
Ratings: pages 234, 236 typically between 2 and 10 cents. Printer
prices range from $30 to $400.
Laser printers. These work much like
PRINTERS plain-paper copiers, forming images by
transferring toner (powdered ink) to paper
passing over an electrically charged drum.
Inkjet and laser printers have become The process yields sharp black-and-white
more affordable and increasingly full text. Laser printers usually outrun ink-
featured. jets, cranking out black-and-white text at
a rate of 12 to 18 ppm. Black-and-white
Color inkjets, which can cost as little lasers generally cost about as much as
as $30, now turn out photos nearly indis- midpriced inkjets, but they’re less expen-
tinguishable from lab-processed photos. sive to operate. Laser cartridges, about
Once reserved for businesses, mono- $50 to $100, can print thousands of black-
chrome laser printers can now be had for and-white pages for a cost of 2 to 3 cents
less than $50. per page.
Lasers that can be networked—shared
Types by all the computers on a home network—
Here’s how to find the type of printer start at $130.
that best suits your needs. All-in-one laser printers add scanning,
Inkjet printers. Inkjets use droplets copying, and sometimes fax capability.
of ink to form letters, graphics, and Among laser printers we tested, there
photos. Some have one cartridge that was only one clear-cut performance dif-
holds the cyan (greenish-blue), magenta, ference: They were noticeably slower at
and yellow inks, plus a second one for printing text than the plain lasers. Prices
black. Others have a separate cartridge start at $200.
for each color. For photos, many inkjets Color lasers are slower than black-and-
have additional cartridges that contain white models. They cost as much to use as
lighter cyan and magenta inks, or gray the better inkjet models, and they’re not a

good choice for printing photos. They’re Features

also very bulky. They cost $250 and up. To determine which printer features
All-in-one printers. You can also get you’ll need, consider how you’ll be using
printers with scanning, copying, and your printer and what you need to print.
sometimes fax capability. Many all-in- If you’re printing photos, you’ll need a
ones cost no more and take up little more memory card reader, PictBridge com-
space than a plain printer. What’s more, patibility, or some other form of connec
all-in-ones are actually getting less ex- tivity. And if you’re planning to network
pensive and more versatile. They cost $60 your printer to a number of computers,
and up. look for that capability too.
In our tests, inkjet all-in-ones and plain USB port. The way a printer connects
inkjets performed similarly, cost about the to a computer depends on what kind of
same to use, and printed at similar speeds. connectivity it has. All printers have a
A few inkjet all-in-ones and plain inkjets USB port that lets them connect to Win-
printed a color 4x6 in less than 2 minutes, dows or Mac computers.
and a few relatively frugal ones printed Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or infrared wire-
one for as little as 25 cents. less. Many printers have optional
Specialty snapshot printers. For print- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or infrared wireless con-
ing photos at home, a speedy snapshot nectivity. A printer with PictBridge can
printer can be more convenient than a connect directly to a camera, and some
full-sized model. Most are limited to 4x6- models can print and download photos
inch snapshots, but a few models can also right from your camera’s memory card.
print on 5x7 paper. Snapshot printers use Memory-card reader. This feature
either inkjet or dye-sublimation technol- lets you print image files from a digital
ogy, in which a waxy ink is fused to paper camera’s memory card without using a
from a roll of plastic film. computer. You can also transfer the files
Like most full-sized inkjet printers, to a computer.
these models typically hook up directly LCD viewer. Many printers incorpo-
via cable to a digital camera through a rate a built-in LCD screen for viewing and
PictBridge connection, or print directly editing images from a memory card. The
from your camera’s memory card so you screen is small, usually 1 to 3.5 inches,
can print without using a computer. They and editing capability is very limited.
cost $100 to $200. Ink monitor. Most inkjet printers have
Mobile or personal printers. These an ink monitor to warn when you’re run-
smaller versions of inkjet printers are ning low, but accuracy varies.
good for executives—or others—on the Networking. Networking lets you print
go. Most have a built-in battery in ad- from any computer in either a wired or
dition to an external power cord. And wireless home network.
they come equipped with memory card Internet connectivity. Some all-in-one
readers so you can print photos without printers can communicate directly with
a computer. What they lack in speed, the Internet, running “apps” that enable
they make up in portability. They’re you to print online content directly, or
lightweight and can fit into a briefcase even send printing to your home from a
or backpack. remote computer.

printers 51
Double-sided printing. For double- (a standard that allows a compatible cam-

sided printing, you can print the odd- era to be connected directly to the printer),
numbered pages of a document first, and or a wireless interface are convenient.
then flip those pages over to print the Without the computer, though, you
even-numbered pages on a second pass. lose the ability to tweak image character-
A few printers make this process easier istics such as size, color, and brightness.
by incorporating built-in duplexers for You can do some editing on a printer that
automatically printing on both sides. has an LCD screen, but your options will
Printing on CD/DVD. Some models be very limited.
allow you to print your own labels di- Weigh convenience features. Inkjets
rectly on CD and DVD discs you buy can make borderless prints like those
with blank white backs. from a photo finisher. That matters most
if you’re printing to the full size of the
SHOPPING TIPS paper, as you might with 4x6-inch sheets.
Consider supply costs as well as price. If you plan to use 4x6-inch paper regu
High ink- or toner-cartridge costs can larly, look for a printer with a 4x6-inch
make a bargain-priced printer a bad deal tray or a second paper tray, which makes
in the long run. Shop around for the it easier to feed paper this size. With
best cartridge prices, but be wary of off- those small sheets, though, the cost per
brands. We have found that brand-name photo might be higher than combining a
ink cartridges have better print quality few images on 81/2 x11-inch paper.
and fade resistance, and per-page costs With some printer models, in order to
are often comparable. use the photo inks to get the best picture
You should also consider whether an quality, you must remove the black-ink
inkjet has single or separate color car cartridge and replace it with a photo-
tridges. Those with a single color cartridge ink cartridge. Then, to print text or graph
usually have a separate black cartridge ics, you must reinsert the black cartridge.
for text. But some have individual color Models that hold all the ink tanks simul-
cartridges. Depending on your photos, taneously eliminate the hassle of chang-
separate color cartridges may be more ing cartridges.
economical. Consider connections. All printers
Another way to save money is by using have a USB port for connecting to a com-
plain paper for works in progress and puter. Many also offer wired or wireless
saving the good stuff for the final results. networking, which lets you print from
Glossy photo paper costs about 25 to any computer on your network. You can
75 cents a sheet. We got the best results share a printer that lacks this feature, but
using the recommended brand of paper. the computer it’s connected to must be
You might be tempted to buy a cheaper turned on in order to print from a differ-
brand, but lower-grade paper can reduce ent computer.
photo quality. Memory requirements. While ink-
Do you want to print photos with- jet printers use a computer’s memory to
out a computer? This saves you an extra process the print job, laser printers have
step and a little time. Features such as a their own onboard memory. A laser print-
memory-card reader, PictBridge support er’s memory must be large enough to hold

full pages of the most complex graph-

ics you need to print. If you print large
files with a lot of graphics or have mul-
TELEVISIONS
tiple users on your network, look for a
laser with at least hundreds of mega- High-definition TVs come in all
bytes of onboard memory, or the ability to shapes and sizes. Whether you
add more. want a slim LCD or plasma TV, a 3D-
Be skeptical of vendor specs. When capable set, or a front projector that
shopping for a printer you’ll notice a can give you a cinemalike experience
number of specs, such as print speed and at home, you’ll find prices that are
resolution. Those numbers are not all that lower than ever.
useful, even for comparison purposes,
because each company performs its tests Buying a TV involves many choices.
in a different manner. Here we organize the decision-making
Your speed may vary. Print speed process into clear, logical steps.
varies depending on what you’re print- Budget. Of course, your budget will
ing and at what quality, but the speeds affect all of your decisions. It’s possible
you see in ads are generally higher than to find good TVs selling for a few hun-
you’re likely to get in normal use. You dred dollars, while others go for several
can’t reliably com- thousand, and there are many sets that
pare speeds for fall in between those extremes. Screen
Shop smart different brands size, features, brands, and more affect
High ink- or because each com- the price.
toner-cartridge pany uses its own TV type. If you’re like most buy-
costs can make methods to mea- ers, you’ve probably settled on a slim
a bargain-priced sure speed. We run flat-panel TV, but you might not know
printer a bad deal identical tests on whether to buy an LCD or a plasma set.
in the long run. all models, print- Though they look very similar on the
ing text pages and outside, they use different technologies
photos that are similar to what you might and the pictures have different charac-
print. Therefore, the print times in our teristics. While LCDs outsell plasmas by
Ratings are realistic and can be compared a wide margin—in part because plasma
across brands. sets are available only in screen sizes
Don’t get hung up on resolution. A 42 inches and larger—don’t automatically
printer’s resolution, expressed in dots per assume that LCDs are the way to go. It’s
inch, is another potential source of con- worth considering both types. Flat panels
fusion. With all things being equal, the have largely pushed rear-projection and
more dots a printer puts on the paper, picture-tube TVs to the sidelines; few of
the more detailed the image. those sets are now being introduced or
But dot size, shape, and placement also stocked by retailers. Front projectors are
affect quality, so don’t base your choice a great choice for home theaters but less
solely on resolution. practical for everyday use.
Related CR Report: September 2010 Screen size. You can’t compare the
Ratings: pages 253, 257 screen size of a conventional squarish

televisions 53
tube TV with a wide screen, so don’t second number is often used as short-
think a move from a 27-inch tube set to hand to describe the set’s resolution, for
a 32-inch-wide screen will give you an example, a 1080p screen has 1,080 pixels
appreciably bigger picture. It won’t; con- from top to bottom. Most new LCD and
tent will be perceived as the same size, plasma TVs with screens 40 inches and
though wider. up now have 1080p resolution, and the
For the most part, we recommend at price difference between 720p and 1080p
least a 37-inch screen for a primary TV sets is shrinking.
that you’ll watch often. We believe that A 1080p set has the potential to display
most consumers would be happier with a finer detail than a 720p set, but resolution
40- to 42-inch TV, budget and room size alone doesn’t determine picture quality.
permitting, and a 46-inch or bigger set is Factors such as brightness, contrast, and
often preferable. Screens of about 26 to color also come into play. You can best
32 inches are good for casual viewing in appreciate the finer detail of a 1080p
bedrooms, and even smaller screen sizes screen on a 50-inch-or-larger TV, though
suit kitchens. you might see subtle improvements on
Remember to factor in viewing dis- a 40-to-47-inch screen, especially when
tance when deciding how big a screen viewed up close. In smaller sizes, the
will work in your room. TV pictures tend benefits of 1080p are less obvious. One
to look better and more natural if you can exception: If you plan to use your TV as
sit at least 5 feet from a 40- to 47-inch set a computer display, 1080p resolution is
displaying good-quality HD content and a plus. The higher resolution will let you
a minimum of 6 feet from a 50-inch-or- see more content onscreen with greater
larger TV. With less distance, you might clarity and finer detail than you would on
notice the picture elements (pixels) that a 720p set. (You might have to connect
make up the images (sometimes referred your computer to the TV with an HDMI
to as the “screen-door effect”), graininess, input to take full advantage of the 1080p
or video noise—what you might consider resolution and to avoid cutting off outer
“snow” or specks. If you watch mostly edges of the image—otherwise known as
standard-definition programming, which overscan.)
is less detailed and often lower quality, What you’re watching matters too. To
allow more distance between you and fully enjoy the benefits of a 1080p TV,
the TV. you need top-quality high-def content.
Screen resolution. Resolution means You can get that from a Blu-ray disc,
the number of pixels, or picture elements, which contains true 1080p content. A
a screen contains. A 720p set displays 1080p set will convert current HD signal
1024x768, 1280x720, or 1366x768 pixels. A formats (720p and 1080i) to match its
set with 1080p resolution, sometimes ad- native screen resolution. If the quality of
vertised as “full HD,” displays 1920x1080 the programming is good and the TV
pixels. The first number in each case in- does the job well, the picture quality can
dicates the number of pixels going across be outstanding. In fact, most 1080p HD
the screen from left to right; the second sets can derive true 1080p performance
number is the number of pixels from from most film-based movies. But the
the top of the screen to the bottom. That quality of HD content varies considerably

(especially on cable), so it might not fully making them a good choice for brightly
exploit the potential of a 1080p display. lit rooms. But we are seeing many more
LCD sets with glossy screens, which are
LCD TVs more reflective. With LCD TVs, there’s
These are a good choice if you want a no risk of burn-in of static images, which
thin, lightweight TV that comes in a wide can be a concern with plasma TVs,
range of sizes and is well suited for view- although it is less of a problem than it
ing in a bright room. was in the past.
Common screen sizes. 15 to 60 inches. Advances in technology have also
Manufacturers have showcased sets larger addressed problems that have plagued
than 100 inches. No matter how large LCD technology. LCD TVs have had
the screen, most LCD TVs are only 2 or trouble displaying deep blacks, a prob-
3 inches thick, and some new ultraslim lem caused partly by backlighting leak-
sets are even thinner. ing through in dark scenes. Some new
Typical selling prices. Standard prices models have minimized this problem
are about $350 to $800 for a 32-inch by using full-frame LED (light-emitting
model, $500 to $900 for a 37-inch set, diode) backlights (instead of fluorescents)
$600 to $1,400 for a 40- to 42-inch set, and so-called local-dimming technology.
$700 to $2,600 for a 46- to 47-inch set, and The backlight can be dimmed behind a
$1,300 to $3,000 for a 52-inch set. (With dark scene, enhancing the depth of black,
prices continually dropping and special while remaining bright elsewhere. TVs
promotions, you’ll probably see some with edge-lit LED backlights around the
TVs selling for less perimeter of the screen typically don’t
than the prices offer local dimming, but a few of the
Tech tip indicated.) newest models do. Edge LEDs can allow
Matte screens Ke y p oi nt s . for extremely thin profiles. Models with
reduce glare, There are many LEDs also use less power than typical
making them a more companies TVs; some we’ve tested were exception-
good choice for selling LCD than ally frugal with energy.
brightly lit rooms.
plasma TVs, and Recent developments have also
in a wider range of improved LCD TVs’ ability to display
sizes. LCD televisions generally cost more fast-moving scenes without blurring. A
than comparably sized plasma sets, but growing number of sets now use 120Hz
the gap is narrowing. Many LCD sets and 240Hz technology, or quasi-240Hz
with 40-inch-or-larger screens (and (120Hz plus a scanning backlight), an
some smaller models) have 1080p reso- increase from the usual 60Hz refresh
lution. Many newer LCD TVs use LED rates, to reduce motion blur. But LCD
backlighting instead of the more typi- TVs haven’t caught up with plasma TVs
cal fluorescent backlight. These sets have in terms of viewing angle. With most
been among the most energy-efficient LCD sets, the picture looks its best only
we’ve tested. from a fairly narrow sweet spot right in
LCDs tend to be brighter than plasma front of the screen. As you angle away
screens, and some have matte screens that from the center of the screen—either
don’t suffer from reflections and glare, horizontally or vertically—the image can

televisions 55
dim, lose contrast, look washed out, or efficient. The reflections from a plasma
lose color accuracy. So if you’re sitting TV’s shiny screen can be annoying in
off to the side (say, at the end of a long a bright room, though an antireflective
couch), stretched out on the floor, or coating can minimize them. In this
looking up at a TV over the mantel, you respect, they’re similar to what you might
could be seeing less-than-optimal pic- have seen with a picture-tube TV, or with
ture quality. LCD sets with glossy screens. Static
images displayed for extended periods—
Plasma TVs such as stock tickers or video games—can
If you want a thin TV with a screen 42 burn in temporarily and could become
inches or larger with an almost unlimited permanent if you consistently leave the
viewing angle, these are a good choice. same pattern onscreen over a long period.
Common screen sizes. They’re 42 to 58 But that seems to have been more of
inches, with more 60-inch-plus models a problem with earlier plasma TVs.
arriving. Most models are 4 inches or less Screen-saver–type features on new plas-
in depth, and some new ultraslim plasma mas greatly minimize the likelihood of
TVs are as thin as an inch. burn-in. In our tests, we’ve seen tempo-
Typical selling prices. Standard prices rary impressions that have disappeared
are $500 to $1,000 for a 42-inch set, $700 after a short while; we haven’t seen any
to $2,500 for a 50-inch model, $1,500 to evidence of permanent burn-in in normal
$2,800 for a 58-inch set, $2,000 to $4,200 home use.
for a 60- to 65-inch model. (With prices
continually dropping and special promo- Features
tions, you’ll probably see some TVs sell- Features can help to ensure your satis-
ing for less than the prices indicated.) faction with a TV long after you park it
Key points. You’ll find more sizes, in your living room. Many features, such
including 46-inch and 54-inch models, as the inputs and outputs, are common
as manufacturers try to compete more to all TV types, while some are relevant
directly with LCD sets. There are also only to a particular type of TV; that’s
many more 1080p sets than in the past, indicated below. Here are some of the
including 42-inch models. It’s hard to more important TV features to consider.
beat the best plasma TV sets for accu- 3D. This is a new feature, not a new
rate colors, deep blacks, and great con- type of TV. 3D-capable sets function like
trast. And a virtually unlimited viewing any standard HDTV with regular pro-
angle means that no one has a bad view, grams. When the TV detects 3D signals,
because you see the same picture quality it shifts into 3D mode. You need to wear
from almost anywhere in a room. special high-tech glasses to see 3D imag-
New plasmas use much less energy es; without them, you’ll see blurry double
than older models and in general are images. You don’t need glasses for regular
comparable to typical LCDs for power 2D content. There isn’t much 3D content
consumption. But some of the biggest yet, but more is coming. As of July, there
sets do consume more power than most were a few 3D Blu-ray movies available,
models, especially when compared to LED- with more expected soon. (You’ll need a
lit LCDs, which tend to be very energy- 3D-capable Blu-ray player to play them.)

There will also be a growing number of black levels as much as sets with full-
3D broadcasts. array LEDs. In general, LEDs can reduce
120Hz and 240Hz technology (LCD power consumption. Some of those we’ve
TVs). This spec refers to the refresh rate tested have been among the most energy-
or frame rate of the display—how often it efficient sets we’ve seen.
updates the images onscreen. LCD TVs Internet connectivity. Some new LCD
have typically had a refresh rate of 60Hz, and plasma TVs can access the Internet
meaning they update the image 60 times directly, through a broadband connec-
a second. At that relatively slow rate, tion, without using a computer. They
there’s a tendency to blur images during don’t function as full-fledged browsers;
scenes with fast motion, such as sports Web access is limited to specific content,
programs. To address this, some new sets which varies by brand and model. Some
display double the number of frames per of these Internet-enabled TVs offer only
second—120 or 240 rather than the typi- simple RSS news feeds but others can
cal 60—by inserting additional video bring you streaming video movies and
frames (or black frames). Because there is TV episodes from Netflix, Blockbuster,
less time between frames, motion appears Amazon on Demand, Vudu, and Hulu,
smoother. Another approach, taken by and music from services such as Pandora,
companies such as LG and Toshiba, is to and access to popular sites such as You-
combine 120Hz refresh rates with a scan- Tube, Twitter, Flickr photos, eBay, Face-
ning, or flashing, backlight to achieve a book, and more. (Some Blu-ray players
“240Hz-like” effect. Many companies are and gaming consoles also offer this fea-
giving this technology proprietary names; ture, so you can get Internet connectiv-
Sony, for example, calls it Motionflow ity and streaming video without buying
and JVC’s is dubbed Clear Motion Drive. a new TV.) Most TVs with access to
LED backlighting (LCD TVs). LCD online content now have onscreen icons,
displays use lights in the back of the called widgets, that are used to access the
display to illuminate the screen. These various services. Yahoo and Vudu offer a
have typically been fluorescent bulbs, widget platform that aggregates content
but many new sets use LED backlights applications from various service pro
instead. Some have full-array LEDs ar- viders, such as the streaming services
ranged across the entire panel. These are mentioned above.
divided into zones that can darken or Wi-Fi connectivity. A small but grow-
brighten independently, a feature called ing number of TVs now have the ability
local dimming. Thus, the backlight can to connect to a home network wirelessly,
be dimmed behind a dark scene, enhanc- so you don’t need a nearby Ethernet jack.
ing black levels, while remaining bright Some models come with built-in Wi-Fi,
in other parts of the picture. Other LCD while others come with, or offer as an
TVs have LEDs around the perimeter of option, a Wi-Fi dongle that connects to
the screen, a design called edge-lit. This the TV’s USB port.
enables a very thin profile, but gener- Connections. One of the most critical
ally does not allow local dimming. A considerations with any TV is the num-
few new sets with edge-lit LEDs do have ber and type of inputs it has for hook-
local dimming, but they haven’t improved ing up to other devices. Most larger TVs

televisions 57
now have at least three or four HDMI process of being stretched or zoomed.
inputs plus two component-video inputs, A mode called “native,” or 1:1, which is
which should be adequate for most cur- found on many TVs, presents the full
rent uses, while smaller sets typically have image, without cutting off the edges.
fewer of each type. Both types are capa This is especially helpful when using the
ble of carrying high-definition signals TV as a computer display.
from devices such as cable and satel- Film mode. This improves the
lite boxes and DVRs. You can use the appearance of movies converted from film
RF (antenna/cable) input to feed high- to video. That includes most theatrical
def TV signals, either from an off-air releases on DVD, many movies shown on
antenna or from a cable hookup. S-video TV, and some TV programs. This feature
and composite-video inputs are gener- (also called 3:2 pull-down, motion com-
ally used with older gear such as a VCR pensation, or brand-specific names such
or sometimes a DVD player. If you want as CineMotion and Film Mode) helps to
to hook up a video-game system or cam- compensate for the difference in frame
corder occasionally, look for a TV with rates between film (24 frames per sec-
front- or side-panel inputs, which are ond) and video (30 frames per second),
more accessible than those on the rear which can create jerkiness and jagged
of the set. A handful of sets, typically edges on moving images. Most TVs and
high-priced models, can accept “wire- progressive-scan DVD players also have
less HDMI” signals. These TVs come a film-mode feature, so experiment to see
with a separate media module, where which device does the best job of making
all connections—such as from a cable the images look smoother.
box or Blu-ray player—are made. Audio DLNA. The Digital Living Network
and video signals are then sent wire- Alliance (DLNA) supports a standard
lessly from the media console to the that enables interoperability among vari-
TV, leaving the power cord as the only ous consumer electronics devices across
remaining cable. There are several dif- a home network. A DLNA-compliant TV,
ferent technologies being used, includ- for example, can access photos, movies,
ing WHDI, WirelessHD (WiHD), Ultra and music stored on a PC through a net-
Wide-Band (UWB), and even 802.11n, work connection.
also known as Wireless-N. TV settings and modes. All TVs have
Aspect-ratio adjustments. Most menus with settings that enable you to
wide-screen (16:9) sets have stretch and adjust the picture, sound, and more.
zoom modes that expand or compress We suggest adjusting the TV’s settings
an image to fill the screen better. That once you get home to get the best view-
helps to reduce or eliminate the dark ing experience. Newer sets have a menu
bands that can appear on the sides option that allows you to choose between
or top and bottom of images if you a “home” or “retail” (“store”) setting
watch content that isn’t formatted for a when the TV is first connected. The home
wide screen, including most standard- mode adjusts the TV’s picture controls
definition TV programs and even some to settings appropriate for viewing in a
HD content. The tradeoff is that the pic- home environment. You can also choose
ture is distorted or cut off a bit in the from other preset picture modes that are

optimized for certain types of content Picture-in-picture (PIP). This lets

(such as movies, sports, or games), and you watch two channels at once—one
make adjustments to individual attri- in a small window, the other as a full-
butes, such as brightness, color, and so screen image. It’s useful if you want to
forth. (With some sets, you can adjust browse the onscreen guide while keeping
attributes individually only in a custom an eye on the program you’re watching or
or user mode.) With more sources for keep track of a sports event while another
video available all the time, it’s handy program is playing. A single-tuner TV
to have a feature that allows you to cus- requires another device, such as a DVD
tomize settings for each input, such as recorder, DVR or cable box, to display
the one you routinely use for your cable two programs at once; dual-tuner TV
box or the DVD player. For example, models are able to display two programs
you might want simultaneously on their own. On some
sharpness set to its TVs, PIP is disabled when the HDMI
Tech tip lowest level when input is used.
One of the watching high- Illuminated remote. Some remotes
most critical quality DVDs or use either backlighted keys or glow-in-
considerations Blu-ray movies the-dark keys to make them easier to
with any TV is the routed through the use in a darkened room. Backlighting is
number and type HDMI input, but preferred because glow-in-the-dark keys
of inputs it has
a higher sharpness fade quickly. In some cases, only a few of
for hooking up
devices. setting to improve the most-used keys are illuminated.
the softer appear- Speakers. On most TVs, speakers are
ance of standard- built in at the bottom of a TV, along the
definition programs coming in by cable sides, or occasionally on the rear of
through the component-video input. the set. Some models have detachable
CableCard slots. Available on a small speakers, allowing you to remove them
number of TVs and DVRs, a CableCard and place them elsewhere. The location of
slot lets you use a card, rented to you the speakers can affect the width of the
by the cable company for a few dollars set and could determine whether it will
a month, instead of a cable box. When fit into a niche in an entertainment cen-
the card is inserted, the TV can receive ter. A recent trend with flat-panel TVs
scrambled digital-cable content, includ- has been toward “invisible” speakers that
ing high-definition programming. That are integrated within the screen bezel
eliminates the need for an extra piece and barely visible to the eye. Some TVs
of equipment and cables, but there is a have audio outputs that will allow you to
downside: Most current CableCards are connect external speakers or a powered
one-way, so they don’t provide an interac- subwoofer. Monitors, which don’t include
tive program guide or video-on-demand, an ATSC tuner, may not have speakers.
and pay-per-view ordering via the remote Front projectors generally don’t include
control. Tru2Way two-way cable cards speakers either.
are starting to show up on a few sets, but Antiglare screens (plasma). Like old-
are supported by cable companies in a fashioned picture-tube TVs, which have
limited number of markets. reflective glass screens, most plasma TVs

televisions 59
have shiny screens that show reflections Shopping tips

from windows and lamps when their light View TVs skeptically in the store. Our
falls directly on the screen. A growing TV tests are based on settings that you
number of LCD TVs have shiny screens would use at home, with content that re-
too, so they’re subject to the same glare. veals the strengths and weaknesses of a
If you weren’t bothered by reflections on given set, so you can use our Ratings to get
a tube set, this shouldn’t be a major issue an accurate assessment of picture quality.
for you. Some plasma sets have screens It’s harder to judge TVs well for yourself in
with antiglare surfaces, which can help stores. That’s because TVs are usually set
to reduce reflectivity. Otherwise you can to a Retail or Store mode, which pumps
close window blinds or dim lighting to up brightness and color to a level that
minimize any glare issues. looks great under fluorescent lights. Also,
Anti-burn-in features (plasma). Many retailers often display sports programs,
plasma TVs now come with features to which tend to have superbright lighting
prevent burn-in, such as screen savers and vivid colors that minimize any flaws
and motion-adaptive (also called pixel- in the picture. See whether a salesperson
shifting) technology, which shifts the will tune-in programming with typical in-
picture almost imperceptibly every few door scenes (including people, if possible,
seconds. This helps prevent static images so you can evaluate skin tones). With an
such as a station logo or the bars on the LCD, look at the set from the side, not just
sides of an image from permanently head on, to judge the viewing angle. If
etching into the TV’s phosphor coating, possible, vary your vertical position too,
leaving faint but persistent, ghostlike so that you can judge how the screen looks
images on the screen. Burn-in might when you are sitting and standing. With
have been more of a problem with most LCDs, you’ll notice that the picture
earlier plasma sets. We haven’t seen any quality deteriorates as you move away
evidence of burn-in when testing TVs in from the center. We’ve found consider-
our labs over the course of a few months, able variation among brands and models,
and we have heard no anecdotal reports so check our test results.
of permanent burn-in from staffers or Don’t buy expensive cables. “Prestige”
readers who have used plasma TVs long- brands offer very-high-priced cables.
term at home. Temporary image sticking You’ll see some HDMI cables in the
is more likely to occur. In this case, static 6-foot range (a typical length) selling for
images that remain on the screen for $100 or more, and longer cables that cost
a matter of hours—or on a few sets we’ve several times that. We’ve found that the
seen, in minutes—may leave a subtle modestly priced brands sold at most con-
impression that’s noticeable on a dark sumer electronics stores for half that
screen, though hard to detect with typi- price or less should work well in typical
cal video. These impressions disappear use. Any “high-speed” HDMI cable should
when you play random video scenes. be adequate for connecting to a TV, even
Some models include a feature that for 3D. Just avoid inexpensive cables at
essentially blasts the screen with a white dollar stores; those might have flimsy
image for a period of time to remove lin- connectors or inadequate shielding on
gering images. the cable itself.

Try negotiating. You might be able to hundreds of retailers. You can sort the
talk your way to a better price, especially listings by price, including tax and ship-
for higher-priced TVs. See what a TV is ping, and check reader reviews of prod-
selling for at reputable online retailers ucts and retailers. Some sites to consider:
and in local stores, and use that informa- BizRate (and its affiliate, Shopzilla),
tion in negotiating a price. Once you’ve Google Shopping, MySimon, PriceGrab-
chosen a set, ask for a break on installa- ber, Shopping.com (and affiliate Deal-
tion or delivery costs, or for free HDMI Time), and Yahoo. You’ll also find a price
or component-video cables, which you’ll comparison and local shopping link
need to get high-def signals to your new in the Ratings at ConsumerReports.org.
TV from cable or satellite. Remember to factor in shipping costs,
Shop where you’ll get a price guaran- which can be substantial on a big-screen
tee. Many retailers will match or beat a TV, or look for a free-shipping offer.
lower price from a local competitor, so Set price alerts. Some bots will send
go to the store with those prices in hand. price alerts by e-mail. Indicate your tar-
Even after the sale, some stores prom- get price or range for a model, and the
ise a refund within a specified period of site will e-mail you when it finds a store
time, often 30 to 60 days, if they reduce selling at that price. Retailers such as
the price of your TV or if you find the Crutchfield.com will send alerts too.
set selling elsewhere for less. There are Consider delivery. You might want
usually restrictions, so check the details. to consider having the biggest-screen
Save your receipt and keep checking the sets delivered. The cartons are too large
ads even after you buy. to fit in many vehicles, and they can be
Skip the extended warranty. It’s gen- awkward to carry. Delivery services will
erally not worth the money to buy an often remove the TV from the packag-
extended warranty for an LCD or plasma ing and place it on a stand for you. Some
TV. Our survey data from thousands of stores and Web sites offer free delivery,
TV buyers show that sets of both types a plus with heavy items like TVs. Just
from most major brands have had a very make sure the delivery stipulates that
low rate of repairs for the first three years the TV will be delivered inside the house;
of use, and most repairs cost less than some stores may only deliver to the curb,
$200. A warranty often costs just as much and it’s your responsibility to bring the
if not more than that. Use a credit card TV inside and set it up. Retailers that
that doubles your warranty, or shop at a offer “white glove” delivery will typically
retailer like Costco, which adds one year bring the TV into a room, place it on a
to the standard coverage. stand or cabinet, and remove the pack-
Use shopping bots (search engines aging. Sometimes this service is free, but
that collect prices for products from a at other times you may have to pay an
variety of vendors). Many Internet shop- additional fee.
ping sites are one-stop shops where Related CR Report: July 2010
you can check prices for specific TVs at Ratings: pages 276, 281

Kitchen, Bath
& Laundry:
How to Save In Style
I
nstead of chasing $800 bronze faucets, $3,000 whirlpool baths,
and $6,000 professional ranges, homeowners are rediscovering
their own sense of beauty and value in the kitchen and the bath,
the two most-renovated rooms in the house. Indeed, our latest
tests confirm that sensible and stylish needn’t be mutually
exclusive: You’ll find top-scoring ranges that offer stainless-steel
finishes for as little as $500, along with convection and even quick-
heating induction for far less. Smart shopping is also one more way
to help maintain—and eventually improve—your home’s resale value.
TyPES
COFFEEMAKERS Familiar mainstream brands include
Black & Decker, Bunn, Cuisinart, De-
longhi, GE, Haier, Hamilton Beach, and,
You can easily spend more than of course, Mr. Coffee. You’ll also find a
$250 to make the ultimate cup of growing number of newer brands such
joe. But our latest tests yielded as Kalorik, Michael Graves, Sensio, and
several coffeemakers that get the Technivorm—a pricey Dutch import.
best from the beans for a fraction Here are the basic types:
of the price. Multicup drip models with carafes.
These typically brew 8 to 12 cups at once
We also found models priced at as lit- into a carafe included with the machine.
tle as $20 that serve up coffee when you They’re the most common kind and are
wake. More are also offering espresso op- an easy way to serve a crowd because they
tions, built-in grinders, and designs that dispense a full pot into the carafe. Price:
brew neatly from a drop-in pod. But some $20 to $250 or more.
of these features come at the expense of Multicup brew stations. These typi-
good, properly brewed coffee. cally brew 12 cups at once, but dispense
061-076 BG11 Kitchen Bath Laundry.indd 62 9/15/10 2:32:54 PM

countertops 63
coffee directly into your cup. While that Shopping Tips

saves you the pouring and juggling that Most of the coffeemakers that made
go with carafes, multiple cups require our winner’s list cost well under $100,
multiple trips to the machine. Price: not several hundred. Here’s how to pick
about $50 to $100. one that helps make your morning:
To-go and pod models. These are Decide how many you’re serving. If it’s
best if you want just a cup or two at a just one or two of you, you may prefer the
time, since they typically can fill a mug speed and low price of a to-go model—or
in about 3 minutes compared with more a brew station if you like refilling your
than 6 minutes for most multicup ma- cup without having to handle a carafe.
chines. Pod versions offer the conve- But if you’re serving a crowd, you’ll prob-
nience of sealed coffee pods, though they ably want a multicup carafe model.
tend to cost more. Prices: about $20 to Try it out if you can. Look for clear
$50; $200 or more for pod models. markings and a well-balanced carafe
Grind-and-brew models. These com- with a handle that’s large enough to hold
bine a coffeemaker and grinder in one comfortably.
unit. Burr grinders, which crush the Consider trading paper filters for
beans, tend to cost more and grind more metal. A permanent metal filter ($5 to
uniformly than blade grinders, which $10) can pay for itself in a year.
chop them. But they can be a hassle to Think twice about pod models. None
clean. Price: about $20 to $300. of the pod models we’ve tested so far
Coffee-and-espresso makers. A grow- was especially impressive. And many lock
ing number of machines now make regu- you into the company’s coffee, which can
lar coffee and espresso as that stronger be expensive.
brew grows in popularity. But even the Related CR report: December 2009
best we tested weren’t best overall at Ratings: page 194
making coffee. Price: about $60 to $150
or more.
FEATURES
COUNTERTOPS
Programmable coffeemakers can be
preset to start brewing—say, when you Practically any countertop looks
wake up or get home from work. A ther- good in the showroom. But one that
mal carafe (about $20 to $40 separately) keeps on looking good in your kitch-
helps keep coffee warm without heating, en requires choosing tough, durable
avoiding a burned taste. Brew-strength materials now—or lots of time and
control allows you to adjust brewing effort later.
time or let some water pass around the
beans for milder coffee without under- As our testing shows, you don’t have
brewing. Clear markings on the carafe to lay out a fortune for a countertop that’s
and reservoir and an easy-to-see on/off both strong and stylish.
light help make coffeemakers easier to We stained, scratched, sliced, scorched,
use, while flush touch-screen controls and pummeled a gamut of countertop
can ease cleanup. materials from leading brands and found

some smart choices, no matter how much relatively easy to install and repair, and
or how little you want to spend. We also mixes well with other materials. It also
found you can fork over a mint for “green” works well on a backsplash or island top,
and other trendy materials and get less or set into the counter near the range
than you may have bargained for. as a built-in trivet. Grout can be tinted
to match or contrast, but joints tend to
TYPES trap crumbs and soak up stains. Little
Here are the most popular counter- impact resistance is another sore point.
top choices from top to bottom, based Price: about $10 to $30 per square foot
on how well they withstood stains, heat, installed.
cuts, abrasion, and impacts in our tests: Laminate. Sold under the Formica
Quartz. This blend of stone chips, and Wilsonart names, among others,
resins, and pigments imitates granite laminate offers an array of choices and
and marble more realistically than ever is light, low-priced, and easy to install.
and can cost significantly less. It resists Most have a colored top layer over a
impacts as well as granite and fends dark core, which shows at the edges,
off stains with- but options include prefabricated, post
out needing to formed versions that have no seams
Shop smart be sealed. Price: where the counter meets the backsplash
Choose your about $50 to $100 and front edge. Stain, heat, and impact
countertop by per square foot in- resistance are other pluses. But shiny
matching the look stalled. finishes show scratches and nicks, and
you want with Natural stone. damaged areas can’t be repaired. Seams
your countertop Granite and mar- can also let water seep in between the
needs and, countertop and backsplash, causing lift-
ble are the most
of course,
your budget. popular and offer ing. Price: about $10 to $30 per square
an array of colors. foot installed.
But marble falls Solid surfacing. This blend of poly-
far behind for stains, scrapes, and heat ester or acrylic resins and mineral fill-
resistance. Both need regular resealing ers imitates concrete, marble, and other
for stain resistance. And what you see stone, as well as quartz—essentially an
at the store may not be what you get on imitation of an imitation. Solid-surface
the truck (we suggest shopping at a stone countertops resist heat and impacts.
yard). Limestone, slate, soapstone, and They also come in various thicknesses
sandstone are softer and more fragile and can be joined almost invisibly into
than granite. And as with all stone, the one apparently seamless expanse that
moving and installation hassles associ- integrates the sink and backsplash.
ated with their sheer weight contribute Major brands include Avonite, DuPont
to the high cost. Price: about $45 to $200 Corian, Formica Surell, Nevamar
per square foot installed. Fountainhead, and Wilsonart Gibraltar.
Ceramic tile. Pluses for this natural While solid surfacing cuts and abrades
material include nearly limitless col- easily, scratches and nicks are easily
ors and patterns, and good heat and buffed out and repaired. But tougher,
cut resistance. Tile is inexpensive and more authentic-looking quartz now

countertops 65
costs about the same. Price: about $35 shopping tips

to $100 per square foot installed. Begin by matching the material to the
Paper composite. We tested a version wear and tear it will get in your kitchen.
of this greener option from Richlite. And if you’re using an undermounted
While it did well at resisting stains and sink, you’ll need a waterproof counter
heat, it was only fair when it came to cuts such as concrete, solid surfacing, stain-
and abrasions. What’s more, it doesn’t less, stone, or quartz. Then consider the
use recycled paper, and its resin is petro- following tips:
leum-based. Price: about $50 to $100 per Factor in finishes. Laminates with tex-
square foot installed. tured finishes hide imperfections better
Concrete. This tony material can be than those with smooth finishes. Stain-
tinted any color, and its surface can in- less offers brushed and random-grain
clude stone chips. But quality can vary, finishes, which tend to hide scratches.
since concrete countertops are typically But while concrete and butcher block
custom-formed by local fabricators. Con- performed differently depending on the
crete can also crack, cut, and chip easily, sealer, granite with proprietary sealers,
and must be sealed. Topical sealers resist such as those sold by Stonemark, per-
stains, but were damaged by hot pots in formed no bet-
our tests; the reverse held for penetrating ter than standard
sealers. Price: about $80 to $120 per granite. Shop smart
square foot installed. Time your pro’s Look for deals
Stainless steel. This option lets you visit. Have the fab- with your
integrate counters with stainless appli- ricator take final purchase, such
ances. Major brands include John Boos measurements— as a free sink or
and Elkay as well as local fabricators. and accept final upgrades to a
more expensive
Heat and stain resistance are a plus. But responsibility for color or edge
while stainless doesn’t rust, it dents and them—once the treatment.
scratches easily, and it shows fingerprints. base cabinets are
Price: about $100 to $150 per square foot installed. Those
installed. measurements will determine the accu-
Butcher block. Maple is most common racy of the templates and the cutouts the
for these hardwood countertops, though pro ultimately makes for sinks, cooktops,
you’ll also find red oak and teak. They’re and faucets.
useful for chopping and slicing, and easy Don’t assume germicides are a cure-
to install and repair, though damage all. Some countertops now include Mi-
from heat, cuts, scrapes, and impacts croban, an antimicrobial additive. Its
make for high maintenance. Butcher manufacturer claims it’s effective against
block must be treated regularly with min- bacteria and other microorganisms that
eral oil or beeswax, or sealed with a var- can cause “stain, odors, and product de-
nish used for food-prep surfaces. And terioration.” But disease-causing bacteria
because changes in humidity affect wood, that lead to foodborne illness aren’t on
it’s a poor choice over a dishwasher or that list.
near a sink. Price: about $30 to $65 per Related CR report: August 2010
square foot installed. Ratings: page 209

(which makes Siemens), and Miele are

DISHWASHERS high-end European brands. Other play-
ers include Haier (from China), LG and
Samsung (from Korea), and Fisher &
The latest dishwashers combine Paykel (from New Zealand).
impressive cleaning with signifi- Conventional dishwashers. These
cant energy and water savings as are still what most people buy. Most fit
federa l efficiency standards get a 24-inch-wide space under a kitchen
stricter. Best of all, some of the top countertop and attach to a hot-water
machines cost well under $1,000. pipe, drain, and an electrical line. Price:
Just don’t expect those sparkling- about $400 to $1,300 for most.
clean loads in a jiffy. Dishwasher drawers. Designs from
Fisher & Paykel, Jenn-Air, Kenmore, and
Tougher Energy Star standards now KitchenAid have two stacked drawers
require qualifying models to use rough- that can be used simultaneously or indi-
ly one-third less vidually, while Kenmore and KitchenAid
Shop smart electricity than the are among brands that offer single-
Dishwasher le a s t- ef f ic ient drawer dishwashers. Both types tend to
drawers may be models—a maxi- be pricey, however. And most of them
a nice design mum of 324 kilo- delivered less cleaning performance and
touch, but they watt-hours per year efficiency than most conventional ma-
don’t perform as and just 5.8 gallons chines we tested. Price: $1,000 to $1,600.
well as less pricey of water per cycle.
conventional Nearly all of our FEATURES
models. latest batch of dish Most models offer at least three wash
washers scored at cycles—light, normal, and heavy or pots
least Very Good at washing, and many and pans—which should be enough for
aced our especially tough tests. But even most jobs. Some offer power-washing
the fastest took well over an hour and a features designed to remove baked-on
half to wash a full load, while the slowest residue. Rinse/hold lets you rinse dirty
timed out at a full three hours. dishes before using the dishwasher on a
full cycle, which may help with an espe-
TYPES cially grimy load. Other cycles include
Electrolux Home Products, General pot scrubber, soak/scrub, and china/crys-
Electric, and Whirlpool make most tal, which aren’t crucial for most homes;
dishwashers and sell them under their in fact, a sanitizing wash or rinse option
own names, associated brands, and that raises water temperature above the
Sears’ Kenmore brand. Whirlpool makes typical 140 degrees F doesn’t necessarily
high-end Jenn-Air and KitchenAid and mean better cleaning. Nor does a steam
low-end Roper as well as the Admiral, mode, which boosted water and energy
Amana, and Maytag brands. General use by more than a third, on average. Soil
Electric offers a range of choices under sensors adjust water use and cycle time
the GE and Hotpoint brands. Electrolux to the load. Half-load cycles let you wash
makes Frigidaire models. Asko, Bosch just one rack, but running two half-load

m i c r o wav e ov e n s 67
cycles can use more water and energy Gauge your cleaning routine. Pre-
than one normal load. rinsing dishes in the sink wastes water
Dishwashers often spray water from and isn’t needed with today’s dishwash-
multiple levels. Most models offer a ers. But if you insist on it, don’t pay extra
choice of drying with or without heat. for a power-scrubbing mode. And get a
And all dishwashers use filters to keep self-cleaning filter if you aren’t likely to
wash water free of food that can be rede- clean a manual version.
posited on clean dishes. Most filters are Check quietness and energy use. New
self-cleaning and use a grinder, though dishwasher models are probably quiet-
some models trade the grinder’s noise for er than the one you have now. But you
manual-clean filters. You can also check might want the quietest we tested—with a
whether models offer additional sound- quieter, manual-clean filter—if you have
proofing insulation. an open kitchen near a dining or family
Some dishwashers have easy-to-clean room. You’ll also hear a lot about Energy
electronic touchpad controls, some fully Star labels. We suggest using our energy
or partially hidden. A number of elec- scores, which are based on much dirtier
tronic models digitally display time left loads like the kind you might experience
and others merely show a “clean” signal. after a party or holiday gathering.
A delayed-start control lets you set the Think twice about hidden controls.
dishwasher to start when utility rates are Some are concealed on the door’s top
lower. Some models offer child locks, and edge, making it difficult to determine
most hold cups and glasses on top, plates remaining time or even whether a super-
at bottom, and silverware in a basket. quiet machine is on.
Adjustable or split racks can accommo- Related CR report: August 2010
date taller dishes. Other features include Ratings: page 220
adjustable and removable tines and silver
ware slots to prevent crowding; remov-
able racks that allow loading and
unloading outside the dishwasher;
MICROWAVE
stemware holders for wine glasses; clips
to keep light plastic cups from overturn-
OVENS
ing; and fold-down shelves for stacking
cups in a double-tiered arrangement. More microwaves promise to make
Stainless-steel tubs resist stains better cooking main meals about as simple
than white plastic, but don’t improve as nuking a frozen pizza, with more
performance. Cabinet-matching front homes using these kitchen staples
panels are available as kits for a few hun- as second stoves.
dred dollars.
You’ll find more auto settings that
SHoppinG TiPs include such favorites as oatmeal, om-
You’ll find a wide range of models that elets, pasta, and even grits and soufflés
clean impressively and efficiently at a rea- along with the usual pizza and popcorn.
sonable price. Here’s what to consider at Many models also add convection and
the store: other features aimed at homeowners who

would like to have a second oven without maximizes browning and crisping with
having to remodel. heated air circulated by a fan. A few have
a crisper pan for making french fries or
Types crisping pizza crust. Several brands also
Major brands, along with volume boast grilling and browning using speed
leaders GE and Sharp, include Emer- cooking via halogen bulbs or convection,
son, Kenmore, LG, and Panasonic. GE, though results can vary significantly de-
Kenmore, and Whirlpool also sell the pending on the food.
most over-the-range (OTR) models.
Sizes range from compact to large. For over-the-range
While most still sit on the countertop, microwaves
more are being mounted over the range These vent themselves and the range
to save counter space. Prices: $40 to $250 below with a fan that usually has several
(most countertop models); $170 to $800 speed settings. Typically, the fan turns
(over-the-range); $250 to $1,000 or more itself on if it senses excessive heat from
(convection or halogen-bulb countertop the range. OTRs can be vented to the out-
or over-the-range). side or can recirculate air in the kitchen.
If the oven is venting inside, you’ll need
FEATURES a charcoal filter (sometimes included).
Either way, don’t expect an OTR to vent
For all microwave ovens as well as a range hood that extends over
Power varies for the magnetron, which a range’s front burners. Racks for bi-level
generates the microwaves. Midsized and cooking let you cook several foods at
large ovens are rated at 850 to 1,650 watts, once on some over-the-range models.
with compact ovens at 600 to 800 watts.
More watts may heat food more quickly, Shopping Tips
but differences of 100 watts tend to be Begin by picking a type and size.
inconsequential. Many also have a sensor Countertop models cost the least and
to help prevent under- or overcooking by are best for kitchens with lots of coun-
detecting when food is done. ter space. Some models can hang below
On most, a turntable rotates food for a cabinet, though that often leaves little
uniform heating, though some use a tray working space below the oven. OTR
that slides from side to side to keep larger models are a common upgrade when re-
dishes moving. A numeric keypad is used modeling. But you may prefer a capable
to set cooking times and power levels. range hood for its better smoke-clearing
Most have preprogrammed shortcut ability, especially if you use your range’s
keys for particular foods and for reheat- cooktop often. And installing an OTR
ing or defrosting. Pressing a 1-minute or microwave may require an electrician.
30-second key runs the oven at full power Focus on useful features. A sensor
or extends the current cooking time. Mi- is a worthwhile feature on any micro-
crowave ovens typically have a number wave. If you like crispy pizza and grilled
of power levels; we’ve found six to be cheese, consider grilling and browning
more than enough. A child lock renders features and even convection. And think
controls inoperable. A convection mode twice about spending extra on an array of

