Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2012

AUTO
R E L I A B I L I T Y
185
DETAILED AUTO RELIABILITY
he charts on the following pages give you a model's complete reliability picture for both its used versions (2005 through 2010) and the new one currently on sale. These detailed reliability Ratings are based on our 2010 Annual Car Reliability Survey, for which we received responses on 1.3 million vehicles. The Annual Car Reliability Survey is sent
to subscribers of CONSUMER REPORTS and
ConsumerReports.org. Respondents reported on any serious problems they had
with their vehicles in any of the trouble spots included in the following charts, during the previous 12 months. These were considered serious because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime. Because high-mileage vehicles tend to have more problems than low-mileage ones, problem rates are standardized to minimize differences related to mileage. The 2010 models were generally less than six months old at the time of the survey and had been driven an average of about 3,000 miles. Models with insufficient data are noted with a column of asterisks (").
How to use the charts

MAJOR REDESIGNS A model year In boid identifies the year the model was introduced or underwent a major redesign. TROUBLE SPOTS To assess a used car in more detail, look at the individual Ratings for each of the 17 trouble spots. They will pinpoint a model's strengths and weaknesses. Ratings are based on the percentage of survey respondents who reported problems for that trouble spot, compared with the average of all vehicles for that year. Models that score a are not necessarily unreliable, but they have a higher problem rate than the Average Probiem Rates
noiau
SPOTS EKfliKltaJor EntlMWnot tngliw Coollni Tnas.llal> TnM.
WMT
00 01 02 03 04 O 0 07 08 09 S 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 < <1 <1 1 8 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 1 < 1 6 5 4

4 3 2 1
1 <1 <1
3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 4 <1 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 5 5 5 5 4 3 2 2 1 <1 10 1 9 7 5 4 3 3 2 1 2 7 7 6 5 4 4 3 2 1 I
9
DiheSyiMi Fuel syitem ElMrkll Otaau spurn SUIPMSI Bnkn niiaiiit Paint/Trim My IntifrttT M) Harttm Mnrltul lidio Svinm USEOCM vfitnas lew o u
8 7 6 4 3 3 2 1 <1 9 8 8 7 6 5 4 2 1
8 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 <1
9
4 3 2 2 1 1 <l <1 <1 1 8 7 5 4 4 3 2 2 1 1 9 9 8 7 6 6 5 S 4 2 1 11 10 9 8 6 5 4 2 3 2
average model. Similarly, models that score a are not necessarily problemfree, but they had relatively few problems compared with other models. Because problem rates in some trouble spots are very low, we do not assign a or unless the model's problem rate exceeds 3 percent. If a problem rate is beiow 2 percent, it will be assigned 8 9; below 1 percent, it will be assigned a . USED CAR VERDICTS To check the overall reliability of a used car, look at the Used Car Verdict. This Rating shows whether the model had more or fewer problems overall than the average model of that year.
9 8 7 7 7 6 5 S 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2
mncim
186
CONSUMER
REPORTS
BUYING
GUIDE
2012
The verdict is calculated from the total number of problems reported by subscribers in all trouble spots. Our calculations give extra weight to problems with major engine and transmission systems, the cooling system, and the drive system because they can be serious and expensive to repair. NEW CAR PREDICTIONS To determine the New Car Prediction, we averaged a model's Used Car Verdict for the most recent three years, provided the vehicle did not change significantly in that time and wasn't redesigned for 2010 or 2011. We have found that several model years' data are a better predictor than the single most recent model year. One or two years' data may be used if the model was redesigned in 2010 or 2009, or if there were insufficient data for more years. Sometimes we include a prediction for a model that is new or has been redesigned, provided its reliability history or the manufacturer's track record has been consistently above average. "NA" means there were insufficient data for a prediction. WHAT THE TROUBLE SPOTS INCLUDE Engine, major: Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
Engine, minor. Oii leaks, accessory belts and pulleys, engine mounts, engine knock or ping. Engine, cooling: Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating. Transmission, major: Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement. Transmission, minor: Gear selector or linkage, coolers and lines, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, hydraulics (clutch master or slave cylinder). Drive system: Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, wheel bearing(s), differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, electrical failure. Fuel system: Check engine light, sensors (inciudes 02 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (inciudes EGR), engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation. Eiectrlcai: Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure. Climate system: Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage.
electrical failure. Suspension: Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering, wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension. Brakes: Premature wear, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, master cylinder, calipers, antilock brake system (ABS), parking brake, brake failure. Exhaust: Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks. Paint/trim: Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, peeling), loose exterior trim or moldings, rust. Body Integrity: Squeaks or rattles, seals, and/or weather stripping, air or water leaks, loose interior trim and moldings, wind noise. Body hardware: Windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect. Power equipment and accessories: Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior light, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, alarm or security system. Audio system: Audio systems, entertainment systems, navigation system, backup camera/ sensors, communication system.
AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS
RELIABILITY
187
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity BodY Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
TROUBLE SPOTS
188
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
TROUBLE SPOTS
BMW 32Si, 3 2 8 i (RWD) '05'06'07'08'09 '10
BMW 525i,
528i, 53Oi
(RWD) '05'06'07'OS'09'10
'05'06W08'09'10
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PalntArlm Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
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o
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Buick LaCrosse (V6. FWD) O5'06'07'08'0910 Buick Lucerne (V6) Cadillac CTS (V6, RWD)
Much worse than averaged
TROUBLE SPOTS
Buick Enclave (AWD) '05'OS'07'08'09'IO
Cadillac DTS
05'06'07'08'0910
'0S'06WDe'0910
05W07'08'09'l0
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
a Op
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oo o oppppp
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opppb obpppb
Average o
ooo
AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS

Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Egiiip. Audio System Cadillac SRX (AWD) Cadillac STS (V6)
RELIABILITY
189
Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 OS'06^07'08'09'10
Chevrolet Aveo
0S'06'O7'Oa'091O
o* o le a * a
O:
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||pp*
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Much worse than average
Worse than average
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate Svstem Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
Chevrolet Cmaro (y8) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Chevrolet Cobalt Sedan W06'07'08'09'10
Chevrolet Colorado (4WD) 'OS'06'07^08'09'10
Chevrolet Corvette O5'06'07'08'09^10
Chevrolet Equinox (y6) '05'06'07'08'09"10
a* * a *a* p ate* Opte * { * ototopp* * tobbb* * a o o* * * a I * o *

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Worse than average
* o* o* a* * |{{ oa* . o* o o*
Average o
oaa to ooa o ooo

Average O
ppppp
Better than avera(
190
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2 Chevrolet Maiibu (V6) '0S'06'D7'08'D9'10 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (V8. 4WD) '05'06'07'08'09'lD
TROUBLE SPOTS
05'06'07'08'09'10
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Chevrolet Impala (V6) 05 06 07 08 09 10
Chevrolet Maiibu (4-cyl.) 05'06'07'08'09'10
bb
06
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OO
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Average o Average O Chevrolet TrailBlazer (6-cyl.) 05'06'07'08'09'10 Average O Chevrolet Traverse (AWD) '05'06'07'08W10
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'05'06'O7'08'09'10
'05'06'07'08'09'l0
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AUTO
RELIABILITY
191
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, maioi Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Ma|or Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Chrysler 300 (V6) '05'06'07'08'09 '10
Chrysler 300 (V8)
'05'06'07'08'09'10
Chrysjer PT Cruiser (non-turbo) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Chrysler Sebring Sedan '0S'06'D7'08'09'10
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ele
o
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New
o^* *
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Dodge Caliber 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
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Discontinued Discontinged Dodqe Challenger 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 * * * Dodge Charger '0S'06'07'0B'09't0 *
oo*
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TROUBLE SPOTS
Chrysler Town S. Country (extended) OS'06'07'08'0910
Dodge Dakota (4WD) 'O5'06'07'08'Q9'1O
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Worse than average
192
CONSUMER
REPORTS
BUYING
GUIDE
2012 Dodge Nitro 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Dodge Ram 150(3 (2WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
TROUBLE SPOTS 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Dodge Grand Caravan
Dodge Journey 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
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New
b o o
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Worse than average
P
Ford Edge (AWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
eooo eeoeo opp|p|

Average O Ford Expedition (4WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
TROUBLE SPOTS
Dodge Ram 1500(4WD)

'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Ford Crown Victoria 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Ford Escape (V6, AWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
oe o o 00
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Average O
Average o
AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS Ford Explorer (4WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
RELIABILITY
193
Ford F-150 (V8, 2WD) '05'06W08'09'10
Ford F-150 (V8,4WD) 05'06'07'08'0910
Ford Five Hundred, Taurus 05'06'07'08'0910 '05'06'07'08'O9'10
b
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Average o Average o Better than average Ford Mustang (V6) 05'06'07'08'09'10 Ford Freestyle, Taurus X '05'06'07'OB'09'10 Ford Fusion (V6, FWD) '05'06'07'08'09'10
o o o
o
b
Average o
TROUBLE SPOTS
Ford Focus Sedan 05'06'07'08'09'10
Ford Mustang (V8) 'O5'06'07'08'09'10
a ee a oo
o p|p o
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New
Discontinued
oaa
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o p a ooo bl oo I a o o o b
Much better than average
obp|a|a
Better than average a
Better than average
194
C O N S U M E R
Ford Ranger (4WD)
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
GUiDE
GMC Acadia (FWD)
2 0 1 2
GMC Canyon (2WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 GMC Sierra 1500 (V8,2WD) , 'OS'06'07'08'0910
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Eiectricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Ford Taurus Sedan
0S'06'07'D8W10 *
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{to o
OO
a a o
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oa o o o o opop| a o o atete ooaao aaaao oo
aaoo oobto * o
o PI* totote * b {a* toPtob* * o eee a a p{^p* O oo* ooo oooô* o O O O * {I

Worse than average Worse than average GMC yui<on XL 1500 Honda Accord (4-cyl.) 05'06'07^08'09 '10
p{ {ate o ooo
p{te|
oooo ooo oaa
obbbbb
Average O Honda Accord (V5) 05'06'07^08'09 '10
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Eiectricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
GMC Terrain (4-cyi.)
OS'06^0708'09'10
ao o oo oo
te{
O9i>ee
oôa o{a aoaa
eo a
pa ee
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top||te
Worse than average Averaqeo
o{ate
opb
Average o
Average O
AUTO
RELIABILITY
Honda Civic Sedan
195
TROUBLE SPOTS
Honda Accord Crosstour
Honda Civic Hybrid 05'06'07'08'09'10
OS'06'07'08'09'10
'05'06'07'08'09'10
ol
^p tetebteb I
e eooe eeae eooe
o |||lb
pte
e

Better than average
ee o eee letee
eeee
Better than average
ebbl o
e|epb
Average O
TROUBLE SPOTS
05'06'0708W10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System 0S'O6'07'O8W1O 05'06'07'08'09'10
0S'06'07W09'l0
05'06W08'09'10
e I oe
* *
oee
lei o
eo
ee e ee
eee ooe eele ooôe ebb
o b
eoolete
eo
oooooo
O O oo
OO ||o
e|ee ee
bbe ee ee o
o
Better than average
Better than average
196
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
GUIDE
2 0 1 2
Hyundai Eiantra Sedan 'OS'06'07'08'D910 Hyundai Genesis Sedan(V6) 'OS'O6'D7'08'O9't0
TROUBLE SPOTS
'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Hyundai Azera
'05'06'07'08'0910
ea b o
60*
* *
06 O*
* *
*e o* o* o* oee*
O
e
Discontinued
eo o 6|* 0^0* o
9060* 616
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e e a ea
e * 666* e* o * 660* o * 60* o * la

New Hyundai Sonaia (4-cyl.)
ee
9 o*
ooe eoeelete ooeeoe

Oa6666 O66OO6
Better than averagee
ao
60
000* aa*
Average O
oo
Better than averagee
o p p p * ob||e|eb
Hyundai Sonata (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'0910 Hyundai Tucson (4-cyl.) '05'06'07'08'0910 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Braiies Exhaust PaintArIm Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Hyundai Santa Fe (V5) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'07'08'0910
aoa oa ee po eo oleo eeo eooe
e e oo oa a
ee kbte o
ee eoala ee a a o apple eobb a 6 6ep|ep
ee o
e
a* a* oo aao:
6 6 'O 66 OO9'
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oeeo
oo * * eo* ee^** oee*
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996 OO 96
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Better than average a Discontinued
op|b
Average O
Better than average
Average O
AUTO R E L I A B I L I T Y TROUBLE SPOTS

'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System 'OS'06'a7'08'0910 Infiniti G Sedan (AWD) '05'06'07'08'09'10 Infiniti G Sedan (RWD)
197
Infiniti M35 (RWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 *
'OS'06'07'08'0910
O
O
Op
O
ee

bo b
toi o
b* * b*
*
o b
ee
oo
bp o o o o obtetetee oobb obbboo

o
obl* * * e*
o
*
bpp*
|o*
o ob
e
Better than average
o oeee e o
Better than average Jeep Grand Cherokee (6-cyi., y6) '05'06'07'08'09'10
I oo oo o o ob|||b
Better than average
o*
Better than average Jeep Liberty
Average O
TROUBLE SPOTS
Jaguar S-Type, 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Jeep Compass
Jeep Grand Cherokee(y8) '05'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'07'OB'09'10
'OS'06'07'08'0910
la
OO* O*

* * * * *
o* o* * o*
* * * * * *
ab o ee o eb oep o ppob* {e
bl o OO
ee
00
oe e o pb eoe e oO O o ob
e
o
o
o*
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o*
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0 0b e * optepp* oopp oboo oooook ooooto
ooo* oooô oo* a o bppp* bpppto ppppto

New
New Worse than average
198
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Eiectrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Jeep Patriot
05'06'07'08'09
I I JeepWrangier 11 Jeep Wrangler II (2-door) I I (4-door)
TROUBLE SPOTS
OS'06'07'08'0910 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System 'OS'06'07'08'09 'tO
AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS 0506 07'08'09'10 'OS'06'07'08'09 10 * * * *
RELIABILITY
199
Lexus iS 250 Sedan (RWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09^ 'OS'06'07'08'09
lab a a a lato^tote I
O
O
ee O ee a o oo
* * * * * *
oaaa a op a *
{ a| ao
a bao o pa
o{ te
|||
Much better than average Lincoin MKS
iee* Pteo* oa ) a o * ee a *
Nw e
oo
* O * o a{atep|* aooaa* bbb* I a * tolteoo
atepbb*
Better than average
bb
Average O
TROUBLE SPOTS 'OS'06^07'08'09'10

Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Eiectricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
'OSW07'O8'091O
OS'06'07'08^09'10
bl
eee a* aao eee eoee pa ooo ao a

Better than average
aaao
{PI
oooa oboap boa opo
I bte o a
abb
Better than average
totob b
Average O
p
Much worse than averaged
200
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Lincoln MKX (AWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 '051)6'07'08'09 "10
Lincoln Navigator '05'06'07'08'0910
Lincoln Town Car
Mazda B-Series (2WD) 05'06'07'08'D9'10
OS'06'07'08'09'10 * *
e ee e
o o
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a
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O
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Better than Better than average Mazda MX-5 Miata 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 '05'06'07'08'09'10
* OO * o o* o O o* o O O o* e o te te e ooop* oeoo* epppp*

Averageo Mazda Tribute (V6, FWD) '05'06'07'08'09'IO
Discontinued
o o tete o* o*
* OO * o
o o| op
TROUBLE SPOTS
Mazda CX-7 (turbo) 05'06'07'08'09'10
Mazda3 Sedan
'05'06'07'08'09
P* * I* e*
ale
o te
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Better than average
oo* oo*
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ooo o|
Better than average
oooo e e
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Averageo
AUTO
201
TROUBLE SPOTS
'OS'06'07'08'0910 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Maz(la6 Sedan (4-cyl.) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (y6, RWD) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Mercedes-Benz CLK 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan (V6, RWO) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
e e|a
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60
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66
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oee ooop
{ teboa aaee
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Average o Average o
o|e|e|ek op|a|ap
Discontinued
b|||
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Electrical Ciimate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (V8) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Mercedes-Benz GLK OS'06'07'08'0910
Mercedes-Benz M-Ciass (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
Mercedes-Benz R-Ciass 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Mercedes-Benz S-Ciass 'OS'06'07'08'0910
e* e o
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Better than average
202
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
GUIDE 2 0 1 2
Mercury Mountaineer
TROUBLE SPOTS
Mercury Grand 1 1 Mercury Mariner Marquis 11 Hybrid (AWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Mercury Milan (4-cyl.)

'OS'06'07'08'09'10
(2WD)
'05'0607'08'0910
'OS'06'07'08'09 *
* * * * * * e OO
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o OO
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atete
a a|a
ooaao eeeeo aaao eeeeo

oppjop
Discontinued Nissan 3S0Z, 370Z Coupe 'OS'06'07'08'0910
00b* o* o o^ ooo* o*
Discontinued
Nissan Altima (4-cyl.)
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
ooa * p b* o bb optop* I Ote* * appb*
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
Mini Cooper Hatchback 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Mini Cooper Hatchback S
Mitsubishi Outiander
'0S'06'07'08'09't0 *
oa a ao pa
ao op o
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
toteteo a otetep a eee oa

o tob ee
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e^pee aoop
Better than average
obe o Ob
a ||p|p
A U T O
2 0 3
TROUBLE SPOTS
Nissan Altima (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 'OS'06'07'08'0910 O5'06'07'O8'O9'10
Nissan Frontier (4WD) 05'06'07'08'09'10
b I o a beb
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Worse than average
ppppp opp|pp
Average O Average O Nissan Rogue
TROUBLE SPOTS
0S'06'07'0B'09'10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Nissan Pathfinder
'05'06'07'08'09'10 *
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
'05'06'07'08'09'10
O o
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ooo
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Better than average Better than average
o|* *
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pp
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ooo OO o o a poppp
Better than average
204
C O N S U M E R
Nissan Titan (4W0).
R E P O R T S
B U Y i N G
GUIDE
2012
Pontiac G6 Sedan(V6) Pontiac Grand Prix
OS'06'07'08'09'10
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drivt Systtm Fuel System ElKtricai Ciimate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArtm Body integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
'05'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
05'06'07'08'09 '10
'O5'06'07'08'09't0
a o** p o * o
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ob|p
Discontinued
TROUBLE SPOTS
OS'06'07 08-09'10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Eiectricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body inteqrity Body Hardware Power Equip, Audio System 05'06'07^08'09'10 05'06'07'08'09'10 'OS'06^07'08'09'10 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
a* a{a* * * o * * * * * * * o^b o * * ltob* a * obbte p* a{ * { * ate{tebl * * I * o{{{ * oaoao * oa o * ! * o * bl o * oaa o o{a| bbh
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Average o
bp
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New
AUTO
RELIABILITY
205
TROUBLE SPOTS
Saturn Aura (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Saturn Outlook (FWD) 'OS'M'07'08'09'10
Saturn Vue (V6) '0S'06'O7'O'O9'tO 'OS'06'07'08'0910
ep e epi
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00 OO
o ooo
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Discontinued
pp
Discontinued TROUBLE SPOTS 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System * * * * '05'06'07'Oa'09'10
ee! e fe o^ 00 o teb e eople o eoo^ eee eooe opppp

Discontinued Subaru B9 Tribeca, Tribeca 'DS'O6'O7'D8'O9'IO
e
O
* * * *
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ee e e * * ee b* e * e * OO I I * e * lele* eeebb* oe e* *
Better than average
Subaru Forester
Subaru Impreza (non-turbo) 'OS'06'07'08'09'tO
'OS'06'07'08'09'10
o
*
eb
e ee e oe oeb oe e e eel ee ee
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op* beebb e eee? eleeeee ooo* e b|||| pp|e*

Average O Much better than average Better than average
00^ ee
206
C O N S U M E R Subaru Impreza WRX
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2 Toyota 4Runner(V6) 'OS'06'07'08'0910
TROUBLE SPOTS
Subaru Legacy '05'06'07'08'0910
Subaru Outback (4-cyl.) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
'OS'06'OT'08'09'IO
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Eiectricai Ciimate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
a e* ao
|*l
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Worse than average average
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Average O Toyota Camry Solara (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
average a Toyota Camry (V6) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Toyota Camry Hybrid 'OS'06'07'08'0910
TROUBLE SPOTS
Toyota Avaion '05'06'07'08'09'10
Toyota Camry (4-cyi.) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Eiectricai Ciimate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
ee
O
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Discontinued
oooe e oooee aoaeee e e e e a e opba a e e e e eeleete o eeee 0 0 eooo teeteo eeea eeooe ob a o a|a|a|e|e o oo Better than
Average o average a
Average o
Better than average
AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS
RELIABILITY
207
Toyota Corolla
'05'06'07'08'09'10
Toyota FJ Cruiser
Toyota Highlander (V6)

'OS'06'07'08'0910
I Toyota I Highlander Hybridl

'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Toyota Matrix '0S'06'07'08'O9'i0
ee
OO OO
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ab
Better than
average a
TROUBLE SPOTS
'OS'06'07'08'0910 Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Electricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
Toyota RAV4 (4-cyl.)

'OS'06'07'08'0910
Toyota RAV4 (V6)

'OS'06'07'08'09'10
Toyota Sienna (V6, FWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

'OS'06'07'0B'09'1O
a
o
Ob
a a a o ee eee apoa
)
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oooaa o oooao a a o a b oobb oo o ao op a|aop|aa Much better than Better than

OO
eee
ooo
average
average a
Better than average
208
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y i N G
G U i D E
2 0 1 2
TROUBLE SPOTS
Toyota Tacoma |V6,4WD)
Volkswagen CC
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Engine, minor Engine Cooling Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuei System Eiectrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust PaintArim Body Integrity Body Hardware Power Equip. Audio System
AUTO
RELIABILITY
209
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, major Enqine, minor Engine Cooiing Trans. Major Trans. Minor Drive System Fuel System Eiectricai Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Body integrity Body Hardware Power Eguip. Audio System
yolkswagen New Beetie Convertible 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
yoikswaaen Passat (4-cyl., FWD)
Volkswagen Tiguan 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 * * * * *
a tob

{*
oo*
*
* * 3*
{I*
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Better than average 3 Volvo S80 (6-cyl.) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 * * * * * 'OS'06'07'08'09 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 * * *
* a* * * o* o* a* * o* 00*
{ 00* a
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Voivo XC90 (6-cyl.) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10
* O* * 3 OO
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Average O
Copyright of Consumer Reports is the property of Consumers Union and its content may not be 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.
12
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
BLU-RAY PLAYERS
Blu-ray players are a good match for highdefinition TVs, especially 1080p models, which can display ail the detail contained on Biu-ray discs.
Shopping tip
With almost all players, you won't have unlimited Web browsing, only access to specific sites as arranged by the manufacturer.
What to look for
Streaming video capability will give you access to countless movies and TV episodes online, usually for a fee (either a subscription or pay-per-view). Wireless-ready models require an adapter (called a dongle) to enable wireless connections. For the ultimate in futureproofing, check out a 3Dcapable player.
What to skip
of Blu-ray is well worth the slight additional cost A Blu-ray player, if you have a standard-def TV and have no immediate plans to by a new HDTV, because you won't be able to see Blu-ray's superior picture quality
What you'll pay
Scan this or see how, page 11
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/bluray.
A standard DVD player, if you have an HDTV, because the superior picture quality
Price Overall score Test results
Blu-ray players generally start at about $100, though you may find some models on sale for less. Many fullfeatured models from major brands are going for $130 to $250. 3D-capable players start at about $150 and can go up to $400 or more.
Brand & model
^ -^
oa ^ -M
t a
0 100 P I F I G IVGl E
s - I i
3D PLAYERS
0
0 0 Q Q
1 tGBD670
2 3 4 5 OppoBDP-93 Samsung BD-D6700 SonyBDP'S480 Panasonic
$230
500 270 180 .^
DMP-BDT210
e e e e e
e e e e e
Oe o e o e oo e o
17-33 13 14-27 14 13-33 11
1830
16
11-25 18
BLU-RAY
PLAYERS
13
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
z:
f=r
n3
c =
il
o 100 a p I F I G IVGl E
'^ R >- 'S a
3D PLAYERS continued
Panasonic DMP-BDTllO
In ^ DenonOBP-lllUD 0 8 MaranbUD5OO5
9 10 11
B
Sharp BD-HP35U Sharp BD-HP25U Pioneer BDP-430
STANDARD PLAYERS Samsung BD-05700

Panasonic DMP-BD75 LGBD63O Sony Internet TV NSZ-GTl Sony BDP-S380 (Black) Insignia NS-WBRDVD2
2
B 3
0 1
e e e
e Oe oee 9oe
13-33 15 13-25 12 19-27 15 17-23 17

19-30 16 19-38 13
0 0 9 O O 9 9 e
0 5
6
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood 9Fair Poor Q B CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended, Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based mainly on picture guality. Displayed score is out of a total of 100 points, HD and DVD picture quality evaluate clarity and color accuracy from Blu-ray discs at 1080p and DVDs upconverted to quasi-1080p; signals for both are sent via HDMI, Ease of use pertains to the controls on the front panel and remote, and navigation through the player's menu. Useful features include audio/video outputs, Internet connectivity and services, and 3D capability, Bluray and DVD load time is the average time it took to load test discs. Price is approximate retail.
14
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
GUIDE 2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
CELL PHONES
Many of the newest models have large displays, keyboards, and Internet capabilities.
Shopping tip
Flat or virtual keypads make dialing without looking more difficult.
What to look for
Rebates and special offers from the carrier, compared with what independent dealers offer Useful features such as support for wireless Bluetooth headsets and high-speed data access A cellular service provider's network, which plays a big part in the capabilities ofthe phone
What to skip
ofa smart phone, if you want more than what a cell phone can typically offermainly voice and text-messaging capability
What you'll pay
Scan this or see how. page 11
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. orgketlphones Brands model
Most models are priced from $20 to $150, but they often come free with a two-year contract. You can also buy phones associated with prepaid plans, which are quickly becoming the leading lowprice option in cellular.
Features
Buying a cell phone instead

s lii s, s e
100
P I F
G IVGl E
A AT&T
1
$100 HTC Freestyle Samsung 20 Solstice II Samsung Rugby II 130 Samsung Strive Pantech Link Pantech Impact Pantech Breeze II
O O 3.1 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 3.2 O O 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 3 O O O O O O O O O 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.2 O 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.6 O 1.3 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.4 O 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.6 O 1.3 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.2
0 3
0 *
0 S 0 6 0 7
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. bd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
CELL Brand 8 model Price Overall score Test results Features cai
.Si re " ^
PHONES
15
a S ^
re c^ 0
100
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re
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ipi:
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att
ca
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^ ^
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Q
h-
F 1 G IVGl E
B 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 4 C 0 0 1 2
SPRINT NEXTEL LG Rumor Touch Sanyo Innuendo LG Remarq Samsung Seek T-MOBILE Samsung Gravity T Samsung Comeback Samsung Gravity 3 Samsung Smiley :)t359 VERIZON Casio G'zOne Brigade LG Octane Samsung Convoy Casio G'zOne Ravine LG Cosmos Touch LG Cosmos O O O O O e O O O 3.1 MicroSD EV-DO VDS 2.9 3.1 MicroSD EV-DO VDS 2.6 1.9 MicroSD EV-DO VDS 2.2 3.1 MicroSD EV-DO VDS 2.2 1.2 MicroSD l x R n VDS 2.8 1.2 MicroSD lxRTT VD 2 O O O O O O O O O O O 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.8 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.6 1.9 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.4 1.2 MicroSD HSDPA VDS 2.6 O $30 O O O O O 1.9 MicroSO EV-DO VD5 3
3.1 MicroSD EV-DO VD5 2.8
O O O 1.2 MicroSD lxRTT VDS 2.4. iJ O O O 1.2 MicroSD lxRTT VDS 2.6
0 3 [71 4 '-' D
0 5 0 6
O O O O