ranges, cooktops & wall ovens 69
shortcut settings for foods you don’t eat. brands include Dacor, GE Monogram,
Don’t buy capacity claims. Manufac- KitchenAid Architect Series, Thermador,
turers sometimes exaggerate the capac- Viking, and Wolf. Kenmore Elite and
ity of their microwave ovens by counting Kenmore Pro, GE Profile, and GE Café
wasted space in the corners. Actual space have also moved up the social ladder.
can be 50 to 60 percent less than claimed. Ranges. Freestanding ranges fit in the
Take a large platter to the store with you middle of a kitchen counter or at the end.
to see whether it fits inside an oven you’re Most are 30 inches wide, though true
considering. pro-style models span 36 inches or more.
Related CR Report: August 2010 Most are electric or gas, with smoothtop
Ratings: page 245 electrics outselling traditional coil-top
versions. Induction ranges heat pots
much faster than conventional ranges.
RANGES, And because nearly
all the heat goes to
Tech tip
COOKTOPS & the pot or pan, you
and your kitchen Wall ovens can
WALL OVENS stay cooler. But be installed at
waist or eye
you’ll need mag- level to eliminate
netic cookware for bending, or
More mainstream brands are serv- their electromag- beneath a counter
ing up induction, double ovens, in- netic field to work. to save space.
teractive preprogrammed recipes, Pro-style ranges
and other time-savers for less. Our have gas cooktops, beefy knobs, and mas-
latest tests found a long list of sive stainless construction. Most now
picks that deliver on that promise. include sealed burners and a self-cleaning
oven. Prices: about $400 to $2,000 for
You’ll see more induction ranges, most gas and electric models; roughly
which use an electromagnetic field to $2,000 for induction; about $4,000 to
speed up cooktop heating, selling for $6,000 for pro-style.
around $2,000 or less as competition Cooktops. These can be electric coil,
heats up. Wall ovens with a built-in data- electric smoothtop, gas, or induction. As
base of recipes are also on the menu. with induction ranges, cooktop versions
have magnetic coils under a glass-cov-
TYPES ered surface. Induction brands include
GE, Kenmore (sourced from others), Bosch, Electrolux, Frigidaire, GE,
Frigidaire, Maytag, and Whirlpool are Kenmore, Gaggenau, Thermador, and
the leading makers of ranges, cooktops, Viking as prices drop. Most electric
and wall ovens. Other major brands cooktops are 30 inches wide; most gas
include Amana, Bosch, Electrolux, models are 36 inches wide. Most are
Hotpoint, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, LG, and made of porcelain-coated steel or glass
Samsung, which recently introduced a ceramic, with four elements or burners.
line of induction ranges priced more like Prices: about $500 to $1,200 for electrics;
conventional models. High-end, pro-style $500 to $2,000 for gas; and $1,000 and

up for most induction models. include a low-wattage element for warm-

Wall ovens. These let you eliminate ing plates or keeping just-cooked food at
bending by installing them at waist or the optimal temperature. Some have an
eye level, though they can also nest be- elongated bridge element that spans two
neath a countertop to save space. Most burners to accommodate rectangular or
are electric and offer single or double ov- odd-shaped cookware. And many have at
ens, self-cleaning or manual, with or least one hot-surface light—a key safety
without a convection setting. Widths are feature, since the surface can remain hot
typically 24, 27, or 30 inches. Prices: long after the elements have been turned
about $500 to more than $2,500 for dou- off. A dedicated “hot” light for each ele-
ble-oven models; figure on about $300 ment is best. Many electric ranges and
extra for convection. cooktops have one large higher-wattage
element in front and one in back.
FEATURES
For gas ranges and cooktops
For all ranges Most gas ranges have four burners in
Many include a self-cleaning feature three sizes, measured in British ther-
and—for gas models—sealed burners, mal units per hour (Btu/hr.): one or two
which keep crumbs from falling beneath medium-power burners (about 9,000
the cooktop. Spending more typically Btu/hr.); a low-power burner (about
gets you stainless-steel trim, a warming 5,000 Btu/hr.); and one or two high-power
drawer, a double oven, and six or more ones (about 12,500 Btu/hr. or more). We
oven-rack positions. An especially useful recommend one or more high-power
feature is a raised cooktop edge to con- burners for quick heating; burners sized
tain spills. Oven controls are typically by power let you differentiate between
on the backsplash behind the elements them at a glance. Some have a fifth
or burners. Slide-in models eliminate the burner and some burners automatically
backsplash and side panels to blend into reignite. A low-power simmer burner has
the countertop. Dual-fuel ranges meld a an extra-low setting for delicate sauces,
gas cooktop with an electric oven. But though other burners should be capable
they typically cost hundreds more than of simmering. Heavy porcelain-coated
electric- or gas-only ranges and haven’t cast-iron or stainless-steel continuous
offered any performance advantage in grates stand up to abuse and let you slide
our tests. cookware between burners. Pricier pro-
style gas ranges have four or more brass
For electric ranges or cast-iron burners with about 15,000
and cooktops Btu/hr. or more, along with heavy stain-
Coil elements cost the least and are less-steel construction and beefy knobs.
easy to replace if they break. Spending a But higher Btus don’t guarantee better
bit more buys a smoothtop model, typi- performance.
cally with expandable or dual elements
that allow you to switch between a large, For range and wall ovens
high-power element and a small, low- A self-cleaning cycle uses high heat to
power element contained within it. Some burn off spills and splatters, while a cov-

r e f r i g e r ato r s 71
ered element keeps spills from encrust- Some other shopping tips:
ing it. An automatic door lock activates Consider your cooking. High-heat
during the cycle and unlocks when the burners can be useful for searing, stir-
oven has cooled. A self-cleaning count- frying, or heating large quantities. Con-
down display is also useful. Convection, vection ovens can speed roasting, but
which uses a fan and sometimes an elec- typically cost $250 extra to save a few
tric element to circulate heated air, can minutes. If you cook for a crowd, look
cut cooking time for large roasts. Some for at least one high-powered element or
systems use multiple convection fans, burner and a large oven.
though that doesn’t guarantee better Buy results, not promises. More
performance. Dual ovens let you simul- heat, more fans, and higher prices didn’t
taneously cook different foods at differ- guarantee better cooking and baking in
ent temperatures, but the low-mounted our tests. Indeed, higher Btu/hr. ratings
second oven typically requires lots of merely gauge fuel used—not the heat that
bending. More ovens offer microwave- ultimately gets to the pot or pan. And
like shortcut keys that include slow-cook while touchpad oven controls are more
and pizza settings. precise than knobs, front-mounted ver-
Some electric ovens offer speed-cook- sions can be easy to bump by accident.
ing via a low-power microwave feature, a Think twice about going pro. Massive,
halogen heating bulb, or both. Trivection pro-style ranges may be high on style, but
uses thermal heating, convection, and these $4,000-to-$6,000-plus ranges are
microwaves to cut cooking time; though often outcooked by gas and electric rang-
very good overall, it’s pricey. A variable- es that cost thousands less. Some expen-
broil feature in most electric ovens offers sive ranges such as Viking, KitchenAid,
adjustable settings. Ovens with 12-hour and Jenn-Air dual fuel ranges have also
shutoff turn off automatically if you proven repair prone in our last product
leave the oven on for that long. But most reliability survey.
ovens let you disable this, while a child Related CR report: August 2010
lockout lets you disable oven controls for Ratings: pages 206, 259, 287
safety. Electronic touchpad controls are
common, while a digital display makes
it easier to set and monitor the precise
temperatures. A time-delay start lets you
REFRIGERATORS
preset start and stop times. Also useful is
a temperature probe that you insert into Forget your assumptions about
meat or poultry to indicate doneness. economy fridges: Some of the best
from our latest tests were among
Shopping TiPS the lowest-priced—and some “pre-
Ranges still outsell separate cooktops mium” models struggled with the
and wall ovens, despite that combo’s add- basic task of keeping food fresh.
ed placement options. And while you can
get an electric cooktop and wall oven for Style and convenience are also mov-
as little as $1,300 or so, top electric and ing downstream as companies compete
gas ranges cost about half that amount. in a tough appliance market. You’ll find

top-freezer refrigerators with water dis- door ice and water. French-door models
pensers, spillproof shelves, and other split the refrigerator compartment verti-
features once exclusive to pricier models. cally so you can open only one door for
Our tests also yielded French-door bot- smaller items, both for wider ones—ideal
tom-freezers for about $1,400, along with where narrow door swings are critical.
side-by-side models with through-the- Widths range from 30 to 36 inches, with
door ice and water for hundreds less. more French-door models available at the
narrow end. While prices have dropped,
TYPES bottom-freezers still cost more overall
A few companies actually make the than top-freezers and offer less space for
multitude of brands you’ll find, with their size. Prices: about $700 to $1,500;
essentially similar models under sev- $1,200 to $2,200 for French doors.
eral names. Frigidaire, GE, Kenmore, Side-by-sides. These have a freezer
and Whirlpool account for most top- on one side and a refrigerator on the
freezer sales and, with Maytag, most side- other. While narrow door swings have
by-side purchases. Other major brands long been a major selling point, that and
include Amana, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, added convenience at a similar price
LG, Samsung, and Sub-Zero. Some main have helped French-door bottom-freezer
stream companies have high-end brand models grow in sales. Through-the-door
lines, such as Electrolux Icon; Frigidaire ice and water are common, along with
Gallery; GE Café, Monogram, and Pro- temperature-controlled bins and rapid
file; Kenmore Elite and Pro; and Whirl- ice-making cycles. But high, narrow
pool Gold. GE, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, compartments make it hard to find items
Sub-Zero, Thermador, and Viking also at the back. Widths are typically 28 to 36
offer pricier built-in models, while Amana, inches. Claimed capacity is 20 to 29 cubic
Bosch, Electrolux, Frigidaire, GE, Jenn- feet, though we’ve found only about 65
Air, Kenmore, KitchenAid, LG, Maytag, percent of that space usable. Price: about
and Whirlpool sell cabinet-depth models $800 to $2,000.
that offer the built-in look for less. Built-ins. These pricey fridges are
Top-freezers. These cost the least over- made to fit nearly flush with cabinets
all and offer more space than comparable and counters, and are typically bottom-
side-by-sides. Widths range from about freezers or side-by-sides. Most can accept
30 to 33 inches. Usable capacity is typi- front panels that match other kitchen
cally about 80 percent of what’s adver- elements. On the downside, built-ins are
tised (about 10 to 25 cubic feet), which wide (36 inches or wider), yet relatively
brings top-freezers closest to their claims. shallow (25 to 26 inches, front to back),
A downside: You must bend to reach bot- making them the least space-efficient
tom shelves and drawers in the more fre- overall. They’re also roughly a foot taller
quently used refrigerator compartment. than conventional models, making them
Price: about $500 to $1,400. hard to fit beneath some cabinets. Price:
Bottom-freezers. These have grown about $4,000 to $8,000.
fastest in popularity since they put refrig- Cabinet-depths. These less-shallow,
erator items at eye level and the less-used freestanding refrigerators offer the look of
freezer below. More offer through-the- a built-in for less money. They also offer

r e f r i g e r ato r s 73
more usable space, though they’re still controlled drawers that store meat and
less spacious than conventional fridges. fish several degrees cooler are growing,
Styles are mostly side-by-side, with top- as are crispers with controls to maintain
and bottom-freezers and French-door humidity and see-through drawers that
models joining the fold. Many accept show what’s inside. Most models have an
extra-cost panels. Price: $1,500 to $3,200. icemaker in the freezer or give you the
Under-cabinet drawers. These are option of installing one, though these
a luxury for kitchens where even the eat up some space. The ice bin is usually
biggest refrigerator won’t hold every- below the icemaker, though some are
thing. But drawers tend to be large on inside of the freezer door and rob a bit
price and small on space. Price: about less space. Through-the-door ice-and-
$1,800 to $3,000. water dispensers are common on side-
Compact models. Mostly for offices by-sides and are on more French-door
and dorm rooms, these typically range bottom freezers.
from about 2 cubic feet to 4 cubic feet Often they include
for “tall” models. Brands include Avanti, a water filter de- Shop smart
Frigidaire, GE, Haier, Kenmore, and signed to reduce Refrigerators
Sanyo, among others. But those we tested lead, chlorine, and are being
used nearly as much electricity as full- other impurities. discounted with
sized fridges while holding only 10 to You’ll also see a few other appliances,
energy use is
25 percent as much. And none was tops models with dual dropping, and
at both refrigerating and freezing. Price: evaporators, which brands are piling
$70 to $200. prevent odors from on features and
migrating between conveniences
FEATURES t he fridge and for less.
Most models now offer stainless or freezer, and LED
stainless-look exteriors, some with lighting, which improves visibility while
fingerprint-resistant clear coatings. minimizing the energy load.
Smooth under-glass finishes are grow-
ing. More trade knobs for electronic Shopping tips
touchpads; some have a digital display Size—especially width—is as impor-
for temperature. Adjustable door bins tant as type, since most new refrigera-
and shelves can handle tall items, while tors must fit in the same space as the old
elevator shelves crank up and down one. Also check the space available for
without the need to remove the con- opening fridge and freezer doors and the
tents, and split shelves adjust to different clearance needed to get the new fridge
heights independently. Shelf snuggers— through halls and doorways. Once you’ve
sliding brackets on door shelves—secure matched a type to your needs and budget,
bottles and jars. A few models have a follow these tips:
wine rack that stores a bottle horizon- Look for work-saving features. Key
tally. Glass shelves offer easy cleaning flexibility features include split or half
and usually have a raised, sealed rim to shelves and elevator cranks, along with
contain spills. Pullout freezer shelves pull-out shelves and extension drawers
or bins improve access. Temperature- and adjustable door bins.

Consider efficiency. Despite tougher impressive front-loading machines for as

standards for Energy Star models, refrig- little as $650 or so, while top-loaders start
erators still use more electricity annually at under $500. But we also found that you
than other kitchen appliances, because can pay more in the long run for some of
they’re always on. We also continue to the lowest-priced models, or pay extra
find models that use significantly more up front for special cycles that add little
electricity in our tough energy-use tests to the wash.
than what their EnergyGuide labels
predict. Choose a model that scored well TYPES
for energy efficiency in our tests. Some The top four brands—GE, Kenmore
states and utilities provide rebates for (Sears), Maytag, and Whirlpool—account
Energy Star models; visit www.dsireusa. for most washer and dryer sales. Other
org for details. brands include Admiral, Amana, and
Consider cleaning. Stainless may Roper (made by Whirlpool), Frigidaire
look inviting at the store, but it’s likely (made by Electrolux), Haier, Hotpoint
to smudge easily in your kitchen. Clear- (made by GE), LG, and Samsung, along
coated stainless or faux-stainless vinyl with European brands like Asko, Bosch,
coatings are easier to keep clean. For the and Miele.
real stuff, use hot water and dish detergent Regular top-loading washers. These
or a cleaner designed for stainless steel. fill the tub, thus using more water, and
Related CR report: August 2010 scrub clothing with the conventional
Ratings: page 264 tall center-post agitator. Because they
must move laundry around for thorough
cleaning, they typically hold less (about
WASHERS 12 to 16 pounds) than large front-loaders
and top-loaders without agitators. And
and DRYERS while they make it easier to load laundry
and add items midcycle, most don’t wash
as well and use more energy than front-
Doing the laundry just got a lot load washers. Price: about $300 to $900
cheaper on several fronts: Washer for most.
prices have plummeted by as much High-efficiency top-loaders. Uncon-
as a third, even as energy and water ventional, high-efficiency designs elimi-
efficiency reach new heights. nate the usual tall agitator post and use
a small center device or replace it with
The trend toward greater efficiency discs—called wash plates—that lift and
in washers is especially welcome, since tumble laundry. Wash performance
dryers use about as much energy as they and capacity are typically better than
did a decade ago. The U.S. Department a regular top-loader’s. But the higher
of Energy now requires washers to use spin speeds that reduce drying time and
21 percent less energy. The most efficient energy use can tangle and wrinkle cloth-
top-loaders now wash as well as the best ing. These work best with low-sudsing,
front-loaders, even if they’re still a step high-efficiency detergent. Price: about
behind in efficiency. Best of all, you’ll find $700 to $1,000.

washers and dryers 75
Front-loading washers. These clean at the beginning of a cycle but can usu-
clothes by lifting them to the top of the ally be opened by interrupting it.) You’ll
tub and then dropping them into the wa- also find allergen cycles and steam set-
ter below. They fill only partly with water tings, along with features aimed at pre-
and can typically handle between 12 and venting odor if clean laundry is left in
20 pounds of laundry. And many can be the washer too long.
stacked with a dryer to save floor space. Front-loaders and some top-loaders
Like top-loaders that claim high efficiency, have automatic water-level settings to
these tend to wash best with low-sudsing help ensure efficient water use. Most
detergent. They also spin fastest and still establish wash and rinse temperatures by
save the most energy and water overall. mixing hot and cold water in preset pro-
But as with top-loaders, their high spin portions. For incoming cold water that’s
speeds can tangle and wrinkle clothing. especially cold, an automatic temperature
Price: about $600 to $1,300. control adjusts flow for the correct wash
Full-sized dryers. Most are 27 to 29 temperature. Some models allow an extra
inches wide. Front-mounted controls on rinse, which can help those sensitive to
some let you stack the dryer atop a front- detergent residue, or an extended spin to
loading washer, though shorter people remove more water from laundry. A
may have to stretch to reach the dryer time-delay feature lets you program the
controls or inside the drum. Most have washer to start at a later time. Automatic
ample capacity for typical wash loads— dispensers for bleach, detergent, and
about 5 to 7½ cubic feet. A larger drum fabric-softener release powder or liquid at
is better for large comforters and other the appropriate time in the cycle, and
bulky items. Prices: about $400 to $1,000 bleach dispensers
for electric; $450 to $1,100 for gas. prevent spattering. Shop smart
You’ll also find
Choose a front-
FEATURES more of the pricier loading washer
models with steam for top efficiency,
For washers settings claimed a conventional
A stainless-steel or plastic tub won’t to boost cleaning, top-loader for
rust like porcelain-coated steel if chipped. sanitize fabrics, and value; the best
Stainless tubs can also withstand higher remove sta i ns. use less energy
spin speeds, which extract more water While the settings without sacrificing
and speed drying. A porcelain top/lid boosted stain re- performance.
resists scratching better than a painted moval, models with
metal one. Touchpad controls tend to be steam cleaned well even when we didn’t
more versatile than dials, letting you save use this feature.
favorite settings, for instance. Some have
a display with a progression of menus For dryers
and customized programs. Important Models with a moisture sensor can
ones include cycle lights or signals, along tell when laundry is dry more quickly
with an automatic lock that keeps chil- than those with a traditional thermo-
dren from opening a top-loader’s lid stat. Moisture-sensor dryers also subject
during the spin cycle. (Front-loaders lock fabrics to less unnecessary heat and use

less energy. You’ll often find two or three scores; front-load washers’ high spin
auto-dry cycles, which shut off the unit speeds can cause wood floors to shake.
when the clothes reach desired dryness. Then follow these shopping tips:
Each cycle may have a more-dry setting Choose a type. Most traditional top-
to dry clothes completely, a less-dry set- loaders cost the least and wash the fastest
ting for damp ironing, and gradations in at the expense of energy and water use
between. Most have a separate tempera- and cleaning performance. Top-loaders
ture control that lets you choose a lower that claim high efficiency tend to hold
heat for delicate fabrics, for instance. more and clean better. And while the
An extended-tumble setting helps pre- best top-loaders wash better than ever,
vent wrinkling when you don’t remove front-loaders are still more efficient and
clothes right away. Some models continue capacious.
to tumble without heat. An express-dry Focus on features. Auto temperature
cycle handles small loads at high heat in control is worthwhile for consistency,
less than a half hour. while automatic dispensers save some
As with washers, touchpad controls hassle. But extended-spin cycles and
and menus add versatility. A top-mount- steam added little in our tests.
ed lint filter can be easier to clean; some Skip the matching dryer. You’ll save
models have a warning light that reminds hundreds while often improving perfor-
you to clean it. mance by choosing the washer and dryer
Most models have a drum light, mak- separately. If you do choose a matched
ing it easier to spot stray items at back. A set, begin by choosing a washer that did
rack included with many attaches inside well in our tests. And choose a dryer
to hold sneakers or other items you don’t with a moisture sensor. To be sure the
want to tumble. Drop-down doors may one you’re considering has one, check
fit better against a wall, but side-opening the literature, visit the manufacturer’s
doors may make it easier to reach items. Web site, or pick a highly rated dryer
we’ve tested.
shopping tips Related CR report: February 2010
If your laundry room is near living Ratings for washers: page 289
space, check our noise and vibration Ratings for dryers: page 224

Home & Yard:

Better Products
for Less
W
hether you’re shopping for a can of paint or a new
floor, a competitive marketplace makes this the best
of times for homeowners. You’ll find cleaner, greener
paints and stains that don’t scrimp on performance,
along with exterior coatings that save time and money by
eliminating the usual prime coat. Our latest tests also show that you
can get a gas grill that outcooks a raft of pricey competitors, along
with cushier tractors and greener mowers that help save your lawn
and the planet while keeping more green in your pocket. All of that can
help you make your home handsomer now—and worth more later—while
reducing your carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
days and nights. And some can be noisy

AIR enough to be annoying.
That’s because utility companies often
CONDITIONERS compensate for high demand by reducing
voltage. While most air conditioners do
fine in our brownout test, which simu-
Our latest tests found capable room
lates low-voltage conditions, some didn’t
models in every size and at every
run and restart properly. And while no
price point—at least when it comes
A/C is silent, some let you hear more of
to cooling.
the gurgling of the refrigerant, the chat-
That’s good news, considering all tering of the condenser, and other sounds
newly manufactured room air condi- these units make.
tioners must now use a new refrigerant
that doesn’t deplete the ozone layer. But TYPES
some bargain-basement models could Models we tested meet the 9.7 Energy
make you lose your cool on the hottest Efficiency Ratio (EER) required for air
077-098 BG11 Home & Yard.indd 78 9/15/10 3:08:51 PM

air conditioners 79
conditioners below 8,000 British thermal speeds and most have multiple modes
units per hour (Btu/hr.) and the 9.8 EER for that let you choose between maximum
those with 8,000 to 13,999 Btu/hr. Many cooling and less energy use and noise.
room A/Cs also meet or exceed the 10.7 An energy-saver setting on many stops
EER needed to qualify for the voluntary the fan when the compressor cycles off
federal Energy Star designation. Central and monitors the temperature. Elec-
air conditioners must have a Seasonal tronic controls and digital temperature
Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 14 or readouts are also common. A timer can
higher for packaged systems, 16 for split save energy by switching the unit on or
and split-ductless units. The higher the off automatically—say, when you get
numbers, the more efficient the system. home or after you’ve fallen asleep. Some
And while new models now use greener models are installed with a slide-out
R-410A refrigerant instead of R-22, we chassis—an outer cabinet that anchors
saw no sacrifice in cooling. in the window. Others include variable
Leading window-model brands include fan speeds, while some Haier and LG
Friedrich, Frigidaire, GE, Haier, Kenmore units have a dehumidifying mode that
(Sears), and LG, among others. Cooling may be useful on humid but cool days.
capacities typically range from 5,000 to And all models now have safer electrical
6,500 Btu/hr. for small window units; plugs that help prevent fires by shutting
7,000 to 8,200 Btu/hr. for midsized units; down power if they sense the power cord
and 9,800 to 12,500 Btu/hr. for large is damaged.
models. Prices: about $100 to $600 for
small to midsized models based mostly Shopping Tips
on capacity; and $200 to $500 or more for In general, 5,000 to 6,500 Btu/hr.
larger models. models cool rooms 100 to 300 square feet;
7,000 to 8,200 Btu/hr. models cool rooms
FEATURES 250 to 400 square feet; and 9,800 to
12,500 Btu/hr. models cool rooms 350 to
For Window Units 650 square feet. Those are just guidelines,
An air conditioner’s exterior-facing however; room construction, climate,
portion contains a compressor, fan, and and other factors also affect your choice
condenser, while the interior-facing por- of air conditioner. Here’s what else to
tion has a fan and an evaporator. Most keep in mind:
room models are designed to fit double- Don’t think bigger is better. Buying
hung windows, though some fit casement a model that’s too big may not remove
and slider windows, while others are for enough humidity, leaving you with a
through-the-wall installation. Most have cold, clammy room.
adjustable vertical and horizontal louvers Consider window location. Nearly all
to direct airflow. Many models include air conditioners are better at directing
a remote control and offer a fresh-air air in a certain direction. See whether the
intake or exhaust setting for ventilation, air must blow to the right or left for the
although this moves relatively little air. room you’re cooling; then see our Ratings
Some Haier models have remote controls for top-scoring models that are better at
marked in Braille. All have high and low directing air in that direction.

Try out the controls. Look for touch- metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, Li-ion
pads with large LED displays, clear la- cells have taken the lead in the race for
beling, and conveniently placed buttons. new cells. But traditional NiCad-powered
Raised buttons with different shapes for tools cost far less than both alternatives
different functions are easier to differen- and often perform comparably overall.
tiate, use, and identify by touch than tiny Our tests also show that lithium cells
or crowded ones. can die early if you aren’t careful; sev-
Look for energy savings. For energy eral couldn’t be recharged after we ran
efficiency ratings, look for a qualification them down to full discharge and let them
sticker from the Association of Home sit for a while. That means making the
Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) or most of their added run time could be
the Canadian Standards Association an expensive mistake, because replace-
(CSA). An efficient A/C helps the envi- ment cells can cost more than $100. We
ronment and may qualify for rebates, also found some cordless circular saws to
particularly if it’s Energy Star–certified be far more impressive than before—and
(see www.dsireusa.org for details on state some small cordless screwdrivers wimpy,
and local programs). Indeed, Energy Star even for their size.
models use roughly 25 percent less elec-
tricity than those made before late 2000. types
Related CR report: July 2010 Black & Decker, Craftsman (Sears),
Ratings: page 189 Ryobi, and Skil are the major consumer
brands. Bosch, DeWalt, Hitachi, Makita,
Milwaukee, Porter-Cable, and Ridgid
CORDLESS offer pricier drills designed for pros and
serious do-it-yourselfers. Most 12-volt
DRILLS & KITS models cost less than $100; at about 3
pounds, they weigh roughly half as much
as some 18-volt models, the typical volt-
More and more consumer drills and age these days. You’ll even find small,
other cordless tools are touting lightweight Li-ion drills and screwdriv-
the lighter weight and run time of ers in that price range. But unless you’re
lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. handling strictly light-duty tasks, you’re
likely to be disappointed with cordless
Those are what powered some of the screwdrivers and the least-expensive
best in our latest tests. But don’t count drills. Prices: about $40 to $100 for light-
out the familiar nickel-cadmium (NiCad) duty drills; $100 to $300 for drills that
cell when it comes to value. can handle the toughest jobs; and $50 to
Along with added power and run time $160 for most cordless screwdrivers.
per pound over NiCad batteries, Li-ion Many of those same brands also bun-
cells offer easier disposal, since they dle their cordless drills with circular and
don’t contain toxic cadmium—a threat to reciprocating saws and sell them as kits.
groundwater if spent NiCads are thrown The pitch: You often pay less than you
into the trash instead of recycled. While would if you bought those tools separately,
many of those pluses also apply to nickel- because they all share the same batteries

cordless drills & kits 81
and charger. Several of the latest cordless shopping tips

circular saws perform far better than older Not everyone needs maximum power
models. But while some kits are a relatively and run time; nearly any drill will do for
good deal, others are a collection of medi- hanging pictures and other easy tasks.
ocre tools. Price: about $160 to $500. Decide how much speed and power you
really need.
FEATURES Don’t buy by voltage. Several 18-volt
All but the least-expensive drills come drills outperformed higher-voltage mod-
with two batteries, letting you use one els, and some 12-volt drills are more than
while the other charges. A “smart” char- adequate for most
ger on many models recharges a drill’s homeowners.
battery in 60 minutes or less, compared Check battery Tech tip
with three to five hours or more for recharge time. It’s Some drills have
conventional chargers, while extending an hour or less for a hammer mode
battery life by adjusting the charge as many drills and as that pulses the
needed. Some from Black & Decker and low as 20 minutes chuck and bit to
Ridgid have a dual charger that charges for some—handy speed up boring
two batteries at once. A growing num- for large decks and through masonry.
ber of brands, including Craftsman and other big projects.
Ryobi, share batteries between tools and You’ll typically find the recharge time on
sell them with or without a battery, let- the box, otherwise it’s likely longer than
ting you build your own kit à la carte. an hour.
Some now have a battery charge indica- Check battery prices. Some NiCad
tor that shows remaining charge while replacement cells cost as little as $25
in use, along with a built-in LED work compared with $90 or more for many
light. Many cordless drills have two Li-ion and NiMH cells.
speed ranges: Low for driving screws Put your hands on it. Besides check-
with added torque (or twisting force), ing a drill’s weight, check its balance by
High for drilling with added speed. All gripping it firmly and then lifting it to the
have a variable speed trigger to make wall as if you were about to drive a screw.
starting holes easier, and most have an The drill’s chuck should point straight
adjustable clutch for lowering maximum ahead and not tilt up or dip down.
torque to avoid driving a screw too far Consider impact drivers and cord-
into softwood or wallboard. All are also less screwdrivers cautiously. An impact
reversible. Many drills have a 3/8 -inch driver’s added torque also brings added
chuck, but more expensive models have noise; the striking action that provides
a 1/2-inch chuck for drill bit shanks up the extra twisting power made those
to 1/2-inch. (Large-diameter bits with a we tested loud enough to require hear-
reduced shank will fit smaller chucks.) ing protection. And appealing though
Some models have a hammer mode that pocket-sized cordless screwdrivers may
pulses the chuck and bit to speed up bor- be, those we tested were very slow and
ing through masonry. Some have a sec- shy on run time and power.
ond handle that attaches to the side for Related CR report: November 2009
two-handed drilling. Ratings: page 208

Price: about $7 to $12 per square foot

FLOORING installed.
Engineered wood. This flooring uses a
thin veneer of real wood, cork, or, increas-
Laminate and vinyl flooring still ingly, bamboo over structural plywood.
win over wood when it comes to Brands are the same as for solid wood.
fending off everyday wear. A major advantage is easy installation:
Most products can be clicked together
But our latest gamut of simulated use and laid in place—called floating—and
tests provide some practical reasons to can typically be refinished once. Nailing
pay a little extra for the natural beauty of and gluing are also options, as is below-
oak, bamboo, and other natural choices. grade installation. On the debit side, most
We put a cross section of major brands engineered wood doesn’t wear as well as
through our torture test of scuffs, scrapes, solid wood or plastic laminate. It also
spills, and other kitchen abuse. We found dents easily, and small spills can dam-
several hardwoods that made it through age it. Price: about $5 to $10 per square
our wear tests with flying colors. You’ll foot, installed.
also find bamboo that lasts longer than Plastic laminate. This fast-growing
earlier versions we tested. Indeed, manu- category typically is comprised of dense
facturers promote bamboo as a renew- fiberboard with a photo of natural floor-
able resource because they can harvest ing beneath a clear plastic protective
this fast-growing grass in as little as four layer. Brands include those for solid and
years. Predarkening and other treatments engineered wood plus Mannington,
make today’s better at resisting color Montado, Pergo, Wicanders, and Wilson
change in sunny rooms. art, among others. Advantages include
easy, floatable installation without nails
TYPES or glue as well as the ability to mimic
Though you’ll find a growing array nearly anything from oak to marble. Like
of styles, most flooring falls into one of engineered wood, laminates can also be
these six types: installed below grade. Some brands use
Prefinished hardwood. Advantages real cork beneath the clear layer. A repeti-
include its natural warmth and the ability tive pattern on some products can com-
to be sanded and refinished several times. promise realism, however. The best
You’ll increasingly find solid bamboo laminates resist scratching, denting, and
among the oaks and other hardwoods as discoloration from sunlight better than
its price drops and its popularity grows. most wood products, but as with engi-
Major brands include Armstrong, Bruce, neered wood, a big spill can cause dam-
Lumber Liquidators, Tarkett, and, for bam age underneath. And while you may be
boo, EcoTimber and Teragren. Except able to touch up minor flaws, you’ll have
for the best solid bamboo, however, all to replace the flooring when its outer
the solid-wood products we tested dented layer wears through. Price: about $4 to $8
easily, and some discolored from sun- per square foot installed.
light. What’s more, solid flooring shouldn’t Vinyl. This lower-priced option can
go in basements and other damp spaces. be especially good at fending off wear,

Flooring 83
dents, stains, discoloration from sunlight, finishes you apply yourself, though the
and—for the best—everyday scratches. beveled edges on many products may
Easy glue-down installation is another not appeal to everyone.
plus, as are more color and design choices
than before. Premium vinyl does a better For Engineered Wood
job of imitating stone, tile, and even oak, An outer finish layer protects the wood
but even the best products still look like veneer—usually 1/8 -inch thick or less—
vinyl. Allure, Congoleum, and Nafco are which covers construction-grade ply-
among the major brands. Price: about $3 wood. It’s usually stapled or glued to the
to $7 per square foot installed. subfloor, though some products can be
Linoleum. This natural and resilient clicked together and floated. Many prod-
flooring is made from linseed oil and ucts can be sanded and refinished once,
tree bark (cork dust) without killing but no more than that.
the tree. Today’s products offer far more
colors and styles, including retro pat- For Plastic Laminate
terns, and is available from Armstrong, A clear plastic outer layer protects
Forbo, and Nova, among other brands. what is typically a layer of film that mim
Linoleum fends off dents and discol- ics wood, stone,
oration from sunlight, but resistance and other natural Shop smart
to wear, scratches, and moisture varies materials. A fiber- The best
widely from product to product. Lino- board core supports laminates resist
leum can also be as expensive as some the top layers, damage better
solid and engineered woods. Price: about while a foam layer than solid wood,
$4 to $9 per square foot installed. goes bet ween the but a big spill can
Ceramic tile. This classic material laminate and the cause damage
tends to resist wear, moisture, scratches, subfloor. A vapor underneath.
dents, and stains. But tiles can crack barrier is recom
under impact and grout can stain, while mended between the subfloor and foam
dropped cups and dishes break more if moisture is a concern.
easily on its hard surface. Ceramic tile
is also relatively expensive and hard to For Vinyl Flooring
install. Price: about $8 to $15 per square Peel-and-stick planks or tiles are eas-
foot installed. ier to install than sheets, though sheet
vinyl offers a seamless look. Choices also
FEATURES include perimeter-bonded floors, which
are glued down only around the edge
For Prefinished Solid Wood of the room and along seams, and fully
Narrow boards are called strips, wide adhered floors, which are laid in a coat
ones planks. Most are 3/4 -inch thick or of mastic spread over the entire subfloor;
less. Flooring is usually nailed or sta- both are priced comparably. Perimeter-
pled to a plywood subfloor and can also bonded floors tend to hide small imperfec-
cover aboveground concrete using a tions where they aren’t glued down, while
vapor barrier. Prefinished flooring has fully adhered floors lie flatter and are
fended off wear in our tests better than less likely to bubble up.

SHOPPING TIPS
Home centers and retailers such as GAS GRILLS
iFloor.com (www.ifloor.com) and Lum-
ber Liquidators (www.lumberliquidators.
com) run frequent promotions on specific Want a grill that sizzles? Our latest
flooring types and brands at discounts tests show that some of the best
of up to 25 percent. Begin by consider- cost as little as $200.
ing where the flooring will go and how
much traffic, sunlight, and other wear You’ll also find more grills with rotis-
and tear it will get—and whether you’ll series, side burners, and—yes—stainless
install it yourself. Then keep these points steel for less than $500, along with por-
in mind: table models that can make your next
For solid wood, consider the finish. tailgating party a lot tastier.
While unfinished wood costs roughly Our recent survey of roughly 1,000
40 percent less than prefinished f loor- Americans nationwide also found that
ing, paying a pro to sand and finish the among those who grill, more than half
f loor is likely to eat up those savings. do so more than once a week in season.
Count on several days whether you have More year-round grilling is also spur-
the work done or handle it yourself. ring added features that let you cook the
What’s more, prefinished floors tend to entire meal outdoors.
hold up better, and the warranty comes
from the f looring manufacturer, not TYPES
the installer. Char-Broil, Kenmore, and Weber
Be sure it’s really green. Certifica- account for most gas-grill sales. Others
tion by the Forest Stewardship Council include Blue Ember, Brinkmann, Fiesta,
and Sustainable Forestry Initiative offers and Vermont Castings, along with Du
some assurance that wood f looring cane, Jenn-Air, and Viking, as brands
comes from responsibly managed for- better known for ranges move outdoors.
ests. See that both the product and Here’s what you’ll find:
the manufacturer have been certified. Basic grills. These are ideal if you want
Vinyl f looring certified by the indus- a good small or medium-sized grill that
try’s FloorScore program meets Cali- fits 15 or more burgers on its cooking sur
fornia’s tough emissions standards for face. Features include a painted cart and
volatile organic compounds, which have cast-aluminum firebox and hood, thin
been linked to health problems and pol porcelain-steel grates, and a side burner
lution. It also qualifies for Leadership for some. You’ll also find small portable
in Energy and Environmental Design grills in this price range.Price: about
credit from the independent U.S. Green $100 to $300.
Building Council. But other concerns Midpriced grills. These tend to be
with vinyl f loors include phthalate best for most. Options include medium-
exposure and manufacturing and dis- sized grills with more features and large
posal problems. models with enough cooking area for 30
Related CR report: August 2010 or more burgers. Features include higher
Ratings: page 230 Btus, recessed side burners and griddles,

gas grills 85
an electronic igniter, a rotisserie burner grills have interior racks for keeping food
or smoker tray, double storage doors, and warm. A stainless or porcelain-coated
stainless. Many have premium grates or steel lid and firebox is more durable than
burners with long warranties. Price: $300 cast aluminum. Electronic igniters tend
to $650. to work better than a push button or
High-end grills. These are best if you knobs. Also look for lighting holes for a
want a medium-sized or large grill with match or lighter on the side of or beneath
more style. Features include those on mid the grill, in case
priced grills plus mostly or all-stainless the igniter fails.
construction, lifetime burner warranties, A gas gauge is an- Tech tip
more burners, a fully rolling cart, more other worthwhile We have found
storage space, and a toe-kick that hides feature. that infrared
the wheels. More also have infrared main Most burners are technology
or side burners. Price: $700-plus. steel, though some doesn’t guarantee
better grilling
premium burners
overall.
FEATURES are stainless steel,
Many cooking grates are porcelain- cast-iron, or cast-
coated steel, though better grates are brass, and are typically warranted for 10
heavy stainless and bare or porcelain- years or longer. Many grills have three
coated cast iron. Porcelain-coated grates or more burners, which can add cooking
are rustproof and easy to clean, but can flexibility. Some grills use infrared burn-
chip. Bare cast iron is sturdy and tends ers, which typically diffuse the gas flame
to sear well, but must be seasoned with through ceramic tile with the promise
cooking oil to prevent rust. Heavy stain- of better searing and more even heat-
less grates are sturdy and resist rust with- ing, though we’ve found the technology
out a porcelain coating. Grates with wide, doesn’t guarantee better grilling overall.
closely spaced bars tend to provide better A side burner with its own heat control
searing than grates with thin, round rods. is handy for side dishes, as is an electric
Carts are usually painted steel tubing rotisserie, a fuel gauge, smoker drawer,
assembled with nuts and bolts; better wok, griddle pan, steamer pan, deep fryer,
carts have welded joints, and some are nonstick grill basket, and metal knobs.
stainless steel. Pricier grills often use Most grills also use a cooking medium—
300-series stainless, which includes nickel typically a metal plate or metal flavorizer
and has more corrosion-fighting chro- bars—between the burner and grates to
mium than 400-series stainless. Carts distribute heat and vaporize juices for fla-
with a caster at each corner are easiest to vor. A few grills include a propane tank
move; wheels with a full axle are better (about $25 separately), and some can run
than those bolted to the frame, which can on natural gas.
bend in time.
You’ll often find one or more exterior SHOPPING TIPS
shelves, which flip up or are fixed on the Most gas grills should perform at least
side. Shelves may be plastic, cast alumi- adequately at your next alfresco feast. As
num, or stainless; wood shelves may not with indoor ranges, some models do so with
wear as well as other materials. Most more style.

Here’s what to consider when you’re monoxide can build. Given the recalls
ready to buy: announced each year by the Consumer
Choose the right size. For large Product Safety Commission (CPSC), we
crowds, look for a grill with a cooking strongly recommend registering a new
area of more than 490 square inches grill with the manufacturer soon after
which is enough room for 30 or more buying it so you’re notified of any safety
burgers. Look also for lots of shelf and concerns (and can collect on the war-
storage space. Midsized grills (340- to ranty if a covered problem arises). You
490-square-inch cooking area, room for can also sign up for recall notifications at
16 to 30 burgers) and small or portable www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.
models (340-square-inch cooking area Related CR report: June and July 2010
or less, room for 10 to 15 burgers) tend to Ratings: page 232
cost less and are fine for smaller needs.
Check the burners. These distribute
the gas and flames, and are a grill’s most-
replaced part. Look for main burners
gutter guards
with warranties of 10 years or more. Also
note that the greater the space between Systems that promise to keep your
the grates and burners or flavorizer bars gutters leaf-free can cost thou-
where the grease lands, the less the likeli- sands of dollars. But our extensive
hood of sustained flare-ups. outdoor tests show that a low-
Inspect its construction. A magnet priced screen may be all it takes
will usually stick to cheaper, 400-series to help keep your gutters clean.
stainless steel. But recent changes in met
allurgy for some grills mean that some We also found that some inexpensive,
better, 300-series stainless may be mag- do-it-yourself gutter guards do a far bet-
netic while some 400-series stainless is ter job of keeping rainfall from pouring
not. And while cheaper stainless is like- over the side and pooling around your
lier to corrode, spotting wasn’t severe home’s foundation, where it can seep into
in our tough salt-spray tests. Ask which the basement.
type the grill uses if you’re concerned
about corrosion—and invest in a cover TYPES
(about $40) for any grill. Also be sure Brands include Amerimax, Gutter Top-
the rolling cart that supports the firebox per, Gutter Helmet, K-Guard, and Leaf
and lid doesn’t rattle when shaken. Avoid Filter, among others. You’ll find a variety
carts and other parts with sharp edges. of designs that range from simple screens
And see that the handle doesn’t put your to systems that include the gutters them-
knuckles too close to the lid, which can selves. You’ll also find a wide range of
burn them when hot. prices. Here are the basic types and
Keep it safe. Put the grill in a low- what you can expect to pay, based on the
traffic, well-vented area away from build- roughly 160 feet needed for an average-
ings, dry leaves, and brush. Use a fireproof sized home:
mat beneath. And never grill in the ga- Pro-installed systems. These cost the
rage or other enclosed area where carbon most by far, but along with the installation,

lawn mowers & tractors 87
the price typically includes a free service Then keep these points in mind:
call if your gutters ever clog. Many pro Check suggested maintenance. Some
systems use an enclosed, surface-tension systems call for only periodic hosing from
design in which water is supposed to the ground, while others need brushing
flow over the top and into slots that for pollen and other upkeep that could
route it into the gutter beneath. But most be as onerous as cleaning out an unpro-
products with that design were only tected gutter.
middling at keeping severe rainfall from Look for caveats. Be sure the gutter
pouring over the sides in our tests. Price: guard you’re considering is made for the
about $3,000 to $5,000 for an average- type of roof you have. Also be sure any
sized home. system won’t void the warranty on your
Do-it-yourself systems. These can also roof or gutters.
be installed by a contractor—a tempting Play it safe. Ladder injuries are linked
option considering how challenging some to some 200 to 300 deaths and an esti-
are to put in. Along with surface-tension mated 200,000 emergency-room visits
designs, they include screens that go over each year. Use a sturdy Type 1A exten-
the gutter along with brush and foam sion ladder made of fiberglass if you’re
inserts, which you simply cut or bend and working near electrical lines. Extend
press into place. But none of the inserts it 3 feet beyond the roof and angle it
we tested did especially well at keeping 85 degrees from the ground (1 foot
out the leaves and other debris gutter for every 4 feet high). Always face the
guards are designed to fend off. Prices: ladder when climbing and descending.
about $50 to $1,500 for an average-sized And never reach more than 1 foot to
home; add $100 to $500 if a contractor either side.
installs it. Related CR report: September 2010
Ratings: page 238
FEATURES
Fine-mesh screens outperformed screens
with larger holes in our tests. Some pro-
installed gutter guards are all-in-one
LAWN MOWERS &
systems that are integral with the gut-
ters, an option if your existing gutters are
TRACTORS
worn or damaged, though they typically
cost more. Your next mower could help green
up your lawn in more ways than
shopping tips one: You’ll find riders that run on
Even if you leave your existing gutters batteries, electric mowers that move
as is, be sure drains extend 5 feet from themselves, and some new takes on
the house and that the ground near the the age-old reel mower as cleaner
foundation slopes at least 1 inch per foot machines gain traction.
for 6 feet or more to carry away water.
Check your gutters for improper pitch as Months of tests also yielded some bar-
well as broken fasteners, clogs and cor- gains among the gas-powered models
rosion, and gaps between connections. most people buy. For instance, you could

shell out $700 or so for the top-scoring the rear wheels. Corded and battery-
Honda and get a carpet-smooth cut. Or powered cordless models start with
you could pay roughly half that price push-button ease, produce no exhaust
for a Toro and get neater results in the emissions, and require little upkeep
side-discharge mode you’ll need in taller beyond sharpening and battery recharg-
grass. And like the other gas mowers we ing. Most offer a side or rear bag and a
tested, these models pollute some 60 per- mulching mode that cuts and recuts clip-
cent less than mowers built a decade ago. pings until they’re small enough to nestle
Rather ride than walk? Some of the best within the lawn and fertilize it as they
new tractors cost $1,500 or less. decompose. The best corded and cord-
less mowers perform as well as some
TYPES gas mowers, and today’s cordless models
Mowing options range from $100 run longer per charge. But electrics still
push mowers to $4,000-plus tractors and can’t match the best gas mowers in tall
zero-turn-radius machines. Here’s what or thick grass. Cordless mowers can rove
you’ll find: beyond the roughly 100-foot range of a
Manual-reel mowers. These traditional power cord, but weigh up to 30 pounds
push mowers are sold by McLane and more than corded models. Both typi-
Scotts as well as by such newer brands as cally cut 18- to 20-inch swaths versus
Easun and scissors manufacturer Fiskars. 21 and 22 inches for gas mowers. Prices:
They’re quiet, inexpensive, and nonpol- about $150 to $250 for corded; cordless,
luting, since pushing them turns the $350 or more.
wheels and a series of curved blades with- Gas-powered mowers. These free you
out an engine. They’re also relatively from a cord and include push and self-
safe and require little upkeep beyond propelled models. They have a four-stroke
blade adjustments and sharpening. Some engine with between 160 and 190 cubic
models use a battery-powered motor to centimeters of piston displacement—a
spin the blades as you push the mower. measurement that has replaced horsepower
The Fiskars we tested proved especially ratings (some also advertise torque, or
impressive and throws clippings forward twisting force). Most cut a swath 21 or 22
so they don’t get on your shoes. But inches wide, can handle long or thick grass
swaths are only 14 to 18 inches wide, cut- and weeds, and can bag, side-discharge,
ting tends to be relatively uneven, and or mulch clippings. But while cleaner
most can’t cut grass higher than 3 inches than before, all still produce exhaust
or trim closer than 3 inches around obsta- emissions and require regular mainte-
cles. And because they don’t disperse nance. They’re also loud enough to require
clippings like a rotary mower, you may hearing protection. Prices: about $150
need a bag or a rake if you’re fussy. Price: to $300 for push-type; $250 to $800 for
about $100 to $400. self-propelled.
Electric mowers. Major brands include Rear-engine riding mowers. These
Black & Decker, Craftsman, Ryobi, and small riders take up little more space
Toro, among others. These walk-behind than a walk-behind mower and typically
mowers use an electric motor to drive a mow a swath 26 to 34 inches wide. While
rotating blade and—for one Ryobi model— most are gas-powered, Ariens recently

lawn mowers & tractors 89
introduced battery-powered models that can lose traction and be hard to steer and
eliminate the usual fueling, exhaust control on hills. Rear-steering wheels of-
emissions, and tune-ups. Gas models ten tear up grass on turns. You’ll also pay
priced below $1,000 are also making this some $400 to $800 for a bagging kit.
older category more competitive against Price: about $2,500 to $4,000 for most
larger, more capable tractors. But even homeowner versions.
the best didn’t match a tractor’s cut qual- Robotic mowers. These rove within
ity in our tests. And you can still pay a perimeter wire before returning to a
hundreds for bagging kits. Prices: about charging station much as robotic vacu-
$700 to $1,500 for gas; $3,000-plus for ums roam indoors.
battery-powered versions. They produce no Tech tip
Lawn tractors. These front-engine exhaust emissions.
The best corded
machines are sold by Craftsman, Cub But performance and cordless
Cadet, John Deere, Husqvarna, Toro, and can vary signifi- mowers perform
Troy-Built, among others. Most lawn cantly for these as well as some
tractors mow a swath 42 to 48 inches niche machines. gas mowers, and
wide—though swaths up to 60 inches are Rob otic mowers today’s cordless
available—and can bag, mulch, and side- are also pricey and models run
discharge clippings. Some offer wider should be super- longer per charge.
cuts and four-wheel steering for tighter vised. Indeed, man
turns. And all accept snow throwers and ufacturers often warn you to keep children
other tools. But they create exhaust emis- and pets away while they work. Price:
sions and require a roughly 4x6-foot stor- about $2,000 to $2,500.
age space. Bagging kits typically cost an
extra $300 to $500, while other add-ons FEATURES
cost even more and are hard to install
and remove. Prices: about $1,000 to For electric and gas mowers
$2,500; $3,000 to $3,500 for models with Cordless-electric mowers often tout
tight turning. voltage, with specs ranging from 24 volts
Zero-turn-radius mowers. With rear on up to 60 volts. But some lower-voltage
wheels that are independently driven mowers outperformed models with high-
providing quick turns, they’re similar to er voltage in our tests. One-lever height
the ones landscapers use, and typically adjustment lets you raise and lower the
mow a swath 42 to 48 inches wide. Even entire deck at once, while a blade-brake
tight-turning tractors typically can’t clutch on gas-powered mowers stops only
match their tight turns around trees, the blade when you release the handle-
posts, and other obstacles. Zero-turn bar safety bail, eliminating the need to
machines also side-discharge, bag, and restart the engine. An overhead-valve
mulch clippings. But they’re pricier than engine tends to run more efficiently than
most tractors and typically don’t cut as a side-valve engine.
well. While a few use a steering wheel, Most mowers have an automatic choke
most use nonintuitive levers for steer- that shuts off after the engine starts,
ing and ground speed. Models that rely and a few still have a rubber primer bulb
solely on their rear wheels for steering that supplies added fuel for cold starts.