Overall score is based mainly on ease of use, voice quaiity, messaging, and battery life. Phones are listed in performance order, within categories. Ease of use maihiy considers step-saving functions for making and receiving calls, as vieil as display and keypad readability and multimedia versatility. Voice quality considers listening (what vie heard) and talking (what was heard at the other end) in noisy and quiet settings using live phone calls; we show the iower of the two scores. Messaqinq assesses keypad ergonomics, text-messaging features, support for Microsoft Outiook, and whether the phone can open e-maii attachments. Battery life is an average of talk time with strong and weak network signals, and considers standby and dispiay times. Broadband data indicates the highestspeed mobiie broadband data network the phone supports in the U.S. Generaiiy, LTE, WiMAX, and HSPA-^ are considered the fastest, and EV-DO and HSPA and HSDPA are much faster than lxRTT and EDGE. For bluetooth, \/=Voice, D=Data, S=Stereo. Price is approximate retail.
ich
=3
ao re 'S
oj M
16
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Qujck Guide
COMPUTERS, DESKTOPS
Desktop computers are setting a new performance standard, especially in models that use Intel's newest Core processors, the Core 7-2600 series.
Shopping tip
Save money on your computer purchase by using coupon and forum sites such as Techbargains, FatWallet.com, and Ebates.
What to looi( for
For browsing the Web and checking e-mail, a low-end, dual-core processor such as the Intel Pentium Dual-Core or AMD Athlon/Turion X2 A faster processor such as the Intel second-generation Core i3, i5, and i7, or AMD's A4, A6, or A8 for watching videos or playing games 4GB of memory, enough for anything other than heavy multitasking or video editing
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/computers
What to sitip
3D capability, because the technology isn't perfect yet

What you'll pay
Some full-sized desktops that are excellent performers could cost as little as $650 to $700. Once you add features, of course, prices rise.
Brand & model
Price
Overall score Test results
Features
E 100 F I G IVGl E
-o
A
[2] 1 Ld 2
ALL-iN-ONE
Apple iMac 27-inch
MC813LL/A MSI AE2420 3D-046U5 Apple iMac 27-inch MC510LL/A Apple iMac 21.5-incii MC509LL/A Apple iMac 21.5-inch MC309LL/A Apple iMac 21.5-inch MC508LL/A
O a 2.7GHzCorei5 4 1000 a Corei7-860S 4 1000 O a 3.2GHzCorei3 4 1000 O a a a 3.2GHzCorei3 4 1000 O O 2.56HzCorei5 4 O O

3.06GHZ Coreo 4 500 500
0 '
0 *
0 5
COMPUTERS,
DESKTOPS
17
Brand & model

^ S
Pnce
Overall score
Test results
Features
g S H S .!? S, s s
100 F I G IVGI E
II i I I
ALL-IN-ONE continued
0 7 0 8 Q 9
SonyVAIOVPCL212FX/B Sony Vaio VPCL137FX/B Gateway ZX49Sl-33e
$1,200 1.500 730 900

650 800 540 600 750 400 680 330
e e
Corei5-2410M
^ Core 2 Quad 08400 Core 3-550 ^ Athlon 11X4 " 615e _ Pentium Duai^ Core E5500 ^ Athlon IIX2 " 240e ^ Athlon IIX2 ^ 260u
4 1000 8 1000
o
o
4 1000 4 4 4 4 3 4 2 750 750 750 500 500 750 320
10 HPTouchSmartlOz 11 HP All-in-One 200-5250 12 HP TouchSmart 300-1223 13 HP All-ln-One Computer 100-5155 14 Acer All-in-One AZ15 16 17 18
1OO-U3O72 Dell Inspiron IO23O5-3114MSL Compaq Presario CQl-2025 MSI Wind Touch AE205O-008 Lenovo PC C200
o
o
o o o
o O Athlon II170U Athlon IIX2 O 25Ou
aoo
o
Dual-Core E-350 Dual-Core E-3S0 Atom D525
4 1000 1 250
o o
B
1 2
COMPACT
Gateway SX2803-25e HP Pavilion Slimline 55-1014 HP Pavilion s5610y eMachines EL1352-23e Acer Veriton X275-UD5700W eMachines EL185O-Ole
O NA NA O O NA NA O O NA NA O O NA NA
O NANA
,--^ a
6 1000 4 750 3 640 4 500

coreE5700 ^ ^^
/-^ M lA Pentium Dual- , A
O NA NA Celeron 450
2 500
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. bd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
18
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand & modei
Price
Overall score
Test results
<-'
Features
ro
t;-
-^
111 I
C FULL-SIZED
1 2 3 4 HP Pavilion Elite h8-1020 Asus Essentio CM6850-07 HP Pavilion Elite h8-1010 Deil Studio XPS X83OO-1225NBK HP Pavilion HPE h8xt HP Pavilion Elite HPE-410V HP Pavilion HPE h8z HP Pavilion Elite HPE-235f Gateway DX485O-27EU Dell Inspiron 62O-228NBK Corei7-2600S 8 Core 7-2600 8 Corei5-2390T 8 Core 5-2300 6 1000 1000 1000 1000 1500 1000 1000 1000 1500 1000 1500 1000 1000 1000 750 1000 500 500 500 1000 500 500
0 S 0 6
0 0 0 Q 0 7 8 9 10
Core 7-2600 8 Phenom IIX6 8
1O45T
Phenom IIX6 8 1065T Phenom IIX6 8
1035T
Corei5-2300 Core 3-2100 Core 3-55O Athlon IIX4 645 Phenom IIX4 840T Athlon II X4 640 Athlon IIX4 630 Pentium Dual Core E5800 Pentium DualCore E5700 Athlon liX2 245 Athlon IIX2 260 Athlon IIX2 220 Athlon II X2 255 Athlon IIX2 245
6 4 6 6 6 4 4 4 4 4 3 4 3 4
11 HP Pavilion p673Of 12 HP Pavilion P7-1054 13 HP Pavilion p6774y 14 HP Pavilion p6754y 15 HP Pavilion p6654y 16 lenovo IdeaCentre K3OO-53162HU 17 Deii Inspiron I560-2133NBK 18 Deil Inspiron I570-9402NBK 19 HP Pavilion p7z 20 ASUS Essentio CM1630-06 21 Lenovo IdeaCentre H405 (7723-lFU) 22 Deii Inspiron 570
C O M P U T E R S ,
D E S K T O P S
19
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
Features
CO CO
TO
i
.1
C FULL-SIZED continued
23 24 25 26 AsusE5sentioCM1630-0S Compaq Presario CQ5720F HP Pavilion p7m Compaq Presario cq5814 $455 350 350 290
o N N *"^';j"<^ A A
O ^ O a O ^ O NA NA ^'^"j'"'^
320 500
M wA Pentium Dual A NA NA ^g^gj5gQQ 2
ONANA
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D MINI
[71 1 2 Apple Mac Mini MC270LL/A Acer AspireRevo Desi(top AR37OO-U3OO2
O NA O NA 350 e
2.4GHZ Core
2 Duo
2 2
320 250
NA NA AtomD525
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. hd Recominended These are h'igh-performing models that stand out.

Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in order of precise score. Scores are comparable between the full-sized and compact categories. Scores for the mini and all-in-one categories are not comparable with any other category. 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 A/V connections; software, such as security programs and productivity applications; and tech support and warranty provisions. 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.
20
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
OUR READERS RATE TECHNICAL SUPPORT
A
Manufacturer
pple stood out among manufacturers for technical support. Ovetall, tech support remains among the lowestrated consumer services we measure, though clear differences exist among manufacturers. The Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed CONSUMER REPORTS subscribers
about their most recent experiences with tech support, including support provided by manufacturers' extended plans. Respondents might not reflect the general U.S. population. Desktop and laptop responses
were combined into orie Rating, because we've found little difference between the two in recent surveys. In the chart below, the reader score would be 100 if everyone were completely satisfied; 80 would mean respondents were very satisfied, on average; 60, fairly well satisfied; 40, somewhat dissatisfied. Differences of fewer than 7 points are not meaningful. Phone support and online support were rated on a scale from very poor to excellent. Problem solved indicates the percentage of people who said the manufacturer solved their problem.
Tech support
In order of reader score
Reader score Survey results
100 Apple Lenovo/IBM Dell Sony Toshiba

ASUS
e
0
o o o
o o o o
HP/Compaq Acer/Gateway/eMachJnes
Based on responses from owners of 12.583 desktop, laptop, and netbook computers who contacted tech support between January 2010 and January 2011.
->Worse
Ratings Key
ms sol (perce 80% 57 57 45 44 41 47 40
COMPUTERS,
LAPTOPS
21
Quick Guide
COMPUTERS, LAPTOPS
Some laptops offer features and capabilities that rival those of traditional desktops. Prices for 13-inch laptops continue to drop, and 500GB and larger hard drives are becoming more common in laptops of all sizes. What to looii for
An II- to 13-inch model if you plan to carry the laptop around with you frequently A 14- to 16-inch screen for the ideal balance of performance, portability, and price A 17- to 18-inch model for an entertainment-oriented desktop replacement
What to skip
Athlon Neo, Turion Neo, or Sempron processor, the Intel Atom or Celeron processor, or the Via Nano processor
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
If you have special needs, order la carte from the manufacturer's website.
A well-equipped, 15-inch laptop in the middle price range might cost about $600 and include one ofthe newer processors.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/computers
Unless it's a netbook, computers that use the AMD

Brand & model Price
Scan this or see how, page II
Overall score
Test results
100 p I F I G IVGl E
A UiNCH MODELS
1 2 Apple MacBaoi< Air ll-inch MC5O5LL/A Acer TravelMate Timeline TM8172-6932 HP Pavilion dmlz 13-INCH MODELS
O e OOO OO
3 B
1.4GHzCore 2 0uo Core 9 3.1 5-470U Dual-Core 6.25 3.4 E-350 5.25 2.3
Samsung 900X3A-A03
O a 7.5 2.9
Cr oe
2 Apple UacBook Air 13-inch MC503LL/A 3 Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch MC700LL/A
5-2537M 1.86GHZ 7.5 2.9 Core 2 Duo 2.3GHZ O 8.5 4.5 Core 5
22
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
rsa tilit\
tal}ilit\
mie
Dii
c m Perfo
(hr.
10 0
p 1 F 1 GIVGl E
B
[^ 4
13-INCH MODELS continued

ASUSU36JC-B1 Apple MacBook MC5I6LL/A Sony VAIO VPCS134GX/B ASUSU33JC-A1 Lenofo IdeaPad U260-08763AU Toshiba Sateliite L635-53O3O HPENVY13-1O3ONR
o o 8.5 3.8 ^.'-^"^j^ O 6.75

2.4GHZ Core 4.8 2 Duo Core Core 3-37OM Core 3-U380 Celeron P4600
ttery
Ergc
ra
Weil
.c on
0U(
UIJ
[71 5
0 0
6 7 8 9
O O 5.5 4.3
O O O 8.5 4.6 O 5.25 3 O O 5.5 4.4 O O O 4 3.8 O O 7.75 3.8 O O 5.75 4.1
10
11 MSI X37O-OO1US 12 HP Pavilion

dni3-3010us
Dual Core E-350 Pentium U5400
14-INCH MODELS
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E420
O O O O OO O O O O O O O O
4.7
0 2 0 3
HP Paviiion dv4t Dell Inspiron 14R2nd Gen 5 HP Pavilion dm4-2050us HP Paviiion dm4-1265dx Samsung NP-Q430-J503U5 Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 0578N6U Dell Inspiran 14R2nd Gen 3 Dell Inspiron I14r-1296LPK HP Pavilion dv4-4030us
6.75 4.8 5.25 5.2 8.25 4.3 5 3.75 4.5 4.4 5 4.9
0 *
0 5
0 ' 0^ 0 *
9 10
o o o o o o o
5.75 5.2 4.75 4.9 5.75 4.8
Core 3-231OM Core 3-231OM Core 5-2410M Core 3-231OM Core 5-460M Core 5-480M Core 3-390M Core 3-2310M Core 3-38OM Pentium B950
C O M P U T E R S ,
L A P T O P S
23
Brand & modei
Pnce
Overail score
Test results
o
100 F I G IVGI E
14-INCH MODELS continued

HPG42-3O3DX
$ 400
O O
Turion II 4.8 Dual-Core 3 P540 5
12 Lenovo ThinkPad SL410

2842-K3U
Q e O O 4.5
13 HPG42-24OUS 14 Acer lconia-6120

Touchhook
O O 3.75 4.9 O O O O 3 6
D PI
[7]
15-TO 16-INCH MODELS

15-inch MC372LL/A Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch MC721LL/A Appie MacBook Pro 15-inch ZOLZ
1 Apple UacBook Pro

2
1,700 1,800 1,900
O O O O e O O O
[71 3
[71 4 0
0 0 [7]
Samsung
NP-RF511-SO2US
850
5
6 7 8
Deii XPS B
Deil XPS 15z Deii XPS 15z HD Display Toshiba Satellite A655-3DV11X
O O
O O
ASUSN53SV-B1
[ 7 ] 10
Dell Inspiron 15R2nd Gen 5 [ 7 ] 11 HP Pavilion dv6-325Ous
O O
12 Gateway NV59C70U
O O 5.5 5.2
2.53GHZ Corei5 2GHZ 9 5.6 Corei7 2GHZ 9.25 5.5 Corei7 Core 6.25 5.7 7-263O0M Core 6.25 6,1 7-262OM Core 7,25 5,5 . 5-2410M Core 7 5.5 IS-2410M Core 3.5 5,9 5-241OM Core 5 6.4 5-2410M Core 6,75 6 5-241OM Core 5.25 5.5 5-480M Core
8,5 5.5
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended, Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
24
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brands model
Price
Q:
i S I 2 5 î 1,
S S
100
P 1 F G IVGl E
rocess
Core 3-231OM Core 3-38OM Core 3-38OM Core 3-38CM Core 3-370M Core 7-7400 Core 5-480M Core 3-350M Core 3-35OM Core 3-380M Core 7-7200M Core 3-370M Core 3-370M Pentium P6200 Pentium P6200 Pentium P6100 Phenom II N830 Turion II P560 Athlon II P-360 Turion II Dual-Core P540^
S -^ S .2 .
S 'l
S- TO 16-INCH MODELS continued