An electric starter eliminates the need to Some models also let you switch mowing
pull-start a gas engine. modes without changing blades, but most
Some self-propelled gas-powered require a change of blades for mulching.
mowers have several speeds or infinite A fuel gauge visible from the seat eases
drive speeds, typically from 1 to 31/2 mph. fuel-level checks, while cup holders are
Rear-wheel-drive models tend to have an added convenience. Cruise control
better traction on hills than front-drive locks in a ground speed. A high-back
models, especially seat adds support, while a washout port
when the bag gets accepts a hose for clearing clippings
Shop smart filled, if you are beneath the deck. Also convenient: an
Look for models using one. Models hour meter, which shows how long the
with a washout with swivel front engine has run between oil changes and
port that accepts wheels allow easy other maintenance.
a hose for 180-degree turns,
clearing clippings but can be tricky Shopping Tips
beneath the deck.
on hills; the wheels Here’s what else to consider as you
also prevent the shop for a mower or tractor:
front of the deck from cutting against Match the mower to your lawn. A gas
foundations and walls. Some mowers or electric push mower is fine for small
offer a corrosion-proof aluminum or lawns, but you’ll probably prefer a rear-
plastic deck, and most now allow tools- drive gas model for slopes and a lawn
free mode changes. Nearly all mowers tractor for lawns one-half acre or more.
come with a rear bag, which eases maneu- Better manual-reel mowers are a greener
vering. More gas mowers include a wash- option for small lawns and trimming larger
out port that accepts a hose for clearing ones, though they bring more work and,
clippings beneath the deck. often, less-even cutting. Choose a mower
or tractor that bags, side-discharges, or
For tractors and zero-turn mulches clippings well if that’s the mode
mowers you use.
Gear-drive models must be shifted Think twice about zero-turn-radius
between ground-speed ranges. Models riding mowers. They’re relatively diffi-
with automatic drive vary ground speed cult to steer, can lose traction on slopes,
infinitely via a hydrostatic transmission and tend to tear up grass during U-turns.
system and are falling in price, and most Indeed, our tests with a cross section of
are controlled with a pedal rather than a models found that they lost most of their
lever, which makes back-and-forth trim- steering control when we made a hard
ming much faster and easier. turn down a 10- to 15-degree slope at typ
Four-wheel steering lets tractors turn ical mowing speeds. Instead, consider a
nearly as tightly as zero-turn machines. tight-turning tractor for large lawns with
A safety switch for reverse helps avoid lots of obstacles.
backup mishaps by making you engage Don’t buy by the numbers. As with
it before mowing in reverse. An electric older horsepower ratings, our latest tests
power takeoff switch lets you avoid pull- confirm that higher engine displacement,
ing a lever to engage the cutting blades. torque, or voltage specs don’t necessarily

e x t e r i o r pa i n ts , sta i n s & d ec k t r e at m e n ts 91
mean higher-quality mowing. Be sure to Types

check our Ratings for top performers. Paints. Major brands include Ace,
Related CR report: May 2010 Behr (sold at Home Depot), Benjamin
Ratings for mowers: page 239 Moore, Dutch Boy, Glidden, Kilz (sold
Ratings for tractors: page 243 at Walmart), Olympic, Sears, Sherwin-
Williams, True
Value, and Valspar
(sold at Lowe’s). In Tech tip
PAINTS, some areas, you’ll Opaque finishes
STAINS & DECK also find smaller
players like Cali-
can build up a
film, especially
treatments fornia, Kelly-Moore,
and M.A.B. Exte-
after several
coats, which
can peel, chip, and
EXTERIOR rior paints include crack like paint.
a variety of sheens.
The dullest is flat
Which finish lasts longest? Our or matte, followed by low-luster (often
latest tests found several stellar called eggshell or satin), semigloss, and
paints and stains that are as close gloss. Flatter finishes are best for siding,
as your local Home Depot, Lowe’s, with the lowest-sheen best for masking
or Sears. imperfections. Glossy paint is most often
used for trim because it highlights the
An industry move to multi-use finishes details of the woodwork and is easy to
also means the best stain for your house clean. Price: $20 to $60 per gallon.
is typically the one that will last longest House stains and deck finishes come
on your deck. from the same major brands, along with
Some finishes perform better, even as Cabot, Sikkens, and Thompsons. They
they get greener: Lower federal and local are typically priced similarly to exterior
limits for volatile organic compounds paints. Most are now formulated for decks,
(VOCs), which are linked to pollution and fences, and siding, and fall into three key
health issues, have helped spur frequent categories:
reformulations for most paints and Opaque finishes. These hide the wood
stains. But those frequent changes also grain and last the longest overall. They’re
mean the paint or stain you loved last best for when seeing the wood grain
time may not perform the same this time beneath isn’t important, including a typi-
around. That’s why we remove from our cal deck made of pressure-treated pine.
Ratings any product that has been refor- Also known as solid-color stains, the
mulated and is not in stores, and begin best of these treatments typically hold up
testing again with the new version. for at least three years on your deck and
Our three-year tests under sun, rain, and up to nine years on siding or fences. On
snow—which simulate up to nine years in the downside, opaque finishes can build
the elements—also show that some brands up a film, especially after several coats,
are making painting and staining easier as which can peel, chip, and crack like paint.
well as cleaner. Refinishing with opaque is generally more

extensive and lengthy than with semi- We subject stains to similarly tough out-
transparent and clear treatments. door testing.
Semitransparent finishes. These usu- While many paints still looked very
ally contain a small amount of pigment, good after the equivalent of six years in
but, unlike opaque finishes, let the wood the elements, just about all had dropped
grain show through. They’re best for to a score of Good after the equivalent of
cedar, redwood, or other pricier woods nine years outdoors. And because most
you want to show off. Choices range stains don’t resist the elements as well
from little pigment to nearly opaque. On as paint, you’ll probably have to apply
the downside, you may need to reapply them more often. To choose the best paint
semitransparents in a year or two, com- or stain:
pared with three years or more for the Buy the best paint. Our tests have
best opaque treatments. found that paint grade matters. “Good”
Clear finishes. These contain water re or “economy” grades don’t weather as
pellents and may contain a little pigment— well as top-of-the-line products. Cheaper
ideal if you value seeing as much as pos- grades also cost you more over time,
sible of a premium-wood deck’s natural because you’ll need to repaint more often.
grain. Clear treatments may also have But “best” doesn’t have to mean priciest;
UV inhibitors and wood preservatives. several top picks came in at around $20
But most don’t last more than one year, per gallon.
making deck refinishing an annual chore. Choose opaque stain for longevity.
Opaque stains continue to outlast semi-
FEATURES transparent stains overall.
While most house paints are latex- Consider semitransparent finishes
based (water), stains may also be alkyd- for older decks. Until 2004, most decks
based (solvent). Alkyd-based products used lumber preserved with chromated
require cleaning with mineral spirits. copper arsenate (CCA) to fend off rot
Stricter federal and local VOC regula- and insects. But because of concerns that
tions are making solvent-based products arsenic, a toxin, could leach out of the
increasingly difficult to find in anything wood, its use was halted. Other preser-
but quart-sized containers. That’s why vatives are now available. Semitranspar-
you’ll also find a growing number of wa- ent coatings penetrate the wood while
ter-based, low-VOC finishes that contain sealing in the arsenic, according to the
100 grams per liter or less. Some paints U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
are self-priming, eliminating the need to Opaque treatments also seal well, but
apply an initial coat of primer. they can peel or flake and may require
sanding, which spreads arsenic-laden
Shopping tips dust from CCA lumber. Another plus for
For our tests of exterior paints, we ex- semitransparents is they require much
pose painted panels on outdoor racks less surface prep.
angled to catch the maximum amount of Look for hidden savings. Refinishing
sun, rain, snow, and dew. We examine each a 2,000-sq.-ft. house will require up to 20
product’s ability to resist cracking, color gallons of paint or stain (2 coats). You can
change, and dirt and mildew buildup. often cut costs by 50 percent or more by

I n t e r i o r P a i n t s 93
buying four 5-gallon containers instead Ultra, are among the lowest in volatile
of 20 1-gallon cans. But resist the urge organic compounds (VOCs), which are
to choose a lower-grade paint to get the linked to pollution and health issues. In-
larger containers. Also ask retailers deed, they contain no more than 50 grams
whether you can get a volume discount. per liter, a fraction of the 380 grams once
The Paint Quality Institute, supported common in the most-used low-luster
by Rohm and Hass, which supplies raw paints. They were also impressive at hid-
materials for most paints, offers a free ing flaws with as little as one coat and
paint-quantity calculator (visit its Web resisting many kinds of wear and abuse.
site www.paintquality.com/diy/calculator/ Behr Ultra promises further labor sav-
calc.html). ings by eliminating the usual prime coat
Prep properly. Scrape, sand, and clean over bare wood and wallboard. Yet some
siding thoroughly before applying paint. of the best we tested cost roughly half
Plan to apply two coats. And remember the price of paints that didn’t make our
that painting over other materials may winners’ circle.
require different steps. Stucco and ma-
sonry may need presealing. Vinyl siding TYPES
can fade and become brittle. If you’re Along with Behr, major brands in-
sanding or scraping a house built before clude Ace, Benjamin Moore, Dutch
1978, be warned: The older coats of paint Boy, Glidden, Kilz
may contain lead, so you’ll need to take (sold at Walmart),
extra precautions. And if your deck is Olympic, Sears,
Shop smart
made of CCA lumber, we suggest protect- Sherwin-Williams, Some of the best
paints we tested
ing yourself by calling a pro equipped to and Valspar (sold
cost roughly
safely refinish it, removing the old finish, at Lowe’s). You’ll half the price
dust, and debris. (Go to www.epa.gov for also see more de- of paints that
more tips.) signer names and didn’t make our
Related CR reports: June 2010 regional brands, winners’ circle.
Ratings: pages 210, 251 along with zero-
VOC paints as green becomes a selling
point. Price: about $15 to $60 per gallon.
PAINTS, INTERIOR FEATURES
Paint typically comes in a variety of
Our biggest paint test ever put sheens—flat, low-luster, and semigloss.
Home Depot’s Behr brand at the Glossiness can differ from one manu-
top of our Ratings in all three major facturer to another. Flat paint is dullest
categories. and best at hiding surface imperfec-
tions, though it tends to be less resistant
Our testing also confirmed that the to stains. It’s well-suited for bedrooms
best make painting faster, easier, and and other spaces that don’t see heavy use.
greener for less. Low-luster (eggshell or satin) has a slight
For the first time, nearly all of our top- sheen and is typically the best choice for
scoring interior paints, including Behr most areas in the home (living rooms,

dining rooms, or family rooms, kids’ what’s already on your walls, because
rooms, and hallways). Semigloss, shinier some paints cover old finishes more
still, usually works best on kitchen and effectively than others.
bathroom walls and on trim because it’s Try out colors before committing.
generally easier to clean. Low-luster and Hues that look great on a paint chip
semigloss paints look best on smooth, or in the can might prove hideous on
well-prepared surfaces, since their shine your walls. And some specialty finishes,
can accentuate such as crackle and other textured fin-
imperfections. ishes, can be hard to hide if you tire of
Tech tip Most brands are them. Buy a sample of the color you’re
White and brown available in several considering and try it out on a practice
paints tend not tint bases—the un- board, hanging it in various areas of the
to fade, reds colored paint that room to see how it appears in the chang-
and blues fade forms the founda- ing light.
somewhat, and tion for the color Remember that paints change. As
bright greens and
yellows fade a lot. you choose. This with exterior paints and stains, interior
largely determines paints are frequently reformulated to
the paint’s tough- boost performance, lower costs, and trim
ness, resistance to dirt and stains, and VOCs, particularly as local regulations
ability to withstand scrubbing. The colo- get tougher. That means the paint you
rant in part determines how much the loved last time may not be the same this
paint will fade. Whites and browns tend time—a key reason we remove reformu-
not to fade, reds and blues fade some- lated paints from our tests and Ratings
what, and bright greens and yellows tend until we can test the newer version.
to fade a lot. You can also check a paint’s Related CR report: March 2010
VOC level by checking the can. Ratings: page 252
SHOPPING TIPS
Our latest tests include several paints
that combine performance and value.
SPACE HEATERS
Here’s what else to think about when
paint shopping: Practically any portable heater
Consider low-luster first. Durable and can help make a chilly room more
wear-resistant, low-luster paint works for inviting.
every room. Save semigloss for contrast-
ing finishes on trim and shelves. And Remote controls, tip-over switches,
reserve flat paints for low-traffic areas, and other features help some of the lat-
such as the master bedroom, because est models warm a room more conve-
some are more likely to absorb stains. niently and safely. But don’t expect any of
Consider the room. Some paints may these heaters to slice your energy bill on
fade more easily in sunny rooms. Some are their own.
standouts for resisting mildew, making The electricity most portable heat-
them a good choice for bathrooms and ers run on typically costs significantly
other high-humidity areas. Also consider more than oil or natural gas, which heats

S p a c e H e a t e r s 95
most homes. So the only way you might models—a low-oxygen shutoff valve.
save money would be to use the heater in Some offer a hot-grill alert—helpful espe-
one room and leave the rest of the house cially after the heater is first turned off.
much cooler. Burning kerosene or pro- Also look for a long power cord for added
pane can also be pricey and raises health placement options without an extension
and fire risks. Our latest tests also found cord; cords on models we tested were at
that some heaters can give you the chills least 70 inches long. A thermostat helps
even in the room you’re heating, and maintain the set
some still lack key safety features. temperature with-
out your having to Shop smart
Types turn the heater off The latest models
Brands include DeLonghi, EdenPure, at the desired tem- heat more
Honeywell, Lakewood, Lasko, SelusAir, perature and back consistently than
and Vornado. You will find two basic on again when earlier versions,
and all we tested
types of space heaters: room temperature
will comfortably
Electric. These account for the most drops. Digital tem- warm a chilly
sales. Convection versions are best for perature displays room.
heating an entire room, since they spread allow you to see
heat over a wider area. Models with a fan room temperature
spread warmth more quickly but are also and the degrees you’ve set, while multiple
noisier and often pricier. Radiant versions output settings let you tailor the heat out-
use an electric element or quartz tube to put to the need for heat. More heaters also
quickly heat a narrower spot—keeping have timers and remote controls. Some
one or two people comfy when watching include faux fireplace flames for added
TV, say. But people in other parts of the ambiance. Models that are oil-filled tend
room must wait for the whole room to to radiate some heat retained by the oil
warm. Prices: for most, about $40 to $150 after the unit is shut off, though some can
for convection; $50 to $80 for radiant. take longer to heat up.
Propane and kerosene. These produce
even more heat than electric heaters. But Shopping tips
because of their open flames, the risk of Even the best space heaters are essen-
carbon-monoxide poisoning, and the tially a temporary patch for underlying
hazards associated with handling the heating problems. Sealing cracks, replac-
fuel, we don’t recommend using fuel-fired ing or applying a film to windows, and
heaters indoors except for emergencies adding insulation where needed are more
and in well-ventilated areas. Price: about efficient ways to seal out a chilly winter.
$100 to $200. But for quick comfort on the cheap, fol-
low these heater-buying tips:
FEATURES Decide where you’ll use it. Many heat-
Key safety features include a tip-over ers weigh roughly 5 to 12 pounds, mak-
switch that turns off a knocked-over ing them relatively easy to carry up and
heater, a sensor that turns off the heater down stairs. But you may want to use
when the grill is touched, an overheat- heavier models on a single level or even
protection feature, and—for fuel-fired in a single room.

Play it safe. Frayed, overloaded, or un- TYPES

dersized power cords—including exten- Hoover, the oldest brand, is now owned
sion cords—are a major cause of fires, by Techtronic Industries, or TTI, which
injuries, and deaths associated with space also makes Dirt Devil models. Other
heaters. Check heater cords regularly. major brands include Bissell; Dyson,
If you use an extension cord, choose a the brightly colored British brand; Eu-
heavy-duty, 12-gauge model. Don’t place reka, which also offers central vacuums
a heater on an uneven surface, near foot and makes high-end Electrolux models;
traffic, or in a child’s room. And never Kenmore (Sears); and Oreck. Brands such
keep a heater on while sleeping. as Miele, Panasonic, and Riccar tend to
Related CR report: October 2010 be sold at specialty stores. Higher-priced
Ratings: page 274 Aerus (which also makes central vacs) is
sold in its own stores and by direct mail,
while Kirby is still sold door-to-door.
VACUUM Here are the major types:
Uprights. These tend to cost the least
CLEANERS and account for the most sales. They still
tend to do better than canisters on car-
pets, and their one-piece design makes
When it comes to vacuuming, car- them easier to store. But many weigh
pets are Job One. That’s what 5,000 more than 20 pounds, and are less stable
subscribers told us in a new Con- than canisters on stairs. Price: about $50
sumer Reports National Research to $400 for most, though prices can reach
Center survey. well over $1,000.
Canisters. A few of the best now clean
Our ongoing tests have yielded a long carpets as well as uprights. Most are
list of picks that breezed through car- quieter and can be easier to maneuver,
pet cleaning and especially on stairs, since you’re moving
other tough clean- only the hose and powerhead. And most
Tech tip ing tasks. are better at getting under furniture.
Uprights tend Brands are also But the added clutter of the hose and
to do better on pushing pet-hair wand makes canisters bulkier overall and
carpets while pickup, quietness, harder to store. Price: about $200 to $600
canisters tend and even energy for most, though prices can reach well
to be quieter savings as they vie over $1,000.
and easier to
maneuver. for your dollar. But Central vacuums. These work like a
as our tougher new canister vac, letting you move only the
pet-hair tests con- hose and powerhead. They’re also rela-
firm, even vacuums that claim to concen- tively quiet and require less-frequent
trate on pet hair are less than impressive. emptying. But they’re pricey and typi-
We also found that some greener vacs cally require professional installation.
with lower energy draws can save you Their roughly 35-foot hose can be cum-
surprisingly little green while compro- bersome, and there’s no place to carry
mising performance. tools while you work. Price: about $500

v a c u u m c l e a n e r s 97
to $1,250 for most, plus $300 to $750 for button. A manual pile-height adjustment
professional installation. can improve cleaning by letting you match
Robotic vacuums. These use sensors or the height of the vacuum to the carpet
ultrasound to vacuum one or more rooms pile better than systems that adjust auto
by themselves, identifying or bounc- matically. More models also fold for stor-
ing off walls and furniture as they go. age to save space in cluttered closets.
Novelty and ease are their primary sell- Some uprights include a removable han-
ing points. But they still require you to dle that doubles as a canister-style wand
remove cords, toys, and other obstacles. for cleaning curtains and beneath furni-
Longer cleanup time per room than con- ture. Bagless vacs trade the usual bag
ventional vacs is another drawback, as for a see-through
is a tendency to miss edges and corners, bin, though emp-
get stuck under beds, and close doors tying them can Shop smart
behind them. Robots are expensive and raise enough dust A full-bag alert
time-consuming to set up. Price: about for conc ern even can help prevent
$200 to $500. if you don’t have an overstuffed
Stick and hand vacs. These miniature allergies. A self- bag from reducing
electric vacs come with and without a propelled mode cleaning ability.
cord and can be handy for small, quick takes the push out
jobs. But both types typically lack the of some uprights but tends to add weight.
power of full-sized models. Price: about Some vacuums have a HEPA filter, which
$20 to $100. may benefit someone with asthma, though
many with conventional filters perform
FEATURES just as well. A dirt sensor tells you when
the concentration of dirt particles in the
For uprights and canisters air stream reaches a certain level, though
A top-of-the-line upright might have a it signals only that the vac is no longer
wider cleaning path and a full-bag indica- picking up dirt. Some brands push micro
tor. Typical attachments include crevice filtration, which typically uses a bag with
and upholstery tools, along with exten- smaller pores or a second electrostatic
sion wands for reaching high places. A filter. But how much dust a vacuum emits
full-bag alert can help prevent an over- depends as much on its overall design as
stuffed bag from reducing cleaning ability. its filter.
Canister vacs often have a power nozzle
that cleans carpets more thoroughly than shopping tips
a simple suction nozzle. Suction control Carpets still top the list of critical
lets you reduce airflow for drapes and cleaning chores—an area where uprights
other delicate fabrics. A brush on/off still rule overall. But you may prefer a
switch helps prevent thrown debris when canister or even a central vacuum for
vacuuming bare floors; some uprights other cleaning. Here’s what else to go by
automatically stop the brush when the when shopping:
handle is in the up position. Most canis- Consider suction. Look for models that
ters and a few uprights have a retractable performed well in our airflow tests if you
cord that rewinds with a tug or push of a often clean with tools. These vacuums

maintained more suction through the performers typically weigh 20 pounds or

hose as they filled with dust. more, you’ll find capable uprights that
Check our pet-hair scores. Along weigh significantly less. Be sure to see
with competent cleaning on carpets and which vacuum feels best at the store.
floors, look for Very Good or Excellent Protect your ears and lungs. Vacu-
performance in our pet-hair tests if that’s ums that scored a Poor in our noise tests
part of your regular cleaning. produced 85 decibels or more, the level
Pick the right features. A brush on-off at which we recommend hearing protec-
switch helps avoid scratches and scattered tion. If you’re sensitive to dust, choose
dirt on bare floors, while manual pile- a model that scored well in emissions—
height adjustment does a better job of and skip the mess of emptying a bagless
matching the brush to the carpet height vacuum’s bin by getting a bag-equipped
than automatic systems. model.
Try before buying. Ease of use affected Related CR report: March and Octo-
owner satisfaction even more than clean- ber 2010
ing in our survey of subscribers. While top Ratings: page 284

Your Inside Track for

New & Used Vehicles
T
his 88-page section is your all-in-one guide to buying a
vehicle. Starting off on page 101, we detail the Road Map
to a Great Deal, a six-step process for buying a new car.
Buying a car can be thrilling and terrifying at the same
time, but these easy steps can take the advantage out of
the salesperson’s hands and put you in charge of the buying process.
On page 110 is our tire buying advice. reliability that you should avoid.
With more—and better performing—tires The exclusive CR Reliability History
on the market than ever before, we explain charts start on page 153. These charts are
what to look for when buying tires. Paying based on responses from our Annual Auto
more money doesn’t mean you will neces- Survey, when we ask our approximately six
sarily get a better tire. million magazine and Web site subscrib-
Turn to page 113 to see which vehicles, ers about any serious problems they have
among the more than 270 we recently had with their vehicles in the preceding
tested, did best and worst in our Ratings. 12 months.
Here you can see how each ranks among We close the section on page 178 with
its competitors in overall test score, real- our Ratings of tires. Each tested tire is
world fuel economy, Ratings for predicted rated for wet, dry, and, where applicable,
reliability, owner satisfaction, owner cost, winter performance. In addition, CR rates
and overall safety. tires for rolling resistance, ride comfort,
The vehicle profiles, starting on page road noise, and tread life.
124, are our summary reviews of vehicles, This edition’s reliability data are based
including our recommendations and pre- on 1.4 million vehicles. They provide you
dicted reliability Ratings. with information on 230 models, show-
Consumers considering a used vehicle ing you how models from 2004 through
should turn to the best and worst used 2009 are holding up in 17 trouble spots.
cars section on page 147. You’ll find our These are comprehensive reliability data
CR Best of the Best, models that have per- you can’t get from other publications.
formed well in our road tests and showed
above-average reliability (Used Car Ver- TOYOTA VEHICLE RECOMMENDED
dicts) in our Annual Auto Survey, as well STATUS
as the CR Worst of the Worst, vehicles Consumer Reports has suspended the
with multiple years of much below-average recommendation of eight Toyota vehicles
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five steps to get the right car 101
because of sudden acceleration associated Well, we can’t provide a coach but we can
with accelerator pedal assemblies. We ex- give you a step-by-step strategy for getting
pect to reinstate the recommendations of the best price, outsmarting manipulative
those models when we are satisfied that dealers, and navigating the process on your
the problems have been resolved. In our terms. And it’s based on the experiences of
Ratings and profiles the models are noted our secret shoppers, who buy more than
by a . 80 test vehicles every year. Here’s what you
For the latest information on the Rec- need to know before you buy.
ommended status of these vehicles, as well To ensure that you get the right vehicle at
as other news related to the unintended the best price, you need to be an informed
acceleration issue, go to www.consumer buyer. That means investing time in research
reports.org/acceleration. and preparation. The car-buying process can
be boiled down to a six-step process:
• Narrow your choices
ROAD MAP TO A • Check for incentives
• Find your trade-in value
GREAT DEAL • Conduct a test drive
• Arrange your financing
• Get price quotes.
Driving off of a dealer’s lot in a shiny By following that road map—and follow-
new car can be an exhilarating moment. ing our list of Dos and Don’ts at the Deal-
But the hours spent haggling in the show- ership—you can get the car you want at the
room can be harrowing. Many people are price you want, without worry or stress.
intimidated by the dealership experience,
including the price negotiations and the Step 1: Narrow your choices
high-pressure sales tactics that can be Any deal is only as good as the vehicle
used to manipulate you into spending that you are buying. It’s important for you
more than you need to. Others find it to do your homework in advance in order to
confusing to try to pick the right vehicle avoid buyer’s remorse down the road.
from the more than 300 models on the You can do the majority of your research
market. Doubts linger: Did you pay too online, but the sources of information vary
much? Were you pressured into buying in quality, just like cars do. The key is to
things you didn’t really need? Could you know what to look for and finding the best
have gotten more for your trade-in? sources of information. Here, we list some
With tough economic times, automak- of the major areas that you should consider
ers have been offering generous incen- when comparing models.
tives to lure buyers back into showrooms
and dealers are primed to bargain. On Automaker Web sites
the other hand, with fewer sales to go Use these to get basic information, such
around, you must be especially wary of as models and trim levels, available features
tricks and sales tactics designed to get and options, specifications, retail pricing,
you to pay more money. If only you had a warranties, and local dealers. Most sites al-
negotiations coach to guide you through so let you compare vehicles and “build your
the process. own car,” giving you a retail price for your
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configuration. That doesn’t guarantee you’ll Reliability

find a vehicle configured the way you want A vehicle’s reliability can have an effect
it on a dealership’s lot. Keep in mind, too, on how satisfied you’ll be with it over the
that the main purpose of those sites is to years, and it can significantly affect its resale
promote their own products, so the model value. Reliability, however, is a difficult and
information is the same as advertising. expensive quality to evaluate because the
information has to come from vehicle own-
Vehicle Ratings ers; the more, the better. CR provides the
Consumer Reports’ Ratings (page 113) most comprehensive reliability information
can help you narrow your list by giving you available to consumers. Our 2009 Annual
a quick look at how tested vehicles compare Auto Survey, for instance, drew responses
with their competitors in several areas. The on about 1.4 million vehicles.
Ratings charts also show you the vehicles
that meet our stringent requirements to be Fuel economy
recommended. The fuel-economy figures printed on a
vehicle’s window sticker and in automaker
Model reviews advertising and brochures are estimates
Reviews can give you a perspective on a based on a test created by the Environmen-
vehicle’s performance, comfort and con- tal Protection Agency (EPA). You can find
venience, and driving character, as well as a list of those figures at www.fueleconomy.
insight into deficiencies that might not be gov. While changes to the testing process in
apparent on a test drive. We recommend 2008 have resulted in more realistic num-
reading a variety of reviews. But keep in bers on the window stickers, there are still
mind that most are in publications or Web some figures that are higher than you are
sites that are supported by automaker ad- likely to get. CR’s real-world fuel economy
vertising, and no company wants to bite test results are in the Vehicle Ratings charts
the hand that feeds it. You might not find (starting on page 113).
hard-hitting analysis or insight into safety
or reliability issues. Only a few reviewers Safety ratings
do their own instrumented testing, which Consumer Reports provides a single
allows more accurate comparisons be- overall safety Rating for many models, based
tween different vehicles. on a combination of government and insur-
On the other hand, CR conducts the ance-industry crash-test results and our ac-
most comprehensive auto-testing pro- cident-avoidance testing. A model loses full
gram of any U.S. publication or Web site. points if electronic stability control (ESC) is
We differ from other reviewers in several not available and loses partial points if this
significant ways: We don’t accept advertis- important safety feature is optional. Because
ing; we buy all of our test vehicles from many models lack key crash-test results, we
dealerships just like you do; and we con- are not able to calculate an overall safety
duct more than 50 tests and evaluations Rating for every tested model.
on each vehicle over several months and Several different elements affect a vehi-
thousands of miles. Summary reviews of cle’s overall safety capability:
all models are included in the model pro- Crash tests. Frontal- and side-impact
files that begin on page 124. crash tests are conducted by the Insurance
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Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS; www. on rear-impact protection is the IIHS Web
iihs.org) and the National Highway Traf- site, www.iihs.org. The institute conducts
fic Safety Administration (NHTSA; www. evaluations of head restraints and performs
safercar.gov). The IIHS also conducts rear- dynamic rear-impact tests that measure how
crash tests. well the seat/head-restraint combinations in
Accident avoidance. A vehicle’s ability to different models protect against whiplash.
help you avoid an accident is just as impor- Blind zones. Every year, children are
tant as protecting you in a crash. For every injured and killed because drivers don’t
accident there are numerous near misses see them while backing up. A contributing
that statistics don’t reflect. Several factors factor is that some larger vehicles, such as
contribute to a vehicle’s accident-avoidance SUVs and pickups, have larger blind zones
capability, with the two most important be- —the area behind a vehicle that the driver
ing braking and emergency handling. can’t see. Consumer Reports measures
Rollover resistance. Rollovers are in- the blind zone of every vehicle we test and
volved with more than a third of all pas- publishes the information free at www.
senger-vehicle deaths and are of particular ConsumerReports.org.
concern with SUVs and pickups. To help
consumers compare vehicles, the NHTSA Recommended Safety Features
provides a five-star rating system called Buyers often overlook important safety
the Rollover Resistance Rating (RRR). features because they aren’t aware of them
The RRR is calculated from two factors: a or don’t understand their benefit. We rec-
vehicle’s Static Stability Factor (SSF) and ommend getting proven life-saving safety
a dynamic rollover test. The SSF, which features, including electronic stability con-
is determined from static measurements trol, curtain air bags, and antilock brakes,
of the vehicle, essentially indicates how which are explained in detail below:
top-heavy it is. The dynamic test simu- Antilock brake system (ABS). Without
lates a driver having to make a series of antilock brakes, a vehicle’s wheels can stop
sharp steering maneuvers, as can happen turning during hard braking, particularly on
in an emergency. Vehicles that tip up at slippery surfaces. You can’t steer, and locked
any speed fail the test. We believe that a wheels can cause a vehicle to slide sideways
vehicle that tips up in this type of situation or even spin. ABS prevents the wheels from
has serious stability problems, and we will locking up, allowing the driver to retain
not recommend it. RRR ratings are avail- steering control while braking and to ma-
able at www.safercar.gov. neuver the vehicle around an obstacle.
Rear-impact protection. Although rear- Electronic stability control (ESC). Con-
enders are usually not life-threatening, they sumer Reports highly recommends ESC,
have a high injury rate, especially for whip- which helps keep the vehicle on its intended
lash neck injuries. The design of a car’s head path during a turn to avoid sliding or losing
restraints and seats are critical factors in how control. It is especially helpful in slippery
severe a whiplash injury will be. Consumer conditions and accident-avoidance situa-
Reports evaluates head restraints for all tions. It can also help keep top-heavy SUVs
seating positions in every tested vehicle. and pickups from getting into a situation
Any problems are noted in our road-test re- where they could roll over. Each automaker
ports. Another good source for information tends to have a proprietary name for its ESC
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system, so make sure to ask if the car has Reports.org/deals. To narrow down your
ESC before you buy. choices, start with our vehicle Ratings that
Head-protecting air bags. IIHS side- begin on page 113, as well as the vehicle
impact crash tests clearly show the benefit profiles, which begin on page 124.
of this feature. To date, few vehicles tested
without head-protecting air bags have Step 2: Check for incentives
scored higher than poor. A standard side By spending a little time at your comput-
air bag typically protects a person’s torso, er in advance of the purchase, you can reap
but many don’t do an adequate job of pro- some big dividends on the day you purchase
tecting the head. We recommend that you your car. There are a number of different
look for a dedicated head-protection bag that types of incentives that are available, but
deploys from above the side windows. The you need to know what to look for.
most common type is a curtain air bag that Behind-the-scenes dealer incentives. Au-
covers the side windows in both the front tomakers often give dealers extra money in
and rear, preventing occupants from hitting the form of rebates or holdbacks when they
their heads and shielding them from flying sell certain models. The dealer can keep the
debris. A curtain bag can also keep people money or pass it along to the buyer in the
from being ejected during a rollover. form of a lower price. Knowing about them
Safety-belt features. While the safety belt can help you better determine how much
is arguably the single most important piece of profit margin the dealer has to work with.
safety equipment, enhanced features are help- Customer incentives. Go to the auto-
ing safety belts do their job more effectively. makers’ Web sites for the latest national
Adjustable upper anchors help position the and regional programs, keeping these tips
belt across the chest instead of the neck to in mind:
prevent neck injuries. They also can help keep Cash rebates usually come from the auto-
the belt from pulling down on a tall person’s maker and can be applied to the down pay-
shoulder, making it more comfortable. ment, which reduces the amount you need
“Smart” frontal air bags. Some models to borrow. Rebates don’t affect the dealer’s
offer a multistage air bag system that can profit, so don’t be hesitant to try for a lower
detect the presence and weight of the per- price on the car in addition to the rebate.
son in the front passenger seat, the driver’s Low-interest financing is often heavily
seat position, and whether safety belts are promoted, but it’s usually available only to
fastened. Deployment of the air bags is ad- people with good credit scores. Check in ad-
justed to minimize the chance of injury to vance to see if you qualify. If not, you might
occupants, including children, in a crash. find a lower interest rate elsewhere.
In the end, look for models that have done Discount pricing, such as “employee pric-
well in CR road tests and have scored high ing,” can shave hundreds off a sticker price.
Ratings in reliability, safety, owner cost, and But since this discount comes from the au-
owner satisfaction. tomaker, you can often go even lower by
Some recommended models that have bargaining with a dealer.
offered incentives in recent months are the Other programs, such as free or discount-
Ford Escape, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, ed gasoline, trade-in credits, or a buy-back
and Hyundai Elantra. Check for our latest guarantee, can add extra value to a deal. But
list of best new-car deals at www.Consumer check the numbers carefully; a different
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incentive could save you even more money. sional detailer, where cleaning usually starts
Government incentives. Always check for around $100. If your car needs repairs, get
any federal or state government incentives them taken care of before you trade it in.
that can save you extra money. If you buy And it might make sense to get small dents
some hybrid, diesel, or natural-gas models, and scratches fixed by an auto-body shop.
you can get a tax credit on your federal in- Once at the dealership, wait until you’ve
come tax. Check www.fuel economy.gov/feg/ settled on a price for the new car before
taxcenter.shtml for eligible models. Hybrids discussing your trade-in. You should have
are also tax-exempt in some states. printouts from several pricing sources to
While all of this sounds confusing, Con- support the value you calculated. Tell the
sumer Reports’ New Car Price Reports salesperson that you simply want what you
does the work for you. Each report shows know the car is worth and that the new-car
all three factors: the dealer incentives, the deal isn’t final unless you get a satisfactory
amount of any national or regional custom- allowance on your trade-in.
ers sales incentives, and the dealer holdback If you feel you’re being lowballed, you can
amount. It also includes the CR Bottom always sell your car to a used-car dealer. Or
Line Price, which takes all of those figures you can sell the car yourself, which will
into consideration to give a close approxi- probably get you a higher price. But if you
mation of the dealer’s cost. need the trade-in to make your down pay-
ment, you’ll have to sell your current car
Step 3: Find your trade-in value before you can purchase the new one.
Before you go to the dealership, assess the
value of your vehicle, focusing on the used- Step 4: Conduct a test drive
car wholesale price. Get the book value of A lot of vehicles look good on paper, but
your car by ordering Consumer Reports the test drive is your best chance to see how
Used Car Price Reports or at car-pricing a vehicle measures up to expectations, to
Web sites like TrueCar.com or Edmunds. see how well it “fits” you, and to evaluate its
com. Focus on the wholesale value and fac- driving character, performance, and com-
tor in your car’s mileage and features. fort. After all, you don’t want any surprises
To see what sellers are asking for simi- after you’ve bought it.
lar vehicles in your area, check car-buying You should make a separate visit to the
Web sites or local classified ads. To gauge dealership just for a test drive and walk-
the true wholesale value of your car, take around inspection. Don’t wait until the day
it to used-car dealers and ask what you can you’re ready to buy or if your car breaks
get in a straight-up sale. That will give you down. You won’t have enough time to thor-
a benchmark with which to compare trade- oughly evaluate the cars you’re considering.
in offers. It’s important that you spend as much
It also helps to take the car to a couple of time with the vehicle as possible, with an
used-car dealerships to see how much they’d eye on what it will be like to live with over
be willing to pay for it in a direct sale. the long haul. Here are some tips to make
Because appearance is important, it pays your dealership test drive count:
to spruce up your vehicle before you have
it assessed by a dealer. Either give it a thor- Be Organized and Thorough
ough cleaning yourself or take it to a profes- Make sure you prepare a list of tasks to
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accomplish during the dealership visit: RED FLAG

• Before you go to the dealership, list the Our car buyers are often asked for Social
likes and dislikes with your current car and Security numbers, even when they’re not
compare these with the vehicle you’ll be financing. Unless you’re applying for a loan,
driving. Take along a notebook so that you don’t give it, and don’t sign anything that
can jot down impressions. lets a dealer run a credit check. It can affect
• Test drive the trim version with the your credit score.
powertrain and options you want to buy
before you make a final decision. If more Step 5: Arrange your financing
than one person will be driving the vehicle You might be a whiz at getting a low price
on a regular basis, make sure all have a on a new car, but if you don’t choose your fi-
chance to test drive it before you buy. nancing carefully you could lose everything
• Before you drive, evaluate the driv- you saved on the vehicle’s purchase price,
ing position and interior. Set the seat in a and more. It’s critical to comparison shop
comfortable driving position and attach the and prequalify for an auto loan before buy-
safety belt. Make sure that you’re at least 10 ing. That allows you to keep the financial
inches away from the steering wheel and arrangements out of the price negotiations
that you can fully depress all the pedals. at the dealership. Otherwise, your choice of
Make sure that you can reach all the con- loans is restricted to what the dealership can
trols without straining and that they’re easy offer you, and many dealers mark up the
to use and the displays are easy to see. interest rate over what you actually qualify
• Don’t be rushed; spend at least 30 to 45 for. That “interest-rate bumping” can cost
minutes in each car and drive on a variety you hundreds or even thousands of dollars
of road conditions. Even small variations in more over the term of the loan.
such things as seat comfort and ergonomics
can make a big difference in how well the Shop for the right terms
car “fits” you. Take someone along to give Visit local banks, credit unions, and
you the passenger’s viewpoint. If possible, other financing institutions to see what
take the test drive without a salesperson, so interest rates they are offering on auto
you can better concentrate on the vehicle. loans. Also, call the dealerships that sell
• As you drive, make sure that you can the vehicles you are interested in to see
see out well, that you can judge the ends of how their rates compare. Taking care of
the vehicle, and that there are no serious this legwork in advance and being pre-
blind spots. Pay attention to all of the approved for a loan removes much of the
vehicle’s characteristics—how it rides, han- stress during the negotiating phase.
dles, accelerates, and stops, as well as road The figure to focus on is the annual per-
noise. Record your impressions of the centage rate (APR). For comparison, you
vehicle’s comfort, handling, and respon- can get a quick read on prevailing rates at
siveness, and compare these with others Web sites such as Bankrate.com, E-Loan
that you test drive. (www.eloan.com), and LendingTree (www.
• If you use child-safety seats, bring them lendingtree.com).
with you and take the time to install them Try to keep loan lengths as short as pos-
properly so that you can see how easy or sible. A three-year loan costs you far less
difficult it is. overall than a four- or five-year loan at the
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Know the pros and cons before you lease

Choosing to lease depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and budget. Leasing usu-
ally gives you a lower monthly payment and a lower down payment, and you avoid
any resale or trade-in hassles. Leasing can also let you drive a higher-priced, better-
equipped vehicle for the same monthly payment as buying a less-expensive model.
But leasing makes sense only if you stay within the annual mileage limit (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 you were going to buy it. Once you
have a firm price, then bring up your desire to lease.
2. Other negotiable elements include the mileage limit, down payment, and purchase-
option price, or how much you’ll have to pay if you want to buy the 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 yourself 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
quotes. If your own insurance company provides it, that could be your 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.
same interest rate. But you need to balance might not qualify. Always phone the dealer-
the total cost of the loan against a monthly ship before you visit to find out what credit
payment you can afford. score qualifies a borrower for the lowest fi-
nancing rate and, if you don’t qualify, what
Playing the Financing Game the next best rate would be.
Automakers may offer aggressive, low- • You often have to make a choice be-
interest financing incentives on many tween a low interest rate and a cash rebate.
models, but there are catches: Run the numbers both ways to see which
• Some low rates are available only for offer saves you the most money. You’ll find
36-month loans, meaning the payments an auto-financing calculator at Consumer
will be quite high. Reports.org/calculators.
• Without a stellar credit record, you • Low interest rates or large cash
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incentives are no bargain if they lead you to sands of dollars below the sticker price.
buy a car you’re not happy with. It might The best way to ensure that you aren’t
make better financial sense over the long manipulated is to go in armed with accurate
term to buy a consistently reliable model at pricing information, which lets you assess
a little higher interest than an unreliable how good the offer really is. Two key figures
model at zero percent. Saving a few dollars you need are a target price on the new ve-
each month on your payments might not hicle and the value of your current vehicle.
seem worthwhile over the long run if you
don’t like the vehicle. Find the dealer’s profit
• In addition, the credit markets have margin
tightened considerably in the past year. You can estimate the dealer’s cost by sub-
You may not be able to use home equity tracting any dealer rebates or holdbacks
for a car loan, a practice that was common from the dealer-invoice price. Any of
up until last year. today’s pricing guides list the invoice price.
Even if a dealership is offering a special Find dealer rebates and holdback amounts
financing incentive, you should still do your at car-pricing Web sites or in Consumer
homework by carefully shopping around for Reports New Car Price Reports. The
the best loan offers. That lets you accurately reports also include CR’s Bottom Line
evaluate the dealership’s terms so that you Price, which does the math for you to show
can make the best decision. the dealer’s estimated cost. Your goal is to
pay as little above that figure as possible.
EXPERT TIP Since dealers can earn extra profit from
It’s best to pay off your old auto loan be- hard-to-track incentives, it’s possible to buy
fore you buy a new car. Rolling over the a car for less than the dealer’s “cost.” Go to
unpaid portion of an old loan into a new www.truecar.com to see what other people
one will increase the amount of interest you are reportedly paying.
pay and make it easier to get upside-down Because those transaction prices are an
on your loan, so you’ll owe more than the average of nationwide sales prices, keep in
car is worth. mind that some actual prices were higher
and some were lower. Those prices also
RED FLAG might not be accurate for your area.
When arranging a loan, dealers often
make an extra profit by bumping your inter- Get dealers to compete
est rate up several percentage points over the Have dealers compete for your business
rate for which you would normally qualify. by e-mailing or calling several in your
That’s why it’s critical that you compare in- area. Specify the exact model, trim level,
terest rates before you go to the dealership. and options you want and ask for their
lowest out-the-door price that includes
Step 6: Get price quotes everything. But don’t discuss a trade-in or
In many ways, negotiating a good deal financing at this stage. To locate dealers,
on a new vehicle is a game of numbers. go to the automaker Web sites. The more
Dealerships are free to sell vehicles at what- quotes you get, the better.
ever price they want. An informed buyer can You can get dealer quotes through Con-
often buy a vehicle for hundreds or thou- sumer Reports’ new Build & Buy service
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 108 9/14/10 3:31:15 PM

DOs and DON’TS at the dealership

You’ll have to visit the dealership to check out the car, close the deal, and take delivery.
But watch your step; this is the phase where the dealership staff could try to make up
for a low price on the car by making you pay more in other areas.
Finalize the deal
Don’t visit during special sales events solicited by direct mail. Those are often run by
contracted specialists trained in techniques that increase the dealer’s profit.
Do inspect and drive the car you’re buying. Verify that it’s the right trim level with
the right features.
Do walk out if the salesperson tries to raise the price you negotiated by e-mail or phone.
Do take your lowest competitive quotes and estimated dealer-cost figure to use as lever-
age, if you plan on final negotiating. Don’t negotiate around a monthly payment figure.
Do negotiate one thing at a time. Nail down the new-car price before you negotiate
the trade-in or financing terms.
Extras can add up
Don’t buy unnecessary extras. Offering items like corrosion protection, paint sealant,
fabric protection, and window etching of the VIN are common ways to get you to pay
extra. You usually don’t need these services or can get them for less money later.
Don’t purchase an extended warranty on a car with a good reliability record. In a sur-
vey published in the April 2008 issue of Consumer Reports, 65 percent of respondents
said they spent much more for the contract than they got back in savings on repairs.
Do cross out extras in the contract that you haven’t agreed to pay for.
Do bring a calculator if you’re financing to verify that the terms match the amount
you’ve agreed to finance.
Watch the details
Do pay the down payment with a credit card. If the dealer goes out of business before
you can pick up your car, challenge the payment with your card issuer.
Don’t sign any forms with items left blank. A dealership could falsify information such
as the customer’s income or the size of the down payment on loan applications.
Do make sure the dealer pays off your old auto loan promptly, if they agreed to. If a dealer
doesn’t do so, buyers could be responsible for payments on cars they no longer have.
Don’t agree to be responsible for any extra interest on loan payments for the trade-in
after you’ve signed the bill of sale.
Don’t drive the car home before the financial paperwork is completed. That has often
resulted in a dealer calling the buyer back, claiming the financing fell through, to get
him or her to sign new paperwork at less favorable terms.
Don’t take delivery of the car if additional work needs to be performed on it.
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 109 9/14/10 3:31:15 PM

(www.ConsumerReports.org/buildandbuy). even fuel economy. More important, the

It’s available to ConsumerReports.org sub- cornering grip, braking distances, and re-
scribers and New Car Price Report buyers. sistance to hydroplaning also directly affect
Or go to car-buying websites such as Auto- your safety on the road, so good tires that
bytel (www.autobytel.com) or CarsDirect are in good shape can also save your life.
(www.carsdirect.com) and request e-mail Today’s tires last longer and perform
quotes from several dealers. All are free, and better than those of the past. The typical all-
you aren’t obligated to buy. season tires that come as standard equip-
It can also be helpful to check your target ment on most vehicles are apt to last 40,000
price against those offered by dealerships miles or more before needing replacement.
affiliated with auto-buying Web sites. On Luxury cars, sporty cars, and sports
those sites, you can ask for a price quote sedans tend to come shod with more expen-
on a vehicle that’s configured the way you sive “performance” tires. Those tires usually
want it, and one or more dealerships will have a lower profile (sidewall height) than
reply by e-mail. The services are free, and regular all-seasons, and a larger wheel.
you aren’t under any obligation to buy. The new standard here is performance
You can compare those quotes against all-season tires. Prices aren’t that different
the target price range you calculated based from conventional all-seasons. In general,
on the dealer’s cost. Usually, the quotes will you can expect better cornering on wet and
be higher. But if, by chance, a quote is lower dry roads and better braking, but sometimes
than your figure, this gives you more lever- less ride comfort and a shorter tread life.
age with which to bargain. If you want to Another notch up are ultra-high perfor-
whittle the price down further, recontact mance tires. More compromises come in to
some dealers and ask whether they can beat play here, where you may trade away some
a competitor’s lowest price. If you settle on ride comfort, tread life, and cold-weather
a price, have the dealer send you a detailed capabilities in return for the ultimate in
pricing breakdown; you’ll need this when warm-weather performance.
you go to the dealership to close the deal. Winter tires are a good investment in
places where winters are long and harsh.
RED FLAG They incorporate a tread that stays pliable in
Make sure the quotes are comparable. cold weather, and are designed to cope with
Sometimes a dealer won’t have the exact snow and ice. But they should come off when
vehicle you’re looking for and will give you spring temperatures arrive, as their tread does
a price on a different version without telling not give ideal traction on dry and wet roads.
you. If there’s a question, ask for copies of The most important thing you can do
the window sticker. to keep your tires running a long time at
peak performance is to make sure they are
properly inflated. Keep all tires inflated to
Tires the pressure stated on the sticker found on
the car, usually on the driver’s doorjamb.
Getting started When do you need new tires?

Tires have a direct impact on a car’s han- You should replace your tires before they
dling, braking, ride, comfort qualities, and wear out completely. When the tread depth
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 110 9/14/10 3:31:15 PM

tire buying advice 111
gets down to ⅛th of an inch, that’s the time all four at a time rather than just front or
to go shopping. You can get a tread-depth rear. Typical all-season tires generally run
gauge at an auto-parts store for a couple of from $60 to $120 each. The increasingly
dollars, but a quarter makes a perfectly ser- widespread performance all-season tires are
viceable substitute. Hold the quarter with priced a little higher, between $60 to $160.
Washington’s head pointed down into the The more exotic ultra-high-performance
main tread. If the tread is shallow enough tires can often cost more than $200 apiece.
to reveal George’s hairline, it’s time to start Winter tires generally run $60 to $170 each.
shopping. Of course, if your tires are bald- We’ve found no absolute correlation be-
ing in spots, then you need to replace your tween price and performance, although the
tires pronto. See “Failure Signs” under the very cheapest tires rarely excel in our tests. In
Tires section at ConsumerReports.org. our Ratings both expensive and moderately-
priced tires are scattered high and low on the
What to buy scoring scale. That means you don’t have to
The easiest choice is to buy tires that spend top dollar to get a top-scoring tire. It
match, in terms of size and type, those that also means that buying the most expensive
came with the car when it was new. Auto- tire available is no guarantee of superiority.
makers take some care to fit their cars with
tires appropriate to the car’s performance How and where to shop
capacities and requirements. You’ll find good selections at tire-retailer
Many replacement tires offer similar per- chains, large independent tire shops, and
formance to the original-equipment tires. warehouse clubs and big-box stores. You
But aftermarket tires may also be better can also shop online at discounters such as
than original equipment tires in some re- Tirerack.com and Discounttiredirect.com.
spects. You may find a tire that lasts longer, Remember that you’ll pay for shipping as
handles better or has better all-weather grip well as mounting and balancing when
than the original tires. Our Ratings can mail-order tires arrive. If you have a brand
point you toward desired qualities. and model of tire in mind, use the Yellow
You may also consider getting larger tires Pages or online shopping inquiries to locate
and wheels than those that came with the the best deals near you.
car. In theory this can improve handling
qualities. CR tests indicate that moving up Types and features
one size, say from a 16-inch to a 17-inch All-season
wheel might improve dry and wet grip and These are the tires that come standard
handling, but after that you start giving up a on many cars, minivans, 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 prone 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).
Tires 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.
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 111 9/14/10 3:31:15 PM

Performance all-season • Speed ratings: Q (99 mph) and higher.

These tires come standard on newer cars. • Tread-wear warranty: None.
• Best for: Improved handling and grip • Typical wheel size: 14 to 18 inches.
over all-season tires on wet and dry pave-
ment. But they often have shorter tread SUV/Pickup
wear than many all-season tires. All-season and all-terrain tires are
• Speed ratings: H (130 mph), V (149 mph). designed for the rigors of truck use.
• Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to • Best for: All-terrain models are designed
60,000 miles. for light-duty off-pavement use; all-season
• Typical wheel size: 15 to 17 inches. models are made primarily for on-road
use. But some automakers recommend
Ultra-high performance staying with whatever type of tire came
All-season with your vehicle.
These are found on high-end sports • Speed ratings: S (112 mph for many).
cars, sports sedans, and some lower-priced • Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to
sporty models. 60,000 miles.
• Best for: Wet and dry braking and han- • Typical wheel size: 15 to 20 inches.
dling. But they trade ultimate warm-weather • Price: $55 to $150 or more.
grip for passable winter performance. All tires are embossed on their sidewalls
• Speed ratings: Z (more than 149 mph), with information about size, speed rating,
W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). load capacity, manufacturing date, and
• Tread-wear warranty: None or 30,000 to other data. For details go to Consumer
40,000 miles. Reports.org/Tires “Deciphering tire codes”
• Typical wheel size: 17 to 22 inches. under “Getting Started.
Ultra-high performance Brands

summer The tire industry is dominated by a few gi-
Found mostly on high-performance sports ants such as Bridgestone, Goodyear, Michelin,
cars and sports sedans. Continental, and Pirelli, plus many smaller
• Best for: Wet and dry braking and handling. makers from Asia, the U.S. and Europe.
But they usually don’t perform well in cold Goodyear owns the Goodyear, Dunlop, and
weather, ice, or snow. Kelly-Springfield brands. Bridgestone and
• Speed ratings: Z (more than 149 mph), Firestone are made by one company, Con-
W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). tinental and General by another. Michelin
• Tread-wear warranty: None for most. markets Michelin, BFGoodrich, and Uniroyal.
• Typical wheel size: 17 to 22 inches. Falken, Sumitomo, and Yokohama are Japa-
nese brands, while Hankook and Kumho
Winter tires are Korean. But tires from any brand may be
These 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 model
• Best for: Maintaining traction on snow names on different tires, it can be hard to tell
and ice. But fast wear and so-so wet and dry what’s what. Our Ratings are therefore a better
braking make them suitable only for cold- guide than any brand’s reputation.
weather use.
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 112 9/14/10 3:31:15 PM

au to r at i n g s 113
Rating the 2010-2011 models
I
ncluded here are Ratings on nearly 300 will likely hold up, based on data from
vehicles that CR has recently tested. our 2009 Annual Auto Survey. Owner
Within each category, they are ranked satisfaction also comes from our annual
by their overall road-test score. survey, and is based on a question where
Recommended models ( d) must we ask subscribers if they would definitely
perform well in our testing; have average buy or lease their vehicle again.
or better reliability; and, if crash-tested, Owner cost is a Rating of the five-year
provide a good overall safety Rating. This projected cost to own a vehicle, includ-
Rating is a composite of accident avoiding depreciation, fuel, interest, insurance,
ance from our testing, and crash protec- maintenance/repair, and sales tax.
tion, based on crash tests administered by Safety is an overall score based on the
the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety combination of crash test and accident
and the National Highway Traffic Safety avoidance results. A model loses points if
Administration. In addition, pickups and ESC is not offered and loses partial points
SUVs must not have tipped up in the gov- of it’s optional.
ernment’s rollover test or, if not tested, Fuel 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
Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
HATCHBACKS: SUBCOMPACT
■
d Honda Fit Sport (MT) $16,730 76 &N &N &N &M 33
■
d Honda Fit (base) 16,020 68 & N & N & N & M 30
■
d Nissan Versa 1.8 SL 17,250 67 & C & V & N & M 28
■
d Scion xD (MT) 15,820 62 & N & M & N & M 34
■
d Scion xD 16,620 60 & N & M & N & M 29
Kia Rio5 SX (MT) 14,110 53 NA NA &N - 30
Hyundai Accent GS (MT) 12,745 52 &M &V & N - 30
Toyota Yaris (base) 16,423 52 & N & C & N &M 30
Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor d Recommended
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 113 9/14/10 3:31:16 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
HATCHBACKS: SUBCOMPACT continued
Chevrolet Aveo5 1LT $16,470 31 &B NA &N - 26
Smart ForTwo Passion 15,355 28 & V &M &N &M 39
HATCHBACKS/WAGONS: SMALL
■
d Volkswagen Golf TDI (MT) $24,764 88 &C &N &N &N 38
■
d Volkswagen Golf (2.5) 20,314 85 & N & M & N & N 24
■
d Hyundai Elantra Touring 19,475 79 & N NA &N - 26
■
d Mazda3 s Sport 20,700 77 & M &M & N - 25
■
d Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 21,640 75 & N & M & N &N 23
■
d Suzuki SX4 Technology (AWD) 19,998 73 & M & C & M & M 24
Toyota Matrix S (2.4L) 21,180 72 & M & C & N & M 27
Toyota Matrix (base, 1.8L) 19,200 69 & M & C & N & M 29
■
d Scion xB 18,360 68 & M & M & N & M 23
Kia Soul Plus 16,690 68 new new &N &N 25
Nissan Cube 1.8S 16,790 64 NA NA &N &M 28
■
d Mini Cooper Clubman 24,700 64 &C &N & N - 29
■
d Chevrolet HHR LT (2.4) 24,730 61 & C & C & M &M 24
Honda Insight EX 21,790 54 & N & M & N & M 38
Dodge Caliber SXT 19,015 49 & C & B & N & C 24
WAGONS
■
d Mazda5 Grand Touring $23,805 95 &C &C &M - 24
Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen
■
d TDI 27,204 81 &C &M &M &N 36
■
d Volkswagen Jetta SE (2.5) 24,324 80 &M &M &M &N 23
■
d Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 30,099 79 & N & M & M & M 24
■
d Toyota Venza (V6, AWD) 34,209 77 & C & N & C & N 20
Volvo XC70 42,560 77 & V & M & V - 18
■
d Kia Rondo LX (V6) 20,655 76 & M & C & N - 21
■
d Audi A3 2.0T 28,580 75 & C & C & M &N 25
Honda Accord Crosstour EX-L
■
d (AWD) 34,730 73 &M new &C &N 20
■
d BMW 325xi* 40,520 73 &C NA &V - 22
*Powertrain changed since last test.
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 114 9/14/10 3:31:16 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SEDANS: SUBCOMPACT
Nissan Versa 1.8 S $16,385 69 &B &V &N &M 27
Kia Rio LX 14,905 64 NA NA &N &V 28
Hyundai Accent GLS 14,230 62 &M &V & N & V 28
Toyota Yaris (base) 16,547 57 & N & C & N & M 32
Chevrolet Aveo LT 16,205 36 & B NA &N &V 25
SEDANS: SMALL
■
d Hyundai Elantra SE $18,695 82 &N &M &N &N 27
■
d Honda Civic EX (MT) 20,165 82 & N & M & N & M 31
■
d Honda Civic EX 20,965 78 & N & M & N & M 28
■
d Nissan Sentra 2.0 SL 19,530 74 & C & V & N & M 27
■
d Mazda3 i Touring (MT) 18,170 74 & M & M & N & N 30
■
d Honda Civic Hybrid 24,510 72 & M & M & N & N 37
■
d Subaru Impreza 2.5i 19,106 72 & C & C & N & N 24
■
d Ford Focus SES (MT) 17,440 71 & M & C & N & M 29
Toyota Corolla LE 18,404 71 & M & M & N & M 32
Toyota Corolla (base, MT) 16,419 70 & M & M & N & M 32
■
d Mazda3 i Touring 19,070 70 & M & M & N & N 28
■
d Hyundai Elantra GLS 18,445 70 & N & M & N & C 27
Kia Forte EX 18,540 69 new new &N &N 28
■
d Suzuki SX4 LE 17,519 66 &M NA &N &C 26
■
d Ford Focus SES 18,490 65 & M &C & N & M 26
Mitsubishi Lancer ES 17,515 62 NA NA &N &M 25
SEDANS: FAMILY ENTRY-LEVEL

■
d Nissan Altima 2.5 S (4-cyl.) $23,970 91 &M &C &M &N 26
Hyundai Sonata GLS 21,800 89 new &M &N &N 27
■
d Honda Accord LX-P (4-cyl., MT) 21,995 88 &M & M & N & N 26
■
d Volkswagen Jetta TDI 23,939 84 & C & N & N & N 33
Toyota Camry LE (4-cyl.) 22,850 84 & M & M & N & M 26
■
d Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium 23,830 83 & M & M & M & N 25
Suzuki Kizashi SE 22,489 82 new new &M - 25
■
d Honda Accord LX-P (4-cyl.) 22,795 79 &M &M & N &N 23
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 115 9/14/10 3:31:16 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SEDANS: FAMILY ENTRY-LEVEL continued
■
d Kia Optima LX (4-cyl.) $20,365 77 &M &C &N &M 25
■
d Volkswagen Jetta (2.5) 22,965 76 & M & C & M & N 24
■
d Ford Fusion SE (4-cyl.) 22,145 76 & N & M & N & N 24
■
d Chevrolet Malibu LT (4-cyl.) 23,585 74 & C & C & N & N 25
■
d Mazda6 i Sport (4-cyl.) 21,920 73 & C & C & N & M 24
Mitsubishi Galant ES (4-cyl.) 20,944 59 NA NA &M &M 23
Chrysler Sebring (Touring, 4-cyl.) 20,870 44 &B &B & M & M 23
SEDANS: FAMILY
■
d Nissan Altima 3.5 SR (V6) $30,335 93 &C &C &M &N 24
■
d Honda Accord EX-L (V6) 28,695 88 & C & M & M & N 21
■
d Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited 30,094 88 & M & M & C & N 22
Toyota Camry XLE (V6) 29,839 87 & C & M & M & M 23
■
d Volkswagen Passat 2.0T 27,440 87 & C & C & M & N 24
■
d Toyota Camry Hybrid 29,720 84 & N & N & N & M 34
■
d Ford Fusion Hybrid 32,360 84 & N & N & M & N 34
■
d Chevrolet Malibu LTZ (V6) 28,045 83 & M & M & M & N 20
■
d Mazda6 s Grand Touring (V6) 30,790 81 & M & C & C & N 20
■
d Ford Fusion SEL (V6) 28,400 80 & N & N & M & N 22
■
d Toyota Prius IV 26,750 80 & N & N & N & N 44
■
d Nissan Altima Hybrid 28,225 78 & N & C & M & M 32
■
d Ford Fusion SEL (V6, AWD) 30,055 75 & C & N & C & N 20
■
d Kia Optima EX (V6) 24,640 73 & M & C & M & M 22
Dodge Charger SXT (V6) 28,860 58 & C & V & C & C 19
Chevrolet Impala LT (3.5) 29,270 57 & C & V & M & M 20
Dodge Avenger R/T (3.5, V6) 27,350 46 & B NA &M &M 20
SEDANS: COMPACT SPORTS

■
d Infiniti G37 Journey $37,225 95 &M &M &C &N 21
BMW 335d 48,925 84 NA NA &V &N 28
■
d Acura TSX (4-cyl.) 29,675 84 &M &M & M & N 25
■
d Lexus IS 250 33,734 84 & M & C & C & N 24
■
d Lexus HS 250h Premium 38,939 83 & M new &C - 31
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 116 9/14/10 3:31:16 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SEDANS: COMPACT SPORTS continued
■
d Audi A4 2.0T $37,525 82 &C &M &V &N 22
■
d Volkswagen CC Luxury (4-cyl.) 32,680 82 & N & M & C & N 24
Buick Regal CXL (4-cyl.) 28,840 77 new new &M &N 23
■
d BMW 328i 39,175 77 &M &M & V & N 23
■
d Mercedes-Benz C300 Sport 37,325 77 & C & C & V & N 21
■
d Saab 9-3 2.0T 31,615 69 & C & C & C & N 23
Volvo S40 2.4i 29,145 60 & N & V & M & M 23
SEDANS: UPSCALE
■
d Hyundai Genesis 3.8 $36,000 92 &M &N &C &N 21
■
d Lexus ES 350 38,615 91 & M & M & C & M 23
Toyota Avalon XLS 34,974 87 & M & N & C & N 24
■
d Acura TL (base) 35,715 85 & M & M & C & N 23
■
d Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 33,700 83 & M & M & C & N 22
■
d Hyundai Azera Limited 31,670 81 & M & M & C & M 20
■
d Lincoln MKZ 37,160 77 & N & M & V & N 20
Buick LaCrosse CXS (V6) 37,555 74 new new &V &N 20
■
d Ford Taurus Limited 34,980 73 &C &M & C & N 19
■
d Buick Lucerne (V8)* 38,935 73 & C & C & V & M 17
Buick LaCrosse CX (4-cyl.) 27,895 70 new new &M &N 23
Chrysler 300 C (V8)* 37,480 64 &V &M & V & C 16
Chrysler 300 Touring (V6) 30,255 60 & C & V & C & C 19
Dodge Charger R/T (V8)* 36,295 59 & V & M & V & C 17
SEDANS: LUXURY
■
d Infiniti M37 $53,825 93 &M &M &B &N 21
■
d Hyundai Genesis 4.6 43,800 87 & C & N & V & N 20
Cadillac CTS Premium (3.6) 50,995 84 & B & M & B & N 19
BMW 535i 58,375 81 new &M &B &N 23
■
d Acura RL 50,660 80 &C & M & B & N 19
Mercedes-Benz E350 55,245 79 new &M &B &N 19
Audi A6 3.0T Premium 53,075 79 NA &M &B &N 20
Cadillac STS Luxury (V6) 50,325 77 &B & C & B & M 18
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 117 9/14/10 3:31:16 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SEDANS: LUXURY continued
Cadillac DTS Luxury II $48,050 75 &V &M &B &M 17
Lincoln MKS (EcoBoost, AWD) 52,770 75 new &M &B &N 18
■
d Lexus GS 450h Hybrid 60,172 72 &M NA &B &M 23
Jaguar XF Luxury 54,075 72 & B &M & B - 20
■
d Volvo S80 3.2 45,305 70 & C & C & V &N 20
SEDANS: ULTRA-LUXURY
■
d Lexus LS 460L $76,572 99 &N &N &B - 21
■
d Mercedes-Benz S550 90,200 86 & C & N & B - 17
Audi A8 L 76,470 77 NA NA &B - 17
Mercedes-Benz CLS 500* 76,784 73 NA NA &B - 18
SPORTS CARS: PERFORMANCE/LUXURY

■
d Porsche 911 Carrera S (MT) $87,520 96 &N &N &B - 20
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (MT) 64,890 92 & V & N & B - 19
Mercedes-Benz SL550 105,855 86 NA NA &B - 17
Jaguar XK Convertible 85,635 74 NA NA &B - 19
Dodge Viper SRT10 (MT)* 91,990 67 NA NA &B - 15
SPORTS CARS: 2-SEAT & CONVERTIBLES Equipped with manual transmission.

Porsche Boxster* $49,075 90 &V &N &B - 22
■
d Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 31,150 89 &M &N &M - 28
Nissan 370Z Touring 38,565 86 NA &M &V - 23
■
d Mercedes-Benz SLK350* 53,950 84 &C &C &B - 21
Chevrolet Corvette (base)* 57,020 81 &V &N &B - 21
Mini Cooper Convertible S 32,850 77 NA &M &M - 30
Lotus Elise 45,545 55 NA NA &B - 29
SPORTS CARS: MUSCLE Equipped with manual transmission.

■
d Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8) $36,310 83 &C N & &C &M 22
■
d Ford Mustang Premium (V6) 28,880 76 &N M & & M & M 24
Chevrolet Camaro 2SS (V8) 35,425 71 new new &C - 18
Hyundai Genesis Coupe 28,375 70 new new &M - 23
Grand Touring (V6)
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Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SPORTS CARS: MUSCLE continued
Chevrolet Camaro 2LT (V6) $28,195 60 new new &M - 21
Dodge Challenger R/T (V8) 36,600 53 &C &N &V - 18
SPORTS CARS: SPORTY Equipped with manual transmission.

BMW 135i $37,650 97 &V N & &V - 23
■
d Subaru Impreza WRX STi 37,640 89 &C M & & V - 21
Mazda RX-8 31,305 86 NA NA &C - 18
■
d Volkswagen GTI (4-door) 27,504 85 &C &M & M - 27
Subaru Impreza WRX 26,088 84 & V & M & M - 24
■
d MazdaSpeed 3 Sport 23,945 83 & C & N & M - 26
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR 38,078 83 NA NA &V - 21
■
d Mini Cooper (base) 21,700 81 &C &N & N &M 33
■
d Honda Civic Si 22,815 78 & M & M & M & M 27
Kia Forte Koup SX 20,240 77 new new &M - 27
■
d Volvo C30 T5 1.0 25,795 75 &C &M & M &N 25
Mini Cooper S 26,400 74 & V & N & N & M 30
Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (AT) 28,344 72 NA NA &V - 20
Scion tC 17,115 70 &N &M & N &V 26
Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V 23,310 66 NA NA &M &M 30
Mitsubishi Eclipse GS (4-cyl.) 21,764 50 &M &V & M - 23
convertibles: 4-seat
Volkswagen Eos Lux $35,829 78 &V &M &C &N 25
Infiniti G (base) 48,715 77 NA &M &B - 20
Lexus IS 250 44,400 77 new new &V - 23
■
d BMW 328i 49,525 76 &M &M & B &M 21
■
d Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8) 43,880 75 & M & N & C & N 23
Audi A5 Premium Plus (2.0T) 49,300 74 new new &B - 22
■
d Saab 9-3 2.0T 42,505 71 &M NA &V & N 24
■
d Volvo C70 T5 43,880 68 & C &M & V &N 21
Mitsubishi Eclipse GT (V6) 35,513 51 & M & V & V & M 19
Chrysler Sebring Limited (3.5, V6) 37,030 45 & B & V & V & C 19
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Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
minivans
■
d Honda Odyssey EX $32,610 91 &M &N &C &N 19
Toyota Sienna XLE (FWD) 35,810 80 new &M &C &M 20
Toyota Sienna XLE (AWD) 38,201 79 new &M &C &M 19
Kia Sedona EX 31,365 79 &V & V & V & N 17
Toyota Sienna LE (4-cyl.) 29,369 74 new &M &M &M 20
Volkswagen Routan SEL (4.0) 36,215 65 &B NA &V &M 16
Chrysler Town & Country 38,390 64
Limited (4.0) &B &C &V &M 17
Dodge Grand Caravan SXT (3.8) 33,950 60 &B &V &V &M 16
SUVs: COMPACT SPORTY

Audi Q5 Premium Plus $42,800 83 NA NA &V &N 19
■
d Volkswagen Tiguan SEL 35,479 80 &C &N &C &N 20
BMW X3 3.0si 43,120 79 & V & C & V & N 19
■
d Infiniti EX Journey 39,425 78 & M & M & V & N 18
Cadillac SRX Luxury 42,625 73 new new &B &N 17
■
d Acura RDX 37,165 72 &M &V & V & N 18
Volvo XC60 T6 42,245 70 new new &V &N 17
■
d Mercedes-Benz GLK350 41,760 66 &N &M & V - 18
Land Rover LR2 SE 36,450 52 & B NA &V - 18
SUVs: SMALL
■
d Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited $28,860 87 &C &M &M &N 20
■
d Subaru Forester 2.5X (MT) 20,972 84 & N & M & N & N 24
Toyota RAV4 Limited (V6) 30,328 83 & N & M & M & N 22
Kia Sorento EX (V6) 32,390 82 new new &C &N 20
Toyota RAV4 (base, 4-cyl.) 25,405 82 &N &M & N & N 23
■
d Subaru Forester 2.5X 22,040 82 & N & M & N & N 22
■
d Hyundai Santa Fe Limited (V6) 31,330 80 & M & M & C & N 20
■
d Honda CR-V EX 25,805 76 & N & M & M & N 21
Kia Sorento LX (4-cyl.) 26,590 75 new new &M &N 20
■
d Mitsubishi Outlander LS (4-cyl.) 22,820 73 &M &C & M & M 22
■
d Hyundai Santa Fe GLS (4-cyl.) 25,730 73 & M NA &M &N 20
■
d Nissan Rogue SL 25,850 73 & M &C & M & N 22
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Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SUVs: SMALL continued
■
d Mitsubishi Outlander XLS (V6) $30,615 70 &M &C &C &M 19
Hyundai Tucson GLS 24,090 70 new new &M &N 22
Chevrolet Equinox 2LT (V6) 31,780 69 new new &C &N 18
GMC Terrain SLT1 (V6) 30,985 69 new new &C &N 18
■
d Ford Escape Hybrid 32,575 66 &M &M & M & M 26
■
d Ford Escape XLT (V6) 28,365 66 & C & C & M & N 19
■
d Mazda Tribute s Sport (V6) 28,725 66 & C NA &M &N 19
Chevrolet Equinox 1LT (4-cyl.) 26,350 66 new new &M &N 21
GMC Terrain SLE1 (4-cyl.) 26,745 66 new new &M &N 21
■
d Ford Escape XLT (4-cyl.) 25,470 64 &C &C & M & M 21
■
d Mazda Tribute i Sport (4-cyl.) 24,340 64 & C NA &M &M 21
Mazda CX-7 Touring 32,915 62 & V &V & C & M 18
Suzuki Grand Vitara Premium 22,563 61
(4-cyl.) NA NA &M &M 19
Honda Element EX 23,705 58 &N &M &N &M 21
Jeep Patriot Sport 23,560 55 & M & V & M & M 22
Jeep Compass Sport 21,660 53 & C NA &N &M 22
Dodge Nitro SLT (3.7) 28,875 33 & B &B & C & C 16
Jeep Liberty Sport 26,060 27 & V & V & M & C 16
SUVs: MIDSIZED
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
■
d Limited $43,770 86 &M &M &V &M 24
Ford Flex Limited (EcoBoost) 46,720 85 new & N & V & N 17
Toyota Highlander Limited (V6) 38,578 81 &M &M &C &N 18
■
d Chevrolet Traverse LT 39,920 80 & C & M & V & M 16
GMC Acadia SLT2 39,630 80 & V & C & V & M 16
■
d Nissan Murano SL 36,330 78 & C & M & C & M 19
■
d Ford Flex SEL 38,460 77 & C & N & V & M 17
■
d Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 38,615 76 & C & C & V & M 16
■
d Hyundai Veracruz SE 33,870 75 & C NA &V &M 17
■
d Honda Pilot EX-L 35,830 74 & M &M & C & M 18
■
d Subaru Tribeca Limited 34,270 70 & C & C & C & M 16
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 121 9/14/10 3:31:17 PM


Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SUVs: MIDSIZED continued
Kia Borrego EX (V6) $34,795 68 NA NA &V - 16
Mitsubishi Endeavor LS 32,394 66 NA NA & V & M 17
■
d Nissan Pathfinder LE (V6) 36,310 62 &C &V & V &M 15
■
d Ford Edge SEL 33,590 60 & C & M & C & M 16
■
d Nissan Xterra S 28,000 60 & C & C & M & M 17
Dodge Journey SXT (V6) 27,320 58 & B & V & C & M 16
Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer (V8) 39,025 58 & C & C & V & M 14
Toyota 4Runner SR5 (V6) 37,425 55 new &M &C &M 18
Ford Explorer XLT (V6) 35,520 53 &C & C & V & M 15
Toyota FJ Cruiser 30,881 36 & N & M & C & M 17
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 30,735 17 & B & C & C & C 15
SUVs: LUXURY
■
d Lexus RX 450h $53,576 88 &N &M &B &N 26
■
d Acura MDX 46,715 85 & M & M & V & N 18
■
d Lexus RX 350 47,381 79 & N & N & V & N 21
Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec 66,925 78 & B & M & B - 19
■
d Buick Enclave CXL 43,260 77 & C & M & V &N 15
Mercedes-Benz GL450 67,820 77 & B & C & B - 15
BMW X5 35d 62,375 75 NA NA &B &N 22
Volvo XC90 (V8) 47,685 74 &V NA &B & N 16
Land Rover LR4 54,010 73 new new &B - 15
Lincoln MKT (EcoBoost) 56,555 72 new new &B &M 18
■
d Infiniti FX35 51,635 71 &M &M & B - 18
Toyota Land Cruiser 67,707 69 NA NA &B - 14
■
d Mercedes-Benz ML350 48,880 69 &C &C & B &N 16
Lexus GX 460 58,428 69 new new &B - 17
Audi Q7 Premium Plus (V6)* 54,225 68 &B &C & B &M 17
BMW X5 3.0si 56,745 67 & V & C & B & N 17
Volkswagen Touareg (V6) 43,350 66 & B NA &B - 15
■
d Lincoln Navigator Ultimate 59,015 65 & C &M & B - 13
■
d Porsche Cayenne S 71,985 65 & C NA &B - 15
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Recommended
Predicted
reliability
Owner
satisfaction
Overall MPG
SUVs: LUXURY continued
Land Rover Range Rover Sport $61,900 61 NA NA &B - 14
HSE*
Cadillac Escalade (base) 64,905 61 &V &C &B - 13
Lincoln MKX 43,595 60 & V & C & V &M 16
SUVs: LARGE
Toyota Sequoia Limited (5.7) $54,005 66 &M &M &B - 15
■
d Ford Expedition EL Eddie Bauer 48,730 65 & C & M & B - 13
Chevrolet Suburban LT3 (5.3)* 51,940 64 & B & M & B - 14
GMC Yukon XL SLT3 (5.3)* 52,285 64 & B & M & B - 14
■
d Nissan Armada LE 43,570 64 & C & C & B - 13
Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ (5.3) 57,435 58 & V & C & B - 14
GMC Yukon SLT2 (5.3) 56,625 58 & V & C & B - 14
Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid 55,585 57 & C & C & B - 19
GMC Yukon Hybrid 56,045 57 & C & C & B - 19
PICKUPS: COMPACT
■
d Honda Ridgeline RTS $30,825 79 &N &N &C &M 15
■
d Nissan Frontier LE (V6) 30,110 67 & C & C & C & M 15
■
d Toyota Tacoma TRD (V6) 29,210 63 & M & M & M & N 17
Dodge Dakota SLT (4.7) 29,970 58 & V NA &C &V 14
Chevrolet Colorado LS Z71 29,315 41 &B &B &C &V 16
(5-cyl.)*
GMC Canyon SLE Z71 (5-cyl.)* 30,080 41 &B NA & C & V 16
Ford Ranger XLT (V6) 26,005 25 & C &V &M &C 16
PICKUPS: FULL-SIZED
Chevrolet Avalanche LT (5.3) $46,560 74 &V &M &B - 13
■
d Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (5.3) 37,235 70 & C & M & V &C 14
■
d GMC Sierra 1500 SLT (5.3) 39,115 70 & C & M & V & C 14
Toyota Tundra SR5 (5.7) 34,738 69 & C & M & V & M 15
■
d Ford F-150 XLT (5.4) 39,775 68 & C & M & V & M 14
■
d Dodge Ram 1500 SLT (5.7) 39,140 67 & C & C & V & C 14
■
d Nissan Titan SE (5.6) 36,520 62 & C & C & V & C 13
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 123 9/14/10 3:31:18 PM

Reviews of the 2010–2011 models
T
his rundown of all the ma- or better reliability; and, if crash-tested,
jor 2010–11 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 tests ministered by the Insurance Institute
that are applicable to this year’s models. for Highway Safety and the National
Most models include Consumer Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Reports’ predicted reliability rating, In addition, pickups and SUVs must
an indication of how problematic we not have tipped up in the government’s
expect a model to be. It is based on our rollover test or, if not tested, must be
2009 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 model
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 ( d) must per- available to subscribers of our Web site,
form well in our testing; have average at www.ConsumerReports.org.
Predicted
Model reliability Description/with last road-test date
Acura MDX The MDX has a refined and powerful 300-hp V6, is agile, and is
n
d &M
quiet. The third-row seat folds easily into the floor and is a good
fit for kids. The dashboard is a sea of tiny, similar-looking buttons.
Crash-test results are impressive. June 2010
Acura RDX The RDX’s turbocharged four-cylinder provides strong accelera-

n
d &M
tion, but lacks refinement. Handling is agile and secure, but the
ride is stiff. The interior is pleasant, but some controls could be
better designed. Crash-test results are excellent. Jan. 2007
Acura RL The AWD RL is powered by a powerful V6. The powertrain is pol-
n
d &C
ished, 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. 2010
Acura TL The TL gets a good 23 mpg overall. Handling is taut and the ride
n
d &M
compliant, but the vague steering lacks feedback. Road noise is
evident. The rear seat is tight and the well-finished interior is clut-
tered with buttons. AWD is available. Feb. 2009
Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor d Recommended
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 124 9/14/10 3:31:18 PM

the 2010-2011 models 125
Predicted
Acura TSX The TSX’s smooth engine, slick transmission, and agile handling
n
d &M
make it enjoyable, but the steering is vague. The four-cylinder gets
25 mpg overall. The supportive front seats are well-shaped, but
rear seat room is tight. A V6 is also available. June 2009
Acura ZDX New The ZDX is a four-door SUV with coupe styling. The front seats are
roomy, but the second row is snug. The low roof and small windows
compromise visibility. The smooth and powerful 3.7-liter V6 is mated
to a six-speed automatic. —
Audi A3 This sporty four-door hatchback uses a quick turbocharged 2.0-
n
d &C
liter, four-cylinder engine, and the optional S-tronic transmission
works well. AWD is also available, as is a front-wheel-drive diesel
trim. Crash-test results are impressive. Sep. 2006
Audi A4 The A4 has a firm and controlled ride, with agile handling. The four-
n
d &C
cylinder is responsive and gets 22 mpg overall with the AWD system.
The interior has excellent fit and finish, but the rear seat is tight. The
MMI driver-interaction system is complicated. June 2009
Audi A5 New The A5 is powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged engine.
Handling is agile. The cabin is quiet and nicely furnished. The S5
coupe gets a 4.2-liter V8; the convertible uses a 3.0-liter super-
charged V6. The rear seats are snug for two adults. The convert-
ibles have a well-insulated soft top. May 2010
Audi A6 NA The A6 has responsive handling, but the low-speed ride is quite
firm. AWD is available. The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 delivers
effortless power and good fuel economy. The seats are excellent,
and the interior is well-finished and filled with nice details. IIHS
crash-test results are impressive. Feb. 2010
Audi A8 NA A redesigned A8 goes on sale late 2010 with more power from the
V8 and an eight-speed automatic. A V6-powered, front-wheel-drive
version will also be available. The outgoing A8 was pleasant and
capable, with responsive and secure handling. Nov. 2003
Audi Q5 NA The Q5 uses a refined 3.2-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic,
and gets 19 mpg. Handling is agile and sporty, and the ride is good.
The well-furnished interior is very quiet, but rear seat and cargo
room are modest. Controls are complicated and require multiple
steps to perform simple functions. Sep. 2009
Audi Q7 &B The Q7 has a V6 that gets 17 mpg overall, mated to a six-speed
automatic. It is fairly nimble, but the low speed ride is stiff. Interior
fit and finish is excellent, but the MMI driver-interaction system is
complex. A 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel is also offered. June 2010
Audi TT &V The TT has responsive but not sporty handling. The turbocharged
four-cylinder engine is punchy enough. The excellent S-tronic, a
manual transmission that shifts automatically, works well. A high-
performance TTS model is also available. —
BMW 1 &V The 1 Series is a small two-door coupe. A 3.0-liter six-cylinder is in
Series the 128i, while the 135i uses a turbocharged six-cylinder. It is spec-
tacular to drive with excellent steering. Although snug, the interior
features high levels of fit and finish. Oct. 2008
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 125 9/14/10 3:31:18 PM

Predicted
BMW 3 The 3 Series has a supple ride and smooth engines. Handling is
n
d Series
&M
taut and agile. Crash-test results are impressive, but the convertible
didn’t do well in the IIHS rear-crash test. The turbodiesel got 28 mpg
in our tests. AWD and a wagon are available. Mar. 2008
BMW 5 New The redesigned 2011 5 Series is larger, but rear leg room is just mar-
Series ginally better. The turbocharged six-cylinder and twin-turbo V8 are
both smooth and powerful, and mated to a slick new eight-speed
automatic. A non-turbo six-cylinder engine will debut later. Nov. 2010
BMW 5 New The 5 Series Gran Turismo visually registers as a hatchback. The
Series GT base model seats five; more luxurious versions seat only four. An
AWD version is available, along with a less expensive six-cylinder
version, both mated to an 8-speed automatic. —
BMW 7 NA The new 7 Series has improved controls, including the revised iDrive
Series system. The car is very quiet and has a steady ride. The 400-hp
turbocharged V8 moves the car briskly. A hybrid version is also avail-
able. The cabin is very roomy and comfortable with excellent seats. —
BMW X3 &V The X3 has a 6-speed automatic, a strong 3.0-liter, six-cylinder
engine, and a nicer interior than in past models. Handling is agile,
but the ride is still a bit stiff and choppy. The interior is quiet and
roomy enough. A redesign is around the corner. Jan. 2007
BMW X5 &V The X5 has a stiff and choppy ride, particularly at low speeds. Handling
is capable and secure. Both gas engines deliver ample acceleration.
The transmission is smooth, but the complicated shifter is frustrat-
ing. The interior is impeccably trimmed. The diesel version got
22 mpg overall, but the gas versions are more refined. Dec. 2009
BMW X6 NA Based on the X5, the X6 features standard all-wheel drive. It seats
only four passengers and is a coupelike SUV, but with four doors.
Most versions are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter turbo six-
cylinder. A 4.4-liter V8 is also offered. A hybrid is new. —
BMW Z4 NA The Z4 is a convertible with a power-operated hard top. Power
comes from smooth six-cylinder engines, and the 7-speed automated
manual works very well. The electric steering falls short on feed-
back. The cabin is tight and the price can easily reach $60,000. —
Buick This large SUV has three rows of seats and can seat eight. It uses
n
d Enclave &C
a smooth 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. The ride is comfort-
able and quiet. Handling is agile and secure. The third-row seat is
roomy enough for adults, and fit and finish is excellent. July 2009
Buick New The LaCrosse features two modern V6s, with a four-cylinder engine
LaCrosse also available. Rear seat room and interior fit and finish are impres-
sive, and AWD is available. The interior is quiet, the ride is supple,
and handling is responsive. Visibility is not a strong suit. Oct. 2010
Buick The Lucerne comes with a standard coarse and thirsty V6; a more
n
d Lucerne &C
refined 4.6-liter V8 is optional. Braking and handling are below par,
but the ride is comfortable. Rear seat room is good. June 2007
Buick Regal New The new Regal is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, with a six-
speed automatic. A turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is also offered.
Handling is agile and the car steers well. The ride is supple and
controlled, and wind noise is well suppressed. The interior is nicely
furnished with good seats, but the rear is rather tight. Oct. 2010
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 126 9/14/10 3:31:18 PM

the 2010-2011 models 127
Predicted
Cadillac &B The CTS has direct and precise steering, and the ride is firm yet
CTS supple. The standard 3.6-liter V6 is smooth and refined. The cabin
is quiet and the front seats are comfortable, but the rear is snug.
Wagon and coupe versions are new, and the 556-hp CTS-V is avail-
able. Feb. 2010
Cadillac &V 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
comfortable, but handling is clumsy. Mar. 2008
Cadillac &V The luxurious Escalade uses a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine. Accel
Escalade eration is strong but fuel economy is just 13 mpg. The interior is
quiet and the ride is comfortable, but handling is clumsy and brak-
ing distances are long. An extended-length model, a crew-cab
pickup, and a hybrid version are available. Nov. 2006
Cadillac New The SRX has agile and sporty handling, and the ride is firm yet
SRX supple. The 3.0-liter V6 feels underpowered and gets just 17 mpg.
The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly. The interior is well fin-
ished and the front seats are supportive, but the rear is snug.
The controls are relatively straightforward. July 2010
Cadillac &B The rear-drive STS uses a 3.6-liter V6 or the 4.6-liter 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 seat is snug. Mar. 2008
Chevrolet &V The Avalanche is a full-sized pickup with a unified bed and crew
Avalanche cab. This allows for a partition that can be folded down to extend
the cargo bed into the cab. The ride is comfortable and quiet. The
5.3-liter V8 provides decent acceleration but is thirsty at 13 mpg
overall. There is a very large rear blind zone. Feb. 2007
Chevrolet &B The Aveo sedan and hatchback handle clumsily. Acceleration and
Aveo fuel economy are unimpressive for an economy car. The ride is jit-
tery, noise is constant, and the seats are uncomfortable. Reliability
is below average. Mar. 2009
Chevrolet New The Camaro’s base 3.6-liter V6 is powerful, and the 6.2-liter V8
Camaro makes it very quick. Handling is capable, but so-so steering and the
car’s size and weight hurt agility. Braking is excellent and the ride is
taut and controlled. Visibility is severely hampered, some controls
are hard to decipher, and the rear seat is cramped. Oct. 2010
Chevrolet &B The Colorado’s five-cylinder engine is unrefined and has worse fuel
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 2005
Chevrolet &V 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 V8 and much better handling. A supercharged ZR1 with
638 hp is available and delivers super car performance. Oct. 2005
Chevrolet New This new, small sedan offers a 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder
Cruze and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder. Both the automatic and manual trans-
missions are six-speed units. The interior trim is much better than in
past small GM sedans. The cabin is relatively roomy for the class. —
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 127 9/14/10 3:31:18 PM