Dell Inspiron 15R2nd Gen 3 Acer Aspire AS5742-6814 ASUSU52JC-BBG6 HPG6-1A69US HP Pavilion dv6-3257sh $ 550
Q 1 3 B 1 4
O a o a o o a
a o 6.5 6 o o 5.75 5 o 4.75 5.9 O O 5 5.3
550 750 500 750 870 550 600
0 1 5
Q 1 6
, ^ , ^ , , ^ , ^ , , * , . * 4 , , ^ , ^ . ^ . ^ , ''
0 1 7
a O 4.75 5.5 a O 3 6.6
18 Sony VAIO VPCF13UFX/B 19 Acer Aspire AS5742-6638 20 HP Pavilion dv6-3225dx
a oa
, o O O 4.75 5 o O 4.75 5.5 o O 5.25 5.3
21
Acer Aspire A55745-5425 (09I4-4DU)
550
550
1.900
22 Lenovo IdeaPad Z560 23 HPENVY15-1O5ONR 24 HPG62-373DX 25 Dell Inspiron

I15R-1O09MRB
o a a a o o o a
o e e & e e
O O 4.75 5.6 2 6.3
480 500 500 530 425 720 650 430 500
o O O 4.5 5.6
O 3 5.7
26 Gateway NV55C38U
O O 3.5 5.1 a O 3.75 5.7 O O 3.5 5.9 a O 3.5 5.4 a O 3.5 5.4 O O 4 5.6
27
ASUSK52F-F1
28 ASUS K52F-BBR5 29 HP Pavilion dv6-3040us 30 Sony VAIO VPCEE43FX/BJ 31 Dell Inspiron

IM5O3O-192OOBK
o a
o e e o e e 9 e e
. ^ , ^ 4
32
HPG62-4350X
O O 3.5 5.5
COMPUTERS,
LAPTOPS
25
Brand & modei
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
i ^ I SI i I
a,
100 p I F I G I VGl
D 15-TO 16-iNCH MODELS continued

33 34 3S
Acer Aspire A55253-BZ6O2 Toshiba Satellite C655-55I32 Compaq Presario C057-210U5 , *
350
350 400
E^
f!^M f!^M
aoo
5.75
5 5.2 5.4
Dual-Core e-350 Celeron 925 Dual Core C-50
2 3 2
e e o o 4.75 a o o 5.75
E
2 3

Appie MacBook Pro 17-inch MC7251L/A HP ENVY 17-2O7Onr Appie MacBook Pro 17-inch MC024LL/A HPdv7-4295uS
a O 9.5 6.4 O 3.75 75 a O 9.25 6.5 m e ^ e e
^^^ .^^,^^^ ^^^l
3.75 72 J^^^w
0 S p] 6 0 0 7
0 0 0 8 9
DeilXP5173D Samsung NP-RF711-501U5 Toshiba Qosmio X505-08104 DeiiXPS17
O a a a
3 77 .
e e e e e 4.75 6.5 a 35 10.8 .
Core 5-2410M Core 5-2410M Core 7-26300M
a a a O 5.25 74 .^^^l^
HP Pavilion dv7-6l75us 10 Delllnspironl7R2nd Gen 5 U 12 Gateway NV79C54U Deii Inspiron 17R2nd Gen 3 HP Pavilion G7-150US
e ^ e e e
9 71
Core
5-2410M Core 5-2410M Core 3-38OM Core 3-231OM Core 3-370K
o a a a 4.75 72 o 5 6.6 o a a a 4.75 7.1
0 0
13
o a a o o 4 6
Ratings Key Excellent avery good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. \Ei Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
26
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2

Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in order of precise score, out of a total of 100. Portability score is based on battery life and weight. Ergonomics represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features. Perfornnance is based on performance while running productivity applications, multimedia applications, and 3D games. Versatility includes hardware such as memory-card slots and A/V 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. Battery life (hr.) is estimated in hours while running productivity applications. Weight (Ib.) is the weight of the laptop as you would carry it around, including the battery but without the power adapter. Price is approximate retail.
iviost & Least Reliable

Desktops
Fewer ^ More
Laptops
repairs
repairs
A pe M ^ t a l pl Cma ^ ^ ^ H t ] o pq
Gtwy ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ H ae a
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
Gateway has been among the more repairprone brands of desktop computers and Apple has been among the least. That's what we found when we asked almost 20,000 readers who bought a desktop computer between 2008 and 2011 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 5 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the desktop computer. Models within a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
0%
5%
10% 15% 20% 25%
No one brand stood out as the most or least reliable. That's what we found when we asked more than 26,000 readers who bought a laptop computer between 2008 and 2011 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of brands that have ever been repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 percentage points are not meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the laptop computer. Models within a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model. Source: Annual Product Reiiabiiity Survey. Consumer Reports National Research Center.
C O M P U T E R S ,
N E T B O O K S
27
Qujck Guide
COMPUTERS, NETBOOKS
If you're in the market for a netbook, models with ciualcore Atom processors are setting the performance standard for that category. But those processors also use more energy than single-core Atoms, resulting in lower battery life. What to look for What to skip
1GB of memory, which should be adequate for most users intel's beefed-up, dual-core Atom processor if you plan to watch videos An external optical drive, if you want to install software from a disc or play CDs or DVDs.
I'or more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/computers
if you don't like small displays, keyboards, and touchpads, and slow performance, a netbook is not for you.
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
Shop in January, July, and October, viihen older inventory is cleared out to make room for new models.
You should be able to find a netbook with very long battery life and light weightits two most important specs for $200 to $250.
Brand S model
Price
Overall score
Test results
Rank
formance Versatility Display
Portability
att Viife(hr.)
eight (tb.)
ai
i
LU
cor
100 p i F 1G Iv&l E
Processor
ai
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
AsusEeePC 1O15PX-MU17-WT Acer Aspire One AOD255E-13877 Toshiba Mini NB5O5-N5OOBL Asus Eee PC 1015PEB-RD601 HPMini21O-2145dx Asus Eee 1008P-KR-PU27 Toshiba Mini NB255N25O
6.5
2.7 AtomN570
O O O
10 2.5 AtomN455
1 1
O O 8.25 2.7 AtomN455
O O O 9.25 2.7 AtoniN45O 1 O O O 7.75 2.9 AtomN455 1
O O O O 4.75 2.6 AtomN55O 2

O O 6.75 2.8 AtomN455 1
C O N S U M E R
R E P , O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S modei
Price
Overall score
Test results
t|
100 ' I F I G IVGl E Asus Eee PC 1018BP-BBK804 9 Asus Eee PC 1015PEB-RD603 10 Deil Mini 10 (1012) U Deil Inspiron Mini 10 8
O O O o O o O o O o O O o O O
o O O O O O O O O
7,75 2.5 AtomN455 9 2,7 Atom N450 9 3 AtomN45O
(1018)
12 Acer Aspire One AOO255E-13412 13 Acer Aspire One A0D255E-13438 14 Deli Inspiron Duo 15 Asus Eee PC 1OO1PXD-BBK3O4 16 Asus Eee 1OO1PX-EU27 17 Lenovo IdeaPad Netbook Tahletg65l7HU
8,5 2,9 Atom N455 5.25 2,3 AtomN455 4,25 2.3 3.75 3 Atom N455 AtoniN55O
oo
O O o O O o O O
3,5 2,4 Atom N455 3.75 2,4 Atom N450 4 2.9 AtomN455
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair VPoor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended, 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed 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 A/V 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. Battery life is estimated in hours while running productivity applications. Welqht, in pounds, includes the battery but not the power adapter. Price is approximate retail.
COMPUTERS,
TABLETS
29
Quick Guide
COMPUTERS, TABLETS
Lightweight and highly portable, tablets are made to be carried wherever you go. Most have 7- to 10-inch screens. What to look for
Unless portability is crucial, a 10-inch screen, better for Web surfing, video, and gaming A display with a wide viewing angle An operating system that can be upgraded Ability to access a rich variety of apps authorized by the OS manufacturer
What to skip
office productivity tasks, such as those that require a lot of typing, a tablet isn't for you.
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
Tablets can double as e-readers and photo frames, and a wide variety of inexpensive apps is available.
You'll spend at least $500 for a good, 10-inch Android tablet with 32GB of memory. An equivalent iPad, with Wi-Fi only, costs $600. Smaller Android tablets that we recommend start as low as $350.
For more buying advice, go to ConsutnerReports.org/computers
If you need a computer for

Brand & model
Similar models, in small type. ;iic
Scan this or see riow. page 11
Price
Overall score
Test results
S S
s
o 100 p I F I G IVGl E
A 1 2 3 4 5
6 7
7-TO 8-INCH MODELS Samsung Galaxy Tab (Wi-Fi, 36,166B) $430 Samsung Gaiaxy Tab (Wi-Fi, 16GB) 350 HTC EVO View (Wi-Fi, 3G/4G, 32GB) HTC Flyer Tablet (Wi-Fi, 16GB) BlackBerry Playbook (Wi-Fi, 32GB)
Plavbook (W Fi. 16GB). PlayBook (Wi-Fi. 64GB)
7.1 0.8 e 7.1 0.8 6.8 0.9 6.8 0.9 O o O
And. 2.2 And. 2.2 And. 2.3 And. 2.3
ViewSonic ViewPad 7 (Wi-Fi, 3G, 1GB) Dell Streak 7 (Wi-Fi, 16GB)
8 9
Dell streak 7 (Wi-Fi, 3G, 16GB) Ardios 70 Internet Tablet (Wi-Fi, 8GB)
''^ ' " QNXIO 7 0.8 And. 2.2 4.1 0.9 And. 2.2 4 1.0 And. 2.2 7.2 0.7 And. 2.2
30
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & model

: Similar models, in small type, are ' compaiahli.' lo tpsifd mndpl.
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
-g
'S .!2
Il i
i I
B 1 I 2
'
9-TO 12-iNCH MODELS Appie iPad 2 (Wi-Fi. 3G, 32GB)

iPad 2 (Wl.Fi. 3G. 64GB. iPad 2 (Wiri. 3C. I6G6)
1 11.6 1.3 IOS4.3 1
Appie Pad 2 (Wi-Fi, 32GB)

iPad 2 (Wiri, 6406), iPad ! (wi-Fi. 16GB)
11 O
^ 1 1
11.6 1. ios 4.3 3
I 3 I 4 I 5 6 I 7 8 I 9
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (Wi-Fi,

32GB) Galaiv Tab 10.1 (Wi.Fi. 16 GB)
t1 9.3 1.2 And. 3.1

10.5 1.6 And. 3.1
illlotoroiaXoom (Wi-Fi. 3G/4G, 32GB) Asus Eee Pad Transformer (Wi-Fi,

32GB) EeePad Transformer (Wiri. 16GB)
9 1.5 And. 3.1
Motorola Xoom (Wi-Fi, 32GB) T-MobiieG-Slate (Wi-Fi, 3G/4G, 32GB) Tosbiba Thrive (Wi-Fi, 32GB)
Thrive (WiFi. 16GB), Thrive (Wi-rl, 8GB)
i ^ U 1.6 And, 3.1 1 8.6 1.4 And. 3.1 P

1
AcericoniaTabA500(Wi-Fi, 16GB)
^1
10 HP TouchPad (Wi-Fi. 32GB) U Atchos 101 Internet Tablet (Wi-Fi,

16GB) 101 internet Tablet (Wi-a 8GB)
6? O
o o o
73 1.7 And. 3.1 8.6 1.7 And. 3.0 WebOS 74 1.6 7.2 1.2 And. 2.2
O O
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair Poor D 0 CR Best Buy These rrodels offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based on ease of use, display, touch response, versatility, battery life, and weight. We judge ease of use reading books, playing media, and using e-rriail and the Web. Display score reflects color, viewing angle, brightness, and amount of glare. Touch response indicates responsiveness of the touch screen when selecting and moving objects or typing. Versatility reflects the presence of useful features. Portability score is based on size, weight, and battery life. Battery life, in hours, indicates how long the tablet could play video clips. Welqht, in pounds, is without a case or cover. The operating system is the program that runs the user interface and apps. Price is approximate retail.
D I G I T A L
C A M E R A S ,
B A S I C
43
Quick Guide
DIGITAL CAMERAS, BASIC
All the models we tested offer Good or Very Good overall performance and image quality. Most get 200 to 350 shots per battery charge and have 2V2 inches or so of LCD screen. What to look for
A wide-angle end of the zoom range as low as 28 or 24mm, for more panoramic landscapes or group portraits An LCD that either has a touchscreen or can swivel, for hard-to-reach shots An optical or electronic viewfinder, which can help you compose when bright light conditions wash out your LCD Dedicated video button, which lets you quickly record
Brand & model Price
video when youre shooting still images

What to skip
Shopping tip
Look for a nontelescoping lens if vou don't want the zoom to protrude from the camera when you turn it on.
Buying a camera solely based on its megapixel count, since higher resolution doesn't necessarily produce better prints
What you'll pay
For basic point-and-shoots, expect to spend $80 to $500.