Predicted
Chevrolet New The Equinox has a taut and controlled ride, with responsive and
Equinox secure handling. The V6 model has good steering. Interior mater
ials are improved and cabin access is good. The 2.4-liter four-
cylinder got 21 mpg but is not particularly brisk. The optional
3.0-liter V6 is more civilized but gets just 18 mpg. Nov. 2009
Chevrolet The HHR has easy access and a flexible cargo space. Handling is se-
n
d HHR &C
cure but not agile. We got 24 mpg overall with the noisy 2.4-liter en-
gine. Performance is adequate. Visibility is less than ideal, the driving
position is cramped, and interior quality is unimpressive. Aug. 2009
Chevrolet &C The large Impala is dated and unimpressive. Handling is clumsy and
Impala the ride unsettled. The 3.5-liver V6 manages 20 mpg overall. The
rear seat is skimpy for a car this size, and fit and finish is second-
rate. Aug. 2010
Chevrolet The Malibu is very competitive. It is quiet, rides well, and has re-
n
d Malibu &C
sponsive 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. 2009
Chevrolet The Chevrolet Silverado is a well-rounded pickup with optional full-
n
d Silverado &C
time 4WD and a generous payload capacity. Ride quality is decent
1500 and handling is secure. The six-speed automatic slightly improves
fuel economy. Reliability has been average. May 2009
Chevrolet &B The Suburban can tow a heavy trailer and swallow more cargo than
Suburban most minivans. There is room for up to nine people, but typical ver-
sions seat seven. The third-row seat sits too low and is uncomfortable.
The standard 5.3-liter V8 is just adequate and returned 14 mpg overall.
Side and curtain air bags are standard. Aug. 2007
Chevrolet &V The Tahoe’s ride is supple, but handling and braking are so-so.
Tahoe Trailer-towing capability is impressive. There is little cargo space
behind the cramped third-row seat. We got 14 mpg with the 5.3-liter
V8. The six-speed automatic improves fuel economy. Dec. 2010
Chevrolet The Chevrolet version of GM’s large car-based SUV can seat seven
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or eight people comfortably. Handling is responsive, the ride is
comfortable, and the well-finished interior is quiet. The 3.6-liter V6
engine returned 16 mpg overall, but the six-speed automatic some-
times hesitates to downshift when needed. July 2009
Chevrolet New The 2011 Volt is essentially an electric car with a 1.4-liter gasoline
Volt engine to charge its battery. Range is claimed to be 40 miles. It is
a nicely equipped compact four-seater. Recharge times are said to
be about three hours with a 220-volt supply, about eight hours with
110 volts. Government tax breaks reduce the $41,000 list price. —
Chrysler &V The RWD 300 offers two V6 engines and a powerful V8. Interior
300 materials aren’t impressive. The claustrophobic cabin and limited
outward visibility are detractions. A long-wheelbase version is avail-
able. An extensive freshening is due out in early 2011. Jan. 2005
Chrysler &B The Sebring isn’t competitive with most family sedans. We found
Sebring the 2.4-liter four-cylinder noisy and unrefined. The 3.5-liter V6 is
better. The ride is unsettled and handling is ungainly, but secure.
Interior panels are cheap and don’t fit well. A hardtop convertible
is available. Updates are planned for 2011. Mar. 2007
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Chrysler &B Chrysler’s minivans have a buoyant highway ride, but low-speed ride
Town & comfort is OK. Handling, fit and finish, acceleration, braking, and fuel
Country economy are all unimpressive. Flat-folding second- and third-row
seats are still available. Some updates are due for 2011. Jan. 2008
Dodge &B The unimpressive Avenger offers a noisy 2.4-liter four-cylinder and
Avenger a more refined 3.5-liter V6. Handling is ungainly and the ride is
stiff and unsettled. The styling compromises rear-seat access and
visibility. Updates are planned for 2011. Feb. 2008
Dodge &C The Caliber is a four-door hatchback with a raised seating position.
Caliber The 2.0-liter engine is noisy and fit and finish is mediocre. Handling
is lackluster but ultimately secure. Fuel economy wasn’t impressive.
There are better hatchbacks available. Sep. 2006
Dodge &C The Challenger is a large and heavy car that comes up short on
Challenger sporty credentials. It is very quick in a straight line and is a fairly
comfortable and effortless cruiser. Handling lacks agility, but it is
ultimately secure. Good controls, decent interior quality, and the
ability to seat five are pluses. Oct. 2009
Dodge &C The Charger sedan has a very powerful 5.7-liter V8. The 3.5-liter V6
Charger is adequate but returned just 17 mpg. The ride is stiff, and frequent
ride motions make the car feel unsettled. The overly light steering
demands constant attention. The roomy rear seat has marginal
head room. An extensive freshening is due in early 2011. Mar. 2006
Dodge &V 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 quality could be better. ESC is not available. July 2005
Dodge &B The Dodge minivan is disappointing. Ride comfort is improved, but
Grand handling, fit and finish, acceleration, braking, and fuel economy are
Caravan all unimpressive. Flat-folding second- and third-row seats are avail-
able. Updates are due for 2011. Jan. 2008
Dodge &B The Journey has seating for 5 passengers, with an optional third
Journey row. The noisy 2.4-liter engine and a four-speed automatic are
standard, with a 3.5-liter V6 optional. AWD is available with the V6.
The ride is a bit unsettled and handling lacks agility, but it is ulti-
mately secure. Aug. 2008
Dodge Nitro &B The Nitro’s 3.7-liter V6 engine returned 16 mpg in our testing. The
Nitro lacks agility and the ride is stiff and snappy. The foot wells
are extremely narrow. ESC and curtain air bags are standard. Visi
bility is poor. Reliability has been well below average. May 2007
Dodge Ram The Ram’s coil-spring rear suspension delivers a very good ride
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for a big pickup truck. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 has plenty of power.
Handling is secure. The cabin is quiet. Interior quality and comfort
are good, with a roomy rear seat in the crew cab. ESC and curtain
air bags are standard. May 2009
Dodge Viper NA The Viper’s V10 engine was loud and the clutch 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 crea-
ture comforts take their toll. Viper production has ceased. Oct. 2006
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Ford Edge The Edge uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic.
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AWD is available. The ride is good, and the powertrain is quite strong
but lacks refinement. The Edge isn’t very agile, but handling is se-
cure. Interior fit and finish is unimpressive. 2011 brings a new interior,
upgraded V6s, and a turbocharged four-cylinder. Aug. 2007
Ford Escape The Escape has a roomy interior, spacious rear seat, and good car-
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go space. Fit and finish is unimpressive and the car is noisy. The V6
provides strong acceleration, while the four-cylinder is adequate.
The hybrid works well, returning 26 mpg overall. May 2009
Ford The Expedition has a good interior and an independent suspen-
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sion. The comfortable third-row seat folds into the floor. The noisy
V8 felt sluggish and returned 13 mpg overall. Handling is relatively
responsive, and towing capacity is generous. ESC and three-row
curtain air bags are standard. Aug. 2007
Ford &C The Explorer’s V6 engine returned 15 mpg overall and the V8 14
Explorer mpg. Handling is secure thanks to standard ESC, but the ride is
stiff. The 4WD system is permanently engaged. A new car-based
version goes on sale in early 2011. July 2006
Ford F-150 The F-150’s 5.4-liter V8 has strong acceleration, but the engine still
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sounds coarse. Otherwise, the cabin is very quiet with a very roomy
rear seat. Handling is secure and braking performance has been
vastly improved. The ride remains stiff and jumpy. May 2009
Ford Fiesta New The Fiesta subcompact is about the size of a Honda Fit, and avail-
able as a sedan or four-door hatchback. It drives nicely, with agile
handling and a controlled ride. Interior fit and finish and equip-
ment level are impressive for a vehicle in this class. —
Ford Flex The Flex combines SUV-like versatility with carlike driving dynamics.
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The 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic get 17 mpg overall. The
optional turbo V6 is quick and doesn’t hurt fuel economy. It rides
comfortably and quietly, and has very good fit and finish. Handling
isn’t that agile, but is responsive and secure. Sep. 2010
Ford Focus The Focus is fairly agile but handling isn’t that crisp. Cabin access is
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easy. The ride is firm yet supple but the car is noisy and interior
quality is lackluster. ESC is standard. A new global version of the
European Focus replaces it in early 2011. July 2008
Ford Fusion This sedan has sharp handling, a good ride, and strong accelera-
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tion. Varieties include four-cylinder and V6 versions, front- or all-
wheel drive, and a 34-mpg-overall gas-electric hybrid that can
drive up to 47 mph on electric power. The cabin stays mostly quiet,
but the four-cylinder is fairly loud when accelerating. Sep. 2009
Ford The Mustang is available as a coupe or convertible, but the rear
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seats are small. New engines include a 3.7-liter V6 that performs
decently or a much more powerful 5.0-liter V8. The manual trans-
mission gains a sixth gear. The ride is a bit jiggly, but not punishing.
Handling is nimble and the Mustang steers well. Oct. 2010
Ford Ranger &C The dated Ranger has a stiff and choppy ride. The V6 engine is
rough and inefficient. The seats are thin and low, and the rear
of the SuperCab is suitable for cargo only. Side air bags and ESC
are both standard. July 2009
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Ford Taurus The Taurus is a large, roomy, and quiet car with good ride and
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handling. The turning circle is wide. The 3.5-liter V6 is smooth
and returned 19 mpg overall. The interior has plush materials and
soft-touch surfaces, but rear visibility is compromised. AWD is
optional. Jan. 2010
GMC Acadia &V This large car-based SUV can seat seven or eight comfortably.
Handling is responsive, the ride is comfortable, and the interior is
quiet. The 3.6-liter V6 returned 16 mpg overall, but the six-speed
automatic sometimes hesitates to downshift. July 2009
GMC &B The Canyon’s five-cylinder engine is unrefined and has worse fuel-
Canyon economy than competing V6s. The ride is unsettled, and the body
constantly quivers. Overall, it trails the competition. Reliability has
been below average. Curtain airbags are standard. July 2005
GMC Sierra The GMC Sierra is a well-rounded pickup with optional full-time
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4WD and a generous payload capacity. Ride quality is decent and
handling is secure. The six-speed automatic improves fuel economy
and acceleration. Reliability has been average. May 2009
GMC New The Terrain has a taut and controlled ride, with responsive and
Terrain secure handling. The V6 model has good steering. The interior
materials are improved and cabin access is good. The 2.4-liter
four-cylinder got 21 mpg but is not particularly brisk. The optional
3.0-liter V6 is more civilized but thirstier, getting 18 mpg. Nov. 2009
GMC Yukon &V The Yukon has a supple and controlled ride. Interior quality and
the seats are both good. It has impressive towing capability, but
the powertrain is a bit unrefined. There is little cargo space behind
the cramped third-row seat. ESC is standard, but handling and
braking are so-so. The hybrid version got 19 mpg. Dec. 2010
Honda The Accord has a roomy cabin, agile handling, and a steady, com
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pliant ride. We got 23 mpg with the four-cylinder and 21 mpg with
the V6. The interior is roomy and visibility is impressive. ESC is
standard. Feb. 2008
Honda The Crosstour is a raised Accord with optional AWD and a hatch-
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back. We liked the high seating position, spacious cabin, and comfy
Crosstour seats, as well as the smooth 3.5-liter V6 engine. When pushed hard
it feels bulky and handles clumsily. The coupelike styling blocks the
view to the rear, and also diminishes the cargo volume. Sep. 2010
Honda Civic The Civic has responsive handling and a compliant ride. Road noise
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is pronounced. The 1.8-liter engine returned 28 mpg with the auto-
matic, and 31 mpg with the manual. The hybrid returned 37 mpg
overall. Standard safety equipment includes ABS and curtain air bags,
but ESC is only available on the EX-L, Hybrid, and Si. Feb. 2006
Honda Civic The Si is available as a coupe and a four-door sedan, and uses a
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smooth, powerful 197-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The manual trans-
mission shifts crisply. Handling is nimble, with tenacious tire grip.
But the electric steering feels vague. The ride is stiff and choppy,
and road noise is pronounced. June 2006
Honda The CR-V’s four-cylinder returned 21 mpg overall. The five-speed auto-
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matic is smooth and responsive. Handling 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. July 2010
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Honda CR-Z New The CR-Z is a sporty two-seat hybrid based on the Insight hybrid. It
uses the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122-hp and
128-ft-lbs of torque, mated to a 13-hp electric motor. It is available
with a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously
variable unit. Electronic stability control is standard. —
Honda &N This boxy, small yet spacious SUV has responsive handling, but the
Element ride is very stiff and choppy, and road noise is pronounced. The large
roof pillars compromise visibility, and the driving position is awkward.
The Element scores too low to be recommended. Feb. 2007
Honda Fit This small four-door hatchback offers easy access and very good
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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. ESC is only
available with the optional navigation system. Mar. 2009
Honda &N This five-passenger Insight is snug and has awkward rear access.
Insight The ride is stiff and choppy and road noise is pronounced.
Handling lacks agility and can be tricky at the limits. ESC is glaringly
absent in the base LX, but is standard on the EX. Aug. 2009
Honda The outgoing Odyssey has good interior flexibility and impressive fit
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and finish. Handling is agile and precise, and the ride is steady. The
V6 is smooth and quiet, but road noise is pronounced. Reliability has
been above average. Crash-test results are impressive. A redesigned
Odyssey went on sale in fall 2010. Mar. 2005
Honda Pilot The Pilot has impressive functionality, but trails better SUVs. It
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offers seating for eight, and the powertrain is smooth, and ride
and handling are sound. However, acceleration, braking, and
interior fit and finish aren’t very impressive. Road noise is very
pronounced. Crash-test results are impressive. Nov. 2008
Honda This crew-cab pickup has a supple and steady ride and agile hand
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ling. Its cargo bed features an all-weather, lockable trunk. The
3.5-liter V6 is quiet, smooth, and responsive, and it can tow up to
5,000 pounds. Electronic stability control is standard. July 2005
Hyundai &M The Accent sedan and a two-door hatchback has a relatively quiet and
Accent compliant ride. It is powered by a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. Despite
the standard curtain air bags, the Accent scored a poor in the IIHS
side-impact test. It may be hard to find a model with ABS. Dec. 2006
Hyundai The Azera has a smooth 3.8-liter V6. The interior is well-finished
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and quiet, with straightforward controls. The ride is comfortable
and steady, and handling is fairly responsive. IIHS side-crash tests
were only acceptable. 2011 models get more power and a 6-speed
automatic. Jan. 2010
Hyundai The Elantra has a comfortable ride, but it isn’t particularly agile.
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Expect 27 mpg overall on the sedan. Interior fit and finish is very
good. ESC is standard on the SE trim and Touring wagon, which
have better grip and braking. A redesigned Elantra goes on sale
late 2010. July 2008
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Hyundai New Hyundai’s flagship is based on the Genesis, and uses a smooth
Equus 4.6-liter V8 mated to a six-speed automatic. Features include rear-
and front-view cameras, an adjustable suspension, adaptive cruise
control, and a lane-departure warning system. A four-seat option
includes a reclining rear seat with footrests. —
Hyundai The Genesis is very impressive, with a refined V6 that delivers
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quick acceleration and gets 21 mpg overall. 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. Most controls
are very straightforward. Nov. 2010
Hyundai New The Genesis coupe is quite different than the sedan. Handling is
Genesis quite capable and nimble, and the 3.8-liter V6 is punchy and pow-
Coupe erful. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is somewhat noisy, and
the manual transmission is stiff and imprecise. The ride is very stiff
and can be unsettled over bumps. Oct. 2009
Hyundai The Santa Fe’s V6 is more refined than the 4-cylinder engine.
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Steering response is fairly quick, and the interior is well-finished
and quiet. We found the ride compliant and well controlled, but
suspension noise is pronounced. The seats are comfortable, but
head room is a bit tight for tall drivers. July 2010
Hyundai New The Sonata is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that gets impres-
Sonata sive fuel economy. The new car handles more responsively and the
ride is more settled. The rear seat is quite roomy, and despite the
swoopy styling, visibility is good. A turbocharged four-cylinder is
due soon, and a hybrid version arrives in late 2010. Aug. 2010
Hyundai New The redesigned Tucson handles securely and responsively, but the
Tucson ride is stiff and road noise is pronounced. The smooth 2.4-liter four-
cylinder returns 22 mpg, and the six-speed automatic is responsive.
The interior is spacious but the low rear seat lacks thigh support.
The styling limits cargo space and the view to the rear. July 2010
Hyundai This seven-passenger SUV has a smooth 3.8-liter V6 engine. The
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ride is comfortable, but suspension noise is evident. Handling is
secure but not particularly agile. The interior is very quiet and
well-finished. Controls are simple. Aug. 2007
Infiniti EX The EX is essentially a G35 wagon. It has agile handling, but this
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small pseudo-SUV is quieter and has a slightly more comfortable
ride. The rear seat is very snug and the cargo area is tiny. Styling
has compromised rear visibility somewhat. Sep. 2008
Infiniti FX The FX has bold styling, an eager powertrain, and responsive han-
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dling. The 3.5-liter V6 provides plenty of power and 18 mpg overall.
Body roll is well suppressed, but the ride is quite stiff. Outward
visibility and cargo capacity suffer from the styling. July 2009
Infiniti G The G has a powerful 3.7-liter V6 and a seven-speed automatic. It is
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very quick, yet returns 21 mpg. Handling is agile and predictable,
with a compliant ride. The interior has easy-to-use controls, but the
cabin is snug and the trunk is small. AWD is optional on both the
coupe and sedan. A hardtop convertible is available. June 2009
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Infiniti M The redesigned 2011 M has a new 330-hp, 3.7-liter V6 and a seven-
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speed automatic. The M56 is powered by a V8 engine that delivers
420 hp. In our tests the new M37 is quick, strong, and agile with a
roomy and well designed interior. Nov. 2010
Infiniti QX New The redesigned QX is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive,
and gets a 400-hp, 5.6-liter V8 with a seven-speed automatic
transmission. The luxurious interior offers seating for up to eight
in three rows of seats. Electronic safety aids include lane depar-
ture and blind-spot warning systems. Dec. 2010
Jaguar XF &B The XF drives very nicely, with agile handling, a comfortable ride,
and quick steering. The base V8 provides effortless acceleration,
but is no quicker than some six-cylinder competitors. We got 20
mpg overall. The interior is nicely trimmed in wood and leather, but
the coupelike styling hurts rear-seat room and access. Feb. 2009
Jaguar XJ New A taller, roomier 2010 XJ brings styling cues from the XF sedan
and newer, more powerful engines. The interior is nicely trimmed
in leather, wood, and suede, but the styling impedes cabin access
front and rear. —
Jaguar XK NA The XK has a powerful 4.2-liter V8 and smooth six-speed auto-
matic. Handling is athletic and capable. The ride is very supple
and controlled. The soft-top convertible roof is well-insulated.
The touch screen for HVAC, radio, and navigation washes out in
sunlight and operates very slowly. Oct. 2006
Jeep &C This small car-based SUV got 22 mpg overall with the 2.4-liter en-
Compass gine and CVT. Ride and handling are not impressive. Interior fit and
finish has slightly improved and there are some clever interior fea-
tures, but the driving position is narrow. Small windows, a deep
windshield, and thick roof pillars compromise visibility. Feb. 2007
Jeep Grand New The redesigned Grand Cherokee has a fully independent suspen-
Cherokee sion for the first time. The engine choices include a new V6 and a
HEMI V8. Safety systems include adaptive cruise control, blind-
spot detection, and a forward-collision warning system. Dec. 2010
Jeep &V The Liberty has clumsy handling but overall is secure. Its noisy
Liberty 3.7-liter V6 feels lethargic and returned just 16 mpg overall. We
found the cabin rather narrow and access awkward. The ride is
more steady than the similar Dodge Nitro. Aug. 2008
Jeep &M Our Patriot got 22 mpg overall with the noisy 2.4-liter engine and
Patriot CVT. Acceleration is slow. The ride is okay but handling lacks agility.
The driving position is narrow and visibility is inhibited. An optional
off-road package allows basic off-road capability. May 2009
Jeep &B The Wrangler has a stiff but steady ride, with vague steering and low
Wrangler cornering limits. The 3.8-liter V6 delivers dismal fuel economy. Off-
road capability remains extremely impressive. Reliability has been
well below average. IIHS side-crash-test results without the optional
side airbags are unimpressive. Jan. 2007
Kia Borrego NA Kia’s midsized SUV has a strong 3.8-liter V6 that got 16 mpg over-
all. A 4.6-liter V8 is optional. Steering is responsive. Emergency
handling can be disconcerting, but ESC keeps it secure. The ride is
stiff and punishing. Interior room is generous. The Borrego is no
longer in production. July 2009
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Predicted
Kia Forte New The new Forte sedan has a taut suspension and is nicely equipped.
A coupe version called the Koup is also available. Both are roomy for
the class and the control layout is intuitive. Handling is responsive,
but the ride is stiff. The engine is loud under acceleration. Jan. 2010
Kia Optima The Optima is pleasant and a good value, with a roomy back seat.
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The ride is fairly comfortable but handling is not particularly agile,
though ultimately secure. The four-cylinder got 25 mpg overall, while
the V6 got 22 mpg. Interior materials are high quality, but the driv-
er’s seat lacks lumbar support. A redesign is due this fall. Sep. 2009
Kia Rio NA 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 quiet. Handling isn’t
particularly agile. Curtain air bags are standard, but IIHS side-
crash-test results are poor. Dec. 2006
Kia Rondo The Rondo offers an impressive amount of room, with seating for
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seven. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder. We got 21 mpg
with the 2.7-liter V6. Fit and finish is very good and the ride and
handling are sound. Stability control is standard. The Rondo is no
longer in production. Dec. 2007
Kia Sedona &V The Sedona has a roomy, flexible interior. The 3.8-liter V6 and five-
speed automatic were refined, but fuel economy was only 17 mpg.
Body lean is somewhat pronounced, and the steering is vague, but
the standard electronic stability control kept it secure. Sep. 2006
Kia Sorento New The redesigned Sorento is vastly improved. Its optional third-row
seat, though tiny, extends seating to seven in a pinch. The ride is
stiff but handling is responsive and secure. The optional 3.5-liter
V6 delivers good power and acceptable fuel economy. The seats
are comfortable and give a good view out. July 2010
Kia Soul New The Soul has very easy access, abundant headroom, and a spa-
cious rear seat. The 2.0-liter engine returned a so-so 25 mpg over-
all. Expect a noisy interior and a stiff ride. Handling is fairly nimble
and secure with standard ESC. Front and side visibility is good, but
thick rear roof pillars create rear blind zones. Aug. 2009
n Kia
Sportage
New A redesign of the Sportage goes on sale this fall. It is more stylish
inside and out, but that comes at the expense of visibility. A fuel
efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder is the only engine offered. A turbo-
charged version will join the line at a later date.
Land Rover &B 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. 2008
Land Rover New The LR4 is roomy and quiet, with a luxurious interior. The recent
LR4 bump in engine size and power made it quicker, yet more fuel
efficient. The LR4 retains its traditional off-road ability and is able
to traverse rough terrain easily. Handling is not a strong suit but
is ultimately secure. Controls can be confusing. June 2010
Land Rover NA The Range Rover delivers smooth, strong acceleration and a very
Range comfortable ride, but isn’t agile. It features a height-adjustable air
Rover suspension and luxury amenities. The seats are very comfortable,
and the wood and leather interior is upscale. More powerful engines
arrived in 2010. —
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Predicted
Land Rover NA The Sport is biased towards on-road handling, but isn’t as agile as
Range some competitors. The ride is quite stiff. The 300-hp V8 works hard
Rover Sport to do the job. Visibility is very good, and the rear seat is accommo-
dating. The interior is luxurious, but the controls are frustrating.
The 2010 model year brought more powerful engines. Dec. 2008
Lexus CT New The CT 200h is powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder coupled with
200h an electric motor and nickel-metal-hydride battery. Pricing is
expected to start at around $30,000. Driving modes include EV
for electricity-only driving, Normal, Eco for fuel economy, and
Sport for a snappier throttle and steering response. —
Lexus ES The ES 350 sedan has a punchy powertrain that delivers 23 mpg
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overall. The ride is very comfortable. Handling is not sporty but is ulti-
mately secure. Fit and finish is impressive, and the car is very quiet.
We suggest getting the optional backup camera. June 2007
Lexus GS The GS isn’t as sporty or engaging as some of its competitors. A
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3.5-liter V6 and 4.6-liter V8 are offered. The hybrid is quick, but re-
turns 23 mpg overall. The interior is quiet and the ride comfortable,
but less so in the hybrid. Passenger room is very tight, and the driv-
ing position is flawed because of the tight headroom. Nov. 2007
Lexus GX New The GX 460 is very quiet and quick, but handling is ungainly and
clumsy. The powertrain is slick and refined, the ride is comfortable,
and the cabin is plush. Average fuel economy of 17 mpg isn’t too
shabby for the 4.6-liter V8 engine. The third row seat is tiny but
folds neatly into the floor when not in use. June 2010
Lexus HS The HS hybrid uses the powertrain from the hybrid Camry. In our
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tests we got 31 mpg overall. It is well finished inside, but the cabin
is narrow and the protruding center console takes up room. The
ride is jiggly and both wind and drivetrain noise are intrusive. The
steering feels vague, but handling is very secure. Feb. 2010
Lexus IS Lexus’s small sedan has secure, but not very sporty, handling and
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the ride is jittery. The 2.5-liter V6 got 24 mpg overall. The optional
3.5-liter V6 is very strong. AWD is optional on the IS 250. The cab-
in is tight, and the rear seat is extremely cramped. The hardtop
convertible has little trunk space. May 2006
Lexus LS The LS is luxurious and highly refined, with a comfortable and
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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 smooth and re-
sponsive. A hybrid is available but costs over $100,000. Nov. 2007
Lexus LX &M This luxury SUV is based on the Toyota Land Cruiser. The 5.7-liter
V8 is strong and the ride is comfortable. The LX has an off-road
crawl mode that manages throttle and braking over tough terrain.
A power-folding third-row seat is new, but it folds up to the sides of
the interior, limiting cargo space. —
Lexus RX The RX is refined and quiet. The ride is comfortable, but handling is
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lackluster. The 3.5-liter V6 provides strong acceleration and an im-
pressive 21 mpg overall. The RX 450h hybrid does even better and
gets 26 mpg. The rear seat is roomy. Rear visibility is impaired by
the sloped styling, which also reduces cargo volume. July 2009
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Lincoln New This large sedan has a 3.7-liter V6 that provides good power but
MKS isn’t particularly refined. Top-level models use a turbocharged V6.
Front- and all-wheel drive are available. The ride is comfortable but
not always settled. Handling is secure but lacks agility. Feb. 2010
Lincoln New The MKT has a very roomy interior and offers many luxury ameni-
MKT ties, but visibility is compromised. Base models are powered by
a 3.7-liter V6; the uplevel engine is a turbocharged V6. The ride is
comfortable but stiffer than that of the Flex, and handling lacks
agility. The MKT is cumbersome at its cornering limits. June 2010
Lincoln &V This upscale version of the Ford Edge uses the same unrefined
MKX 3.5-liter, V6 engine and six-speed automatic. Fuel economy is unim-
pressive. The ride is reasonably comfortable but handling lacks agil-
ity. Interior materials are disappointing and many buttons are diffi-
cult to read at night. IIHS crash tests are impressive. July 2007
Lincoln This luxury family sedan has sharp handling, a good ride, and
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strong acceleration. Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 and can be
had with front- or all-wheel drive. The cabin stays mostly quiet, but
it isn’t furnished as well as it should be for the price. A hybrid ver-
sion will go on sale soon. Jan. 2010
Lincoln The Navigator comes in standard and long versions, the latter
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15 inches longer for increased cargo space. The V8 is sluggish
and thirsty. The third-row seat is power-operated, folds flat into
the floor, and is as comfortable as the second-row seats. Three-
row curtain air bags and ESC are standard. July 2007
Lotus Elise NA This lightweight midengined roadster is superquick. Power comes
from a high-revving four-cylinder from Toyota. The interior is spar-
tan and the cabin is difficult to access. Cornering limits are very
high, but the car is hard to control once past them. The Exige is a
more powerful coupe version of the Elise. Oct. 2005
Mazda CX-7 &V The CX-7 has responsive handling and secure cornering, but the ride
is stiff. The turbocharged four-cylinder has ample mid-range power,
but there is a lag at low revs. Fuel economy is just 18 mpg. The interi-
or is well put together, but the rear seat is not very roomy and is too
low. A nonturbo, front-wheel-drive version is available. Jan. 2007
Mazda CX-9 This three-row SUV is quiet and has a nice interior. The third-row
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seat is 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. 2008
Mazda The base Miata has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mated to a five-speed
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manual. The six-speed manual feels crisp and precise. Handling is
super agile and balanced, with direct steering. The ride is reason-
able but interior space is tight. A power hard top is available. ESC
is optional only on high-end models. May 2010
Mazda RX-8 NA The RX-8 coupe revs exceptionally smoothly, and the ride is impres-
sive. Handling is agile and the steering is communicative. The rotary
engine is smooth, but fuel economy is disappointing. The rear-
hinged rear doors ease back-seat access. Dec. 2003
Mazda The Tribute has a roomy interior, spacious rear seat, and good car-
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go space. Fit and finish is unimpressive and the car is noisy. The V6
provides strong acceleration and got 19 mpg. The four-cylinder has
adequate acceleration and 21 mpg. Braking performance is im-
proved and electronic stability control is standard. May 2009
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Mazda2 New The Mazda2 is a small hatchback about the size of the Honda Fit
or Toyota Yaris. Power comes from a 100-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder.
A five-speed manual is standard, with a four-speed automatic
optional. —
Mazda3 The Mazda3’s standard 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine is relatively quick
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and sparing with fuel; the 2.5-liter is strong and refined. Handling is
precise and sporty. Interior quality is very good. ESC is included on
most trim lines. The Mazdaspeed3 is fast and sporty. Aug. 2009
Mazda5 This six-passenger small minivan provides the utility of a minivan
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with easy maneuverability, all at an affordable price and with good
fuel economy. The second- and third-row seats can be folded flat.
Reliability has been average. ESC is standard. Sep. 2010
Mazda6 The Mazda6 is quite nimble, with nice steering and a supple and
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controlled ride. Road noise is pronounced. Interior fit and finish is
acceptable. The four-cylinder got 24 mpg overall in our tests. The
thirsty 3.7-liter V6 got 20 mpg. The rear seat is relatively roomy,
but the low roofline impedes access. Jan. 2009
Mercedes- The C-Class has a smooth and strong 3.0-liter V6 that got 21 mpg
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overall. AWD is offered only on the C300. Handling is capable, but
C-Class the steering is overly light. The snug cabin is quiet, and the seats
are supportive. The controls are better than in other Mercedes
models, but some are not very logical. Mar. 2008
Mercedes- NA This coupe version of the S-Class is just as fast, comfortable, and
Benz CL luxurious. It comes with the latest in safety and high-tech features.
There is room in the back for two adults to sit comfortably. The
5.5-liter V8 supplies an abundance of acceleration, never mind the
twin-turbocharged V12 engine in the more powerful CL600. —
Mercedes- NA The CLS sedan has a swoopy roof and seating for just four passengers.
Benz CLS Rear-seat room is tight, and the angle of the roof limits head room.
The sedan is luxurious and comfortable, with strong performance and
agile handling. A new CLS goes on sale this Fall. Oct. 2006
Mercedes- New The E-Class is very quiet, with impressive fit and finish. The ride isn’t
Benz as comfortable as in the previous generation. The V6 returned 19
E-Class mpg overall. Handling is capable and secure, but the steering lacks
communication. The new coupe is based on the C-Class. A convert-
ible, wagon, and diesel-powered sedan are also available. Feb. 2010
Mercedes- &B This SUV uses the same platform as the M-Class, but has seating for
Benz GL- seven. The 4.6-liter V8 returned 15 mpg, while the more economical
Class diesel V6 returned 19 mpg. It is very quiet, with a comfortable ride
and responsive handling. The third-row seat is roomy enough for
adults. Some controls are overly complicated. Dec. 2009
Mercedes- The GLK uses a smooth, refined 3.5-liter V6 and seven-speed auto-
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matic. The ride is good when cruising, but unsettled at low-speeds.
Class Handling is nimble, but doesn’t shine at its limits. Legroom in the rear
is stingy and the wide door sills impede access. The controls are bet-
ter than in some Mercedes, but still aren’t logical. Sep. 2009
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Mercedes- The M-Class has responsive handling and a firm, yet supple ride.
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The smooth V6 returned only 16 mpg overall and the seven-speed
M-Class automatic doesn’t always shift at the appropriate moment. A die-
sel is available. Major controls can be confusing. An ML450 hybrid
version is available for lease only. Nov. 2005
Mercedes- &B The three-row R-Class shares the same platform with the M-Class.
Benz Access is easy but the long rear doors easily bump into adjacent
R-Class vehicles. The ride is comfortable and quiet, but handling is not
sporty. A 3.5-liter V6 and a diesel are the only engines offered. —
Mercedes- Mercedes-Benz’s large sedan is roomy, quiet, and luxurious, with
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agile handling and a very comfortable ride that is among the best
S-Class we’ve ever tested. The vast cabin is comfortable, with plenty of
room in the rear seat. A hybrid version is new. Nov. 2007
Mercedes- NA This coupe/convertible uses a power folding hard top. The V8 is
Benz SL smooth and powerful, the AMG model even more so. The ride is
very comfortable, and noise levels are low. The controls are overly
complicated. The SL comes with an extensive list of safety and
high-tech features. Oct. 2006
Mercedes- The SLK features a retractable hard top. The seats are very comfort-
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able, and the optional seat-mounted vents blow warm air. The 3.5-
liter V6 is strong. The manual shifter and clutch are user-friendly.
Handling is agile, yet the ride is relatively comfortable. Oct. 2005
Mini Cooper The Mini has agile handling but the ride is choppy. The base four-
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cylinder has adequate response; the turbocharged Cooper S is much
quicker. The controls are confusing and the rear seat is very tight. Fuel
economy is excellent, ranging from 29 to 33 mpg depending on the ver-
sion. The Clubman adds some cargo and rear seat room. Sep. 2008
Mitsubishi &M The Eclipse lacks agility, but is ultimately secure. The 2.4-liter four-
Eclipse cylinder is noisy, and the manual transmission is clunky. The V6 and
automatic are more pleasant. The driver’s seat lacks support, and
visibility falls short. The rear seat is unusable for adults. May 2008
Mitsubishi NA The Endeavor midsized SUV uses a 3.8-liter V6 that returns 17 mpg
Endeavor overall on premium fuel. All-wheel drive is optional. The ride is rea-
sonably good, but cornering isn’t particularly agile. The rear seat is
spacious and the seatback is easy to fold. Aug. 2003
Mitsubishi NA The Galant is a sound car. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is spir-
Galant ited but noisy, and returns 23 mpg. The ride is choppy and stiff
even on smooth pavement. Handling is secure but not agile. A wide
turning circle makes parking awkward. May 2000
Mitsubishi NA The Lancer is fairly agile and has an acceptable ride. The 2.0-liter
Lancer four-cylinder tends to moan at high revs. The cabin has drab plas-
tics but the controls are simple to use. The sporty Ralliart has
more agile handling but has a stiff ride. The automated manual
transmission is annoying to use. Standard ESC is a plus. Oct. 2007
Mitsubishi The Outlander’s smooth 3.0-liter V6 returns 19 mpg overall, and
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the four-cylinder gets 22 mpg. Handling is fairly agile and it is
secure at its limits. The ride is fairly stiff. Interior fit and finish is
disappointing and the optional third-row seat is tiny. The split rear
tailgate works well, and cargo capacity is generous. Aug. 2008
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Mitsubishi New Considerably shorter than the Outlander, the Sport is a mini SUV
Outlander designed to appeal to young urbanites as an alternative to a small
Sport sedan or hatch. It goes on sale this fall. Power comes from a 2.0-
liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 148 hp. Front- and all-wheel-
drive versions will be offered, mated to a CVT. —
Nissan The Altima has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that got an impressive
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26 mpg in our tests, and an optional 3.5-liter V6 that got 24 mpg
overall. The Hybrid got 32 mpg in our tests, but the trunk is small.
Interior quality has been improved, but rear-seat room is tight. The
2.5 S has good handling and absorbs bumps better than the jittery
V6 model. ESC is standard. Aug. 2010
Nissan This large SUV has seating for eight. Power comes from a 5.6-liter
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V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic. Two- and four-wheel
drive versions are available, and it features an independent rear
suspension. Handling is relatively responsive, but the ride is quite
stiff. Interior quality is so-so. Rear cargo space and towing capacity
are generous. Mar. 2004
Nissan NA The Cube is tall and boxy, with an enormous amount of space.
Cube Acceleration is slow from the 1.8-liter four-cylinder, and returned
28 mpg. It rides fairly comfortably, but handling is rather clumsy
and the steering is vague. Wind and road noise are pronounced.
Stopping distances are disappointing. Nov. 2009
Nissan We found the Frontier quick and nimble, with a stiff but tolerable
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ride. The 4.0-liter V6 is smooth and feels like a V8. It gets 15 mpg.
Base models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Rear-seat room is tight in
the crew cab. A longer bed is also available. Side and curtain air-
bags are standard and V6 models get standard ESC. July 2005
Nissan New The Juke mini SUV is smaller and less powerful than the Rogue,
Juke with a starting price below $20,000. It is an alternative to a small
sedan. Power comes from a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
A six-speed manual is available on front-wheel-drive models, and
the AWD versions employ a CVT. —
Nissan Leaf New The Nissan Leaf is a new five-seat, electric-powered hatchback.
Nissan claims it will have 100-mile range. The Leaf will be able to
charge to 80 percent in 30 minutes with a quick charger at a public
charging station, or fully charge from a 220-volt home outlet for
eight hours. It starts at about $33,000 before federal tax credits. —
Nissan The highlight of the Maxima is its smooth, powerful 3.5-liter V6
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that gets 22 mpg overall but requires premium fuel. Acceleration is
very quick. The steering is overly light at low speeds and firms up
rather abruptly, which takes away from the car’s handling. The ride
is comfortable enough and the cabin is quiet. A low roof line inhib-
its rear access and visibility. Feb. 2009
Nissan The Murano has a nice interior and a comfortable ride, and is quiet
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inside. The powerful 3.5-liter V6 delivers strong performance and
19 mpg overall. The CVT transmission is one of the best on the
market. Handling is responsive and secure. The rear seat is roomy
and comfortable. But limited rear visibility and required premium
fuel are drawbacks. Sep. 2008
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Nissan The Pathfinder features a strong 4.0-liter V6, independent-rear
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suspension, and third-row seat. Expect 15 mpg overall. A V8 engine
is optional. The ride is stiff, though handing is responsive. The
second- and third-row seats are tight for adults, and the rear door
handles are too high for kids to reach. Cargo room is generous.
Stability control is standard. Nov. 2005
Nissan Based on the Sentra, the small Nissan Rogue SUV is compact,
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pleasant, and competitive in the small SUV class. The 170-hp, 2.5-
liter engine gets a bit raspy at high revs. Expect 22 mpg overall.
The ride is supple and handling is fairly nimble and secure. Elec
tronic stability control and curtain air bags are standard. Aug. 2008
Nissan The Sentra has a 2.0-liter, 140-hp four-cylinder engine mated to a
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CVT. We got 26 mpg overall. The rear seat is significantly roomier
than in the old model, and ride and handling are much better.
However, the Sentra tended to fishtail at its handling limits without
ESC, which is standard for 2011. Mar. 2010
Nissan The Titan is powerful and has a comfortable ride. The engine is
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strong but loud, and the crew cab is smaller than the competition.
Payload capacity is finally on par with other full-sized trucks. ESC
and curtain air bags are standard. A long wheelbase version is
available. July 2004
Nissan The Versa packs a relatively spacious interior in a short body.
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The engine is civilized but not overly powerful. Fuel economy isn’t
impressive for a subcompact, however. It has a comfortable ride
and roomy rear seat. Handling isn’t particularly nimble. The
antilock brakes are standard on all trims with the 1.8-liter engine
and ESC is standard on the SL trim. Mar. 2010
Nissan The Xterra has good off-road capability but is relatively civilized.
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The 4.0-liter V6 delivers quick acceleration but just 17 mpg. The
4WD system is still part-time. The interior looks rugged and is well-
assembled. The off-road trim line has a hill-descent control. ESC
and head-protection air bags are standard. Aug. 2005
Nissan Z NA The Z two-seater shares mechanical components with the Infiniti G
coupe, including a wonderfully strong and smooth V6. The six-
speed manual shifter is a bit notchy but is easy to use. The Z has a
well-finished, upscale interior with improved materials. Road and
tire noise are constant and the two-seater cabin is cramped. A con-
vertible version is also available. Oct. 2009
Porsche 911 The 911 is fun to drive, with agile handling and a supple ride.
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Acceleration is quick and braking is phenomenal. An upright seat-
ing position and large windows provide good visibility. Radio con-
trols are complicated. Porsche added a new seven-speed sequential
transmission in 2010. Oct. 2006
Porsche &V The Boxster has excellent tire grip and precise, communicative
Boxster steering. It has a firm, well-controlled ride that isn’t punishing. The
power top is easy to operate and works at speeds up to 30 mph.
Both the base and S versions received a seven-speed sequential
transmission. Oct. 2005
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Predicted
Porsche The Cayenne SUV comes with a choice of V6 and V8 engines. Low-
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range gearing and advanced electronics provide some off-road
capability. Towing capacity is impressive, and handling is sporty
and agile. Some controls are overly complicated. The 2011 freshen-
ing includes a hybrid version. Dec. 2008
Porsche &N Porsche used the Boxster platform as the basis for the Cayman
Cayman coupe. Power comes from a midmounted, 2.9-liter, flat-six engine
that produces 265-hp. The higher-performance Cayman S has
320 hp. The fixed-roof coupe seats two passengers and uses
a hatchback design that increases the rear storage area. —
Porsche New Porsche’s four-door luxury sedan is powered by a 400-hp V8 or a
Panamera 500-hp turbocharged version. Rear- and all-wheel drive are avail-
able. The interior is fitted with a button-dominated center stack for
the climate, navigation, and entertainment systems. —
Saab 9-3 The 9-3 trails competing sports sedans. The turbocharged 2.0-liter
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four-cylinder engine is relatively powerful and quiet. 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 New The new 9-5 uses a 2.8-liter V6 and comes with all-wheel drive.
Front-wheel-drive-only versions with a turbocharged four-cylinder
arrive in the fall. The car uses the basics of the chassis found in
the Buick Regal and LaCrosse. —
Scion tC &N The tC coupe uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It drives nicely
but isn’t very sporty. Rear-seat room is generous. The Scion tC is
not recommended due to the lack of ESC and unimpressive IIHS
crash tests. A redesign is due in early 2011. Dec. 2005
Scion xB The xB’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder returns just 23 mpg overall. The
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ride is compliant, and handling is responsive. The radio controls
are confusing. The rear seat and cargo area are enormous and
cabin access is easy. Low windows and thick roof pillars hurt visibil-
ity. Curtain air bags and stability control are standard. Oct. 2007
Scion xD The small xD is nimble, but has a jittery, unsettled ride. The 1.8-liter
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four-cylinder is adequate, but gets 29 mpg overall with the auto-
matic and 34 with the manual. The cabin is noisy and the driving
position is awkward. The rear is roomy for two adults. Electronic
stability control is standard for 2010. June 2008
Smart &V This tiny two-seater features a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine that
ForTwo does a decent job putting along with traffic. We measured 39 mpg
overall. The ride is harsh, handling is clumsy, and the transmission
shifts slowly, causing the car to pause and heave. ESC and curtain
air bags are both standard. Nov. 2008
Subaru The Forester is sensible, practical, and affordable. The base 2.5-
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liter four-cylinder is adequate; the XT’s turbocharged one is more
powerful. They return 22 and 20 mpg overall, respectively. The ride
is comfortable, handling is good, and visibility is excellent. Seats in
the base model are short on lumbar support. Aug. 2008
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Subaru The Impreza has adequate acceleration, but the four-speed auto-
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matic isn’t very slick. The standard AWD hurts performance and
fuel economy, just 24 mpg overall. The ride is compliant and hand
ling remains agile. The cabin is relatively roomy, particularly the
rear seats. Impressive crash-test scores are a plus. June 2008
Subaru The WRX sedan and hatchback have a powerful turbocharged
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engine and the suspension is well-tuned. The car is more refined
WRX/STi and roomier than before, but not quite as sporty. The STi is more
powerful and sportier, but less raw than before. Oct. 2009
Subaru The Legacy has a sluggish and noisy four-cylinder, while the six-cylin-
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der is more powerful but less efficient. It has an impressive ride and
is quiet inside. Handling is less crisp than before, though it’s still
responsive. We found the standard ESC kicks in a bit late. Dec. 2009
Subaru The Outback is the wagon version of the Legacy with SUV-like ground
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clearance. The cabin is quiet and there is good rear-seat and cargo
space. Handling becomes sloppy at the limits. Acceleration is ade-
quate with the noisy 4-cylinder, but fuel economy is quite good. The
six- cylinder is quieter and quicker, but not as fuel efficient. Nov. 2009
Subaru The Tribeca has an impressive ride and handling, but a cramped
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interior. The six-cylinder engine returns 16 mpg overall. Handling is
quite agile, with nice steering feel and restrained body lean. The
ride is supple and very well controlled. Fit and finish is very good.
Some controls are hard to see. Jan. 2008
Suzuki NA The Grand Vitara has unibody construction and a fully independent
Grand suspension. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder was noisy and sluggish and
Vitara got just 19 mpg. The more powerful V6 has been discontinued for
2011. Handling is reluctant but ultimately secure. The ride is stiff
and jittery. May 2009
Suzuki New The Kizashi is sound and capable. It has a snug cabin and tight rear
Kizashi seat. The ride is taut and controlled, but a little stiff. The front seats
are well-shaped and comfortable. Fuel economy is pretty good but
acceleration is leisurely from the 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Aug. 2010
Suzuki SX4 This small car has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that got 24 mpg overall in
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the AWD hatchback and 26 in our FWD sedan. The engine drones on
the highway. Access and visibility are excellent. Handling is nimble,
but the ride is stiff and the cabin is noisy. ESC is optional Mar. 2010
Tesla New The Tesla is a very quick and agile pure electric car. The ride is
Roadster slightly less jarring than that of the Elise. Getting in and out
of the tight cabin requires some athleticism. Range is said to be
240 miles, but spirited driving will lower that. —
Toyota New The 4Runner is best for towing and off-roading. The 4.0-liter V6 is
4Runner relatively fuel-efficient, but sounds rough. The ride is unsettled and
handling is mediocre at best. The body leans and bobs a good deal
in corners. The 4WD system in SR5 trim is part-time only. A 2.7-liter
four-cylinder and a third-row seat are also available. Dec. 2010
Toyota &M The 2011 Avalon has a more contemporary interior. Like the cur-
Avalon rent car, the Avalon is powered by a 3.5-liter V6. A six-speed auto-
matic is standard. This powertrain gives quick acceleration and
impressive fuel economy for such a large car. Jan. 2010
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Predicted
Toyota &M The Camry is roomy and quiet, has a comfortable ride, and is re-
Camry fined. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder got 26 mpg, while the hybrid
returned 34 mpg. The 3.5-liter V6 got 23 mpg. Handling is respon-
sive and secure. The interior is spacious. Controls are simple to
use, but some fit and finish details fall short. Dec. 2009
Toyota &M The bland Corolla is a good small sedan. The 1.8-liter engine got
Corolla an impressive 32 mpg overall in our tests. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder
is found in the XRS trim. The interior is put together well, although
hard plastic panels and trim are abundant. Curtain air bags and
electronic stability control are standard. July 2008
Toyota FJ &N The FJ is superb off road. Visibility is compromised by the thick roof
Cruiser pillars and small windows, and the rear doors are awkward to use.
The V6 is smooth, but fuel economy is just 17 mpg. Electronic sta-
bility control is standard. Crash-test results are excellent, but the
FJ scores too low in our testing to be recommended. Jan. 2007
Toyota &M The Highlander is refined, with a quiet interior, comfortable ride,
Highlander and roomy second-row seat. Its 3.5-liter V6 delivers solid perfor-
mance and 18 mpg overall. The hybrid model gets 24 mpg. The
third-row seat is tight. A 2.7-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed
automatic is available on FWD models. Jan. 2008
Toyota NA Toyota’s flagship SUV uses a powerful 5.7-liter V8. The Land Cruiser
Land is quiet and refined, with a comfortable ride, but is not agile. The in-
Cruiser terior is roomy and well-finished. Off-road ability is impressive. The
third-row seats fold into the cargo area, taking up room. Dec. 2008
Toyota &M The Matrix has easy cabin access, a roomy rear seat, and good cargo
Matrix room. Both engines provide impressive fuel economy. Engine and road
noise are pronounced. Handling and ride are competent. The driving
position is awkward, and fit and finish is unimpressive. June 2008
Toyota The Prius averaged 44 mpg overall in our tests. Highway fuel econ-
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omy has improved, but city mileage has fallen a bit. The ride is firm
and steady, the driving position is more versatile, and the rear seat
is roomy. Handling is very secure but not agile. Nov. 2009
Toyota &N The RAV4 has a flexible, well-designed interior. Handling is agile
RAV4 and secure. The rear seat is roomy. A tiny third-row seat is optional.
The optional 3.5-liter V6 is quick and returns 22 mpg. The four-
cylinder gets 23 mpg overall. The tailgate swings open to the side,
requiring a lot of access room. May 2009
Toyota &M The big eight-passenger Sequoia offers a 4.6-liter V8 with a five-
Sequoia speed automatic. The 5.7-liter V8 gets a six-speed unit. The inde-
pendent rear suspension allows the third-row seat to fold into the
floor, and ride and handling have improved. Standard safety fea-
tures include electronic stability control. Nov. 2008
Toyota New The redesigned Sienna minivan has the same 3.5-liter V6 as before.
Sienna A 2.7-liter four-cylinder is new. Both use a smooth six-speed auto-
matic. Fuel economy has improved slightly. The ride is very com-
fortable, handling is lackluster, and the van is relatively noisy inside.
Interior fit and finish isn’t as impressive as before. Sep. 2010
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Predicted
Toyota The Tacoma has a strong 4.0-liter V6. The ride trails some compet-
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d Tacoma
&M
itors and the driving position is too low. Payload capacity is small.
Electronic stability control and curtain air bags are standard.
Crash-test results are impressive. July 2005
Toyota &C The Tundra has responsive handling, but the ride with the TRD
Tundra package is stiff. The 5.7-liter V8 is very powerful. ESC is standard,
but disengages in 4WD mode. It’s a long reach to some controls.
The tailgate is easy to raise and lower. Sep. 2007
Toyota The Venza has easy cabin access and the rear seat is roomy. The
n
d Venza &C
rear hatch and large cargo floor aid cargo flexibility. The strong
3.5-liter V6 got 20 mpg overall. Handling is secure but the ride is
jittery and the steering lacks feedback. Visibility is impaired by the
styling. Crash-test results are impressive. June 2009
Toyota &N The Yaris is fuel efficient, but doesn’t offer much more. The auto-
Yaris matic sedan got 32 mpg overall; the hatchback got 30 mpg. The
ride is compliant and handling is reasonably responsive and secure.
ESC is now standard. The driving position is flawed, fit and finish is
cheap, and the center-mounted gauges are annoying. Mar. 2010
Volkswagen The CC is enjoyable to drive, with agile and responsive handling.
n
d CC &N
The taut ride is composed, particularly on the highway. The 2.0-
liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pulls strong and returns
24 mpg; a 3.6-liter V6 and all-wheel-drive are optional. Some
controls are awkward to use or hard to read. June 2009
Volkswagen &V This four-seat convertible has a folding metal hard-top that offers
Eos a sunroof setting. Handling is fairly agile and the ride is comfort-
able. The 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder delivers punchy
acceleration and a good 25 mpg overall. Interior fit and finish is
impressive. Wind noise with the top up is pronounced. May 2008
Volkswagen The Golf’s 2.5-liter five-cylinder is responsive, but got just 24 mpg.
n
d Golf &N
Steering is responsive and quick, and body lean is well-suppressed. The
ride is supple and controlled. Interior quality is impressive and feels
solid. The front seats are supportive, but the rear is cramped. The die-
sel version got an impressive 38 mpg with the manual. Mar. 2010
Volkswagen The GTI is agile and quick, with a gutsy turbocharged 2.0-liter four-
n
d GTI &C
cylinder. Handling is taut and precise, and the ride is fairly civilized
and relatively quiet. Fit and finish is very good, and the seats are
comfortable. Clutch-pedal travel is a bit too long, which impacts
the driving position. May 2010
Volkswagen The Jetta has a well-finished interior and a composed ride. Hand
n
d Jetta &C
ling is agile and confident. The five-cylinder engine is noisy and
returned just 24 mpg in our sedan. The diesel got 33 mpg overall
and a stellar 47 mpg on the highway. A redesigned sedan arrives
this fall; the wagon continues with the old body style. Jan. 2009
Volkswagen The Passat’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine has excellent
n
d Passat &C
performance. Handling is agile and responsive. The front seats
are comfortable and supportive. Crash tests are very good for
the sedan. There won’t be a 2011 Passat. Mar. 2006
Volkswagen &B The Routan is a Chrysler Town & Country with a tauter suspension
Routan and a somewhat plusher interior. High points include a pleasant
ride and a reasonably powerful 4.0-liter engine. Handling is clumsy
and fuel economy is mediocre. Nov. 2009
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 145 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

Predicted
Volkswagen The Tiguan is quiet, offers a roomy rear seat, and has excellent fit
n
d Tiguan
&C
and finish. Handling is agile and secure, and the ride is comfortable.
The turbocharged four-cylinder is smooth and got 20 mpg. All-wheel
drive is optional. Crash-test results are impressive. Sep. 2008
Volkswagen &B Volkswagen’s midsized SUV is capable off road. The V6 is thirsty
Touareg and underpowered. A turbodiesel is also available. The interior is
elegant but not very roomy. A freshened Touareg goes on sale in
late 2010 and will include a hybrid version. Sep. 2008
Volvo C30 The Volvo C30 is a two-door hatchback that is based on the S40 and
n
d &C
V50. Power comes from the turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder en-
gine that delivered good performance and 25 mpg overall. Although
the C30 steers nicely, handling isn’t particularly sporty. Oct. 2008
Volvo C70 The C70 has a metal folding top that’s power-operated and works
n
d &C
well. It comes only with a turbocharged 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine.
Handling is sound but unexceptional. The ride is somewhat stiff. The
interior is well-finished. The C70 includes standard stability control
and curtain air bags that deploy from the doors. May 2008
Volvo S40/ &N The S40 sedan and V50 wagon corner fairly nimbly, but the ride is
V50 stiff. The standard 2.4-liter engine sounds raspy. A stronger turbo-
charged engine powers the T5. The interior is well-finished. The
front seats are supportive, but the rear seat is very tight. All-wheel
drive is available. Nov. 2004
Volvo S60 New The 2011 redesigned S60 sold in the U.S. will be all-wheel-drive
T6 models with a turbocharged six-cylinder and a six-speed auto-
matic. Lesser versions with front-wheel drive will follow later.
A new pedestrian detection system will be standard. —
Volvo S80 The S80 offers a smooth V8 on AWD models and a six-cylinder on
n
d &C
FWD ones. A turbocharged six-cylinder is also available. The optional
blind-spot monitoring system works well. The rear seat is less spa-
cious than the previous generation. Handling has been slightly
improved, but the ride remains a bit stiff. Nov. 2007
Volvo V70/ &V The V70 is a wagon version of the S80. The XC70 has AWD and a
XC70 raised ride height. The powertrain is a 3.2-liter six-cylinder with
a six-speed automatic that returns just 18 mpg. A more powerful,
turbocharged engine is available. Ride, handling, and interior mate-
rials are improved over the previous generation. Sep. 2008
Volvo XC60 New The XC60 has a stiff ride, but handling is responsive and secure at
its limits. The 3.0-liter, turbocharged six-cylinder performs well, but
fuel economy is just 17 mpg. A 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine is also
available. The interior is nicely finished with high-quality materials.
The seats are comfortable but rear leg room is tight. Sep. 2009
Volvo XC90 &V The XC90’s best features include a flexible interior and impressive
safety features. An adequately powerful 3.2-liter six-cylinder is
standard. The smooth 4.4-liter V8 and six-speed automatic return
16 mpg. The ride is a bit stiff at low speeds. Handling is responsive
and secure with the effective standard stability control. Nov. 2006
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 146 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

the best & worst used cars 147
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, 2000 through ficient survey data for at least three years,
2009, and alert you to those and have either performed notably well
that have been problematic. or have been especially troublesome.
Reliable vehicles and vehicles to avoid Consumer Reports considers prob-
include all models that showed above- or lems with major engine and transmission
below-average overall reliability (Used components, engine cooling, and drive
Car Verdicts) in our 2009 Annual Car systems to be more serious, and they are
Reliability Survey, which drew responses weighted more heavily than other areas.
on about 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.
Each of these models earned an above-average Used Car Verdict in our 2009 survey (see
page 153). Vehicles are listed by price range and alphabetically by manufacturer. Price ranges
(rounded to the nearest $1,000) are approximately what you should expect to pay for a typically
equipped model with average miles.
Less than $4,000 ’01-02; Insight ’00-01 RSX ’02; TL ’01-02

Acura Integra ’00 Hyundai Sonata (V6) ’03-05 Buick Century ’05; Regal ’04
Chevrolet Prizm ’00-02 Infiniti G20 ’00, ’02; I30 ’00 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Ford F-150 (V8, 2WD) ’00 Lincoln Continental ’01-02 (V8, 2WD) ’00; Silverado
Honda Civic ’00 Mazda B-Series (2WD) 2500 (2WD) ’00; Tahoe ’01
Hyundai Accent ’04 ’00-01; Protegé ’02 Ford Crown Victoria ’04;
Mitsubishi Galant ’00 Mercury Grand Marquis Escape ’03; Escape (V6,
Subaru Impreza sedan ’00 ’00-02; Sable sedan ’04 FWD) ’02; Expedition
Toyota Corolla ’00-01; Echo Mitsubishi Lancer ’02-03 (2WD) ’00; Explorer
’00-02 Nissan Frontier (2WD) ’00; Sport Trac (2WD) ’02;
Xterra ’02 F-150 (V6) ’00; F-150
$4,000-$6,000 Pontiac Vibe ’03 (V6, 2WD) ’01; F-250
Acura CL ’01; Integra ’01; RL Subaru Impreza wagon ’03 (2WD) ’00-01; F-250 (tur-
’00; TL ’00 Toyota Avalon ’00; Camry bodiesel, 2WD) ’00; Focus
Buick Century ’04; Regal ’03 ’00-01; Camry Solara ’05-06; Mustang (V6)
Chevrolet Tracker ’02 ’00-02; Celica ’00; Corolla ’04; Mustang (V8) ’00-01;
Ford Crown Victoria ’00-03; ’02; Echo ’03-05; Prius Ranger (2WD) ’01-02;
Explorer Sport Trac ’01-02; Sienna ’00-01 Taurus sedan ’05-06
(2WD) ’01; Mustang (V6) Volkswagen Jetta TDI ’01 GMC Sierra 1500 (V8,
’00-02; Ranger (2WD) ’00; 2WD) ’00; Sierra 2500
Taurus sedan ’04 $6,000-$8,000 (2WD) ’00; Yukon ’01
Honda Accord ’00-02; Civic Acura CL ’02-03; RL ’02; Honda Civic ’03-04; Civic
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 147 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

Hybrid ’03; CR-V ’00-02; (V6, 2WD) ’02; F-150 RAV4 ’02; Sienna ’03;
Element ’03; Odyssey ’01-02 (V8) ’01; F-250 (turbod- Tacoma ’02-03; Tundra
Hyundai Accent ’07; Santa iesel, 2WD) ’01; Focus ’01-02; Yaris ’07
Fe (V6) ’02-03 sedan ’07; Mustang (V8) Volvo S60 (AWD) ’02; V70 ’03
Infiniti I30 ’01; I35 ’02-03; ’02; Ranger (2WD) ’03-05;
Q45 ’00; QX4 ’00-01 Taurus sedan ’07 $10,000-$12,000
Kia Spectra ’07 GMC Sierra 1500 (V6, 2WD) Acura MDX ’03; RSX ’05
Lexus ES ’00-01; IS ’01 ’02-04; Sierra 1500 (V8, BMW Z4 ’02
Lincoln Town Car ’00-01 2WD) ’01; Sierra 2500 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Mazda 6 Sedan (4-cyl.) (2WD) ’01; Yukon ’02 (V8, 2WD) ’02; Silverado
’03-04; B-Series (2WD) Honda Accord ’03-04; Civic 2500 (2WD) ’02-03
’02-03; MX-5 Miata ’00; ’05; Civic Hybrid ’04-05; Dodge Caliber ’08; Ram 2500
Protegé ’03; Tribute CR-V ’03; Element ’04; (turbodiesel, 2WD) ’03
(4-cyl.) ’03; Tribute (V6, Odyssey ’03; Pilot ’03; Ford Crown Victoria ’06;
FWD) ’02 S2000 ’00-01 Escape (V6, FWD) ’05;
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Hyundai Accent ’08; Santa Escape Hybrid ’05; Expe-
(4-cyl.) ’00; E-Class (V6, Fe (V6) ’04; Sonata dition (2WD) ’04; Explor-
RWD) ’00 (4-cyl.) ’06; Tucson ’05 er Sport Trac (2WD) ’05;
Mercury Sable sedan ’05 Infiniti Q45 ’02; QX4 ’02-03 F-150 (V6, 2WD) ’04-05;
Mitsubishi Lancer ’04; Kia Optima ’07; Rondo ’07; F-150 (V8) ’02; F-250
Outlander ’04 Spectra ’08 (turbodiesel, 2WD) ’02;
Nissan Frontier (2WD) Lexus ES ’02; GS ’00-01; IS Focus sedan ’08; Fusion
’01-02; Frontier (4WD) ’02; RX ’00-01 (FWD) ’06; Mustang (V8)
’00; Pathfinder ’00 Lincoln Town Car ’02-03 ’04; Ranger (2WD) ’06
Pontiac Vibe ’04 Mazda 3 ’04-05; 6 hatchback, GMC Sierra 1500 (V8,
Scion xA ’04-05; xB ’04 wagon ’05; 6 sedan (4-cyl.) 2WD) ’02; Sierra 2500
Subaru Impreza wagon ’04 ’05; 6 Sedan (V6) ’04; B- (2WD) ’02-03
Toyota Avalon ’01-02; Camry Series (2WD) ’04-05; MPV Honda Accord ’05; CR-V
’02; Camry Solara ’03; ‘05; MX-5 Miata ’01-02; ’04; Element ’05; Fit ’07;
Celica ’01-03; Corolla Tribute (V6) ’03-04 Odyssey ’04; Pilot ’04;
’03-04; Highlander ’01; Mercedes-Benz CLK ’00; S2000 ’02
Matrix ’03; Prius ’03; E-Class (V6, RWD) ’01-02; Hyundai Elantra ’07; Sonata ’07
RAV4 ’00-01; Sienna ’02; SLK ’00 Infiniti I35 ’04
Tacoma ’00-01; Tundra ’00 Mercury Grand Marquis Kia Optima ’08; Rondo ’08;
’03-05 Sportage ’06
$8,000-$10,000 Mitsubishi Endeavor ’04 Lexus ES ’03; GS ’02; IS ’03;
Acura MDX ’01-02; RSX Nissan Altima ’03; Frontier LS ’00; RX ’02; SC ’00
’03-04; TL ’03 (2WD) ’03-04; Frontier Lincoln Town Car ’04-05
BMW Z3 ’00-’01 (4WD) ’02; Maxima ’03; Mazda 3 ’06; B-Series
Buick LeSabre ’05 Pathfinder ’02-03; Xterra ’03 (2WD) ’06-08; MPV ’06;
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Pontiac Vibe ’05-06 MX-5 Miata ’03; Tribute
(V6, 2WD) ’02-04; Saab 9-2X ’05 (4-cyl.) ’06; Tribute (V6,
Silverado 1500 (V8, Scion tC ’05; xA ’06; xB ’05 FWD) ’05
2WD) ’01; Silverado 2500 Subaru Forester ’03; Impreza Mercedes-Benz C-Class
(2WD) ’01; Tahoe ’02 ’05; Legacy (6-cyl.) ’03 (V6, RWD) ’03; CLK ’01
Dodge Ram 2500 (turbod- Suzuki SX4 ’07 Mercury Grand Marquis ’06;
iesel, 2WD) ’01 Toyota 4Runner ’00-01; Mariner ’06; Mariner (V6,
Ford Crown Victoria ’05; Avalon ’03-04; Camry FWD) ’05; Milan (FWD) ’06
Escape (V6) ’04; Expedi- ’03-04; Camry Solara Mitsubishi Endeavor ’05
tion (2WD) ’02; Explorer ’04-05; Celica ’04; Co- Nissan Altima ’04-06; Fron-
Sport Trac (2WD) ’03-04; rolla ’05; Highlander ’02; tier (2WD) ’05; Frontier
F-150 (V6) ’03; F-150 Matrix ’04-05; Prius ’04; (4WD) ’04; Pathfinder ’04
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 148 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

Pontiac Vibe ’07 Subaru Forester ’06; Impre- Subaru B9 Tribeca ’06; Baja
Scion tC ’06; xB ’06 za ’07; Impreza WRX ’05; ’05; Impreza wagon ’08-09;
Subaru Forester ’04-05; Legacy (4-cyl.) ’05-06 Outback (4-cyl.) ’06
Impreza wagon ’06; Toyota 4Runner ’03; Camry Toyota 4Runner ’04; Avalon
Impreza WRX ’04 ’06; Camry Solara ’07; ’05; Corolla ’09; Land
Suzuki SX4 ’08 Corolla ’08; Highlander Cruiser ’01; Matrix ’09;
Toyota 4Runner ’02; Camry ’04-05; Land Cruiser ’00; Prius ’07; RAV4 ’06; Si-
’05; Camry Solara ’06; Matrix ’07-08; Prius ’06; enna ’05; Tacoma ’07-’08;
Corolla ’06-07; Highlander RAV4 ’05; Sequoia ’02; Tundra ’06
’03; Matrix ’06; Prius ’05; Sienna ’04; Tacoma ’06; Volkswagen Rabbit ’09
RAV4 ’03-04; Sequoia ’01; Tundra ’05; Yaris ’09 Volvo S60 (FWD) ’06
Tacoma ’04-05; Tundra Volkswagen Rabbit ’08
’03-04; Yaris ’08 Volvo S80 (5-cyl.) ’04-05; $16,000-$18,000
Volkswagen Jetta TDI ’05; XC70 ’04 Acura MDX ’05; TL ’05;
Rabbit ’07 TSX ’06
Volvo V70 ’04 $14,000-$16,000 Chevrolet Corvette ’01-02
Acura TL ’04; TSX ’05 Ford F-150 (V6, 2WD) ’07;
$12,000-$14,000 BMW Z4 ’04 F-150 (V8, 2WD) ’06; Fu-
Acura MDX ’04; RL ’04; RSX Buick LaCrosse ’08 sion (FWD) ’09; Mustang
’06; TSX ’04 Chevrolet Malibu sedan (V8) ‘05
BMW Z4 ’03 (4-cyl.) ’08 Honda Accord Hybrid ’07;
Buick LaCrosse ’07 Ford Escape (4-cyl.) ’07; Civic ’09; Civic Hybrid
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Escape Hybrid (FWD) ’06; ’08-09; Element ’07; Rid-
(V8, 2WD) ’03 F-150 (V6, 2WD) ’06; Fu- geline ’06; S2000 ’05
Chrysler Crossfire ’05 sion (FWD) ’08; Mustang Hyundai Azera ’08; Tucson ’08
Ford Escape ’06; F-150 (V8, (V6) ’07-08 Infiniti FX35 ’04; G sedan
2WD) ’03; Focus sedan Honda Accord ’07; Accord (RWD) ’05
’09; Fusion (FWD) ’07; Hybrid ’06; Civic ’08; Jeep Patriot ’09
Ranger (2WD) ’07-08 Civic Hybrid ’07; CR-V Lexus ES ’05; LX ’00-01;
GMC Sierra 1500 (V8, ’06; Fit ’09; Pilot ’05; RX ’04
2WD) ’03 S2000 ’04 Lincoln Town Car ’07
Honda Accord ’06; Accord Hyundai Sonata (4-cyl.) Mazda 6 sedan (V6) ’09;
Hybrid ’05; Civic ’06-07; ’09; Tucson ’07 MX-5 Miata ’07-08
Civic Hybrid ’06; CR-V Infiniti FX35 ’03; G coupe Mercedes-Benz E-Class
’05; Element ’06; Fit ’08; ’03-04; G sedan ’04 (V6, RWD) ’04
S2000 ’03 Jeep Patriot ’08 Nissan 350Z ’06; Altima
Hyundai Azera ’07; Elantra Kia Sportage ’08 ’08-09; Altima Hybrid
’08-09; Sonata ’08 Lexus GS ’05; IS ’05; LS ’02 ’08; Frontier (2WD) ’08
Infiniti G sedan (RWD) ’03 Lincoln Zephyr ’06 Subaru Baja ’06; Forester
Kia Sportage ’07 Mazda 3 ’08-09; MX-5 ’07-08; Legacy (6-cyl.)
Lexus ES ’04; GS ’03-04; IS Miata ’05-06 ’06; Outback (4-cyl.) ’07
’04; LS ’01; RX ’03 Mercedes-Benz C-Class ’05; Toyota 4Runner ’05; Avalon
Mazda 3 ’07; MX-5 Miata CLK ’03; E-Class (V6, ’06; Camry ’07-09; Camry
’04; Tribute (V6) ’06 RWD) ’03; SL ’00 Solara ’08; Highlander ’06;
Mercedes-Benz CLK ’02 Mercury Milan (FWD) Prius ’08; RAV4 ’07-08;
Mercury Mariner (4-cyl.) ’08-09 Sequoia ’04; Sienna ’06
’07; Milan (FWD) ’07 Nissan Altima ’07; Altima Hy- Volkswagen Jetta TDI ’06
Mitsubishi Eclipse ’07; brid ’07; Frontier (2WD) ’07 Volvo S40 (FWD) ’07; S80
Outlander ’07 Pontiac Vibe ’09 (5-cyl.) ’06; XC70 ’06
Nissan 350Z ’04 Porsche Boxster ’01
Pontiac Vibe ’08 Saturn Aura (4-cyl.) ’09 $18,000-$20,000
Scion tC ’07; xD ’08-09 Scion tC ’08-09; xB ’08-09 Acura RL ’05; TSX ’07
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 149 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

BMW Z4 ’05 ’08-09; Pilot ’07; Ridge- G ’07; G sedan (RWD) ’08;
Chevrolet Malibu sedan line ’07; S2000 ’07 M ’06-07
(V6) ’08-09 Hyundai Azera ’09; Santa Lexus ES ’07-08; GX ’05-06;
Ford Edge (FWD) ’07; Es- Fe (V6) ’09 IS ’06-08; LS ’05-06; LX
cape Hybrid (FWD) ’07 Infiniti FX35 ’06; G coupe ’06 ’03-04; RX ’07; RX Hybrid
Honda Accord ’08; CR-V ’07; Lexus GX ’04; LS ’04; LX ’06; SC ’04-05
Element ’08-09; Odyssey ’02; RX ’05-06; SC ’03 Lincoln MKX (FWD) ’07-08;
’06; Pilot ’06; S2000 ’06 Lincoln MKZ (FWD) ’07-08 MKZ (FWD) ’09; Town
Hyundai Santa Fe (V6) ’08 Mercury Mariner Hybrid Car ’08
Infiniti FX35 ’05; G sedan ’06 (FWD) ’08 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Lexus ES ’06; GX ’03; LS Nissan Maxima ’08 (V6) ’07; E-Class (V6,
’03; SC ’02 Porsche 911 ’01 RWD) ’06
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Subaru Forester ’09; Out- Mercury Mariner Hybrid ’09
(V6, RWD) ’06 back (4-cyl.) ’09 Nissan 350Z ’08; Maxima ’09
Mercury Sable sedan ’09 Toyota 4Runner ’06-07; Porsche Boxster ’06
Mitsubishi Outlander ’09 Avalon ’08; Camry Toyota 4Runner ’08-09;
Nissan Maxima ’07; Rogue ’08 Hybrid ’08-09; FJ Cruiser Avalon ’09; FJ Cruiser
Subaru Legacy (4-cyl.) ’07; Highlander ’08-09; ’08; Sequoia ’06-07
’09; Legacy (6-cyl.) ’07; Highlander Hybrid ’06-07;
Outback (4-cyl.) ’08 Land Cruiser ’04; Prius $30,000 and up
Toyota Avalon ’07; Camry ’09; RAV4 ’09; Sienna Acura MDX ’07-09; TL ’09
Hybrid ’07; Highlander ’07; ’08-09; Tacoma (V6) ’09; BMW 328i (RWD) ’08
Sienna ’07; Tundra ’07-08 Venza (4-cyl.) ’09 Honda Pilot ’09
Volvo S60 ’07 Volvo S60 (FWD) ’08; V70 Infiniti FX35 ’09; G coupe
’07-08 ’08-09; G sedan (AWD)
$20,000-$24,000 ’09; M ’08
Acura MDX ’06; RL ’06; TL $24,000-$30,000 Lexus ES ’09; GS (RWD) ’08;
’06; TSX ’08 Acura RDX ’07-09; RL ’07; GS Hybrid ’07; GX ’07; IS
BMW Z4 ’06 TL ’07-08; TSX ’09 ’09; LS ’07-09; LX ’05-08;
Chevrolet Corvette ’03-04 Audi A4 (4-cyl.) ’07-08 RX ’08-09; SC ’06-07
Ford Edge (FWD) ’08; BMW 328i (RWD) ’07 Mercedes-Benz CLK ’07;
Escape Hybrid (FWD) Ford Edge (FWD) ’09; Escape E-Class (V6, AWD) ’08
’08; F-150 (V8, 2WD) ’09; Hybrid ’09 Porsche 911 ’05, ’07-08;
Mustang (V8) ’07-08; Honda Odyssey ’09; Pilot Cayman ’06-08
Taurus sedan ’09 ’08; Ridgeline ’08-09 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Honda Accord ’09; CR-V Infiniti EX ’08; FX35 ’07-08; ’08-09; Sequoia ’08
Worst cars, year by year

This is CR’s list of unreliable vehicles based on our 2009 survey. The vehicles earned below-
average Used Car Verdicts, meaning they proved worse- or much-worse-than-average for the
model years listed.
Audi A3 ’06; A4 (4-cyl.) ’02; 330i (AWD) ’02-03; ’01-04, ’07-09; X5 (V8) ’01,
’00-05; A4 (V6) ’00-02, ’04; 330i (RWD) ’01; 335i (AWD) ’05, ’07-08; Z4 ’07
A6 (V6) ’00-05; A6 Allroad ’08; 335i (RWD) ’07, ’09; 5 Buick Century ’00-01; Enclave
’01, ’03-04; A8 ’05; Q7 ’07; Series (V8) ’00-03, ’05; (AWD) ’08; Enclave (FWD)
S4 ’01; TT ’08 535i ’08; 7 Series ’00-01; ’09; LaCrosse ’09; Rainier
BMW 135i ’08; 325i (AWD) X3 ’07-08; X5 (6-cyl.) ’06; Rendezvous ’02-04,
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 150 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

’06; Terraza ’05 (4WD) ’00-02, ’04, ’06-08; LR2 ’08; LR3 ’05-06; Range
Cadillac CTS (V6) ’03, ’06-09; Ram 2500 ’01, ’03; Ram Rover Sport ’06
DeVille ’00-04; DTS ’06, 2500 (turbodiesel, 2WD) Lexus GS (AWD) ’07-08;
’09; Escalade ’03, ’05, ’07; ’06; Ram 2500 (turbodie- GX470 ’08
Seville ’00-03; SRX ’04-08; sel, 4WD) ’05-08; Ram van/ Lincoln Aviator ’03-05; LS
STS (V6) ’07-08; STS (V8) wagon ’00; Stratus sedan ’00-01, ’03-05; MKS ’09;
’05-06, ’08 ’00-05 MKX (AWD) ’07-08; MKZ
Chevrolet Astro ’00-03, ’05; Ford Econoline ’05; Edge (AWD) ’07-08; Navigator
Avalanche 1500 ’03-07; (AWD) ’07-08; Escape (V6) ’03-04, ’06
Aveo ’04-06, ’08; Blazer ’09; Excursion ’04-05; Mazda B-Series (4WD) ’05,
’00-04; Cobalt coupe ’06; Expedition (4WD) ’06; ’08; CX-7 ’07; MPV ’02;
Cobalt sedan ’05-06, ‘09; Explorer (2WD) ’04, ’06; RX-8 ’04-05; Tribute (V6)
Colorado (2WD) ’06, ’08; Explorer (4WD) ’02-04, ’06; ’09; Mazdaspeed3 ’07; 5 ’06
Colorado (4WD) ’04, ’06-08; Explorer Sport Trac (2WD) Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Corvette ’09; Equinox ’08; Explorer Sport Trac (4-cyl.) ’03; C-Class (V6,
’05-07; Express ’01-03, (4WD) ’05, ’07; F-250 RWD) ’09; CLK ’06; E-Class
’06-07; HHR ’06-07, ’09; (4WD) ’05-06; F-250 (V6, AWD) ’00-01; E-Class
Impala (V6) ’00-03, ’05-07; (turbodiesel, 2WD) ’05-06; (V8) ’04, ’08; GL320 ’08;
Impala (V8) ’06-07; Malibu F-250 (turbodiesel, 4WD) GL-Class (V8) ’07-08;
Maxx ’05-07; Malibu sedan ’03-06, ’08; Focus sedan M-Class (V6) ’01, ’04-06;
’06; Malibu sedan (V6) ’00, ’02; Focus wagon ’02; R-Class ’06-08; S-Class
’00-04, ’07; Monte Carlo Freestar ’04; Fusion (AWD) ’03-04, ’06; SL ’04-05
’00-02, ’05-06; S-10 pickup ’07; Mustang (V8) ’09; Mercury Mariner (V6) ’09;
(4WD) ’00-04; Silverado Ranger (4WD) ’05, ’08; Milan (AWD) ’07; Monterey
1500 (V6, 2WD) ’06; Thunderbird ’02; Windstar ’04; Mountaineer (2WD)
Silverado 1500 (V6, 4WD) ’00-03 ’04, ’06; Mountaineer
’06-07; Silverado 1500 (V8) GMC Acadia ’07-08; Canyon (4WD) ’02-04, ’06
’05-06; Silverado 2500 ’04; (2WD) ’06, ’08; Canyon Mini Cooper Clubman ’08;
Silverado 2500 (4WD) ’05, (4WD) ’04, ’06-08; Envoy Clubman S ’09; convertible
’08-09; Silverado 2500 (6-cyl.) ’05-06; Envoy (V8) ’05-08; hatchback ’02-04,
(turbodiesel, 4WD) ’06-08; ’02-08; Jimmy ’00-01; S-15 ’06-07; hatchback S ’05-09
Suburban 1500 ’05-07, ’09; Sonoma (4WD) ’00-04; Nissan Armada ’04-06, ’08;
Suburban 2500 ’03, ’05-08; Safari ’00-03, ’05; Savana Frontier (4WD) ’05;
Tahoe ’05, ’07, ’09; ’01-03, ’06-07; Sierra 1500 Pathfinder ’05, ’08; Quest
TrailBlazer (6-cyl.) ’05-06; (V6, 2WD) ’06; Sierra 1500 ’04-08; Titan (2WD) ’08;
TrailBlazer (V8) ’02-08; (V6, 4WD) ’06-07; Sierra Titan (4WD) ’04-06; Versa
Uplander ’05-08; Venture 1500 (V8) ‘05-06; Sierra Sedan ’08; Xterra ’05
’00-03, ’05 2500 ’04; Sierra 2500 Oldsmobile Alero ’00-03;
Chrysler 300 (V6) ’05-06; (4WD) ’05, ’08-09; Sierra Aurora ’01-02; Bravada ’00;
300 ’07; 300M ’04; Pacifica 2500 (turbodiesel, 4WD) Intrigue ’00; Silhouette
’04, ’07; PT Cruiser ’06-08; Yukon ’05, ’07, ’09; ’00-03
(nonturbo) ’02-07; PT Yukon XL 1500 ’05-07, ’09; Pontiac Aztek ’01, ’03;
Cruiser (turbo) ’03-05; Yukon XL 2500 ’03, ’05-08 Bonneville ’00-02; G6
Sebring convertible ’00-04, Honda Passport ’01-02 (4-cyl.) ’07; G6 (V6) ’05-07;
’06, ’08; Sebring sedan Hummer H3 ’06, ’08 G8 (V8) ’09; Grand Am
’01-05, ’07-08; Town & Hyundai Elantra ’01; ’00-03, ’05; Grand Prix
Country ’01-09; Voyager Entourage ’07-08; Sonata ’00-03; GTO ’06; Montana
’01-03 (V6) ’00; Tiburon ’03; ’00-03, ’05; Montana SV6
Dodge Avenger ’08; Caravan Veracruz ’07; XG300 ’01 ’05-06; Solstice (nonturbo)
(4-cyl.) ’02, ’05; Caravan Isuzu Rodeo ’01-02 ’06-07; Solstice (turbo) ’08;
(V6) ’01-07; Charger (V6) Jaguar S-Type ’00, ’05; XF Torrent ’06-08
’06, ’08; Charger (V8) ’09; XJ ’00, ’04; X-Type ’02 Porsche Boxster ’05, ’08;
’06-07; Dakota (4WD) Jeep Commander ’06-08; Cayenne ’04-05
’00-01, ’05-07; Durango Compass ’07; Grand Saab 9-3 ’02-04, ’06; 9-3
’00-01; Grand Caravan Cherokee ’00-07; Grand convertible ’00, ’04; 9-5
’01-09; Intrepid ’04; Cherokee (V8) ’08; Liberty ’00, ’02-05
Journey ’09; Magnum ’06-09; Wrangler ’05-09 Saturn Astra ’08; Aura (V6)
’05-06; Neon ’02-03; Nitro Kia Optima ’04; Sedona ’07; Ion ’06; L300 (V6)
’07-08; Ram 1500 (2WD) ’02-08; Sorento ’03-05, ’07 ’00-04; Outlook ’07-08;
’02, ’06, ’09; Ram 1500 Land Rover Discovery ’00; Relay ’05-07; Sky
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 151 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

(nonturbo) ’07; Sky (turbo) Toyota Tacoma (4-cyl.) ’09; (4-cyl., AWD) ’04; Passat
’08; Vue (4-cyl.) ’03-04, Tundra (V8, 4WD) ’09 (4-cyl., FWD) ’00-08;
’08-09; Vue (V6) ’02-03, Volkswagen Cabrio ’00-02; Passat (V6, AWD) ’01;
’06, ’08-09; Vue Hybrid Eos ’07-08; Golf ’02; GTI Passat (V6, FWD) ’00-04,
(4-cyl.) ’07 (4-cyl.) ’02, ’06-07; Jetta ’06; R32 ’08; Touareg ’04,
Smart ForTwo ’08 (4-cyl.) ’00, ’03-04; Jetta ’06, ’08
Subaru Impreza WRX ’08; (turbo) ’01-04, ’07; Jetta Volvo S60 (AWD) ’05; S80
Legacy (turbo) ’05, ’08; (V6) ’00-01; New Beetle (6-cyl.) ’00, ’02; XC70
Outback (turbo) ’08 ’00-01, ’03-08; New Beetle ’00-01, ’08; XC90 (6-cyl.)
Suzuki XL-7 ’07 (turbo) ’00-04; Passat ’04-07; XC90 (V8) ’05, ’07
CR Best of the Best & Worst of the Worst

BEST OF THE BEST These 2000-2009 models (except where noted) have performed well in
our road test and have had several years of better-than-average reliability.
WORST OF THE WORST These have had multiple years of much-worse-than-average reliability
among 2000-2009 models. All are listed alphabetically.
Best of the Best Lexus ES Toyota Celica Country

Acura MDX Lexus GS (RWD) Toyota Echo Dodge Caravan (V6)
Acura RDX Lexus GX (except Toyota Land Cruiser Dodge Grand
Acura RL ’08-09) Toyota Prius Caravan
Acura RSX Lexus IS Toyota Sienna GMC Canyon (4WD)
Acura TSX Lexus LS Toyota Tacoma V6 GMC Envoy (V8)
Acura TL Lexus RX (‘05-09) GMC Jimmy
BMW Z3, Z4 (’00-06) Lexus SC Volkswagen Rabbit GMC S-15 Sonoma
Ford Escape Hybrid Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr Volvo S60 (FWD) (4WD)
Ford Fusion (FWD) (FWD) Jeep Commander
Ford Mustang (V6) Mazda3 Jeep Wrangler
Honda Accord Mazda 6 (4-cyl.) Worst of the Worst (four-door)
Honda Civic Mazda MX-5 Miata Audi A6 Allroad Kia Sedona
Honda CR-V Mazda Protegé Cadillac SRX Lincoln Aviator
Honda Fit Mercedes-Benz Cadillac STS (V8) Mercedes-Benz
Honda Odyssey E-Class (V6, RWD) Chevrolet Aveo R-Class
Honda Pilot Mercury Mariner Chevrolet Blazer Mini Cooper
Honda Ridgeline Hybrid Chevrolet Colorado Convertible
Honda S2000 Mercury Milan (FWD) (4WD) Oldsmobile
Hyundai Azera Mitsubishi Outlander Chevrolet Monte Silhouette
Hyundai Santa Fe Nissan 350Z Carlo Pontiac Montana,
(V6) Porsche 911 Chevrolet S-10 Montana SV6
Hyundai Tucson Scion xB Pickup (4WD) Saturn Relay
Infiniti FX35 Subaru Baja Chevrolet TrailBlazer Volkswagen Cabrio
Infiniti G Subaru Forester (V8) Volkswagen New
Infiniti I30, I35 Subaru Impreza Chevrolet Uplander Beetle (turbo)
Infiniti M35 (non-turbo) Chevrolet Venture Volkswagen Passat
Infiniti QX4 Subaru Tribeca Chrysler Sebring (V6, FWD)
Kia Sportage Toyota 4Runner Convertible Volkswagen Touareg
(’05-09) Toyota Camry Solara Chrysler Town & Volvo XC90 (6-cyl.)
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 152 9/14/10 3:31:20 PM

auto reliability 153
Detailed auto reliability
T
he charts on the following pages their vehicles in any of the trouble spots,
give you a model’s complete reli- included in the following charts, during the
ability picture for both its used previous 12 months. These were considered
versions (2004 through 2009) serious because of cost, failure, safety, or
and the new one currently on downtime. Because high-mileage vehicles
sale. These detailed reliability Ratings are tend to have more problems than low-mile-
based on our 2009 Annual Car Reliability age ones, problem rates are standardized
Survey, for which we received responses on to minimize differences related to mileage.
about 1.4 million vehicles. The 2009 models were generally less than six
The Annual Car Reliability Survey is sent months old at the time of the survey and had
to subscribers of Consumer Reports and been driven an average of about 3,000 miles.
ConsumerReports.org. Respondents report- Models with insufficient data are noted with
ed on any serious problems they had with a column of asterisks (*).
How to use the charts

Major redesigns Average Problem Rates average model. Similarly,
A model year in bold identi- TROUBLE
models that score a N are
fies the year the model was SPOTS 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 not necessarily problem-
introduced or underwent a Engine Major 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 <1 <1 <1 free, but they had relatively
major redesign. Engine Minor 8 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 1 <1 few problems compared
Engine
Cooling 6 5 4 4 3 2 1 1 <1 <1 with other models.
Trouble spots Trans. Major 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 <1 <1 Because problem rates in
To assess a used car in Trans. Minor 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 some trouble spots are very
more detail, look at the Drive System 5 5 5 5 4 3 2 2 1 <1 low, we do not assign a B or
individual Ratings for each V unless the model’s prob-
Fuel System 10 12 9 7 5 4 3 3 2 1
of the 17 trouble spots. lem rate exceeds 3 percent.
Electrical 7 7 6 5 4 4 3 2 1 1
They will pinpoint a model’s Climate If a problem rate is below
System 9 8 7 6 4 3 3 2 1 <1
strengths and weaknesses. 2 percent, it will be assigned
Suspension 8 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 <1
Ratings are based on the a M; below 1 percent, it will
Brakes 9 9 8 8 7 6 5 4 2 1
percentage of survey be assigned a N.
respondents who reported Exhaust 4 3 2 2 1 1 <1 <1 <1 <1
problems for that trouble Paint/Trim 8 7 5 4 4 3 2 2 1 1 Used Car Verdicts
Body
spot, compared with the Integrity 9 9 8 7 6 6 5 5 4 2 To check the overall reliability
Body
average of all vehicles for Hardware 12 11 10 9 8 6 5 4 3 2 of a used car, look at the Used
that year. Power Equip. 9 8 7 7 7 6 5 5 3 2 Car Verdict. This Rating shows
Models that score a B Audio System 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 whether the model had more
are not necessarily unreli- USED CAR or fewer problems overall than
VERDICTS
able, but they have a higher NEW CAR the average model of that
PREDICTION
problem rate than the year. The verdict is calculated
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 153 9/14/10 3:31:21 PM

from the total number of prob- belt, accessory belts, engine electrical failure.
lems reported by subscribers mounts, engine knock or ping. Suspension: Shocks or struts,
in all trouble spots. Because Engine, cooling: Radiator, cool- ball joints, tie rods, wheel bear-
problems with major engine 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 serious and expensive to sion rebuild or replacement, or torsion bars, bushings, elec-
repair, our calculations give extra torque converter, premature tronic or air suspension.
weight to them. clutch replacement. Brakes: Premature wear,
Transmission, minor: Gear pulsation or vibration, squeak-
New Car Predictions selector or linkage, coolers and ing, master cylinder, calipers,
To determine the New Car Pre- lines, rough shifting, slipping antilock brake system (ABS),
diction, we averaged a model’s transmission, leaks, transmis- parking brake, brake failure.
Used Car Verdict for the most sion computer, transmission Exhaust: Muffler, pipes,
recent three years, provided the sensor or solenoid, clutch catalytic converter, exhaust
vehicle did not change signifi- adjustment, hydraulics (clutch manifold, leaks.
cantly in that time and hasn’t master or slave cylinder). Paint/trim: Paint (fading, chalk-
been redesigned for 2010 or Drive system: Driveshaft or ing, cracking, peeling), loose
2011. We have found that several axle, CV joint, wheel bearing(s), exterior trim or moldings, rust.
model years’ data are a better differential, transfer case, 4WD/ Body integrity: Squeaks or
predictor than the single most AWD components, driveline rattles, seals and/or weather
recent model year. vibration, traction control, sta- stripping, air or water leaks,
One or two years’ data bility control, electrical failure. loose interior trim and mold-
may be used if the model was Fuel system: Check engine ings, wind noise.
redesigned in 2009 or 2008, or light, sensors (includes O2 Body hardware: Windows,
if there were insufficient data or oxygen sensor), emission locks and latches, tailgate,
for more years. Sometimes we control devices (includes EGR), hatch or trunk, doors or sliding
include a prediction for a model engine computer, fuel cap, fuel doors, mirrors, seat controls,
that is new or has been rede- gauge/sender, fuel injection safety belts, sunroof, convert-
signed, provided its reliability system, engine computer, fuel ible top, glass defect.
history or the manufacturer’s pump, fuel leaks, stalling or Power equipment and acces-
track record has been consis- hesitation. sories: Cruise control, clock,
tently above average. “NA” Electrical: Alternator, starter, warning lights, body control
means there were insufficient battery cables, engine harness, module, keyless entry, wiper
data for a prediction. coil, ignition switch, electrical motor or washer, tire pressure
ignition, distributor or rotor monitor, interior or exterior
WHAT THE TROUBLE SPOTS
failure, spark plugs and wires light, horn, gauges, 12V power
INCLUDE
failure. plug, alarm or security system.
Engine, major: Engine rebuild
Climate system: Blower Audio system: Audio systems,
or replacement, cylinder head,
(fan) motor, A/C compressor, entertainment systems, naviga-
head gasket, turbo or super-
condenser, evaporator, heater tion system, backup camera/
charger, timing chain.
system, automatic climate sensors, communication
Engine, minor: Oil leaks, timing
control, refrigerant leakage, system.
099-154 BG11 Autos.indd 154 9/14/10 3:31:21 PM

AUTO RELIABILItY 155
TROUBLE Acura MDX Acura RDX Acura RL Acura RSX Acura TL

SPOTS
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &V &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C &V &C &N &M &N &M &N &N
Drive System &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &M * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &C &M &C &N &N &N &C &N &N &M &C &V &C &M * &C &M &M &M &C &V &V &M &N
Climate System &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &B &M &N &M * &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N
Suspension &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &N &N * &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &N &N
Brakes &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &N * &N &M &N &M &N &M &M &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &N &N &V &M &M &N &C * &C &C &V &C &M &M &M &N &M
Body Integrity &N &M &N &M &M &C &M &C &N &N &M &M &V &C * &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &C &M
Body Hardware &M &N &M &C &C &M &N &N &C &M &C &C &M &M * &V &M &M &C &C &M &M &C &M
Power Equip. &M &N &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &N &V &C &C &V * &C &M &M &M &N &M &M &N &N
Audio System &B &B &V &B &B &M &B &M &C &V &B &B &V &B * &N &M &N &V &M &C &V &M &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &M &M &M &C * &M &M &N &M &N &N &M &M &M
NEW CAR Better than Better than Better than
PREDICTION average M& average M& Average C
& Discontinued
average M&
TROUBLE Acura TSX Audi A3 Audi A4 Audi A6 Audi A8

SPOTS (4-cyl.) (V6, non-SC)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N * &B &C &C &N &N &N &V &C &N &M &N * * &M &N * * *
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &V &M * &B &V &C &V &N &N &B &B &C &M &M * * &N &N * * *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &N &N * &B &B &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &M * * &B &C * * *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N * &C &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * * &M &M * * *
Trans. Minor &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &V * &B &V &M &M &N &N &C &C &N &M &M * * &N &N * * *
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N * &C &C &N &N &N &N &B &M &N &N &N * * &N &N * * *
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &B &B &M * &B &V &V &C &C &M &C &B &C &V &V * * &C &M * * *
Electrical &M &M &C &M &N &N &B &N &N * &B &B &C &M &M &N &B &C &C &V &C * * &B &C * * *
Climate System &C &N &N &N &M &N &B &B &M * &C &V &C &N &N &N &M &V &N &M &N * * &M &N * * *
Suspension &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &M &M * * &V &N * * *
Brakes &C &V &V &N &N &M &M &M &B * &C &N &M &M &M &N &V &C &C &M &C * * &M &M * * *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * * &N &N * * *
Paint/Trim &M &C &C &N &N &N &V &V &M * &M &M &M &N &N &N &C &M &M &N &N * * &N &N * * *
Body Integrity &M &M &M &M &C &M &C &C &C * &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &C * * &C &M * * *
Body Hardware &M &C &M &N &M &M &B &V &C * &B &B &C &M &C &M &M &B &M &C &N * * &B &B * * *
Power Equip. &C &C &N &N &M &N &V &M &C * &B &B &C &M &M &M &C &V &B &V &C * * &B &B * * *
Audio System &V &M &M &C &M &V &C &V &C * &C &M &M &M &M &C &M &B &B &B &V * * &B &B * * *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &M &N &N &M &M &B &C &C * &B &V &C &M &M &C &V &V &M &C &C * * &B &C * * *
NEW CAR Better than
PREDICTION average M& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
& NA
BG11 AUTOS FOR.indd 155 9/14/10 3:14:30 PM

156 CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2011
TROUBLE Audi Q7 BMW X3 BMW X5 BMW Z3, Z4 BMW 135i

SPOTS (6-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N * &N &N &N &M &M * &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N * * &N *
Engine, minor &N &N * &N &N &N &N &M * &B &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &B &C * * &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N * &C &N &N &M &N * &B &C &M &C &N &N &C &N &N &B * * &N *
Trans. Major &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &M * * &N *
Trans. Minor &N &N * &M &N &N &B &V * &C &M &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &N * * &N *
Drive System &M &N * &M &C &M &C &M * &B &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &V * * &N *
Fuel System &V &N * &M &M &C &V &C * &M &C &V &B &B &B &M &N &N &M * * &B *
Electrical &B &C * &M &M &C &N &N * &C &M &B &V &M &N &V &N &V &M * * &N *
Climate System &V &N * &V &V &C &M &N * &V &C &M &B &M &N &N &N &N &M * * &N *
Suspension &M &M * &M &N &N &N &N * &V &N &C &N &N &N &M &B &N &B * * &N *
Brakes &B &B * &M &M &N &N &N * &V &C &C &C &C &N &N &N &N &C * * &N *
Exhaust &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N *
Paint/Trim &N &M * &N &N &N &M &N * &C &N &C &C &C &N &N &N &M &N * * &M *
Body Integrity &V &M * &B &V &C &M &M * &C &C &M &V &M &N &N &N &N &B * * &B *
Body Hardware &B &C * &V &C &V &M &C * &V &B &B &B &V &C &V &M &C &C * * &B *
Power Equip. &B &C * &C &C &C &V &V * &V &V &C &B &V &M &C &M &C &B * * &M *
Audio System &B &B * &V &C &B &V &M * &M &V &M &B &B &C &C &M &N &B * * &B *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &B &C * &C &M &C &V &V * &V &C &C &B &V &V &M &N &M &B * * &V *
NEW CAR Much worse than Worse than Worse than Worse than
NA
PREDICTION average B
& average V
& average V
& average V
&
TROUBLE BMW 325i, BMW 330i, BMW 525i, 528i, BMW 7 Series Buick Enclave
SPOTS 328i (AWD) 335i (RWD) 530i (RWD) (AWD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &C &M &N &N &M &N &M &N * &N * &N &N &N * &N &N
Engine, minor &V &C &M &N &N &N &B &N &C &C &N &N &C &V &N &M &N * &B * &N &M &M * &N &N
Engine Cooling &B &C &N &N &N &N &V &V &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N * &V * &M &N &N * &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &V &N &N &N &N * &V * &N &M &N * &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &N &M &V &N &C &N * &C * &V &V &M * &C &N
Drive System &B &M &N &M &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &N * &V &M &N * &N &N
Fuel System &V &B &M &M &M &N &M &N &N &B &B &B &M &M &M &N &M * &V * &M &M &N * &M &N
Electrical &M &C &C &M &N &N &M &N &V &M &N &N &V &B &B &C &M * &B * &N &C &N * &M &M
Climate System &N &C &N &M &N &N &M &N &C &M &N &N &M &C &V &C &M * &C * &V &M &M * &M &N
Suspension &B &B &C &C &N &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &M &N &M &N * &N * &M &N &N * &M &N
Brakes &C &M &C &M &N &N &M &N &M &C &N &N &M &C &C &C &N * &M * &M &C &N * &M &N
Exhaust &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N * &M &N &N * &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &C &M &M &N &N &V &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N * &C * &C &N &N * &M &N
Body Integrity &C &C &C &N &M &N &M &N &M &M &C &V &C &C &M &N &M * &N * &C &M &C * &C &M
Body Hardware &C &M &V &C &N &C &C &C &V &V &M &M &C &C &C &N &C * &M * &V &V &C * &B &M
Power Equip. &C &C &B &C &C &C &C &N &C &C &M &M &C &V &C &V &C * &C * &V &B &B * &V &C
Audio System &M &N &B &V &C &B &N &C &B &V &V &M &B &B &B &B &B * &B * &B &B &V * &V &V
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &C &M &C &C &N &C &V &C &V &C &C &C &C &C * &C * &C &C &M * &V &C
NEW CAR Worse than
PREDICTION Average C
& average V
& New NA Average C
&