For more buying advice, go lo ConsumerReports.org/cameras Overall score Test results
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F I G IVGI E A 1 2 3 4 5 6 COMPACT MODELS Canon PowerShot SX130 IS Casio Exilim EX-FHlOO Canon PowerShot SX210 IS SonvCvber-shotDSC-H55 Fujifilm FinePixF80EXR Panasonic Lumix DMC-_ZS5
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o o o o 14 8 28 260
230 190 ... ~1
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44
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S model
Price
I Overall score I Test results
' S '
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100 P I F I G IVGl E
B 0 0 0 0 0 p] p] Q [71 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SUBCOMPACT MODELS Nikon Coolpix P300 Canon PowerShot S95 Casio Exilim EX-ZRIO Nikon Coolpix S8100 Nikon Coolpix S8000 Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS ELPH Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700 Casio Exilim EX-H5 Canon PowerShot ELPH 300HS Leica V-Lux 20 Canon PowerShot SD940 IS ELPH Canon PowerShot ELPH 500HS
[71 U [ 7 1 12
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Sony Cyber-shot 0SC-TX9 Casio Exilim EX-Z2000 Canon PowerShot SD1400 IS ELPH Canon PowerShot ELPH OOHS Canon PowerShot S04500 IS ELPH Casio Exilim EX-H20G Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5V Canon PowerShot SX23O HS Panasonic Lumix DMC-TSIO
270
[71 17 0 [7] 18 19
[ 7 1 20 Q 21
350 170
Ratings Key Exceilent Very good OGood Fair Poor Q 0 CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.
D I G I T A L Brand & model
C A M E R A S ,
B A S I C
45
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Overaii score
Testresuits
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22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47
SUBCOMPACT MODELS continued

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WXIO Samsung TL35O Samsung WB210 Canon PowerShot DIO Nii(onCoolpixS80 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FPl Casio Exilim EX-Z800 Nii(onCoolpixS1100pj Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH27 Panasonic lumix OMC-FX78 Canon PowerShot A3300 IS Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5 Canon PowerShot A3100 IS Nikon Coolpix SlOOOpj Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 Nii(on Coolpix S5100 Samsung ST95 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5 Samsung STIOO Samsung SHIOO Canon PowerShot A3000 IS Nikon Coolpix S70 Samsung PL200 Pentax Optio 1-10
20 3 350 180 280
O O
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6 6 7 8 S 5 5 4 6 7 6 5 5 5 6 6 7 5 5 4 6 5 6 6 6 6
24 24 24 35 35 25 35 27 28 25 28 24 28 24 35 28 28 28 26 28 35 26 35 28 31 28
360 NA 180 220 150 230 300 280 220 300 250 200 230 230 240 220 310 200 200 260 NA 220 230 200 160 250
o o o
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o o o o 16 o o o 16 o o o o 14 o o 14
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46
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & modei
Pnce
Overaii score Test resuits

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B SUBCOMPACT MODELS continued 48 5ony Cyber-Sbot

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49 50 51 52 53
54
Samsung PL210 Oiympus Styius 5010 Casio Exiiim EX-S200 Canon PowerSbot A22OO Sony Cyber-Siiot D5C-TX10 Fujifiim FinePix Reai 3DW3 5onyCyber-shotDSC-T99 Oiympus Styius 7040 Pentax Optio RZIO Canon PowerShot A490 Panasonic Lumix 0MC-FH2 5ony Cyber-siiot OSC-W35O Niicon Cooipix S3000 Panasonic Lumix 0MC-FH20 RC01CX4 5amsungST90 5amsung PL90 Canon PowerSbot A495 Nikon Cooipix 56000 Panasonic Lumix DMC-F3 Canon PowerSbot A800 Casio Exiiim EX-Gl
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300
230 100 180 100 ., "" ,. '^""
55 56 57 58 59
60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70
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16 7 14 14 14 14 6 5 5 5
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290 240 120 270 280 250
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270 120 220 300 330 NA NA 150
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14 12 10 14
4 5 7 6
26 28 37
28 210
28 37 38 220 300 300
12 5 10 7 12 5
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. l i d Recommended These are high.performing models that stand out.
D I G I T A L Brand S model Pnce Overall score
CAfviERAS, Test results
B A S I C
47
ecomme ndat on
H.
100 P 1 F 1 G IVGl E
B
71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97
SUBCOMPACT MODELS continued

Fujifilm FinePix T300 Samsung PL120 Samsung ST80 Kodak EasyShare M580 Canon PowerShot A1200 Fujifilm FinePix JX300 Nikon CoolpixS3100 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 Fujifilm FinePix JX280 Pentax Optio RSlOOO Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS Pentax Optio WG-1 Samsung PL170 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W57O Samsung PL20 Fujifiim FinePix Z800EXR Casio ExillmEX-ZSlO Fujifilm FinePix AVIOO Sony Cyber-shot OSC-TllO Fujifilm FinePix Z700EXR Casio Exilim EX-FC150 Panasonic Lumix DMC-53 Olympus Stylus Tough-6020 Sony Cyber-shot DSCW53O Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 Casio Exilim EX-Z55O Casio Exilim EX-Z35
220
180
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14 6 28 180 14 4 26 200 14 5 35 NA 14 6 28 200 12 7 28 200 14 5 28 180

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a 14 a o 1 4 o o a a a o o o
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4 4 6 5 25 27 35 26 220 220 170 190
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230 170 300 250 200 250 250 250
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48
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand S model
Price
Overall score
Test results
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Nikon Coolpix L22 Olympus TG-810 OiympusTG-310 $120 G IVGl E
98 99 100
370 200 300 100

lin
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101 Samsung CL80 102 Nikon Coolpix L24 103 Sony Cyber-shot
DSC-W510 104 Olympus Stylus Tough-3000
O o o o o
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a o o a o o
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37 28 28 31 37
26
240 220 190 240 220 220 160 165 190 200 200
?nn 160 180 60 300

13n
105 Fujifilm FinePix XPIO 106 Nikon Coolpix S4000 107 Kodak EasyShare C142 108 Oiympus Stylus
Tough-8010 109 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W3I0
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160 110 150 100 ion 100 150 150 140 100
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lis
116 117 118 119 120
M200 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S2100 Kodak EasyShare M53O Kodak EasyShare M575 Fujifilm FinePix 290 Fujifilm FinePix JX25O Kodak EasyShare C195
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7 35 5 5 5 5
170
36 200 28 220 28 220 28 180
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Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P o o r Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the besf combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
D I G I T A L
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Brand & model

o r S -o c er
Price
Overall score
Test results
ity lash pho deo quaiity Ease of t Verstil LCD quai Megapix eis
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121 122 123 124 12S 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 U3 134 135 136 137 138 139
SUBCOMPACT MODELS continued Fujifilm FinePix JZ500 HPPW55O Pentax Optio SI Fujifilm FinePix Z70 GEG5WP GEJ125O Pentax Optio E90 Samsung ST65 Kodak EasyShareU590 Olympus TlOO HP PW460t Samsung ES80 Olympus FE-4020 GE Create 21 (Jason Wu) Kodak EasyStiare Touch M577 GEJ1470S Fujifilm FinePix XP30 GE E1450W GEA1456W SUPERZOOM MODELS1 Nikon Coolpix PlOO Nikon Coolpix L120 Canon PowerShot SX30IS Panasonic Lumix 0MC-FZ40 Nikon Coolpix S9100 Nikon Coolpix LllO Fujifilm FinePix F55OEXR
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6 5
28 N A 28 36 38 35 31.5 27 35 36 28 27 26 N A 28
230 N A 180 165 180 190
4 5 5 5 6 4 5 4 4 5 4 5 5
220
180 195 N A N A 180
N A N A 200 300 200 220 120
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50
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
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Brand & modei

o
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits Image qual tv Flash phot Video qual Ease of u Verstil LCO qual Megapix Weight (o
S
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Wid est angle (m

24 24
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9 10 11
12
100
p 1 F 1 G IVGl E
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20
SUPERZOOM MODELS continued Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZSIO Fujifilm FinePix HSIO Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 Olympus SP-610UZ Oiympus SZ-30MR Pentax Optio X90 Oiympus SP-800UZ Fujifiim FinePix S4000 Fujifiim FinePix S2950 Fujifiim FinePix F300EXR GEX5 Fujifiim FinePix S2800H0 GEX500
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14 8 10 28 14 7 16 8 17 16 21 17
260 300
24 340 28 340 300 255 200 300 300 250 300
o 14 17 28 300 16 17 27 300
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. lid Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Bat ery life (sho
D I G I T A L
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Overall score is based mainlv on image qualitv, ease of use, and versatility, plus LCD, flash, and video quality. Megapixels is the sensor's pixel count, in millions. Weiqht is vi/ith battery, memory card, and strap, imaqe quality reflects the quality of a series of handheld shots, taken indoors (using a range of lighting conditions, with and without flash) and outdoors under a range of conditions. Flash photos tests the guality of the built-in flash's output and evenness of illumination. Video quality mostly reflects video captured in regular and low light, with audio quality and macro capability also considered. Ease of use is our evaluation of the camera's controls, manual, response time, and focusing. Versatility gauges controls, features, menus, and how adiustable settings are. LCD quality is a judgment of images viewed under various conditions. Widest anqle (mm) means the lower the number for widest angle, the broader the vista the camera can capture. Battery iife is as the manufacturer states. Price is approximate retail.
Most St Least Reliable Point-and-shoot Most cameras are very reliable, and few differences exist among brands. That's what <ne found when we asked almost 197,000 readers who bought a digital camera between 2006 and 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points aren't meaningfui, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the digital camera. Although we lacked sufficient historical data to include Polaroid point-and-shoots in the chart, they do not appear to warrant reliability concerns, according to our analysis. Models within a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
5%
10%
15%
20%
SLR
Fewer repairs More repairs
Pentax ^ H
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey, Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Canon L B K ] Olympus ^ ^ n Nikon ^ H ^ ^

0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
52
C O N S U M E R
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Quick Guide
DISHWASHERS
You don't have to spend a lot for great cleaning. Our tests revealed budget models that scored as well as machines costing hundreds of dollars more.
Shopping tip
The three basic cycies-iight, normal, and heavy-shouid be enough for most chores, even for baked-on food.
What to look for
What you'll pay
Adjustable racks and other loading aids, for flexibility A soil sensor, to adjust the cycle's time and water use, improving efficiency Rinse/hold cycle, to prevent soil from setting while you wait for a full load
What to skip
You can pay $1,500 or more for a dishwasher with hidden controls, interactive digital displays, and special grimefighting cycles. But when it comes to clean dishes, sparkling performance starts at about $500 or less.
Scan thl5 or see how. page 11
Drawer models, which are expensive and tend to use more energy and water than regular models
Price Overall score
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/dishwashers
Brands model
similar niodels, in small type, aie compaiable to tested model.
Test results
Features
= o s Q.
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P I F I G IVGl E
CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS
IG steam 1DF79321ST1 Kenmore 137412] IG LDF69201WW1 Kenmore Pro HE 131713) Whirlpool Gold 6U2300XTV(QlGol(l
GU2Z75XTV|LGol(IGU247S)nVll
$1,000 620 700 1.390 500
Some
135
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ali are recommended. ud Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
DISHWASHERS
53
BrandSmodei
Simipr models, in small
Price
Overall score
Test results
z
Features
'S
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0 100 P I F I G IVGI (
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A CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS continued [71 6 Bosch SHX43P112]UC '' SHE43P1I1UC.SHV43P1I1UC. $ 800

SHE43f!llUC,SHE43P0IIUC
115
All
[71 7 Whirlpool Gold GU36OOXTVIO] [71 8 Bosch SHE6AP0[2]UC

'' SHE64F0IIUC.SHX5410IUC. SHE5AIO1IUC,SHE44POIIUC. SHX44P0I1UC
145 o a 135
Q 9 Whirlpool OU1O55XTVIQ] 380 17] 10 Whirlpool Gold 650 GU2800XTVIQ1 17] 11 GE Profile P0WT500RIWW] 1,200
Profile PDWT58OSI |. Profile PDWT5O2HII
o o
o 125 a 155
a a no a 135
a o 135 o 135 a 120 130 120 o 140 120

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All All
[71 12 Kenmore Elite 140413]

'' Elile 139711
[71 13 Kenmore Elite 139612]

'
''
'
Eiile 139411
Elite 139311
7\ 14 Kenmore Elite 139212] [71 15 Bosch SHX65PO15]UC

SHE65POIIUC. SHV65POIIUC
700
0 0
16 Kenmore Elite 139913] 750 17 Samsung DMT800RHIW] 18 Whirlpool 400 DU1300XTV[0] 19 Maytag MDe8959AWlW] 750
UDBS8W4WII
20 Bosch Ascenta 700 SHX6AP012]UC 21 Asko O5253XXtlHSl 1.700 22 Bosch SHE68P0I2]UC 1,100 23 Maytag M0B4709AWIW] 400 24 Bosch Integra 500 SHX45PO15]UC 1000
Integra 500 5HX45LO1 lue. Integra 500 SHX45ttl|UC
a o
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All All All
All All All All
a no a a 180 a a 120 O 125

a 15 1
All
ji
25 Frigidaire Gallery FGBD2431KIW1
O O O 155
54
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Brand & model similar models, in small type, are comparable to tested model.
Price
| Overall score I Test results
Il O) O 100 P I F I G IVGl E .2
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CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS continued
26 Frigidaire Gallery FGBD2432K1W1

Gallery BBBD432K11 (Best Buy), Gallery LGBO2432KII (Lowe's). Gallery DGBD2432KI)
e e o e e e e e e e
145
27
GEGDWFiOORIWW]
GDWri60R[l.GDWr200Rll. GDWT260R[ 1
28 Maytag MDB7609AW[W|
MDB7709AW||.MDB7809AW(|
29 IG L0F9932(STj 30 Frigidaire Gallery FGH02433K[Fj

Gallery BGHO2433KI1 (Best Buy). Gallery FGHD2471KI1
o e o 0 e e o e e e o
120 120 140 135 170 180 130 135 115 125 115 120
All
Sm o
All
31 Samsung DMT300RF[Wj 32 Frigidaire Professional FPHD2491K[F1 33 Whirlpool OU1030XTXIQI 34 Electrolux Wave-Toucti EWDW65O5G[W1 35 Kenmore 139112] 139011
350
560
36 Jenn-AirJDB32OOAVy|W| 1,100 37 GE Monogram , 2BD6920P[5S] ''^"" 38 FagorLFA-086XL 1,300 39 GE GL07400R1WWJ

GLD7460RSS
40 Electrolux Icon EOW75O5HP[51 41 AskO 05893XXLIH51 42 lkeaNutidlUD9750W 43 Amana ADB1600AW1W]
44 GEGLD6904R[WW]
4 5 Asko D5233XXL1HS]
e e o e o o e e e e e e o e e e e o e e o e e o o e e e e e e e o e e e e e 0 N e e A
All All All
e o e e
All All
110
125
All All All All
e o o e
205 125 130 115 180
DISHWASHERS Brand S model

O c Similar models, m înall Z3 I type, are comparable lo TO OC tested model.
55
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
5
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CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHERS continued

GtD4458RICSl. GLD4468RI1, GtD4406Rll.GLD44S6RICS|. GLD4466RISSI.GLD4404RII. $ 400 _ ^ ^ E ^ ^ l
46 GEGL04408RIWWI
O O O
o .135
15 1 15 1
47 Viking Professional
VDB2OO|S5) 48 Hotpoint
HDA36OOR[WW1
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Ail
DISHWASHER DRAWERS _ ^ _ " ^ " EQBi
,, KU0003DT1WH1 '"" 2 Maytag MDD8000AWIS] 1.400
1 KitchenAid
3 Jenn-AirJDD4000AWIS] 1.600 B l
e o o o o o o o o o o
15 2 15 4 130
Ail Ail Ail
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P o o r Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. vu Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score, based mainly on washing performance, includes energy and water use, noise, cycle time, and ease of use. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Washinq is normal-cycle results with very dirty full load. Enerqy 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 is based on a normal cycle including heated dry, where that feature is available. A sensor adjusts water usage and cycle time to the amount of soil on the dishes. A self-cleaning filter is convenient but adds noise. A stainlesssteel tub won't discolor but boosts price. Hidden controls along the top edge of the door contribute to a sleeker look. Some models hide all controls; others hide only some controls. Ample flatware slots means baskets provide individual slots for silverware. Adjustable upper rack increases loading flexibility. Price is approximate retail. Under Brand & model, a bracketed letter or number is color code.
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56
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Most & Least Reliable

Dishwashers
Fewer repairs Whirlpool Kenmore (w/pull-out drawer) Hotpolnt Bosch More repairs LG and Fisher & Paykel were the most
repair-prone brands among dishwashers. That's vi/hat we found when we asked over 100,000 readers who bought a dishwasher between 2 0 0 6 and 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 4 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data t o eliminate differences linked solely to the dishwasher's age and usage. Models within a brand may vary, and changes in design or manufacture may affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
Kenmore
Miele Amana G E Asko KitchenAid Maytag Jenn-Air Frigidaire Fisher & Paykel (w/pull-out drawer)
LG 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
About our testing

Dishwasiiers are using less water as manufacturers strive to meet tougher fdrai energy standards. And iower operating costs may save you more over a dishwasher's lifetime than the price difference between an efficient and a less-efficient model. But added efficiency can mean it takes longer to get dishes ciean-some models reguire 3 hours for a normai cycle. What's more, those familiar yeiiow Energy Star labels don't teil the whoie story. Our tests are based on dirtier loads and are a more-demanding gauge of energy efficiency. See our Ratings for more information.
o RYERs
57
Quick Guide
DRYERS
Most dryers scored at least Very Good for drying performance. While the gas dryers in our Ratings are similar to the electric models we test, we've found that gas and electric dryers perform similarly. What to look for
A moisture sensor, to cut down on energy costs and avoid overdrying clothes An extended-tumble setting without heat, to prevent wrinkles when you don't remove clothes immediately
What to skip
Specialty cycles such as "speed dry," which usually can be replicated with standard settings
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
Many models have a warning light that tells you it's time to clean the filter.
Extra large, super, and super-pius dryer capacity, because the differences aren't meaningful for everyday use
Brand S model
similar models, in small type, are comparable to tested model.
Gas dryers cost about $50 to $150 more than comparable electric models, but the likely savings in fuel costs should more than make up the difference in the long run.
I For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/dryers Price Overall score Test results
I
.
S
CU
s iJ
e
E o o 100 p I F I G IVCl E
III
o
ly*
ELECTRIC DRYERS
LG 0LEX3885[W|
DIEX3875II
IG DtEX5101[Wl LGDLEX250UW] Samsung DV520AEIP] Samsung DV4I9AE[W] Kenmore 6800[21 Whirlpool Duet Steam WED9750W1W1 Kenmore 6927(2]
58
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & model g S -g Similar models, in small type. ^"- toinpiiiible (o tested model.
Price
I Overaii score I Test results
il
100 F I G IVGl E 'E
ELECTRIC DRYERS continued

$ 660 onn
vUU 1 tnn 1,UU
9 Kenmore 8903(2] Maytag 5000 Series Steam MEDE5OOV[W1 U Bosch Vision 800 Series WTVC833(0]US 12 Maytag MEDE200XIW] U Samsung OV22OAEIW]
DV10AEI1
60 700
^n
14 Bosch Vision 500 Series

WTVC533[O]US
15 16
" 17
GE Profile DPVH890EJIWW] 1,000 Maytag UEDX500XIWI

Bravos XMEDX55OXI1, Bravos X MEDX600XI1. Bravos X MEDX70OXII
550 900 550 700

1.000
Whirlpool WED7600XIW]
Cabrio WED78OOXI I, Cabrio WED74OOX(1. Cabrio VED73OOXI1
18 Whirlpool WEO55OOXIW]
Cabrio WE0S50X1I. Cabrio WED5600XI1. Cabrio WED57OOXI1
I..
GE DCVH680EJ[WW] GEGFDS35OELIWW] GE GF0N240ELIWW] Miele Touchtonic T9802 Eiectroiux Perfect Steam EWMED65HIIW] Maytag Bravos MEOB85OWI0] Kenmore 802712] GEPT05650EMIWT1 Maytag Bravos UEDB200VIO] Whirlpool Cabrio WEO62OOS1W1 Amana NED730OW(Wj
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
o o
850
1,350 1,500
o o o
900 750 700

7nn /UU
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7nn
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550
600
1,100
30 31
Whirlpool WE09050X1W] Asl(0TLS752XXL(W]
DRYERS
59
Brand & model

Similiir models, in'.I iiii
die compfli dijle lo tesied n
Price
Overall score
Test results
o
TO
ngr
g. o
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E
o
too P I F I G IVGl E
A
32 33 34 35 36 37 38
ELECTRIC DRYERS continued

Electrolux IQEIEO55HIIWI Fishers Paykel 0E62TG1 Maytag Centennial ME0C500V1W1 Asko TL751XXt[W| Fisher & Paykel 0E60FA1 5taber HXD2304E GE GTOP25OEMIWW]
GrDP300EMl I. GIOP350[M[ I. GrDP200EM||
39 40 41
Amana NED4800VIQ] Hotpoint NBXR333EG[WW] Roper RED4440VIQI
e e e o o e o e o o o o o e o o e e o e
1,480
o o
o e e e
o o e o
B
H 1
GAS DRYERS
IG0LGX3886[W1DLGX3876(|
k l
IG DLGX25O2[W1
kl kl 11,' I
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SamsungOV520AGIP1 Samsung0V419AGIW] Kenmore 7800121 Whirlpool Duet Steam WGO9750W1W1 Kenmore Elite 792712] Kenmore 9903121 Maytag 5000 Series Steam MGDE500VIW] Bosch Vision 800 Series 1,300 WTVC853I01UC
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models otfer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. IZ! Recommended Ttiese are high-performing models that stand out.
tea
lain
60
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brands model
g = -g Similar models, iti small type. S aie comparable to tested model
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
a -^
O 100 p I F I G IVGl E
S I S
O ob o"
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o
i/i
B
11 12 13 14 15
GAS DRYERS continued

Maytag 2000 Series MGDE200X[Wl Samsung DV220AGIW] DV210AGI1 Bosch Vision 500 Series WTVC553101UC GE Profile DPVH89O6J[WW1 1,100 Maytag Bravos X M6DX5OOXlWlBravosX MGDX55OXI I. Bravos X MGDX600XI I. Bravos XMGDWOOXIl WG07600X1W1 cabrio WGD7800XI I, Cabrio WGD7400XI I. Cabrio WGO7300XII
e e e
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o a
e
16 Whirlpool Cabrio
a a
o
17 Whirlpool Cabrio
WGD55OOX[W1 cabrio WGD555OXI I. Cabrio WGDS600XI1. Cabrio WGD57OOX11 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 GE DCVH680GJ1WWI GEGFDS35OGLIWW] GEGFDN240GLIWWI Miele TouchtronicT9822 Eiectroiux Perfect Steam EWMGD65H(IW1 Maytag Bravos MGOB85OW[01 Kenmore 9027[2J GE Profile POTS650GM[WT] Maytag Bravos MGDB200V[01 Whirlpool Cabrio WG06200S[W] Amana NGD73OOW[W1 Whirlpool Duet WGO9O5OX(W1 Asko TLS752GXXtIWl Eiectroiux IQ EIGD55H[IW]
800
1,080
850
1,420 1.570 1,000

810
780 800
a a o a a o a a a o e e o 0 a a e a a e o e e e a e a a a a e o o o e a

770 550 680
1.200
1,200
o e o o a a a a e
D R Y ER s
61
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
Features
iven en
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Por Or
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0 100
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32 33
GAS DRYERS continued

Fisher & Paykel DG62TG1 t)G62t27G Maytag Centennial MGDC500V[W] $ 850
520
1,080
34 AskoTL751GXXUW] 35 Fisher & Paykel DG60FA1 36 StaberHXD2304G 37 GE GTOP250GM1WW]

GrDPOOGMIWWl. GTDP35OGM(yW|. GT0P200C,MIWWj
500 850 550 480 450 400
WEM W^ SI
e o o o
e O O e e O e e o o e a o
o o
38 39 40
Amana NGD4800VIQ] Hotpoint NBXR333GGIWW] Roper RGD4440V[Q]
e e Q o e e e e o
Ratings Key Excellent everygood OGood 9Fair P o o r Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. IZI Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score based primarilv on drving performance, drum volume and noise. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Drying performance is measured for multiple fabrics and load sizes. Capacity refers to the drum volume of models we tested, which varied from about 6 to 8 cu. ft. Convenience takes into account controls and ergonomics, such as ease of loading and unloading, servicing the lint filter, whether the door could clear a tall basket, and whether the machine has a raised edge to contain spills. Noise reflects panelists' judgments. Price is approximate retail for electric dryers. Under Features, a stainless-steel drum is likely to resist damage better than plastic and painted metal drums. A porcelain top resists scratching better than a painted one but generally adds to a dryer's cost. Drying rack attaches inside the drum to keep items such as sneakers or sweaters from tumbling. Custom programs allows you to save your favorite settings. Generally, a water hook-up is required with the steam option feature. In this cycle, a small amount of water is sprayed into the drum while tumbling with heat. It helps to reduce wrinkles and odors, but it is intended only for a few garments at a time.
pti
Similar models, in small type. ' re comparable to tested model.
ft!
E g- -S
62
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2

Dryers
Fewer repairs
* ^ More repairs
L G
Bosch Amana Roper Gnerai Electric Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Frigidaire Fisher S Paykei
4 S
8
6 6 6 6 7 12
LGLH^ Whirlpool b m
General Electric 1 ^ ^ ^ Frigidaire ^ ^ ^ |
Fisher & Paykei vi/as the most repair-prone brahd among electric dryers. That's what we found when we asked over 89,000 readers who bought a gas or electric dryer betvKeen 2006 and 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of modeis for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points aren't meaningfui, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the dryer's age and usage. Modeis within a brand may vary, and changes in design or manufacture may affect future reliabiiity. Stiil, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
K n oe p m emr
Maytag
n m
10% 15%
I GAS
5 %
20%
ELECTRIC
E - B O O K
R E A D E R S
63
Quick Guide
E-BOOK READERS
E-book readers can do more than just dispiay digital books. Some can surf the Web as well as play other forms of digital media. What to look for A 6-inch screen, for a good combination of adequate size and moderate price for most people Touch capability to help you select content and turn the pages Color capability, if you desire What to skip 3G access to the Internet because while it offers the Brand S model Price most flexibility for obtaining new content for the reader, models with Wi-Fi-only access generally cost less What you'ii pay Prices typically range from $140 to $400, though some models cost $100 or so.
Shopping tip
Some e-readers allow you to borrow e-books from public libraries.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/ebooks

Overall score
Test results
S
0
P I F I G IVGl E
A 5-INCH OR SMALLER DISPLAY 1 Sony Reader Pocket $180 Edition PRS350 2 Aluratek LIBRE eBook Reader Pro 3 EctacojetBookmini
90 100
2 weeks
24 hrs contin O uous/3Odays O standby O O 90 hours
B 6-TO 7-INCH DISPLAY [ ^ 1 Barnes & Noble Nook Simple Touch Reader 0 2 Amazon Kindle 3G +Wi-Fi 0 3 Amazon Kindle 3G + Wi-Fi with Special Offers
O 190 140
60days 60days 60days
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. bd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
64
C O N S U M E R Brand & model
R E P O R T S Price
B U Y I N G Overall score
G U I D E 2 0 1 2 Test results
:= :=
.g g
0 P I F I G IVGl E
i ? s, s
ii
.g
10-22 days 60 days 60 days
B 6- TO 7-INCH DISPLAY continued

p] 4 Sony Reader Daily Edition PRS-9505C 0 5 Amazon Kindle Wi-Fi Q 6 Amazon Kindle Wi-Fi witti Special Offers [ ^ 7 Barnes & Noble Nook Color p ] 8 Kobo eReader Touct) Edition 0 9 EnTourage PocketeOGe [ 7 1 1 0 Barnes & Noble Nook 3G + Wi-Fi Q 11 Barnes S Noble Nook
e e e o e o
tip to 8 hours
30 days 7 hours 10 days 10 days 4,000 page turns 6 hours 6hrs 6hrs 10 days 4 hours ,
e o o e o e e o o e o
130
150 150 100 150
Wi-Fi
12 BeBook Neo 13 Aluratek LIBRE Color eBook Reader(AEBK07FS) 14 Pandigital Novel (PRDO7T10WWH7) 15 Pandigital Novel (PROO7T2OWBL1) 16 Kobo Wireless eReader 17 Pandigital Novel 6" Personal eReader C
o o
o o o o o o o o o
o o o o

o o o
8-INCH OR LARGER DISPLAY Amazon Kindle OX (3rd Gen) O 2-3weeks

Overall score is based mostly on test results. Readability reflects text in various lighting conditions. Versatility signifies convenience. Responsiveness reflects speed to turn on, resume from sleep, open an e-book, and transfer an e-book trom a computer via a USB connection. Page turn reflects speed and the experience, such as whether the screen blinks. Navlqatlon includes the ability to rotate the screen, bookmark a page, and search tor an e-book through an online bookstore. File support scores compatibility with typical e-book and file formats. Claimed battery life is as stated by the manufacturer. Touch screen displays respond to light contact with a stylus, finger, or either. Price is approximate retail.
FLOORING
65
Quick Guide
FLOORING
Vinyl is still tops for resisting dings and dents. But our tests show that the best bamboo and oak flooring can fend off most other wear and tear for about the same price. What to look for
Vinyl for a busy kitchen; it proved tops in our moisture tests Ceramic tile, if added resistance to wear, moisture, and damage is worth its installation cost Solid wood, for natural warmth and its ability to be sanded and refinished several times
What to skip
Reclaimed lumber, which varies in performance and was not a winner in our tests
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
Before settling on a product, spend a few dollars on two or three samples. It's less expensive than ending up with a floor that looks awful in your home.
Price per square foot, including installation, ranges from about $2 to $15, depending on the material you choose. Kitchens typically range from about 100 square feet to 300 square feet, so the total cost for a new floor will be about $200 to $4,500.
Cork, although considered a renewable resource, this "green" material hasn't been a top performer overall
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/ooriftg
Price (sq.ft.)
Sq.ft. (box)
Overall score
Testresuits
S S ancl linoleum products can be floated

unies*, otherwise indicaled.
All englneered-wood, piasuc.laminate,
&
100 p I F I G IVGI [
PREFINISHED SOLID WOOD Usually nailed to a subfloor at grade OF above.