TROUBLE Buick Buick Lucerne Buick Cadillac CTS Cadillac DTS

SPOTS LaCrosse (V6) Rendezvous (V6)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &C &N &N &C &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &C &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &V &B &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &V &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &C &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N
Drive System &M &M &N &N &M &C &M &N &N &B &B &B &V &V &V &B &B &M &M &C &M &N &N
Fuel System &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &N &M &N &C &M &V &C &C &M &M &N &V &M &M &M
Electrical &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &N &N &M &V &B &C &V &V &V &C &C &M &B &C &M &N
Climate System &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &N &N &C &C &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M
Suspension &B &B &B &V &M &V &C &N &N &B &B &B &M &C &V &V &M &M &N &V &M &M &N
Brakes &V &M &M &N &N &C &C &M &N &V &C &C &C &M &C &C &V &B &B &B &V &M &C
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &M &C &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &C &C &M &M
Body Integrity &V &M &M &C &M &M &C &M &C &C &C &V &C &C &M &V &M &V &V &M &C &M &C
Body Hardware &N &M &M &M &C &B &V &V &V &V &C &V &B &C &C &M &C &C &M &C &V &V &B
Power Equip. &C &V &C &V &M &C &V &V &C &C &C &V &B &M &M &M &C &C &V &B &B &B &B
Audio System &N &M &N &M &N &N &M &C &M &M &M &C &V &V &C &V &C &B &V &C &C &V &B
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &M &M &V &C &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &C &V &V &B &B &V &C &C &B
NEW CAR Much worse than Worse than
PREDICTION
New Average C
& Discontinued
average B
& average V
&
TROUBLE Cadillac Cadillac SRX Cadillac STS Chevrolet Chevrolet

SPOTS Escalade (V6) Avalanche 1500 Aveo
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N * &C &B &M &B &M * &N &N &B &M * &N &N &N &N &N * &B &V &M &M &N *
Engine, minor &V &M &N &N &N * &B &B &V &C &M * &N &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N * &C &C &V &V &N *
Engine Cooling &C &M &M &N &N * &C &V &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N * &B &B &M &M &C *
Trans. Major &C &M &M &N &N * &B &B &M &C &N * &N &N &N &N * &V &V &B &C &N * &C &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &N &N &M &N * &V &V &M &M &M * &N &C &M &C * &M &C &B &N &M * &B &C &C &M &N *
Drive System &B &V &C &M &N * &B &B &B &B &C * &M &B &B &M * &B &B &B &C &N * &M &M &B &N &N *
Fuel System &C &M &N &N &N * &B &B &C &V &M * &C &M &B &M * &V &V &V &C &M * &V &C &B &V &N *
Electrical &C &V &B &B &N * &B &V &C &V &M * &V &V &B &B * &M &C &M &V &M * &C &C &N &C &N *
Climate System &B &V &C &C &M * &C &M &N &M &M * &N &C &M &N * &B &V &M &M &N * &V &B &V &N &C *
Suspension &C &C &M &C &M * &V &B &C &C &M * &C &M &M &M * &B &B &V &M &M * &C &V &C &V &C *
Brakes &M &M &M &M &N * &V &C &C &B &C * &M &B &B &M * &M &N &M &V &M * &C &M &M &C &B *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N * &B &C &M &N &N * &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &M &B &M &V &C * &M &V &M &C &M * &N &M &N &M * &C &C &B &V &C * &M &B &V &C &M *
Body Integrity &M &V &V &B &V * &V &C &V &V &V * &M &M &C &V * &V &V &C &C &V * &B &B &B &V &B *
Body Hardware &M &C &M &B &B * &V &B &B &B &C * &M &C &M &V * &V &C &V &V &B * &C &C &B &C &C *
Power Equip. &V &B &C &B &B * &B &B &B &V &V * &B &M &V &B * &C &M &C &V &V * &V &V &V &C &B *
Audio System &B &B &B &B &C * &B &B &V &V &C * &B &V &B &V * &C &M &C &V &C * &C &V &V &M &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &V &C &V &C * &B &B &V &B &B * &M &C &B &B * &V &V &B &V &C * &B &V &V &C &B *
NEW CAR Worse than Much worse than Worse than Much worse than
New
PREDICTION average V
& average B
& average V
& average B
&

TROUBLE Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet HHR

SPOTS Cobalt Sedan Colorado (4WD) Corvette Equinox
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &M &N &N &V &C &V &M &N * &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &C &N &N &V &M &M &N &M * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &C &M * &M &B &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M * &B &V &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &B &V &N &N &C &N &N &N &M &N * &N &N &M &V &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &V &N &N &M
Drive System &V &C &N &N &N &B &B &V &B &C * &N &M &V &B &N &N &B &V &B &M &M &V &C &N &N
Fuel System &C &B &M &N &M &B &B &B &B &M * &M &C &B &C &N &M &C &B &V &V &N &M &C &N &N
Electrical &V &N &C &C &M &V &M &V &B &C * &M &C &C &B &M &C &C &B &B &M &N &B &M &M &V
Climate System &V &M &C &N &N &B &B &V &N &C * &N &N &N &N &M &N &B &B &M &M &C &V &M &N &N
Suspension &B &B &B &C &M &C &M &C &V &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &C &V &N &N &B &B &M &N
Brakes &V &B &C &C &M &B &V &M &B &B * &N &N &C &N &N &N &B &V &C &N &C &B &B &B &V
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &M &N * &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &C &C &N &M &B &C &N &V &B * &M &N &C &M &N &N &V &C &M &C &N &V &M &C &M
Body Integrity &B &B &B &B &V &B &V &V &B &B * &M &V &B &C &V &V &B &B &B &V &C &B &V &C &M
Body Hardware &V &C &C &B &V &V &V &V &B &B * &C &M &B &M &C &B &M &C &C &M &N &C &V &M &V
Power Equip. &V &C &C &V &M &B &C &V &B &B * &M &C &C &C &C &C &C &V &B &V &M &B &C &V &V
Audio System &V &C &M &M &N &B &C &V &M &C * &M &V &V &M &M &V &V &C &V &V &N &C &M &C &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &V &C &C &B &B &C &V &B &B * &M &C &C &C &C &B &V &V &B &C &C &B &V &C &V
NEW CAR Worse than Much worse than Worse than
& average B
& average V
& New Average C
&
TROUBLE Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet

SPOTS Impala (V6) Malibu (V6) Malibu (4-cyl.) Monte Carlo Silverado 1500
(V8, 4WD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &C &M &C &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &V * &M &C &M &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &B &V &V &N &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &B &C &M * &C &C &M &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &C * &M &M &M &M &N &N
Trans. Minor &V &V &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &M &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &M &B &M * &C &M &M &M &N &N
Drive System &C &V &C &M &N &N &C &C &V &N &N &N &C &V &B &M &N &N &M &V &V * &B &B &B &V &N &N
Fuel System &C &C &C &M &M &N &B &C &M &C &M &N &V &V &C &M &M &N &V &B &C * &C &C &V &M &M &M
Electrical &C &M &V &M &M &N &V &V &C &M &N &N &B &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &B * &M &N &M &C &M &N
Climate System &C &V &C &C &M &M &M &M &C &C &M &N &C &V &C &N &M &N &C &C &B * &C &V &C &M &N &N
Suspension &V &B &B &B &C &N &B &B &B &B &M &N &B &B &B &B &M &N &C &B &B * &B &B &B &M &M &N
Brakes &B &B &C &V &C &M &B &B &B &B &C &N &B &B &V &V &C &M &V &V &C * &V &V &B &V &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &M &N &N &N &B &M &N &M &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &B &C &N &N &M &M &V &N &M &N &M &M &M &C &M &N &B &B &C * &C &M &V &M &M &N
Body Integrity &C &C &V &C &C &M &C &V &B &V &M &N &V &C &B &V &M &N &M &C &C * &C &V &V &C &V &C
Body Hardware &M &M &C &C &M &N &V &C &M &C &M &M &M &M &C &C &M &M &C &C &C * &M &M &C &V &C &N
Power Equip. &V &V &B &B &C &C &B &B &C &V &M &M &V &C &C &C &M &M &B &B &B * &C &C &C &C &C &M
Audio System &M &C &M &M &M &N &V &C &M &V &M &M &C &N &C &N &N &M &M &C &V * &C &C &C &M &N &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &V &B &V &C &C &V &C &V &V &M &M &C &C &V &C &M &C &C &B &B * &C &B &B &C &C &M
NEW CAR Better than
& average M& Average C
& Discontinued Average C
&

TROUBLE Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet

SPOTS Suburban 1500 Tahoe TrailBlazer Traverse (AWD) Uplander
(6-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &M &C &C &C &M &N * & N &N &N &C &N
Engine Cooling &M &C &N &N &N &N &C &C &M &N &N &N &B &V &M &N &N * & N &N &N &C &N
Trans. Major &M &V &M &M &N &N &M &C &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &N &N * & N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &M &M &C &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &N * & C &C &C &M &N
Drive System &B &B &B &C &M &M &V &B &B &C &M &N &V &C &V &C &M * & N &B &B &B &M
Fuel System &C &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &C &M &M &M &B &B &B &V &M * & N &V &V &V &N
Electrical &M &C &C &V &M &N &M &M &M &B &M &N &C &V &V &M &M * & N &B &B &B &M
Climate System &B &B &V &C &N &M &B &B &C &C &N &N &V &V &V &M &M * & N &V &C &C &M
Suspension &V &B &V &M &N &N &V &V &C &M &M &N &C &C &M &M &N * & N &B &B &B &M
Brakes &M &M &M &V &N &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &C &M &M &M &M * & N &B &B &B &B
Exhaust &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * & N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &C &V &C &C &M &M &M &V &M &N &M &C &V &C &M * & N &B &B &B &V
Body Integrity &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &V &V &V &C &C * & N &B &B &B &V
Body Hardware &C &C &C &B &B &B &C &C &M &B &B &M &C &C &V &B &V * & M &B &B &B &B
Power Equip. &V &B &V &V &V &V &B &V &V &B &C &V &B &V &C &B &C * & N &B &B &B &B
Audio System &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &B &V &M &M &C &V &M &C &M * & M &B &B &C &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &B &V &V &C &B &C &V &C &V &C &V &C &V &V &C &C * & C &B &B &B &V
& average V
& Average C
& Average C
& Discontinued
TROUBLE Chrysler Chrysler PT Chrysler Chrysler Town Chrysler 300

SPOTS Pacifica Cruiser Sebring Sedan & Country (V8)
(non-turbo) (extended)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &M &N &N &C &V &M &C &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &B &V &C &C &N &B &B &V &C &M * &B &C &M &C &N * &B &C &C &N &N &N &M &M &C &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &B &C &M &M &N * &C &C &N &B &M * &B &B &C &N &N &N &M &M &C &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &M &V &N &N &M &N &C &N * &M &N &C &M &N * &M &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &M &N *
Trans. Minor &V &M &C &B &V &V &N &M &C &M * &B &C &C &B &N * &V &M &M &C &C &N &B &B &B &M *
Drive System &B &B &C &B &C &B &B &C &C &N * &C &B &M &C &N * &V &V &C &N &M &N &C &C &M &N *
Fuel System &B &C &C &M &N &B &B &B &B &N * &V &V &B &B &V * &B &B &C &M &M &N &C &M &V &N *
Electrical &B &M &M &C &M &V &C &C &M &N * &C &M &M &V &N * &B &V &C &M &M &N &C &M &M &M *
Climate System &V &C &V &V &M &B &B &V &V &N * &B &B &V &C &N * &V &B &B &V &B &C &M &C &N &M *
Suspension &B &V &V &B &M &B &B &V &M &M * &B &B &M &V &M * &B &B &B &B &C &M &B &B &C &N *
Brakes &C &B &V &V &C &B &C &V &C &N * &V &B &B &B &B * &B &B &B &B &B &M &C &C &V &M *
Exhaust &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &C &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &M &N * &V &V &M &M &N * &V &C &C &C &M &N &M &C &M &C *
Body Integrity &V &C &M &V &C &C &C &M &M &C * &V &V &M &B &M * &V &V &V &B &V &C &V &C &M &M *
Body Hardware &C &C &C &C &M &N &C &C &M &C * &M &C &N &B &M * &B &B &B &B &B &V &V &C &C &V *
Power Equip. &V &M &M &C &M &M &M &C &C &C * &M &C &C &B &V * &V &B &V &C &B &V &C &C &C &C *
Audio System &C &C &M &C &M &C &N &M &N &N * &C &N &N &C &B * &M &C &M &C &B &C &B &B &V &B *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &C &C &B &C &B &V &V &V &M * &V &B &C &B &V * &B &B &B &B &B &B &C &C &V &C *
NEW CAR Much worse than Much worse than Worse than
PREDICTION
Discontinued Average C
& average B
& average B
& average V
&

TROUBLE Dodge Avenger Dodge Caliber Dodge Dodge Charger Dodge Dakota
SPOTS Challenger (V6) (4WD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N * &N &N * * &N &M &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &N * &N &N * * &N &N &M &N * &M &M &M &C &N *
Engine Cooling &N * &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &C &N &M &M &M *
Trans. Major &N * &N &N * * &N &N &N &M * &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M * &M &N * * &N &B &B &V * &C &B &B &B &M *
Drive System &M * &M &N * * &N &V &N &M * &B &B &B &B &M *
Fuel System &N * &C &N * * &N &C &V &M * &V &B &V &M &M *
Electrical &C * &M &M * * &N &N &N &M * &M &M &C &M &M *
Climate System &N * &M &M * * &N &B &B &C * &V &M &M &M &N *
Suspension &C * &B &M * * &N &B &B &M * &B &B &B &B &B *
Brakes &V * &B &C * * &N &B &M &B * &B &B &V &B &M *
Exhaust &N * &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C * &C &M * * &C &M &M &N * &C &C &C &M &N *
Body Integrity &V * &B &C * * &M &V &M &M * &C &V &B &V &M *
Body Hardware &C * &C &N * * &M &V &M &C * &M &M &C &C &N *
Power Equip. &B * &C &C * * &M &C &M &V * &M &C &M &C &C *
Audio System &B * &C &N * * &C &N &N &V * &N &M &M &N &N *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &B * &C &M * * &C &V &C &V * &C &B &B &B &C *
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
& average V
&
TROUBLE Dodge Dodge Grand Dodge Nitro Dodge Ram Ford Crown
SPOTS Durango Caravan 1500 (4WD) Victoria
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &C &M &N &M &N * &B &C &C &N &N &N &N &M * &C &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &C &N &N &N &N * &B &B &C &N &N &N &N &N * &V &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &C &C &M &N * &V &M &M &C &C &N &C &C * &M &C &C &M &M &N &M &N &M &N &N
Drive System &C &V &C &M &N * &V &V &C &N &M &N &C &N * &B &B &B &B &C &N &N &M &N &N &N
Fuel System &C &B &B &M &C * &B &B &C &M &M &N &C &M * &B &V &B &B &M &N &M &M &C &C &M
Electrical &V &M &V &V &N * &B &V &C &M &M &N &C &N * &M &N &M &V &M &N &M &M &M &V &N
Climate System &C &B &M &V &N * &V &B &B &V &B &C &C &C * &C &N &B &N &N &N &B &V &B &V &V
Suspension &C &M &N &C &N * &B &B &B &B &C &M &M &M * &B &V &B &B &B &N &M &N &N &M &N
Brakes &V &C &V &V &N * &B &B &B &B &B &M &V &V * &V &C &V &V &M &N &N &M &M &N &M
Exhaust &C &M &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &B &V &V &N &C * &V &C &C &C &M &N &B &C * &C &C &C &V &M &M &C &V &C &B &N
Body Integrity &V &B &C &C &M * &V &V &V &B &V &C &V &V * &C &C &C &V &C &C &C &C &C &V &V
Body Hardware &M &M &V &B &V * &B &B &B &B &B &V &B &B * &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &V
Power Equip. &V &C &V &M &C * &V &B &V &C &B &V &B &C * &M &N &C &C &B &B &C &C &C &C &C
Audio System &B &V &C &M &B * &M &C &M &C &B &C &V &B * &C &N &M &C &M &C &M &N &N &N &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &C &M * &B &B &B &B &B &B &B &V * &V &C &B &V &V &C &M &M &M &C &C
NEW CAR Much worse than Much worse than
& average B
& average B
& Average C
& Discontinued

TROUBLE Ford Edge Ford Escape Ford Expedition Ford Explorer Ford Explorer
SPOTS (AWD) (V6, AWD) (4WD) Sport Trac (4WD) (4WD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &C &M &N &V &M &N &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &M * &C &M &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N * &M &N &B &N &N *
Trans. Major &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &N &N &V &M &M &N &N * &N &N &M &N * &V &M &M &N &N *
Trans. Minor &B &C &N &N &N &N &M &V &C &M &M &N &C &C * &C &M &B &M * &B &M &B &B &C *
Drive System &B &B &N &C &V &M &C &N &M &B &C &V &M &M * &B &V &V &N * &B &B &B &C &M *
Fuel System &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &C &C &N &N * &M &M &C &N * &M &C &M &M &N *
Electrical &M &M &N &V &M &M &C &M &N &C &C &V &N &M * &M &C &N &N * &C &M &M &M &N *
Climate System &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &B &V &B &V &M * &N &N &M &N * &B &V &C &M &M *
Suspension &M &N &N &V &C &C &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N * &B &B &M &N * &V &C &N &M &N *
Brakes &V &C &N &V &V &V &B &M &N &C &M &M &M &N * &B &B &M &V * &V &C &C &M &C *
Exhaust &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &M &N &M &C &M &M &M &N &B &B &B &C &C * &C &B &N &M * &B &C &C &M &M *
Body Integrity &C &M &M &V &C &C &V &C &C &C &B &B &M &M * &C &B &C &N * &C &C &C &M &M *
Body Hardware &C &C &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &V &V &B &V * &C &V &M &C * &V &C &V &C &C *
Power Equip. &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &V &C &C &M * &M &B &M &M * &V &V &V &C &C *
Audio System &M &C &M &M &N &N &M &N &M &V &V &V &V &B * &N &M &M &C * &C &M &M &M &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &V &M &M &C &M &C &C &B &C &C &V &C &C * &C &V &V &C * &B &C &B &C &C *
NEW CAR
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
&
TROUBLE Ford Five Ford Flex Ford Focus Ford Freestar Ford Freestyle,
SPOTS Hundred, Taurus Sedan Taurus X
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &N &N &N &N & N &C &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N & N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N & N &C &N &N &N &N &N &B &V &N &N &M &N &M &N &N
Trans. Minor &C &N &N &M &N & N &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &N &M &C &N
Drive System &M &M &M &M &N & N &M &M &M &N &N &N &V &V &C &M &C &M &C &M &N
Fuel System &M &M &M &N &N & N &C &M &M &N &N &N &C &M &C &M &C &C &M &N &M
Electrical &M &M &M &N &M & N &B &V &C &M &N &N &V &N &M &C &C &M &M &N &N
Climate System &C &M &M &M &N & N &M &M &M &M &N &N &B &C &M &B &C &C &M &N &N
Suspension &C &V &M &V &N & N &C &C &C &M &M &N &C &M &N &M &V &C &C &V &N
Brakes &B &B &B &M &N & C &V &V &C &M &M &N &B &B &V &C &B &B &B &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &V &V &M &M & M &C &C &M &M &M &N &C &M &N &N &C &M &M &M &N
Body Integrity &C &C &M &C &M & M &C &C &V &C &M &M &C &C &C &M &M &M &C &M &N
Body Hardware &M &M &M &C &N & V &C &C &C &C &M &M &B &V &C &M &C &M &M &C &N
Power Equip. &M &M &M &C &N & M &M &M &M &M &M &N &B &B &V &V &M &M &C &C &M
Audio System &M &M &C &N &M & C &C &C &C &M &M &N &B &C &V &M &M &M &M &M &C
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &C &M & C &C &M &M &M &M &N &V &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &C
NEW CAR Better than
& Average C
& average M& Discontinued Average C
&

TROUBLE Ford Fusion Ford F-150 Ford Mustang Ford Ranger GMC Acadia
SPOTS (V6, FWD) (V8, 4WD) (V8) (4WD) (AWD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &M &M * &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &C &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &M &N &N &C &M &M &M &C &M &C &N &M &N &M &N &C &C &M &C &M * &C &V &M
Drive System &N &N &N &N &B &B &B &V &M &N &M &N &C &M &N &V &B &B &B &B &C * &V &M &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &B &V &N &N &M &N &C &C &M &N * &M &M &N
Electrical &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &C &B &C &N &N &C &M &N &C &N * &M &C &N
Climate System &V &C &M &N &M &M &V &C &B &N &M &M &C &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &M * &B &N &N
Suspension &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &C &M &N &M &C &V &V &N &C * &B &M &M
Brakes &M &M &M &M &V &B &V &C &M &M &N &C &M &M &N &C &B &B &B &C &M * &N &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &C &N &N &N * &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &N &N &N &C &C &C &C &M &M &V &M &C &C &M &N &M &V &N &M &N * &C &N &N
Body Integrity &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &C &M &C &V &B &C &M &M &M &M &M &C &B * &B &B &V
Body Hardware &V &M &M &N &C &C &C &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &C &M * &B &B &M
Power Equip. &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &N &N &C &M &N &M &N &M &M * &B &V &C
Audio System &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &C &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M * &B &V &C
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &N &N &N &C &C &C &C &C &C &N &M &C &M &M &B &M &V &C &C &V * &B &V &C
NEW CAR Much better than Worse than
PREDICTION average N
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
& average V
&
TROUBLE GMC Canyon GMC Envoy GMC Sierra 1500 GMC Yukon GMC Yukon XL
SPOTS (2WD) (V8) (V8, 2WD) 1500
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &M &B &N &N * &M &C &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &M &M &M &N * &C &M &C &M &M * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &M &N &N * &V &C &M &N &N * &V &C &M &N &N &N &C &C &M &N &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &M &M &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &C &N &M &N &M &M &V &M &M &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &N &M &N &N * &C &N &M &M &C * &M &C &C &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &N &N
Drive System &M &M &V &M &N * &V &B &B &B &V * &M &V &V &M &C &N &V &B &B &C &M &N &B &B &B &C &M &M
Fuel System &B &B &B &V &C * &V &B &B &C &N * &M &M &V &M &M &N &C &C &C &M &M &M &C &C &C &C &M &M
Electrical &M &M &V &C &B * &V &B &B &B &N * &M &N &M &V &N &N &M &M &M &B &M &N &M &C &C &V &M &N
Climate System &B &B &B &V &M * &B &V &V &M &C * &B &B &V &M &N &N &B &B &C &C &N &N &B &B &V &C &N &M
Suspension &C &C &V &M &C * &C &C &C &B &M * &B &B &B &V &N &N &V &V &C &M &M &N &V &B &V &M &N &N
Brakes &C &C &B &B &B * &C &M &M &N &C * &N &V &V &C &C &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &M &M &V &N &N
Exhaust &C &N &M &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &M &C &V * &M &V &B &V &V * &M &C &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &V &M &N &M &M &C &V &C &C
Body Integrity &B &B &V &C &B * &C &V &B &C &V * &C &B &C &C &V &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &C &C &C &C &C &C
Body Hardware &V &M &C &C &B * &B &C &M &B &B * &N &M &C &C &V &M &C &C &M &B &B &M &C &C &C &B &B &B
Power Equip. &B &C &V &V &V * &B &V &V &V &B * &C &C &M &M &M &C &B &V &V &B &C &V &V &B &V &V &V &V
Audio System &B &C &B &M &C * &C &V &M &C &V * &C &B &B &M &M &M &C &C &B &V &M &M &C &C &C &V &C &V
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &B &C &B * &V &V &V &B &B * &C &V &V &C &C &C &C &V &C &V &C &V &C &B &V &V &C &B
NEW CAR Worse than Much worse than Worse than Much worse than
& average B
& Average C
& average V
& average B
&

TROUBLE Honda Accord Honda Accord Honda Civic Honda Civic Honda CR-V
SPOTS (V6) (4-cyl.) Hybrid Sedan
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &B &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &V &B &V &N &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &C &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &C &C &M &N &N &M &C &C &M &N &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N
Climate System &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &B &M &M &N &N &N
Suspension &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &B &C &N &N &N &C &C &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N
Brakes &C &M &M &M &B &C &C &C &C &C &B &C &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &N &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Body Integrity &M &M &C &C &V &M &M &M &M &M &C &M &C &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &N
Body Hardware &N &M &N &M &C &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &M &B &V &M &M &M &M &C &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Power Equip. &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &N
Audio System &V &M &M &M &M &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N
NEW CAR Better than Better than Much better than Much better than
& average M& average M& average N
& average N
&
TROUBLE Honda Element Honda Fit Honda Insight Honda Honda Pilot
SPOTS Odyssey
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** & N &C &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** & N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** & N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** & N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Drive System &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &N &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &N &N *** &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &M &C &N &M &N
Climate System &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &V &N
Suspension &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N *** &N &M &B &B &B &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N
Brakes &M &M &M &C &M &N &N &N &N *** &N &M &V &B &V &V &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &N &M &N &M &M &N &M &N &N *** &N &C &C &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Body Integrity &M &M &M &M &M &B &M &M &M *** &N &M &V &C &M &B &C &M &M &M &M &C &C
Body Hardware &M &M &M &M &M &C &N &N &N *** &N &V &V &C &C &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &M
Power Equip. &N &M &N &M &M &M &M &N &N *** &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &M
Audio System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *** &N &C &V &C &M &M &N &M &M &C &M &N &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N *** &N &M &C &M &C &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &M
NEW CAR Much better than Much better than Much better than Better than Better than
& average N
& average N
& average M& average M&

TROUBLE Honda Honda S2000 Hummer H3 Hyundai Hyundai Azera

SPOTS Ridgeline Accent
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N * * &C &M &N * &N &N * &N &N * &M &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * * &N &N &M * &N &M * &N &N * &C &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N * &N &N * &N &N * &M &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &M &N &N * &B &C * &N &N * &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &B &N * * &N &N &M * &V &N * &M &M * &N &N &N &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &B &V &C * &N &N * &N &N * &M &N &N &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &B &M * * &M &V &V * &C &C * &C &V * &C &M &N &N
Electrical &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &B &M &M * &C &C * &B &M * &B &C &M &N
Climate System &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &M &N &N * &N &M * &N &N * &C &M &N &N
Suspension &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M * * &M &C &N * &C &M * &C &N * &M &V &N &N
Brakes &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N * * &C &C &M * &N &C * &N &N * &N &N &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &M &M &N * &M &M * &N &N * &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &N * * &M &V &N * &B &B * &C &N * &C &C &M &N
Body Integrity &M &M &C &M &N &N &C &V * * &V &M &B * &C &C * &C &M * &M &M &N &N
Body Hardware &M &M &C &C &N &C &M &N * * &C &M &B * &M &M * &N &N * &B &M &C &M
Power Equip. &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &V &B &V * &N &M * &N &M * &C &M &C &N
Audio System &M &M &N &N &N &C &M &N * * &C &M &B * &N &C * &N &N * &M &M &M &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * * &B &C &B * &M &C * &M &M * &C &M &M &N
NEW CAR Much better than Much better than Worse than Better than Better than
& average N
& average V
TROUBLE Hyundai Hyundai Hyundai Hyundai Hyundai

SPOTS Elantra Santa Fe (V6) Sonata (V6) Sonata (4-cyl.) Tucson
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &B &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &M &M &M &N &N &N &C &C &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &B &B &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N *
Engine Cooling &C &C &M &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Major &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &V &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N *
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N *
Fuel System &C &C &M &M &B &M &V &C &C &V &N &N &M &M &C &C &N &N &C &V &C &M &N &N &V &C &C &C *
Electrical &M &M &V &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &C &V &N &N *
Climate System &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &V &M &N &N &N &B &C &M &N &N &M &C &M &N &N &N &M &V &M &N *
Suspension &M &M &M &C &N &N &M &M &N &C &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &N *
Brakes &V &C &V &M &N &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &C &C &C &B &C &N &M &M &N &M *
Exhaust &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &B &V &M &M &M &N &B &V &B &C &M &N &B &B &C &C &M &N &B &B &C &C &M &N &C &V &N &N *
Body Integrity &M &M &C &M &M &N &C &M &M &C &C &C &M &M &M &C &M &C &M &C &M &C &M &M &C &M &M &M *
Body Hardware &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &C &M &N &M &M &V &V &C &N &V &M &C &V &C &N &M &M &M &M *
Power Equip. &C &M &M &M &M &N &C &V &V &C &M &N &M &V &V &C &C &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &M &C &N &M *
Audio System &V &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &C &N &M &M &M &N &M &B &B &C &N &N &M &M &V &V &M &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &N &M &N &M &C &C &C &M &N &N &M &C &M &M &C &C &C &M &M &M &M &M &C &N &M *
NEW CAR Much better than Better than
Discontinued New New
& average M&

TROUBLE Hyundai Infiniti FX35 Infiniti G Infiniti M35 Infiniti QX56

SPOTS Veracruz Sedan (RWD) (RWD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Engine, minor &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Trans. Major &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Trans. Minor &V &M * &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Drive System &C &N * &M &M &C &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Fuel System &B &V * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &M * &N *
Electrical &V &M * &C &N &M &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N * * * &C * &N *
Climate System &N &N * &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &N * * * &B * &N *
Suspension &B &N * &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N * * * &N * &N *
Brakes &M &M * &V &B &B &V &M &N &B &C &M &C &M &N &M &M &N * * * &V * &M *
Exhaust &N &N * &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * * &N * &N *
Paint/Trim &N &N * &M &C &M &M &M &N &C &N &M &M &N &M &N &M &N * * * &V * &B *
Body Integrity &M &C * &N &C &M &M &C &M &C &C &C &C &C &C &M &C &M * * * &C * &M *
Body Hardware &C &C * &V &C &C &M &N &V &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &N * * * &V * &V *
Power Equip. &B &C * &C &C &V &M &M &C &M &C &M &M &M &N &M &M &N * * * &B * &M *
Audio System &C &B * &B &V &B &V &C &V &B &M &M &C &C &B &V &B &V * * * &B * &B *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &C * &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &N &N &N * * * &C * &C *
NEW CAR Better than Better than
& average M& average M& New New
TROUBLE Jaguar Jeep Jeep Compass Jeep Grand Jeep Liberty

SPOTS S-Type, XF Commander Cherokee (V8)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major * &M * * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Engine, minor * &M * * * &N &C &N &M * &N &N * &C &C &N &M &M &N &C &M &N &M &N &N
Engine Cooling * &B * * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N * &C &M &M &M &N &N &V &M &N &M &N &N
Trans. Major * &N * * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N * &N &C &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &C &N &N
Trans. Minor * &B * * * &N &B &B &M * &N &N * &V &B &B &M &N &N &C &M &M &M &C &M
Drive System * &C * * * &N &B &C &M * &B &M * &B &B &B &B &M &N &V &V &B &M &M &N
Fuel System * &B * * * &C &M &V &M * &V &N * &C &V &M &C &N &N &C &C &C &M &N &N
Electrical * &N * * * &M &V &C &V * &C &N * &C &B &B &C &M &N &C &M &C &N &M &M
Climate System * &B * * * &N &B &B &M * &N &N * &B &B &C &C &M &M &C &V &B &V &M &N
Suspension * &N * * * &N &M &M &N * &B &M * &C &C &M &C &N &N &C &C &M &N &N &N
Brakes * &C * * * &N &B &V &C * &V &V * &B &C &B &C &C &N &V &V &B &B &M &N
Exhaust * &N * * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N * &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim * &V * * * &N &V &M &M * &B &N * &C &M &C &M &M &N &C &M &C &C &M &M
Body Integrity * &C * * * &V &B &B &V * &V &V * &C &V &C &C &C &N &M &C &V &B &B &B
Body Hardware * &N * * * &B &V &B &B * &M &C * &B &V &V &B &M &M &C &C &B &B &B &V
Power Equip. * &C * * * &B &B &B &B * &C &C * &C &V &B &B &B &V &C &M &B &V &V &M
Audio System * &N * * * &B &B &C &B * &M &N * &C &B &V &B &B &B &M &C &M &N &B &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS * &V * * * &B &B &V &B * &V &C * &V &B &V &V &B &C &C &C &B &B &V &V
NEW CAR Much worse than Much worse than Worse than
& average B
& Average C
& New
average V
&

TROUBLE Jeep Patriot Jeep Wrangler Kia Optima Kia Rondo Kia Sedona
SPOTS (2-door)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &B * &N &M &N * &N &N * &V &C &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &N &N &N &C &C &M &M &N &N &B * &N &M &N * &C &N * &B &V &B &C &C *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &C &C &C &C &N &N &M * &M &N &N * &N &N * &B &V &N &N &N *
Trans. Major &C &N &N &M &C &N &V &N &N &M * &N &N &N * &N &N * &M &C &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &C &C &V &C &N &N &B * &N &N &C * &N &N * &V &M &N &N &N *
Drive System &M &N &N &B &B &B &C &C &M &M * &M &M &N * &N &N * &B &B &V &N &N *
Fuel System &N &M &N &M &C &C &M &C &N &C * &B &C &M * &V &C * &V &V &B &B &C *
Electrical &N &M &N &M &M &V &B &M &N &V * &N &N &N * &M &N * &V &C &B &V &B *
Climate System &N &M &N &B &B &B &N &M &N &M * &C &C &N * &C &M * &B &B &B &B &M *
Suspension &C &N &N &V &V &B &M &M &N &C * &V &C &N * &C &C * &B &V &B &B &N *
Brakes &N &C &N &M &C &V &V &M &N &C * &V &M &C * &M &M * &B &B &B &V &V *
Exhaust &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &M &N &C &B &B &V &V &N &B * &B &M &C * &N &M * &B &B &V &C &M *
Body Integrity &V &V &V &M &C &B &B &B &B &C * &C &C &M * &M &C * &V &C &B &B &C *
Body Hardware &V &C &C &N &M &C &B &B &B &C * &C &M &C * &C &M * &C &B &B &B &B *
Power Equip. &C &M &N &N &M &N &M &C &M &B * &B &C &M * &M &M * &V &V &B &B &C *
Audio System &V &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &C &V * &C &N &M * &M &N * &C &V &M &N &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &M &M &C &V &B &B &B &B &V * &C &M &M * &M &M * &B &B &B &B &V *
NEW CAR Better than Much worse than Better than Better than Worse than
PREDICTION average M& average B
& average M& average M& average V
&
TROUBLE Kia Sorento Kia Spectra Kia Sportage Land Rover Lexus ES
SPOTS LR3
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &B &M &M &N &N * * &C &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N * &N &N * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &B &C &N &M &N * * &M &N &N &N * &V &M &N &N * &M &C * * * &N &N &N &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &B &M &N &N &N * * &M &M &N &N * &M &N &N &N * &M &C * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &M &N &M &N * * &M &M &N &N * &N &N &N &N * &N &N * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &C &M &N &N * * &M &C &M &N * &M &N &N &M * &M &N * * * &M &V &M &M &N &N
Drive System &C &C &C &B &M * * &N &M &N &N * &C &N &M &N * &B &C * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &B &B &B &B &V * * &B &V &V &C * &B &M &N &M * &B &V * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &C &C &C &N &N * * &C &N &M &M * &C &N &M &N * &C &B * * * &M &M &M &N &N &N
Climate System &M &B &B &B &V * * &B &V &N &M * &B &M &C &N * &V &V * * * &M &N &N &N &N &N
Suspension &M &M &M &C &M * * &C &C &M &N * &M &N &N &N * &B &B * * * &M &N &N &N &N &N
Brakes &C &B &B &B &B * * &M &C &M &M * &C &M &N &N * &B &V * * * &N &M &N &B &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &C &N &N &N * &N &N * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &B &B &N &B &V * * &V &B &V &C * &B &C &M &N * &C &M * * * &M &M &M &M &M &N
Body Integrity &M &M &C &C &C * * &V &M &M &M * &C &N &M &M * &B &B * * * &N &N &N &C &M &N
Body Hardware &M &C &V &M &N * * &M &M &N &C * &M &N &N &N * &B &C * * * &M &C &V &M &M &N
Power Equip. &C &B &V &V &C * * &C &M &V &C * &B &V &C &C * &B &B * * * &N &N &M &M &M &M
Audio System &C &B &M &N &N * * &M &N &N &N * &N &N &M &C * &B &B * * * &M &N &N &C &C &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &B &C &B &C * * &C &C &N &M * &C &N &N &N * &B &V * * * &N &N &N &M &N &M
NEW CAR Much better than Better than
New New New
& average M&

TROUBLE Lexus GS Lexus GX Lexus IS300, Lexus LS Lexus LX

SPOTS (RWD) IS350
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &M &M * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &M &N * &N &B &M &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N * &V &C &M &B &B * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &M &N &N *
Fuel System &N &N &V &C &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &C &V &N * &N &N &N &V &N &N &N &N &N &N &M *
Electrical &C &M &M &M &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &M &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N *
Climate System &N &M &M &M &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &V &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &M *
Suspension &N &N &C &M &M * &M &C &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N * &C &M &N &M &N &N &C &N &C &N &N *
Brakes &M &N &C &B &B * &C &M &M &N &N * &M &M &B &M &M * &N &N &N &M &C &N &M &M &M &M &V *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &N &V &M &M &N * &M &M &C &N &N * &M &B &C &N &M * &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M *
Body Integrity &M &M &V &V &V * &N &M &M &N &M * &M &N &C &C &M * &N &N &N &C &C &N &M &M &N &C &M *
Body Hardware &M &C &V &C &C * &C &C &M &M &M * &C &M &M &M &N * &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &N *
Power Equip. &M &N &V &C &N * &M &M &M &M &M * &M &M &M &M &M * &C &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &N *
Audio System &N &V &C &V &M * &V &V &C &V &C * &C &C &V &C &C * &V &V &C &V &C &N &B &V &V &V &C *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &C &C &M * &M &M &N &M &V * &N &N &M &M &M * &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &M *
NEW CAR Better than Better than Much better than Better than
New
PREDICTION average M& average M& average N
& average M&
TROUBLE Lexus RX Lexus SC Lincoln MKX Lincoln MKZ, Lincoln

SPOTS (AWD) Zephyr (FWD) Navigator
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &C &M &M &N &N *
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * * &V &N * &N &N &N &N &B &M &M &N &N *
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &C &C * &M &M &N &N &M &C &C &M &N *
Drive System &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &B &B * &N &N &N &N &C &M &C &N &N *
Fuel System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &V &V &M &N &N *
Electrical &N &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &C &N * * &M &M * &M &C &N &N &B &V &B &C &N *
Climate System &M &N &M &C &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &M &N * &V &V &N &N &V &B &V &V &M *
Suspension &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * * &C &N * &M &M &N &M &V &V &V &C &N *
Brakes &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N * * &V &V * &M &M &N &N &V &M &M &M &V *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &C &C &M &N &N &N &V &M &M * * &M &M * &C &M &N &N &B &V &C &B &N *
Body Integrity &C &C &V &V &C &M &M &V &M &N * * &V &C * &C &M &N &M &B &C &C &C &M *
Body Hardware &M &M &M &M &M &N &C &M &N &N * * &N &V * &C &N &M &N &B &B &B &B &V *
Power Equip. &M &M &M &C &M &N &M &N &N &N * * &C &C * &N &N &M &N &B &B &C &C &V *
Audio System &C &M &C &V &M &M &V &M &M &V * * &C &V * &M &N &M &M &B &B &B &B &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * * &V &B * &N &N &N &N &V &C &V &C &M *
NEW CAR Much better than Much better than Worse than Much better than
& average N
& average V
& average N
& Average C
&

TROUBLE Lincoln Mazda B-Series Mazda CX-7 Mazda CX-9 Mazda MPV
SPOTS Town Car (2WD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N * &M &M &M &M &N &N &V &N * &N &N &N &B &C &C
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &C &N &M
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &N * &C &N &V &N &M &N &M &M * &N &N &N &B &M &N
Drive System &N &N &M &N &N * &M &C &N &N &N &M &C &M * &C &M &N &M &M &N
Fuel System &M &N &M &M &N * &M &V &C &V &N &N &B &V * &N &N &N &V &C &C
Electrical &M &M &C &N &M * &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &N * &N &N &N &B &B &C
Climate System &V &B &B &B &M * &M &N &M &M &N &N &V &V * &M &M &N &M &N &M
Suspension &M &N &N &M &N * &M &V &N &M &M &N &C &N * &C &N &N &M &N &N
Brakes &C &M &M &M &N * &C &C &M &M &C &N &M &C * &C &C &M &C &V &V
Exhaust &M &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * &N &N &N &C &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &V &V &M &N * &M &M &M &C &M &N &C &M * &C &C &N &C &C &M
Body Integrity &C &V &C &C &V * &C &C &C &M &B &B &C &N * &M &M &M &M &M &N
Body Hardware &V &B &B &C &V * &M &N &N &M &M &N &M &N * &C &C &C &C &M &N
Power Equip. &M &M &V &C &V * &N &M &N &M &N &N &C &M * &C &C &C &M &N &N
Audio System &C &M &N &N &M * &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &C * &C &C &V &M &C &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &M &C &M &M * &M &M &M &M &M &C &V &C * &M &C &C &C &M &N
NEW CAR Better than Better than Worse than
PREDICTION average M& average M& average V
& Average C
& Discontinued
TROUBLE Mazda MX-5 Mazda RX-8 Mazda Tribute Mazda3 Sedan Mazda5
SPOTS Miata (4-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &M &N &N * &B &B * * * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &C &N &N &N * &B &B * * * * &C &M &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N * &V &M * * * * &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N * &M &V * * * * &M &M &M &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &N &C &M &N * &C &N * * * * &C &C &N &N &M &C &C &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Drive System &B &N &N &N &N * &N &N * * * * &C &C &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &C &N &N
Fuel System &M &M &C &V &N * &B &B * * * * &M &M &N &N &N &V &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &C &C
Electrical &N &B &M &N &N * &B &B * * * * &B &C &M &N &N &M &M &C &N &N &N &V &M &N &N
Climate System &N &N &M &C &N * &B &B * * * * &M &N &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &N
Suspension &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N * * * * &C &C &V &N &N &C &M &N &C &M &N &B &B &B &N
Brakes &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M * * * * &V &V &C &M &N &C &C &C &M &C &N &V &B &V &N
Exhaust &M &M &N &N &N * &B &N * * * * &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &N &N &C &N &M * &C &B * * * * &C &M &C &M &N &B &C &M &M &M &N &V &C &M &N
Body Integrity &B &M &B &B &B * &C &V * * * * &C &C &V &V &C &M &M &M &M &M &N &B &V &V &N
Body Hardware &N &N &C &V &C * &M &M * * * * &M &M &C &C &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &B &M &M &C
Power Equip. &N &N &M &N &N * &C &V * * * * &C &M &C &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &M &C &N &M &N
Audio System &C &M &V &V &C * &M &M * * * * &M &N &C &M &N &N &N &M &C &C &N &M &M &C &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &N &M &M &M * &B &B * * * * &C &C &M &C &C &M &M &N &N &M &M &V &C &C &C
NEW CAR Better than Better than
PREDICTION average M& NA Average C
&

TROUBLE Mazda6 Sedan Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz

SPOTS (4-cyl.) C-Class CLK E-Class GL-Class (V8)
(V6, RWD) (V6, RWD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N *
Engine, minor &M &M &M &M &M &N &C &C &V &M &N &N &V &B &B &M &M * &M &N &M &M &N * &M &C *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N * &N &N *
Trans. Major &M &N &C &M &M &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &M &M &B &N &N * &N &M &C &M &N * &N &N *
Trans. Minor &C &B &N &M &M &N &V &B &N &M &N &C &V &M &M &N &M * &C &V &C &N &M * &M &N *
Drive System &N &M &M &N &M &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N * &N &N &N &M &N * &C &C *
Fuel System &M &M &V &M &M &N &M &N &M &M &C &N &M &M &N &N &V * &N &V &M &C &N * &C &N *
Electrical &C &V &M &C &M &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &V &M &M &N &N * &V &V &N &N &M * &M &B *
Climate System &N &V &N &N &M &N &B &C &M &C &M &C &V &B &B &N &M * &B &C &B &C &M * &V &V *
Suspension &N &N &N &M &M &N &V &V &M &C &N &N &M &M &N &N &N * &M &C &M &N &M * &B &B *
Brakes &C &M &B &M &M &M &M &M &V &M &M &C &M &M &M &V &M * &M &B &C &C &V * &V &V *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &N &C &N &N &N * &N &N *
Paint/Trim &M &N &N &V &M &N &B &V &N &B &M &M &C &N &C &M &C * &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N *
Body Integrity &M &C &C &M &V &C &M &N &M &C &M &C &B &C &M &N &B * &N &M &N &M &N * &M &N *
Body Hardware &N &M &M &C &M &C &B &C &M &M &V &M &B &V &B &C &V * &C &N &M &N &M * &B &B *
Power Equip. &N &M &M &M &M &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &B &C &M &N &B * &V &B &C &M &B * &B &B *
Audio System &M &M &N &N &N &M &B &C &N &C &V &C &M &B &B &B &C * &B &B &B &B &B * &B &B *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &M &C &C &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &V &C &C &V &M &C * &M &C &M &M &C * &V &B *
NEW CAR Much worse than
& Average C
& Discontinued New
average B
&
TROUBLE Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Mercury Grand

SPOTS M-Class (V6) R-Class S-Class SLK Marquis
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &N * &N * &N &N &N * * &C &B &N * * &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &V &M &C &M &M &N &C &V &N * &C * &V &C &M * * &B &V &N * * &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine Cooling &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N * &M * &M &N &N * * &M &C &N * * &M &N &N &M &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &N &N * &N * &N &N &N * * &C &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &B &B &B &M &M &N &V &M &N * &M * &B &V &N * * &C &M &N * * &M &N &M &N &N *
Drive System &C &B &B &N &N &N &B &M &C * &N * &B &N &N * * &N &N &N * * &N &M &N &N &N *
Fuel System &M &V &C &C &M &N &V &B &M * &N * &M &C &M * * &C &N &B * * &M &M &C &C &M *
Electrical &B &V &C &N &C &N &M &B &B * &V * &B &M &N * * &M &M &B * * &M &M &M &V &N *
Climate System &M &B &B &C &N &M &B &V &N * &V * &B &V &N * * &B &B &N * * &B &V &B &V &V *
Suspension &B &C &V &M &N &N &V &V &N * &B * &B &M &C * * &V &N &N * * &M &N &N &M &N *
Brakes &B &C &C &M &N &N &V &C &N * &C * &M &V &V * * &N &N &C * * &N &M &M &N &M *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C * &N &N &N * * &C &N &N * * &C &M &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &B &B &M &N &N &N &M &C &M * &M * &M &N &N * * &V &C &N * * &C &V &C &B &N *
Body Integrity &C &C &C &M &C &N &B &M &C * &C * &N &C &M * * &C &C &C * * &C &C &C &V &V *
Body Hardware &C &V &B &C &V &N &B &B &B * &C * &C &M &C * * &M &C &V * * &M &M &M &C &V *
Power Equip. &C &C &B &C &V &M &B &B &B * &B * &B &C &B * * &B &M &B * * &C &C &C &C &C *
Audio System &N &B &C &C &C &C &B &B &B * &B * &B &B &C * * &B &C &V * * &M &N &N &N &N *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &V &B &M &C &C &B &B &B * &V * &B &C &C * * &C &C &C * * &M &M &M &C &C *
NEW CAR Much worse than
& average B
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
&