EcoTimber Woven Honey WBH061 i $5.90 5.90
0
V\ V\ 2 3
23 24 40 22 28
Mullican St. Andrews Solid Oak Strip 10930 Lumber Liquidators Bellawood
6.30 4.50 5.70 5.00
0 71
4 5
Natural Red Oak HUSR03N38V Bruce Oundee Plank CB1210 EcoTimber Solid Horizontal Amber BSPHAF6 1
66
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Price (sq.ft.)
All engineered-wood, p and linoleum products can be fluated uniess otherwise indicated.
Sq.ft. (box)
Overaii score
Test resuits
f
o 100 p I F i G IVGi E
B [7] [7] 1 2
ENGINEERED WOOD Can usually be nailed or stapled anywhere in the house. Some can float. Teragren Synergy Strand with Xcora
lava 1 $6.00 6.00
Armstrong Century Farm Hickory Natural GCH452NALG^__
C 1 2
PLASTIC LAMINATE Can usually be floated anywhere in the house. Armstrong Coastal Living L3O51 White Wash Walnut Surface Source Winchester Oak 2765 . . " " jg^
D
[7] [7] 1 2
VINYL Can usually be glued anywhere in the house.

Congoleum DuraCeramic Sierra Slate SI-74 Golden Greige Armstrong Luxe Plank Timber Bay Barnyard Gray A6861_ 5.00 5.50
E 1
LINOLEUM Can usually be glued down or floated anywhere in the house. Armstrong Marmorette Oak Brown LP066 2 . , "-5 ' rt^^^ EBI^ ^ ^^ ^ ^ O e O * = i
I Bamboo product. Cannot be floated. 3 Not applicable: custom milled to order. ' Corji product. 5 Not applicable: comes in sheets.
Ratings Key Exceilent Very good OGood Fair Poor Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Aii are recommended. 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score based mainly on resistance to wear, scratches, dents, stains, sunlight, moisture, and siips. Moisture resistance (not shown) is based on damp sponge left overnight (minor spills) and soaked sampies (long exposure). Wear is how guickly surface wear was noticeable during test using abrasion machine. Scratches denote ability to withstand damage from simulated dragged obiect. Stains indicate how resistant the floor is to staining from various products. Dents is resistance to blunt and pointed objects dropped from different heights. Sun (UV) is resistance to color change after more than 300 hours of high ultraviolet levels. Price per square foot is based mainly on price paid. Square feet per box is as claimed.
GAS
GRILLS
67
Quick Guide
GAS GRILLS
We found well-performing grills that combined sturdy construction with cutting-edge features and performance. What to look for What to skip
300-sehes stainless, which is iess iikely to corrode than cheaper, 400-series stainless Burners made of highquaiity stainless steel, cast iron, or cast brass, which typically carry a 10-year or longer warranty Stainless-steel and castiron grates for sturdiness and rust-resistance An electronic igniter, usually easier and more reliable than a push-button or rotary starter
Buying by Btu, because more Btu/hr. doesn't guarantee faster preheating or better searing and cooking
What you'll pay
Shopping tip
The more stable the grill, the better. When shopping, gently push the grill from several angles to see if it tips.
You'll pay $300 to $500 for a grill that can handle most of your cooking needs. Several midsized models that cost less than $500 performed as well in our tests a.s others that cost much more.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/grills Price Overall score Test results
. lU
\J-i
Brand & model Sitnilar models, in small type, are f oinparable to tested model.
Features
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LARGE MODELS
(Sam's Club)
[71 1 Jenn-Air 720-0709 0 \7\ 2 3 Kenmore 16649 Master Forge 3218LT Iltem #221886] (Lowe's) Kenmore 1613616137 KitcbenAid KFRS361TS5
KfRU361VSS
e o
o
0 4 [7] 5
''
e e e o e e
380
Brinkmann 810-1575-W
68
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brands model Similar models, in small type.
Price
Overaii score Test resuits

M, gj
Features
III s
0 lOO P I F I G IVGl E
s| |
a fS
B 1 2 3 4
iUEDIUM-SIZE MODELS Vermont Castings Signature Series VCS300SSP Weber Genesis EP32O Cbar-Broii Red 463Z50511 (Home Depot) Weber Genesis E320
Genesis E310
5
6 7 8 9
Fiesta Blue Ember

FG50069-U409 FG50069-U404 (BJ's). FG50069 (Sam's Club Online)
Weber Genesis E-330 Char-Broii Red 463250811 (Home Oepot) Weber Genesis S-330' Brinkmann 810-2545-W (Walmart) Jenn-Air 720-0336C (BJ's)
10 Aussie Vantage Series 67C3 U
12 Kenmore 1664116134
280
C 1
2 3 4 5
PORTABLE OR SMALL iUODELS Char-Broii Red Patio

463250211 (Home Depot) Weber Q 200 0220 Kenmore Patio Grill 16126 Huntington 666664 [Item #221884] (Lowe's) Weber Spirit E210
NA o o
e o o o
' Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. I vil Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based on performance, convenience, and features. We tested evenness at hlqh and low temperatures. Indirect cooking indicates how well the grill slow cooks foods when only some of the burners are on and food isn't directly over flames. Convenience evaluates construction and materials, ease of use, accessory burners, and propensity for flare-up. Price is approximate retail.
GPS
NAVIGATORS
69
Quick Guide
GPS NAVIGATORS
Portable GPS navigators can provide guidance through unfamiliar areas, help route around traffic, and locate nearby points of interest. What to look for What you'll pay
A wide-screen display, 4.3 to 4.7 inches Lane assist and reality view Free tratfic information
What to skip
Subscription fees, because devices are available that are feature-rich and fee-free Voice recognition, because it adds cost and performance has been mixed in our tests Oversized displays, suitable only for large vehicles Multimedia, which are extras that don't aid navigation
Brand 8 model
Similar modeis, in small type,
'ii compaialile to tested model.
Prices change rapidly, and it's worth searching online for the latest prices rather than being lured by advertised deals. Expect to pay $100 to $125 for a basic, current model. A well-equipped, wide-screen unit will be $150 to $175. Premium devices can run $200 to $300but carefully consider whether the added features are worth the added cost before spending that much.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/gps
Shopping tip
Consider buying a unit that's one generation behind. It may still otfer contemporary features, but at a lower price than the latest model.
"
-= -
-=
2 =3
ns ai
too P I F I G IVGl E
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0 0 1 2
4.3-INCH SCREEN SIZE

GanninNuvi3790TNuvi3790LMT GanninNuvi3760TNuvi3760LMT $350 350
0 0 0 0
0 0 Q 0
3 4 5 6
7 8 9
Garmin Nuvi 3750 TomTom Go 2435 TM TomTom Go 2405 TM Garmin Nuvi 237OLT
Garmin Nuvi 2360LT Nuvi 236oiMr Garmin Nuvi 1690 Garmin Nuvi 2350LT Nu 235OLur
10 Garmin Nuvi 765TMuvi7S5r
70
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand & model g -^ Similar models, in small i, |ii
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
^ OJ d c >c: fO CO a, .c > o .^
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I F I G IVGl
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100 A 4.3-INCH SCREEN SIZE continued e e e O O 2.00 Opt. 2.00 2.75 Incl. Incl. ^ n! ro u^
0 0
' '
U Garmin Nuvi 2350 1 TomTom Go 740 Live Go 2

740 TM Live
0 0 0
''
1 Garmin Nvil390T Nuvi t 9 L r 3 3OM 1 Motorola Motonav TN565t 4 1 Motorola Motonav TN555 5
NUVI 170T, Nuvi 135OLMT
2.00 Incl. 2.00 Opt. 2.75 Incl.
[71 16 Garmin Nuvi 135OT

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Garmin Nuvi 2300 Nuvi 2O L 7 3 OM 1 Garmin Nuvi 1350 8 1 Garmin Nuvi 1300 Nuvi I300LM 9 20 2 2 Magellan Roadmate 2055 Magellan Roadmate 2045 e 2 TomTom Go 730 60 630 1 2 Garmin Nuvi 265WT 3 2 TomTom XL 340 5 Live XL 4
340 M Live
2.50 Opt. 2.75 Opt. 2.75 Opt. 2.00 Incl.
2.00 Opt. 2.00 2.75 Incl. Incl. Incl.
'' _
e . 2.75
B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 pl
''
4.7-TO 7-INCH SCREEN SIZE Garmin Nuvi 2460LT Nuvi 2460iMr TomTom Go 2535 M Live TomTom Go 2535 TM TomTom Go 2505 TM Garmin NuLInk 1695 Garmin Nuvi M90T Nuvi M90LMT Garmin Nuvi 1450 Nuvi 14S0LM Motorola Motonav TN765t Magellan Roadmate 9055
Roadmaie 90S5 LM
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 Magellan Roadmate 3065 Commuter Q U Magellan Roadmate 3055 l!i)amate3O55MU
e o
e o o o a
o o
2.00 Incl. 2.00 Incl. 2.50 Incl. 2.50 Incl.
2.00 mci. 2.50 Incl. 2.50 Opt. 1.75 Incl.
0.80 Incl. 1.50 Incl.
L75 Ind.
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair Poor Q CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. [Zl Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
GPS
NAVIGATORS
71
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
Simiiar models, in 5mail type, are comparable to teste'd modei.
Si
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I
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S! > ce "
O
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Ii
100 P i F I G lyGl E
B 4.7- TO 7-iNCH SCREEN SIZE continued

[71 12 Magellan Roadmate 5045
'' ' Roailmate 5045 MU.Roartmale 5045 LM Roadmate 3045 LM, Roadmate 3045 MU
[71 13 Magellan Roadmate 3045

14 TomTom Via 1535 T1535 tM
e e e o e 12 mci. .5 e e e o e 17 mci. .5 e o e o e 2.00 mci.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
3.5-INCH SCREEN SIZE

Garmin Nuvi 225OLT Garmin Nuvi 2250 Garmin Nuvi 1260T Garmin Nuvi 2200 Garmin Nuvi 1200 NUV 1250
D 0 0 0
1 2 3 4
Garmin Nuvi 265T Nuvi 275t
2.50 2.50 3.00 2.50 3.00 3.25
Inci. Opt. Inci. Opt. Opt. Incl.

Overall score mainiy reflects how easy a navigation system is to use, combined with factors such as information provided, portability, and routing options. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Ease of use score is based on an assessment of the physical interface, touch-screen control, programming logic, and readability. Testing considers such things as whether the database allows dynamic searching for addresses, if letters are grayed out, ease of entering into navigation menus upon start-up, ease of finding points of interest, and ease of adiusting common functions like voiume, brightness, and map zoom setting. Info for driver reflects the onscreen and audible information given to the user during navigation. Inciudes type and font size of onscreen information, ability to speak proper street names, languages supported, and amount of audible information given such as descriptions of the next maneuver, including iane assist and reality view. Our routing evaiuation looks at the choices for fine-tuning a route and calculation time. Specifically, we factor multidestination routing, avoidance of toil roads, biking routes, walking routes, RV/truck use, and availability of foreign map databases, in addition, we measure system response time when operating data-entry menus, such as POI searching. Display is based on brightness, contrast, and glare/ reflections in bright sunlight Considers ratio of screen size to overall device size for packaging efficiency. Mount design considers how the mount is engineered, factoring size, security, and ease of installation. 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 of delay, and tools for rerouting around congestion. However, we do not rate the accuracy or timeliness of the traffic information itself. Tested battery ilfe (hr) is the length of time in hours that the fully charged unit remained on while set to full brightness. Traffic receiver indicates if the unit includes a traffic receiver or if the receiver is optional. Price is approximate retail.
72
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
HOME THEATER
With their relativeiy simple set-up and ail-inclusive designs, home-theaterin-a-box (IHTIB) systems have a lot to recommend them.
Shopping tip
A system with two front speakers and a subwoofer, or even a sound bar, might be enough to enhance your TV's sound.
What to look for
Enough appropriate inputs and outputs to handle equipment you want to route through the receiver A system with a full complement of speakers for multichannel sound, if you want true surround sound
What to skip
What you'll pay
Prices for these systems vary widely, from very hasic DVD units that start at ahout $170, to full-featured 7.1-channel Blu-ray models with prices that can hit $800 or more.
A system with a Blu-ray or DVD player, if you already have one

For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/theater
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Test results
pic ture quality verted film pic ture quality film picture quality Ease of use Versatility ber of channels ber of speakers supplied subwoofer S
o
oo
m O" -a
1=
10 0
p 1 F 1 G IVGI E
E E
Z.
SYSTEMS WITHOUT A VIDEO PLAYER
0 0 Q Q Q
1 2 3 4 5
Bose Lifestyle T20 Denon DHT-1312BA Onkyo HTS3300 Yamaha YHT-493 Yamaha YHT395
$1.800 600 300 330 350
NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA
e o O O
o O
5.1 5.1 71 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1
s subwoofer
H O M E
T H E A T E R
73
Brands model
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits
tj
o 100 p I F I G IVGl E B
Q 1
SYSTEMS WITH A BLU-RAY PLAYER