TROUBLE Mercury Mercury Milan Mercury Mercury Mini Cooper

SPOTS Mariner Hybrid (4-cyl.) Montego, Sable Mountaineer Hatchback
(AWD) (2WD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &C &B &C &C &M &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &C &B &N &N * &B &B &B &B &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &B &M &M &N &N * &B &C &C &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &B &B &B &B &M * &C &M &N &M &M &N
Drive System &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &B &V &M &M &N * &M &M &V &N &N &N
Fuel System &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &C &M &M &N &C * &V &M &C &B &M &N
Electrical &M &C &V &N &N &C &N &N &M &M &M &N &M &C &V &C &M &M * &C &C &M &C &M &N
Climate System &C &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &C &M &M &M &N &B &B &C &N &C * &M &V &V &M &N &N
Suspension &C &C &N &N &M &N &N &N &C &V &M &V &N &M &M &N &M &N * &B &C &M &M &N &N
Brakes &C &B &V &N &M &M &N &N &B &B &B &M &N &V &M &C &M &N * &C &C &N &C &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &N &N &C &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &N &M &N &C &M &N &N &C &V &V &M &M &B &B &C &N &N * &N &M &C &N &M &N
Body Integrity &M &N &C &C &C &M &N &N &C &C &M &C &M &C &C &C &V &M * &B &C &C &B &C &N
Body Hardware &C &C &C &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &N &B &C &B &V &V * &B &C &M &B &B &V
Power Equip. &C &M &C &N &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &C &N &V &V &B &M &V * &C &M &C &M &V &M
Audio System &C &V &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &N &M &V &C &M &N &C * &N &N &N &C &M &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &M &N &N &N &N &C &C &C &C &M &B &C &V &M &C * &V &C &B &B &C &C
NEW CAR Better than Much better than
PREDICTION average M& average N
& Average C
& Average C
& Average C
&
TROUBLE Mini Cooper Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Nissan Altima Nissan Altima

SPOTS Hatchback S Endeavor Outlander (V6) (4-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &N &C &N &N &N &N * * * &N * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Engine, minor &C &B &B &C &M &C &C &N * * * &N * * &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &V &M &N &M &N &N
Engine Cooling &B &B &B &M &N &N &N &N * * * &N * * &N &N &N &C &N &M &N &N &N &V &M &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &C &B &B &V &N &N &N &N * * * &N * * &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &C &V &M &N &N &N &N * * * &M * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N
Drive System &C &N &M &M &N &N &C &N * * * &N * * &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &M &B &V &B &V &C &C &M * * * &N * * &M &N &N &C &N &M &M &M &N &B &C &M &N &N &N
Electrical &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &C * * * &N * * &M &C &N &C &V &C &B &M &M &B &B &C &M &M &N
Climate System &C &C &C &M &M &N &B &B * * * &M * * &M &N &N &V &V &M &N &M &N &C &M &N &N &M &N
Suspension &B &C &C &M &N &N &N &M * * * &C * * &N &M &N &M &C &M &M &N &N &M &C &M &M &N &N
Brakes &M &N &M &C &M &N &M &C * * * &V * * &M &C &M &C &C &C &B &V &N &V &C &C &B &V &N
Exhaust &C &N &N &C &C &N &N &N * * * &N * * &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &N &M &M &M &M &B &B * * * &C * * &V &M &V &N &C &C &M &M &N &V &V &M &N &M &N
Body Integrity &M &M &C &V &V &B &V &C * * * &M * * &C &N &N &C &C &C &C &V &M &C &M &M &M &C &M
Body Hardware &B &V &M &C &B &V &C &M * * * &N * * &M &V &N &M &M &M &M &V &M &M &M &M &M &C &M
Power Equip. &C &C &V &M &V &N &M &C * * * &N * * &M &M &N &N &N &N &V &V &C &M &N &N &C &C &M
Audio System &C &N &N &N &N &C &C &M * * * &N * * &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &C &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &V &B &B &V &V &M &M * * * &N * * &M &C &N &M &M &M &C &C &M &C &M &N &M &M &M
NEW CAR Worse than Better than Better than
& NA
average M& Average C
& average M&

TROUBLE Nissan Armada Nissan Nissan Maxima Nissan Murano Nissan

SPOTS Frontier (4WD) Pathfinder
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &M &M &N &N * &N &C &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &M &M &N &N &N * &M &N &C &N &N * &C &M &M &N &N &N &B &C &M &N & N &V &M &M &N &M *
Engine Cooling &C &M &N &M &N * &N &C &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N & N &N &M &N &N &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &M &N * &M &C &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N & N &N &M &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &V &N &N &N * &N &C &M &N &M * &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N *
Drive System &M &B &C &N &N * &C &B &C &M &C * &M &C &M &N &N &N &V &C &M &M &N &M &B &V &M &N *
Fuel System &M &C &C &C &C * &M &B &B &C &M * &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &V &M &N &C &B &B &B &C *
Electrical &V &B &M &M &N * &M &C &M &M &M * &C &V &C &V &N &N &C &C &C &M &N &N &M &V &C &N *
Climate System &V &B &V &C &B * &C &C &N &M &M * &V &B &V &M &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &V &C &C &C *
Suspension &M &C &V &M &C * &M &M &M &N &N * &V &C &C &C &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &C &N *
Brakes &B &B &B &B &B * &M &C &M &C &V * &V &V &B &C &C &N &C &C &V &B &N &C &C &M &C &C *
Exhaust &B &V &M &N &N * &V &M &N &N &N * &M &M &M &N &N &N &V &N &N &N &N &V &M &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &B &M &C &N * &B &V &C &V &M * &B &B &B &M &N &N &M &M &C &C &N &N &B &B &C &M *
Body Integrity &B &B &B &B &B * &V &B &M &V &V * &C &C &M &M &M &C &M &C &C &M &C &N &B &C &M &V *
Body Hardware &B &B &V &B &V * &M &V &M &M &C * &C &C &C &M &C &M &B &B &C &M &M &M &C &C &V &B *
Power Equip. &V &V &B &C &B * &M &C &C &C &C * &M &M &M &C &C &M &C &C &C &C &M &M &C &C &M &B *
Audio System &B &V &C &M &V * &M &M &N &M &N * &V &M &C &M &C &N &B &V &C &M &N &C &C &M &N &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &B &V &C &V * &M &V &C &C &C * &C &C &C &M &M &M &C &C &C &C &C &M &V &C &C &V *
NEW CAR Better than
& Average C
& Average C
&
TROUBLE Nissan Quest Nissan Rogue Nissan Sentra Nissan Titan Nissan Versa
SPOTS (4WD) Hatchback
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &M &V &N &N &N * &N &N &M &N &N * &N &N &N
Engine, minor &B &C &C &M &M * &N &N &V &C &M &N &N * &M &M &N &M &M * &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &M &N &N &N * &M &M &M &N &N * &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &C &N &M &N &C * &M &N &C &M &M &M &N * &C &M &N &N &N * &N &N &N
Drive System &M &C &V &C &N * &N &N &M &N &M &N &N * &B &B &B &C &M * &N &N &N
Fuel System &M &M &V &C &C * &M &M &B &B &C &M &N * &C &M &M &M &N * &V &B &M
Electrical &C &B &C &V &N * &N &N &B &B &C &N &M * &M &M &M &V &M * &C &M &N
Climate System &M &B &C &B &C * &N &N &M &V &M &M &N * &M &B &B &N &M * &C &C &N
Suspension &V &V &N &C &N * &N &N &M &M &M &V &M * &C &V &N &M &M * &C &M &M
Brakes &B &B &B &B &C * &N &N &C &C &V &B &B * &B &B &V &B &B * &M &C &C
Exhaust &M &C &B &N &N * &N &N &C &N &N &N &N * &B &B &M &N &N * &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &C &B &B &C &V * &N &N &V &V &V &M &M * &V &B &B &C &C * &C &C &M
Body Integrity &B &B &B &V &M * &C &C &V &C &C &M &V * &B &C &V &V &C * &V &B &C
Body Hardware &B &B &B &B &B * &M &M &M &M &M &C &C * &C &C &C &N &C * &M &M &N
Power Equip. &V &B &V &C &C * &M &M &M &M &M &C &V * &C &V &V &N &M * &B &M &M
Audio System &B &V &B &V &N * &N &N &V &V &V &N &N * &M &C &M &N &C * &M &M &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &B &B &V &V * &M &C &C &C &C &C &C * &V &B &V &C &C * &C &C &C
NEW CAR Worse than Better than
& Average C
& Average C
&

TROUBLE Nissan Xterra Nissan Z Pontiac Grand Pontiac G6 Pontiac

SPOTS Prix (V6) Solstice
(non-turbo)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &N &N &N &N * &N &M &M &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N * *
Engine, minor &B &M &C &N &N * &N &N &M &C &N * &C &V &C &N &N &M &N &C &N * &C &N * *
Engine Cooling &V &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &V &V &N &N &N &N &N &C &N * &N &C * *
Trans. Major &N &M &M &N &N * &M &C &N &N &N * &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &N * *
Trans. Minor &M &M &N &N &N * &V &M &M &V &N * &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N * &B &N * *
Drive System &M &B &C &M &M * &N &N &N &M &N * &C &V &V &M &C &C &V &C &N * &B &B * *
Fuel System &M &B &B &C &C * &N &C &N &C &N * &C &C &M &C &N &C &M &M &M * &N &C * *
Electrical &C &C &M &M &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &C &M &C &C &N &V &C &C &N * &N &N * *
Climate System &C &M &M &C &M * &N &M &N &N &N * &V &V &V &M &V &M &C &M &N * &C &N * *
Suspension &M &N &N &M &N * &V &N &M &V &M * &B &B &B &B &V &B &B &B &V * &N &C * *
Brakes &M &C &M &C &M * &C &C &M &N &C * &C &V &V &V &B &B &B &B &B * &N &M * *
Exhaust &N &M &N &M &N * &N &N &N &C &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N * &N &N * *
Paint/Trim &B &V &M &C &M * &V &M &V &M &M * &M &M &M &C &N &C &V &C &N * &N &M * *
Body Integrity &C &B &C &M &C * &C &C &M &M &N * &V &C &V &C &C &B &B &B &B * &C &B * *
Body Hardware &M &C &N &N &C * &B &V &V &V &M * &M &M &N &N &M &M &C &B &B * &M &B * *
Power Equip. &M &C &C &C &V * &M &M &M &M &M * &C &C &M &C &C &B &C &M &C * &N &C * *
Audio System &C &M &N &M &M * &V &V &M &N &M * &C &C &C &V &M &V &V &M &N * &C &N * *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &V &C &C &C * &M &C &M &C &N * &C &C &C &C &C &V &B &B &C * &B &B * *
NEW CAR Worse than Much worse than
& NA Discontinued
average V
& average B
&
TROUBLE Pontiac Vibe Porsche Porsche Porsche 911 Saab 9-3

SPOTS Boxster Cayenne
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &C * &C &N &M &N * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &M &N &N &N &N &N * &B &N &C &V * &C &N &N &M * * &N &N &B &N * &V &M &N &N &N *
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &M &B &V * &V &B &N &M * * &N &B &N &N * &C &M &B &M &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &N &N &N * &N &C &N &N * * &N &C &N &N * &M &N &M &N &N *
Trans. Minor &N &N &M &M &N &N * &N &N &N &C * &V &V &C &N * * &B &N &B &N * &B &N &N &N &N *
Drive System &N &N &M &M &N &N * &N &N &N &N * &B &V &C &N * * &N &C &N &N * &C &N &C &N &N *
Fuel System &M &M &B &V &M &N * &N &N &N &N * &M &B &B &M * * &N &N &N &N * &B &N &B &C &N *
Electrical &N &M &M &M &N &N * &N &C &N &V * &V &B &V &N * * &B &V &B &N * &V &C &B &B &N *
Climate System &C &M &M &M &M &N * &N &M &N &N * &B &V &N &M * * &N &N &N &N * &V &M &M &N &N *
Suspension &N &N &M &M &C &N * &N &M &N &N * &C &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &B &V &C &M &N *
Brakes &M &M &N &N &M &M * &N &V &N &B * &M &M &C &V * * &C &M &N &N * &V &C &C &B &N *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &B &V &V &C &M * &N &N &M &N * &N &C &N &N * * &N &N &N &N * &B &B &V &M &N *
Body Integrity &C &M &M &C &M &C * &B &M &N &M * &C &V &C &M * * &N &M &C &N * &B &C &C &M &C *
Body Hardware &C &N &M &M &N &M * &V &B &B &N * &V &M &M &N * * &N &N &C &M * &B &B &V &C &C *
Power Equip. &M &N &M &M &M &M * &N &N &N &V * &B &B &C &C * * &N &B &V &N * &B &B &V &V &V *
Audio System &M &M &M &N &N &N * &M &C &N &N * &B &B &B &M * * &N &B &N &M * &B &B &B &C &C *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &M &M &M &M * &V &M &C &B * &V &V &C &C * * &M &C &M &N * &B &C &B &C &M *
NEW CAR Better than Worse than Much better than
PREDICTION average M& average V
& Average C
& average N
& Average C
&

TROUBLE Saab 9-5 Saturn Outlook Saturn Vue Scion tC Scion xA, xD
SPOTS (FWD) (V6)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &V &N &N * * &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &B &C &N &C * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &C &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &B &B &M &N * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &M &N &N * * &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &M &C &M &N * * &V &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N
Drive System &M &M &C &C * * &M &M &N &V &B &B &V &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N
Fuel System &B &C &M &M * * &M &M &N &M &C &N &M &C &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &C &B &N &N
Electrical &B &B &V &B * * &M &M &N &M &N &C &C &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N
Climate System &B &B &C &N * * &V &M &N &C &M &M &M &B &V &N &M &N &N &N &M &C &C &N &N
Suspension &N &V &C &M * * &B &C &N &B &V &V &B &C &N &N &N &C &N &M &M &M &N &N &N
Brakes &M &M &N &N * * &N &N &N &V &B &B &C &M &N &M &M &C &N &N &M &M &N &N &N
Exhaust &M &N &M &N * * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &V &B &M &N * * &M &N &N &N &M &C &C &M &M &B &C &V &M &M &B &C &C &N &M
Body Integrity &C &C &V &C * * &B &B &C &B &B &B &B &V &M &B &B &V &C &M &M &V &M &M &M
Body Hardware &C &V &C &M * * &B &V &M &M &C &C &C &C &B &B &C &C &C &N &M &M &N &N &N
Power Equip. &B &C &V &C * * &V &C &M &C &C &M &C &B &C &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N
Audio System &N &N &B &M * * &B &C &M &M &C &V &M &V &C &M &N &M &N &N &V &N &M &N &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &V &B &C &C * * &V &V &M &C &C &V &C &B &B &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N
NEW CAR Much worse than Much better than Much better than
PREDICTION
New Average C
& average B
& average N
& average N
&
TROUBLE Scion xB Smart ForTwo Subaru B9 Subaru Forester Subaru Impreza

SPOTS Tribeca, Tribeca (non-turbo) Wagon
(non-turbo)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N &N &C &C &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &N &B &N &M &C &V * &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N
Fuel System &N &M &M &N &N &V &M &M &N &N * &M &C &M &M &M &N &C &N &M &B &N &N
Electrical &N &N &N &N &N &V &M &M &M &N * &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N
Climate System &N &M &M &N &N &M &N &C &C &M * &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &C &N &M &N
Suspension &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &C &C * &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Brakes &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &N * &C &M &M &M &M &N &C &M &M &N &M &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &C &C &N &N &N &N &V &C &M &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &B &V &C &C &M &N &N &M &M &N * &M &M &M &M &N &N &C &C &C &M &V &N
Body Integrity &C &C &C &C &B &V &C &M &C &V * &V &C &C &M &C &C &C &M &C &M &C &V
Body Hardware &V &C &M &M &M &V &C &M &M &M * &M &M &M &M &N &M &N &N &M &M &M &N
Power Equip. &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &C &V &N * &M &N &M &N &M &N &M &M &N &M &M &N
Audio System &C &M &M &N &N &M &C &C &B &M * &N &N &N &M &N &N &V &M &M &M &M &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &M &M &B &C &M &C &C * &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N
NEW CAR Better than Worse than Much better than Much better than
PREDICTION average M& average V
& Average C
& average N
& average N
&

TROUBLE Subaru Subaru Legacy Subaru Legacy/ Subaru Outback Suzuki SX4
SPOTS Impreza WRX (4-cyl.) Outback (6-cyl.) (4-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &M &C &N * &N * &B &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &B &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &C &M &C * &M * &V &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &V &M &N &N &N &N &M &N *
Engine Cooling &C &M &N * &N * &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Major &M &M &B * &C * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &C &C &N * &C * &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Drive System &M &N &N * &N * &N &C &M &C &N &N &C &B &M &M &N &N &M &B &C &M &N &N &M &N *
Fuel System &M &M &B * &N * &C &C &N &M &M &N &C &M &C &N &M &N &V &C &M &N &N &N &V &N *
Electrical &N &N &N * &N * &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &N *
Climate System &V &V &M * &V * &M &M &C &M &M &N &B &M &C &M &M &N &C &M &M &N &N &N &V &N *
Suspension &N &N &N * &C * &M &M &M &C &N &N &M &C &M &M &M &N &M &V &C &M &N &N &M &N *
Brakes &M &M &C * &C * &C &M &V &M &M &N &V &C &C &M &M &N &M &C &M &N &N &N &M &M *
Exhaust &M &N &N * &N * &B &C &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &V &C &N &N &N &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &B &M &C * &B * &N &M &C &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &C *
Body Integrity &M &N &C * &C * &C &C &V &C &C &N &M &C &C &M &C &M &M &C &M &C &M &C &M &N *
Body Hardware &N &M &M * &M * &N &M &M &C &C &M &M &M &M &M &C &N &M &C &M &M &M &N &N &N *
Power Equip. &N &N &M * &M * &M &C &M &M &C &N &N &C &C &M &C &M &M &C &M &M &M &N &C &C *
Audio System &N &N &N * &V * &M &N &N &C &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &V &C &M &N &M &M &N &C &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &N &C * &V * &C &M &M &C &C &N &C &C &M &N &C &C &C &C &M &N &N &M &M &M *
NEW CAR Worse than Better than Better than Much better than Better than
& average M& average M& average N
& average M&
TROUBLE Toyota Avalon Toyota Camry Toyota Camry Toyota Camry Toyota Camry
SPOTS Hybrid Solara (V6) (V6) (4-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &B &V &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &M &M &M &V &M &N &N &N &N &C &M &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &M &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &C &M &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Climate System &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Suspension &C &C &M &N &M &M &V &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N
Brakes &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &V &C &M &M &N &M &C &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &M &C &M &N &M &N &N &C &V &M &C &M &M &M &M &C &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &M
Body Integrity &M &M &M &M &M &M &V &C &M &C &C &M &C &C &M &M &N &B &V &V &M &M &N &C &M &M
Body Hardware &M &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &C &C &M &N &N &M &C &M &N &M &M &M &M &M
Power Equip. &N &M &M &C &M &C &N &M &N &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &M &N &C &N &N &N &N &M &M &M
Audio System &M &M &M &C &C &M &C &C &M &C &N &M &C &V &N &M &M &C &V &M &N &N &N &M &V &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &C &C &N &N &N &M &M &M
NEW CAR Better than Much better than Better than
& Discontinued Average C
& average M&

TROUBLE Toyota Corolla Toyota Echo, Toyota FJ Toyota Toyota

SPOTS Yaris Hatchback Cruiser Highlander Highlander (V6)
Hybrid
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &M &C &V &C &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &N &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N * &C &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N
Climate System &M &M &M &N &N &N &C &N &M &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N
Suspension &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N * &B &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Brakes &M &M &M &M &M &N &C &M &M &N &N &M &N * &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &C &C &C &C &N &V &C &M &M &N &V &N * &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &M &N
Body Integrity &M &C &M &M &C &M &M &C &N &M &M &N &M * &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &M
Body Hardware &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N * &N &N &C &N &N &M &N &N &M &M
Power Equip. &M &M &M &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &N
Audio System &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &M &M * &M &M &C &C &M &N &N &N &M &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N * &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &M
NEW CAR Better than Much better than Much better than Better than Better than
& average N
TROUBLE Toyota Matrix Toyota Prius Toyota RAV4 Toyota RAV4 Toyota
SPOTS (V6) (4-cyl.) Sequoia
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &N
Drive System &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &M &C &N &N
Fuel System &M &C &C &V &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N
Electrical &N &M &C &C &N &N &C &M &M &M &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &N
Climate System &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N
Suspension &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &V &M &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &N
Brakes &M &N &N &M &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &M &N &N &C &V &C &M &M
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &V &V &M &M &C &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &M &M &C &M &M &N &C &C &M &C &M
Body Integrity &C &C &M &M &C &V &N &N &M &M &M &N &C &C &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &C
Body Hardware &M &N &M &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &V &B &B &C &C
Power Equip. &N &M &M &N &N &M &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &M &M &C &B &V &C &M
Audio System &M &N &N &N &N &N &B &M &M &M &M &N &B &B &M &N &N &N &V &V &M &N &M &M &M &M &C
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &C &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &C &M &M &M
NEW CAR Better than Much better than Much better than Much better than Better than
& average N
& average N
& average M&

TROUBLE Toyota Sienna Toyota Tacoma Toyota Tundra Toyota Venza Toyota
SPOTS (FWD) (V6, 4WD) (V8, 4WD) (V6) 4Runner (V6)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Engine, minor &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M &N &M &M &N &M & N &N &M &N &N &N &N
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &M & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Drive System &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &C &M &N &N &M &M &M &V &M &N & M &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &M & N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Electrical &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Climate System &C &M &M &M &N &N &N &V &M &M &N &N &M &N &N &M &N &N & N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Suspension &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &M &M &M &M &N &M &C &M &N &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Brakes &M &M &M &M &N &N &M &N &M &C &N &N &C &M &M &N &N &N & N &C &N &N &M &N &N
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N & N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &V &M &V &C &M &M &C &C &B &C &C & N &M &M &C &C &N &N
Body Integrity &M &C &C &M &M &M &N &C &M &M &M &C &M &M &M &M &M &V & C &N &M &M &M &M &M
Body Hardware &B &B &B &C &M &M &N &N &N &N &M &N &N &M &M &M &N &M & N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Power Equip. &M &M &M &C &M &M &N &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &M &C &N &V & N &M &M &M &M &M &N
Audio System &C &M &V &B &V &M &M &C &M &N &N &B &N &M &N &V &V &C & C &N &N &M &C &V &M
USED CAR
VERDICTS &M &M &M &M &M &M &N &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N &C &M &B & C &N &N &N &N &N &N
NEW CAR Better than
PREDICTION
New
average M& Average C
& Average C
& New
TROUBLE Volkswagen CC Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen

SPOTS (4-cyl.) Eos GTI (4-cyl.) Jetta
Golf, Rabbit (4-cyl., 5-cyl.)
‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &M &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &B &M &N &N &M &N &M &N &N &N
Engine, minor & N &N &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &B &C &M &N &C &M &M &M &N &N
Engine Cooling & N &N &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &B &V &M &N &N &N
Trans. Major & N &N &M &N * * * &N &N &N * * &N &M &N &N &M &N &N &N &N &N
Trans. Minor & N &N &C &N * * * &N &N &N * * &C &N &V &C &C &V &N &M &N &N
Drive System & N &N &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &N &C &N &N &N &N &N &N &N &N
Fuel System & C &B &C &M * * * &N &M &N * * &B &B &M &N &B &V &V &C &N &M
Electrical & N &C &N &V * * * &N &N &N * * &B &M &N &N &B &C &C &N &M &N
Climate System & N &B &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &B &B &N &M &M &V &N &M &M &N
Suspension & N &N &N &N * * * &C &N &N * * &M &N &N &N &M &N &N &C &N &N
Brakes & N &C &B &N * * * &N &N &N * * &M &M &N &M &M &M &M &B &M &C
Exhaust & N &N &N &N * * * &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &M &M &N &N &N &N
Paint/Trim & N &M &N &N * * * &M &N &N * * &N &M &M &N &M &M &N &M &N &N
Body Integrity & M &B &B &V * * * &C &N &C * * &V &B &V &C &C &C &M &M &C &M
Body Hardware & N &B &B &C * * * &N &M &C * * &C &M &M &C &B &V &V &M &M &C
Power Equip. & N &V &V &M * * * &N &M &N * * &M &C &M &N &V &V &V &V &C &M
Audio System & M &V &V &M * * * &C &C &M * * &B &B &C &N &M &C &C &M &M &N
USED CAR
VERDICTS & N &V &B &C * * * &N &M &N * * &V &B &M &C &V &C &C &C &M &C
NEW CAR Much better than Worse than Much better than Better than
& average V
& average N
& Average C
& average M&

TROUBLE Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen Volvo C70

SPOTS New Beetle Passat Tiguan Touareg
(4-cyl., FWD)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N &N * &C &C &N &N &N &N &N &C &N &N * &N * &N * &N &N *
Engine, minor &C &V &C &N &N * &B &B &V &M &N &N & N &V &V &C * &N * & N * &N &N *
Engine Cooling &B &M &V &M &N * &V &C &V &N &M &N & N &C &N &N * &N * &C * &M &N *
Trans. Major &V &B &N &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N &N & N &V &N &N * &N * &V * &N &N *
Trans. Minor &B &N &V &M &N * &N &C &V &M &N &N & M &M &M &M * &N * &N * &N &N *
Drive System &M &N &B &N &N * &B &V &V &M &N &N & N &B &C &B * &N * &N * &N &C *
Fuel System &B &M &B &B &C * &B &B &B &B &B &N & M &B &B &M * &V * &N * &C &M *
Electrical &B &B &M &B &C * &B &B &B &V &M &C & M &B &B &V * &B * &B * &N &N *
Climate System &M &M &B &M &N * &M &V &B &B &N &N & N &C &V &C * &B * &N * &N &N *
Suspension &M &N &M &M &N * &C &V &V &V &N &N & N &C &N &M * &C * &V * &V &C *
Brakes &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &C &V &V &N & C &B &B &B * &B * &N * &N &N *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N &N * &M &N &N &N &N &N & N &V &N &N * &N * &N * &N &N *
Paint/Trim &M &M &N &M &M * &C &C &M &N &M &N & N &C &N &C * &M * &N * &M &N *
Body Integrity &V &V &V &C &C * &C &M &C &M &C &M & N &C &N &V * &B * &B * &B &B *
Body Hardware &B &B &B &B &B * &V &C &B &C &C &N & C &V &C &B * &B * &C * &B &B *
Power Equip. &B &V &B &B &B * &C &V &B &V &C &M & M &B &B &B * &B * &C * &V &V *
Audio System &C &B &V &M &C * &M &N &B &V &V &N & N &B &B &B * &B * &V * &B &M *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &B &V &B &V &V * &B &B &B &V &V &M & C &B &C &B * &B * &M * &C &C *
NEW CAR Worse than Much worse than
& Average C
& Average C
& average B
& Average C
&
TROUBLE Volvo S40, Volvo S60 Volvo S80 Volvo XC70 Volvo XC90
SPOTS V40/V50 (FWD) (FWD) (6-cyl.) (6-cyl.)
‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09 ‘04‘05‘06‘07‘08‘09
Engine, major &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &N * &M * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &C &M &N &N &N *
Engine, minor &C &C &C &N * * &V &C &N &N &N * &B * &N &N * &C &N &N &N &N * &V &V &V &N &M *
Engine Cooling &M &N &N &N * * &C &C &V &N &N * &M * &M &M * &C &V &M &N &N * &V &M &M &N &N *
Trans. Major &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &N * &N * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &B &B &N &N &N *
Trans. Minor &M &M &N &N * * &C &N &N &N &N * &M * &V &N * &M &N &N &N &N * &B &M &N &M &N *
Drive System &C &M &M &N * * &M &C &N &N &N * &M * &N &M * &C &B &C &C &M * &B &B &B &B &N *
Fuel System &B &V &C &N * * &C &C &M &C &M * &C * &C &N * &N &C &V &M &C * &C &M &N &N &N *
Electrical &B &V &B &V * * &C &N &M &N &C * &M * &C &M * &M &M &N &N &N * &M &N &C &N &N *
Climate System &V &B &B &V * * &C &N &C &M &M * &M * &N &N * &N &C &M &C &M * &C &M &B &V &N *
Suspension &M &C &M &N * * &V &V &M &C &N * &V * &B &M * &V &V &C &C &V * &B &B &M &B &M *
Brakes &V &C &M &N * * &M &M &N &N &M * &M * &C &N * &M &M &M &M &M * &B &C &V &V &B *
Exhaust &N &N &N &N * * &N &N &N &N &N * &M * &N &N * &N &N &N &N &N * &M &M &N &N &N *
Paint/Trim &C &M &N &N * * &M &V &C &N &N * &V * &M &N * &N &N &N &M &M * &M &M &V &C &N *
Body Integrity &V &M &V &N * * &C &M &M &M &C * &C * &B &C * &M &M &M &M &B * &B &C &M &C &C *
Body Hardware &C &C &V &N * * &M &C &M &M &C * &M * &B &V * &N &M &C &V &V * &V &C &B &C &B *
Power Equip. &V &V &B &M * * &C &V &M &M &C * &C * &B &M * &M &M &M &C &V * &C &C &V &V &B *
Audio System &M &B &C &M * * &C &C &M &N &N * &V * &V &C * &M &M &M &V &C * &B &B &B &B &V *
USED CAR
VERDICTS &C &C &C &N * * &C &C &M &N &M * &C * &C &C * &M &C &M &C &V * &B &B &V &B &C *
NEW CAR Much better than Worse than Worse than
& New Average C
& average V
& average V
&

Tires
Within types, in performance order. Gray key numbers indicate Quick Picks.
Brand & model Overall score Three-season Winter Comfort

driving driving
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
All-Season S- and T-speed rated
1 Michelin HydroEdge 84 &M &N &M &M &V &C &C &C &C &N
2 Continental ProContact ECOPLUS + 82 & M & M & C & M & C & M & C & C & N & C
3 Michelin Energey Saver A/S 82 & M & M & C & M & V & C & C & M & N & C
4 Hankook Optimo H727 82 & M & M & C & M & M & M & M & M & C & C
5 Pirelli P4 Four Seasons 80 & M & N & C & M & V & M & M & M & V & V
6 Goodyear Assurance TripleTred 80 & M & M & C & M & C & C & C & M & C & C
7 Pirelli Cinturato P5 78 & C & N & C & M & V & M & C & M & V & C
8 Kumho Solus KR21 78 & M & N & C & M & V & C & C & C & C & M
9 Maxxis Escapade MA-T1 76 & C & M & M & M & V & C & C & M & C & M
10 Toyo Extensa A/S 76 & C & M & C & C & C & M & C & M & C & C
11 Toyo Versado LX 76 & M & M & C & C & M & C & M & M & C & N
12 Cooper GFE 76 & C & M & C & M & C & C & C & C & M & V
13 BFGoodrich Traction T/A T 74 & M & M & M & M & C & C & C & M & V & C
14 General Altimax RT 74 & C & N & C & M & V & V & M & M & C & C
15 Yokohama Avid TRZ 74 & M & N & C & N & V & V & C & M & V & C
16 Dayton Quadra LE 74 & C & M & C & M & C & C & M & C & C & C
17 Cooper CS4 Touring 72 & C & N & C & C & M & C & C & C & V & C
18 Uniroyal Tiger Paw Tour SR 72 & M & M & V & M & C & C & M & C & N & V
19 Yokohama Avid Touring-S 70 & M & M & C & C & V & C & C & M & M & M
20 Cooper Lifeliner GLS 68 & C & M & C & M & M & C & C & C & M & V
21 Yokohama Avid T4 66 & C & M & C & M & V & V & C & M & C & V
22 Bridgestone Turanza EL400 66 & C & M & V & M & V & C & C & M & C & V
23 Falken Sincera SN828 64 & C & N & C & C & B & C & C & M & C & B
24 Dunlop SP 60 64 & C & C & V & C & C & M & C & B & V & M
25 Sumitomo HTR T4 64 & C & M & C & M & C & V & C & C & M & V
26 Firestone FR710 60 & C & N & C & C & B & C & C & C & C & M
178-186 Tire Ratings BG11.indd 178 9/14/10 3:22:29 PM

tires 179
driving driving
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
performance all-season h-speed rated
1 Michelin Primacy MXV4 84 &M &M &M &M &C &M &M &C &N &M
2 Falken Ziex ZE912 80 & N & N & M & M & V & V & C & M & V & B
3 Nokian WR G2 80 & M & M & M & M & C & C & M & C & M & V
4 Yokohama Avid H4s 78 & N & N & M & N & B & V & C & C & V & V
5 Kumho Solus KH16 76 & M & M & C & C & C & C & N & M & C & C
6 Continental ContiProContact 76 & M & M & M & M & C & C & M & C & M & C
7 Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S 76 & M & M & C & M & C & C & C & M & C & C
8 Falken Ziex ZE512 74 & M & N & N & N & V & V & C & C & C & B
9 Cooper CS4 Touring 72 & M & M & C & M & C & C & C & M & C & V
10 General Altimax HP 70 & C & M & M & N & C & V & C & M & C & V
11 Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max 70 & M & M & C & M & C & C & C & C & N & V
12 Pirelli P6 Four Seasons 68 & C & M & C & M & C & C & M & M & V & B
13 Hankook Optimo H418 68 & C & M & C & M & C & C & M & M & M & V
14 Fuzion HRi 64 & M & M & M & M & V & C & C & V & B & V
Quick Picks
All Season Tires s- and T-Speed rated Performance all season H-speed
Best for three season (non-winter) driving rated
and long tread life: Best for three season (non-winter) driving
1 Michelin HydroEdge and long tread life:
8 Kumho Solus KR21 2 Falken Ziex ZE912
Best for all weather conditions: 4 Yokohama Avid H4s
2 Continental ProContact ECOPLUS + Best for all weather conditions:
4 Hankook Optimo H727 1 Michelin Primacy MXV4
6 Goodyear Assurance TripleTred 3 Nokian WR G2
5 Kumho Solus KH16

driving driving
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
performance all-season v-speed rated
1 Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S 84 &N &M &M &M &C &C &C &M &V &C
2 Firestone Firehawk GTv 82 & N & N & N & M & C & V & M & C & V & V
3 Bridgestone Turanza Serenity 80 & N & N & N & M & V & V & C & M & V & V
4 Dunlop Signature 80 & N & M & M & M & C & C & C & C & V & C
5 Toyo Versado LX 78 & N & M & N & M & V & C & C & M & V & V
6 General Altimax HP 78 & C & M & N & N & V & V & M & M & V & V
7 Yokohama Avid V4s 76 & N & N & M & N & B & B & M & M & V & B
8 Continental ContiProContact 76 & M & M & M & M & C & V & M & C & C & V
9 Goodyear Eagle GT 76 & M & M & M & M & V & C & M & C & V & B
10 Bridgestone Potenza G019 Grid 74 & N & N & M & M & V & V & V & V & B & C
11 Goodyear Eagle ResponseEdge 74 & M & M & M & M & V & V & C & M & V & V
12 Kumho Ectsa LX Platinum 72 & C & M & M & M & V & C & C & M & V & V
13 Pirelli P6 Four Seasons 70 & C & M & C & M & C & C & M & M & V & B
14 Hankook Optimo H418 70 & C & M & C & M & C & M & M & M & C & V
15 Fuzion VRi 70 & M & M & C & M & C & C & C & V & V & B
Quick Picks
Performance all season Best for all weather conditions:

V-speed rated 1 Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S
Best for three season (non-winter) driving 4 Dunlop Signature
and long tread life:
2 Firestone Firehawk GTv
3 Bridgestone Turanza Serenity
5 Toyo Versado LX
6 General Altimax HP

tires 181
Brand & model Overall score Three-season driving Winter Comfort
driving
Dry braking
Dry handling
Wet braking
Wet handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread Life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
UHP all-season
1 Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season 82 &M M & & M & N & M & C & C & C & M & C & C
2 Sumitomo HTR A/S PO1 82 & M & M & M & M & M & C & C & M & N & C & C
3 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus 80 & M & M & M & M & M & C & C & C & C & C & N
4 Continental
DWS
Extreme Contact 80 &M &M &N &M &M &C &C &C &C &C &V
5 Sumitomo HTR + 78 &M &M &M &M &M &C &C &C &C &C &B
6 BFGoodrich
Sport A/S
g-Force Super 78 &M &M &M &M &M &V &C &C &M &C &C
7 Nitto Premium NT850 78 &N &N &N &M &N &B &V &C &C &V &B
8 Bridgestone Potenza
RE960AS Pole Position
76 &M &C &M &M &M &C &C &M &M &V &V
9 Goodyear Eagle F1 All Season 76 &M &M &M &M &N &V &V &C &C &V &V
10 Goodyear Eagle GT 76 & M & M & M & M & M & V & V & C & C & V & V
11 Falken Ziex ZE912 76 & M & M & M & M & N & B & V & C & C & V & V
12 Kumho Ecsta ASX 74 & M & C & M & C & M & C & C & C & M & M & V
13 Yokohama Advan S.4. 74 & M & M & M & C & M & V & C & C & C & C & C
14 Dunlop SP Sport Signature 72 & M & M & M & C & M & C & V & C & C & C & C
15 Maxxis Victra Z4S 72 & M & C & M & C & N & B & V & C & V & C & V
16 Nitto Neo Gen 70 & M & C & M & C & C & V & C & M & V & C & C
17 Nexen N7000 70 & M & C & M & V & M & V & V & C & M & V & B
Quick Picks
UHP All-Season tires Other very good choices:

Best for all weather conditions: 3 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus
1 Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season 4 Continental Extreme Contact DWS
2 Sumitomo HTR A/S PO1 Best for long tread life:
3 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus

Brand & model Overall score Three-season driving Comfort
Dry braking
Dry handling
Wet braking
Wet handling
Hydroplaning
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread Life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
UHP summer
1 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 82 &N &N &M &N &N &C &M &C &B
2 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT 82 & N & M & M & M & M & C & M & M & C
3 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 82 & N & M & M & M & N & M & M & M & B
4 Continental Extreme Contact DW 80 & N & M & M & M & N & C & M & C & V
5 Hankook Ventus V12 evo 80 & N & M & N & M & M & C & M & C & V
6 Pirelli P Zero 78 & N & N & M & M & M & C & C & V & B
7 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx TT 78 & N & M & M & M & N & C & V & C & V
8 BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KDW 78 & N & M & M & M & N & C & B & V & C
9 Kumho Ecsta SPT 78 & N & M & N & M & N & C & C & C & B
10 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A
Pole Position
78 &N &M &N &M &N &C &C &C &V
11 Nitto NT 05 78 &N &M &N &M &C &V &V &C &B
Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star
12 Spec
78 &N &N &M &M &C &V &V &V &V
Bridgestone Potenza RE760
13 Sport
76 &N &M &M &C &N &C &M &V &V
14 Yokohama Advan Sport 76 &N &M &M &M &N &C &M &C &B
15 BFGoodrich g-Force Sport 76 & N & N & M & C & M & C & V & C & V
16 Sumitomo HTR ZIII 74 & M & M & M & M & M & C & M & C & V
17 Maxxis Victra MA-Z1 74 & N & M & M & C & N & C & C & V & V
18 Nitto iNVO 72 & M & M & M & M & C & C & V & C & V
19 Falken FK-452 70 & M & M & M & M & N & V & V & C & B
20 Fuzion Zri 70 & M & M & M & M & M & C & V & V & V
21 Yokohama S.drive 70 & M & M & M & C & M & C & V & C & C
Quick Picks
UHP Summer tires Other good choices:
Best UHP summer tires overall: 4 Continental Extreme Contact DW
1 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 Hankook Ventus V12 evo
2 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT
3 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2

tires 183
Brand & model Overall score Winter Three-season driving Comfort
driving
Snow traction
Ice braking
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
winter tires
1 Michelin X-Ice XI 2 84 &N &N &B &V &V &V &N &M &M
2 General Altimax Arctic 78 & N & M & B & M & V & M & C & C & V
3 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5 78 & N & M & B & C & V & M & C & V & N
4 Michelin Primacy Alpin PA3 76 & M & C & C & M & C & N & N & M & M
5 Nokian Hakkapeliitta R 74 & M & M & V & C & C & C & M & M & M
6 Continental
ExtremeWinterContact
74 &M &M &C &V &C &V &M &M &C
7 Bridgestone Blizzak WS60 72 &M &M &V &V &C &C &M &C &C
8 Pirelli Sottozero 210 Series II 70 & M & V & V & M & C & N & C & C & V
9 Dunlop Graspic DS-2 70 & M & N & B & V & B & C & M & C & M
10 Hankook Winter i*Pike 70 & M & C & B & C & C & N & M & V & C
11 Gislaved Nordfrost 5 68 & M & C & C & C & V & C & M & C & C
12 Toyo Observe G-02 Plus 64 & N & M & B & V & B & C & M & B & M
13 Yokohama ice Guard iG20 62 & M & M & B & V & V & V & M & B & M
14 Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice 62 & M & C & B & V & B & N & C & C & V
15 Firestone Winterforce 58 & M & C & B & C & B & N & M & B & V
16 Cooper Weather-Master S/T 2 54 & M & V & V & C & V & N & C & V & B
17 Hankook icebear W300 50 & B & C & V & M & M & M & C & C & V
Quick Picks
Winter Tires
Best for severe winter conditions:
1 Michelin X-Ice XI 2
2 General Altimax Arctic
3 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5

Brand & model Overall Score Winter Three-season driving Comfort
driving
Snow
Ice
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Ride
Noise
Rolling Resistance
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
performance winter
1 Nokian WR G2 76 &N &M &C &C &M &C &M &C &M
2 Hankook Winter i*cept evo 76 & M & M & C & M & M & M & M & C & C
3 Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3 76 & N & M & C & C & M & M & M & C & N
4 Nokian Hakkapeliitta R 74 & N & N & B & V & V & C & M & C & N
5 Goodyear Ultra Grip Performance 2 74 & N & M & C & C & C & M & M & C & M
Continental ContiWinterContact
6 TS830P
74 &M &M &C &M &C &M &M &C &C
7 Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D 74 &N &C &C &M &C &M &C &C &C
8 Bridgestone Blizzak WS60 74 & N & N & V & V & B & C & C & C & M
9 Vredestein Wintrac Xtreme 72 & M & M & C & C & C & M & C & C & M
10 Toyo Snowprox S952 72 & N & C & V & C & C & M & M & V & M
11 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 72 & N & N & B & V & V & M & C & V & C
12 Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5 72 & N & M & B & V & B & M & C & C & N
13 Pirelli Sottozero Winter 240 Series II 72 & N & C & V & C & C & M & M & V & C
14 Yokohama W.drive 70 & M & C & V & C & C & M & M & V & M
15 Nitto Winter SN1 70 & C & M & V & C & C & M & M & C & C
Quick Picks
Performance Winter
Best for severe winter performance:
1 Nokian WR G2
2 Hankook Winter i*cept evo
3 Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3

tires 185
rt Brand Model Overall Score Three-season Winter Comfort
driving driving
Noise
Rolling Resistance
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
all-season truck
C &M
1 General Grabber HTS 80 &N &N &N &M &C &V &M &M &C &V
C & C
2 Continental CrossContact LX 73 & N & M & M & M & C & V & C & M & C & C
C & N
3 Kumho Road Venture APT KL51 72 & N & M & M & M & C & V & C & M & C & B
C & N
4 Cooper Discoverer CTS 68 & M & C & M & M & M & V & C & N & V & C
C & M
5 Michelin LTX M/S 67 & C & V & C & N & N & M & C & C & C & M
C &C 6 Yokohama Geolandar H/T-S G051 67 & M & C & M & M & M & V & C & N & V & C
C &C 7 Firestone Destination LE 66 & M & C & C & M & M & C & M & C & V & B
C & M 8 Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza 66 & M & C & M & M & M & C & C & C & C & V
C & M 9 Dayton Timberline HT II 66 & M & C & M & M & C & C & M & M & V & B
V & M 10 Pirelli Scorpion STR A 65 & N & C & M & M & C & V & C & M & B & B
V & C 11 Goodyear Wrangler SR-A 64 & M & V & C & M & N & C & M & M & M & C
C & N 12 Dunlop Radial Rover A/T 63 & C & V & M & M & M & C & M & M & V & C
V & C 13 Hankook DynaPro AS RH03 63 & M & C & M & M & V & V & M & C & C & C
V & M 14 Goodyear Fortera TripleTred 63 & C & C & M & M & C & V & C & M & C & V
C & C 15 Toyo Open Country H/T 62 & M & V & M & M & N & V & C & M & C & C
Nitto Dura Grappler Highway
16 Terrain
61 &M &V &C &C &N &C &C &M &V &M
17 Dunlop Grandtrek AT20 58 &M &V &C &C &C &C &C &C &C &M
18 Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country 55 & M & V & M & M & C & V & C & C & C & M
19 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A 53 & C & V & C & C & C & V & C & C & C & N
20 Falken Ziex S/TZ-04 50 & C & V & V & N & C & C & C & M & C & B
Quick Picks
All-Season Truck Tires For longer tread life:
Best for three season driving: 2 Continental CrossContact LX
1 General Grabber HTS 4 Cooper Discoverer CTS
2 Continental CrossContact LX

driving driving
Dry braking
Wet braking
Handling
Hydroplaning
Snow traction
Ice braking
Ride
Noise
Rolling resistance
Tread life
0 100
P | F | G | VG | E
all-terrain truck
1 Pirelli Scorpion ATR 79 &N &M &C &M &C &V &C &M &B &C
2 Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S 73 & M & N & C & N & C & B & C & C & V & V
3 Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 71 & M & C & C & N & M & V & C & M & V & V
4 Michelin LTX A/T 2 68 & C & V & M & N & C & V & C & C & C & N
5 Toyo Open Country A/T 68 & M & V & M & N & C & B & M & M & V & V
6 Kumho Road Venture AT KL-78 66 & M & V & C & M & N & V & C & V & V & V
7 Firestone Destination A/T 66 & M & V & C & M & C & C & M & N & V & C
8 Nitto Terra Grappler All Terrain 65 & M & V & C & M & M & C & C & C & V & C
9 Cooper Discoverer ATR 63 & C & V & C & N & C & V & V & C & V & V
10 Fuzion XTi 61 & M & C & C & M & C & V & C & C & V & V
11 Kelly Safari Trex 58 & C & V & V & C & C & M & M & M & V & C
12 Dayton Timberline AT II 55 & C & V & C & M & V & B & C & M & V & V
13 Goodyear Wrangler SilentArmor 51 & C & V & C & C & M & B & C & C & B & M
14 General Grabber AT 2 50 & B & V & C & N & M & B & M & B & B & C
Quick Picks
All-Terrain Truck Tires For longer tread life:
Best for three season driving: 1 Pirelli Scorpion ATR
1 Pirelli Scorpion ATR
2 Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S
3 Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo

Overall score is based on 12 to 14 tests, with braking, emergency handling, and hydroplaning resistance
weighed most heavily for most tires. Snow traction and ice braking weigh more heavily for winter 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 cornering grip, steering feel, and an emergen-
cy handling maneuver. Wet handling and wet cornering grip for UHP tires is evaluated by driving the car
through a wet slalom course. Hydroplaning denotes a tire’s ability to resist skimming along the surface
of standing water and causing loss of steering ability. Snow traction tests denote how far a vehicle has
to travel to accelerate from 5 to 20 mph on flat, moderately packed snow. Ride and Noise are evaluated
subjectively, on rough and smooth roads. Rolling resistance, as measured on a dynamometer, is a factor
in fuel economy. Tread life is an indicator of wear potential from CR’s driving test.


Consumer Report Buying Guide 2011

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consumer reports buying guide 2011

Product Ratings and

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Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

5,000 to 6,500 Btu/hr. (Cools 100-300 sq. ft.)

7,000 to 8,200 Btu/hr. (Cools 250-400 sq. ft.)

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 189 9/17/10 1:10:15 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

9,800 to 12,500 Btu/hr. (Cools 350-650 sq. ft.)

See report, page 78.

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

Guide to the Ratings

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Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

Guide to the Ratings

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Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

AT&T cell phones

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 192 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

Guide to the Ratings

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 193 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 194 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

Guide to the Ratings

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 195 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 196 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 197 9/17/10 1:10:16 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

Guide to the Ratings

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 198 9/17/10 1:10:17 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

11- to 13-inch models

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 199 9/17/10 1:10:17 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

15- to 16-inch models

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 200 9/17/10 1:10:17 PM

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 201 9/17/10 1:10:17 PM

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

See report, page 23.

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

187-242 Ratings BG11.indd 202 9/17/10 1:10:17 PM

Most & Least Reliable

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Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

Hard drive (GB)

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Hard drive (GB)

10-inch models continued

11- to 12-inch models

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor

Guide to the Ratings

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Brand & model Price Overall score Test results Features

30-inch electric smoothtop models

Ratings Key NExcellent MVery good 3Good 2Fair 1Poor Wh

Guide to the Ratings The

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36-inch gas cooktops