Samsung HT-C65OO $400
NA O O 5.1 5.1
C
1 2
SOUNDBARS
VZOVHT510 VZOVHT210
NA NA a NA NA
NA 5.1 5.1 NA 2.1 2.1
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood OFair ^Poor Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based mainly on sound quality and picture quality for nnodels with video players; ease of use and versatility are also factored in. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Sound quality represents tonal accuracy and ability to reproduce fine sonic detail of the front speakers, subwoofer, center-channel speaker, and surround speakers. Sound quality judgments are made with the system optimized using its own auto speaker setup function (if so equipped), and with its own tone controls and/or preset tone settings (if any) adjusted for most balanced sound. HD picture quality evaluates clarity and color accuracy of a highdef progressive-scan (1080p) signal, such as that from a Blu-ray player. All signals were routed through an HDMI connection. Upconverted film picture quality indicates the detail, color accuracy, and freedom from motion artifacts of images from film-based content on standard DVDs. The output signal is set to upconvert the standard-definition content to 1080p (quasi-HD) resolution via an HDMI connection to an HDTV. 4801 film picture quality indicates the sharpness, detail, color accuracy, and degree of motion artifacts of images on regular TVs when the unit plays film-based standard DVDs (most movies) at standard-definition (480i) resolution via the S-video connection if available, or the composite video connection. Ease of use indicates how easy it is to set up the system and use controls on the front panel and remote. Versatility score is based on the presence or absence of useful features. Number of channels refers to audio signal channels supplied by the system. Number of speakers supplied are those that come with the system. Price is approximate retail.
74
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Quick Guide
LAWN MOWERS
We found electric mowers, both corded and cordless, that handled well, but gas-powered models are better for larger lawns and include more safety features.
Shopping tip
Some models come with a corrosionresistant aluminum or plastic deck.
What to look for
An electric push-type mower (corded or cordless) for small, level lawns A gas-powered mower for larger lawns and long or thick grass and weeds Side discharge capability for times when the grass is too tall for either mulching or bagging
What to sitip
What you'ii pay
Top self-propelled gas models can cost as much as $700, but several high-scoring models cost far less. And while some push models can set you back $400 or more, capable mowers perform almost as well for as little as $230.
A larger engine, which doesn't necessarily mean higher-quality mowing
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/mowers
Brand & model

Similar models, in smali type, are comparable to tested model. 0
Overaii score
Test results
100 P 1 F I G IVGl E
A GAS SELF-PROPELLED Best for most lawns: these blend ease and performance. 0 0 0 0 0 Q Q Q p] 1 HondaHRX2172HXA 2 Toro Super Recycler 20092 3 Honda HRR216K7VXA m 4 Toro Super Bagger 20194 20192 5 Honda HRX2172VKA 6 7 8 9 Honda HRR216K7VKA ' Toro Recycler 20333 20334 Toro Recycler 20332 Craftsman 37108
e e
LAWN Brand & model o "c similar models, in small type, are ro S comparable to tested model. 0 100 P I F I G IVGl E Overall score
MOWERS Test results
75
A GAS SELF-PROPELLED continued

10 John Deere JS46 11 Craftsman 37970 12 Craftsman 37454 13 Craftsman 37654 14 Craftsman 37435 37436 15 Craftsman 37069 16 Husqvarna 37697 17 Snapper NXT22875ENXT22875EE ^.^^
18 Brute BTXPV227OOE
19 Yard-Man 12-18M7,38914
(Sears) I2AEI8IA
20 John Deere JS26 21 Toro Recycler 20330 20331 22 Husqvarna XT721F xT72irE 23 Troy-Bilt 12AKC39B 24 Husqvarna 37913 1 25 Troy-Bilt 12AKD39B 26 Cub Cadet 12A,18MCt2Ai8M7 27 Troy-Bilt 12AVB290 28 Husqvarna HU700L 1 29 Cub Cadet 12A-E18M 12A E18IA 30 Snapper 37129 31 Snapper SPV21675E 32 Snapper SPV22675HW
SPV227OHW
33 Uwn-Boy 10606 n
eee eee o e e o e e o e o eee eee e o e eee e 0 e e e o e e e o e o o e e e o o e e o e o e e e o o o e e e e o e o o e e o e o e e o e e e e o e e o o o o o e o o o e o e o o o
O e o e o e e o e e o e o e e o o- o e o o o
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair #Poor Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combihation of performance and price. All are recommended. 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
76
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Brand & model
Overall score
Test results 4 g'
I
"g
"re
Similar modeis, in small type, are fomparable to tested model. o 100 P I F I G IVGl E
I I
OJ
GAS SELF-PROPELLED continued $300 270 290 290 300 290 350 20 22 22 22 22 21 20
34 Lawn-Boy 106051060411 35 Brute BTXP226750HW 36 Craftsman 37067 37 Craftsman 37639 38 Craftsman 37068 39 Troy-BiltTB23012AVB26M 4 0 lehrLM139SP B [71
''
e o o e o o e
o o e o e o o
o o e o
e o e
o o o o o
GAS PUSH Fine for smaller, flatter lawns and for trimming larger ones. Cuh Cadet I1A-18MC11A18M9
Yard-Man 11A-18M9
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
0 0 0 0 0
Husqvarna602iP Yard-Machines 11A-B16M Lawn-Boy 10603 i Craftsman 38918 Craftsman 38917 Craftsman 38923 Troy-BiitTB11011A-A26M Yard Machines 407896
O e e e o e o o e e
10 Yard-Man UA A24T IIA-B2M 11 Troy-BfitllA-B290 12 Yard Machines UA A44E 13 Craftsman 38911 j 14 Bolens 11A414A 15 Yard Machines 11A-414EUAA18M ^ ^ ^
e e e e e o o e e
3
o o o o o o o o o
3
r? e o
o o o o o
o o e e o o e o
BJ
e e e e e
o o o
O
e o o e o o o 2 e o o ' i
450 400 19 19 36v B ^ ^ H 36 B ^ ^ H e e O O e O 6 O 6 e
ELECTRiC BATTERY Best for lawns small enough to mow within 30- to 45-minute run time. Biaci(SDeci(erSPCM1936 4
bd 1 0 2 Biack & Deci(er CM1936 i 0 3 Biaci(&Deci(erCMM1200 i
400
19
24 ES
O O O @
L A W N
M O W E R S
77
I Brand & model

_ S similar models, in small type, are comparable tfl tested model
Overall score
Test results
DO DD QJ
100 p I F I G IVOl E
C 4 5
ELECTRIC BATTERY continued
Toro 20360
12
Black & Decker CM1S3 6 Craftsman 37048

Cub Cadet CC500BAT
7 8 9
Worx WG788 Worx WG789 4: Worx WG783
o o
o o o o
o o o o o o o ' o
o o o o o o
e e o e e

' @
10 Remington l8A U Homelite UT13126 12 Earthwise 60120 13 NeutonCE6.4 14 Worx WG 780

P
o o
o.
ELECTRIC CORDED Best for smaller, more open lawns where the cord isn't an issue.
Biack& Decker UM875 Black & Decker MM1800 Remington 18A 2124. HomeiiteUT13124 Eartiiwise 50120
O O O O
o e o o
Poor
1 Optional discharge chute available. 2 Mulching and bagging oniy. 3 Side discharging only. Seilpropeiied electric.
R a t i n g s Key E x c e l l e n t V e r y g o c x j O G O C X F a i r D l^
C R B e s t Buy These models offer the best combination of performance anci price. Ali are recommencieci. R e c o m m e n d e d These are high-perforrTiing models that stand out.
78
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
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G U I D E
2 0 1 2

Overall score is mostly mulch, bag, side-discharge performance (which now includes evenness), handling, ease of use. Changes in scoring mean scores for previously tested models might have changed. Displayed scores are rounded; models listed in order of precise overall score. Mulching is how evenly clippings were cut and distributed onto lawn. Bagging is effective capacity with full bag(s) or clogged chute. Side discharge is how evenly clippings were dispersed onto lawn. Handling for includes ease of using drive controls, pushing, pulling, U-turns, other maneuvers. Ease of use is ease of starting, using blade-stopping controls, changing speeds, adjusting cut height. For gas-powered mowers, engine size is in cubic centimeters (cc), electric models are rated in volts (v) for cordless or amperes (a) for corded. Price is approximate retail for mowers and attachments.

Lawn M o w e r s Fewer repairs Troy-Bilt Toro Honda Craftsman Lawn-Boy Yard-Man/ Yard Machines Toro Lawn-Boy Craftsman Honda Husqvarna
John Deere was the most repair-prone brand among self-propelled mowers. That's what we found when we asked readers who bought 10,271 push and 35,229 self-propeiled mowers from 2005 and through the first half of 2010 about their experiences. The graphs below show the percentage of models from each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 5 points aren't meaningful,.and data are adjusted to eliminate differences linked to age and usage. Models within a brand may vary, and design and manufacturing changes may affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model. Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey, Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Troy-Bilt
Snapper Yard-Man/ Yard Machines John Oeere 0% 5% 10% 1 % 20% 25% 5 PUSH I SELF-PROPELLED 30%
LAWN
TRACTORS
79
Quick Guide
LAWN TRACTORS
While a walk-behind mower is fine for a smali lawn, you'd probably prefer a ride rather than a walk for a lawn that's a haif-acre or iarger. What to look for A high-back seat, for added comfort and support Foot operated traction control for easier back and forth maneuvering A deck washout port that accepts a hose on top of the deck for cleaning built-up clippings beneath What to skip Loading up on features that you won't useit's best to cut costs along with the grass What you'li pay While the two higher-priced, top-scoring tractors include tighter turning, several others perform similarly well for hundreds of dollars less. Price
g S
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/tractors Testresuits

DO OO DO
Brand & model

similar models, in ^^mall type. ,irt' comparable to tested motlel.
Specs
Overall score
I i
s g 0 IM P I F I G IVGl E A LAWN TRACTORS Best for most larger lawns. $3,600
2.600
Lid 1 Joiin Deere X304 i 0 Q Q 0 0 2 SnapperNTX2346 4 Craftsman 28856 < 5 Joiin Deere X300 6 Snapper LT125 LTa342 7 Craftsman 28885 B
1 2
$520/$90 42 17 430/80 340/30 370/50 520/90 540/54 300/50 46 23 42 20 42 24 42 17 42 23 46 21 O
3 Joiin Deere OHO D120,0130 2 1.700 1.600 3,000 ' 1.800 1.300
LAWN TRACTORS (WIDE DECK) These offer wider mowing.

Joiin Deere D140 01% 0160 Craftsman 28861 2.000 2.800 350/35 390/60 48 22 54 26
O e o o
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These rrodels offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
80
C O N S U M E R
Brand & model
REPORTS
BUYING
Specs
GUIDE 2 0 1 2
lise Ichi
iggi
g '^
-^ similar modeis, in small type. are comparable to tested model.
DO
.E
"O
'S
"
s
B LAWN TRAaORS (WIDE DECK) continued
3 Craftsman 28858 $2,000
.2
P I F I G IVGt
$390/$60 54 26
O O e O O
C ZERO-TURN-RADIUS All turn tightly, but most can be hard to control on hills. 1 Snapperl50Z
2 John Deere Z225
2,600
3.000
460/130 42 20 ^ B B i
420/90
Q Discontinued, but similarmodels available. ' Tighter turning thanmost lawn tractors. ' in September 2011. the recall of 15.500 John Deere la*n tractors, including modei numbers DUO. Dt20. and 0130. was announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission because the hardware used io hold the mower blade brake assemblies on the mower decks can break, causing the mower blades to spin longer than normal after the operator turns off Ihe power, posing a laceration hazard. See the CPSC recall notice for more details.

Overall score is mostly mijich, bag, side-discharge performance, handling, ease of use. Changes in scoring mean scores for previously tested models might have changed. Displayed scores rounded; models listed in order of precise overall score. Side discharqe is how evenly clippings vwere dispersed onto lawn. Mulching is how eveniy clippings were cut and distributed onto lawn. Baqqinq is effective capacity with full bag(s) or clogged chute. Handlinq includes ease of drive engagement, braking, steering, turn radius, resistance to front-wheel lift. Ease of use is leg room, seat and steering-wheel/lever comfort, ease of blade/brake engagement, cut-height adjustment, bag removal, mode changes. Price is approximate retail; attachment prices are from manufacturers.
Most & Least Reiiabie

Lawn t r a c t o r s More repairs John Deere Husqvarna Craftsman Kubota Troy-Bilt was a m o n g the more repair-prone
brands of lawn tractors, a n d Cub Cadet a m o n g lawn tractors and zero-turn-radlus riding mowers, according t o o u r latest results after w e asked 2 0 , 2 4 5 readers w h o bought a new tractor o r 2ero;turn riding mower between 2 0 0 6 a n d 2010 about their experiences. Graph shows t h e percentage of models f r o m each brand that were repaired o r had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 6 points aren't meaningful. Data have been adjusted t o eliminate differences linked t o age a n d use. Tractor a n d rider models within a brand might vary, a n d design a n d manufacturing changes m a y affect f u t u r e reliability. Still, choosing a brand w i t h a g o o d repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
Simplicity Troy-Blit
Cub Cadet
Toro Cub Cadet 0% 5%
I LAWN TRACTORS
ZTR MOWERS
MICROWAVES
81
Quick Guide
MICROWAVES
Most aiodels did well witti basic microwavinq tasks such as defrosting meats, reheating leftovers, and making popcorn. You'll probably pay more for an oven with additional functions. What to iook for What you'll pay
A sensor, which measures emitted steam to determine when food is done A 1-minute or 30-second key, which extends the preset cooking time at the selected power level
What to skip
Extra-cost grilling and browning features, because none of the tested models consistently provided the results you'd get in a regular oven
Brand S model : Similar models, in ! siiidil lypp. arc comparable lotested rtiodel. Price
Countertop models cost the least and are best for kitchens with lots of counter space. Compact models can cost very little but typically offer the least cooking space. Midsized and large models add capacity and features, with midsized models taking the biggest slice of the market.
Shopping tip
Some brands overstate usable space, so be sure to bring along a large platter wfien you shop, to see if it fits.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/microwaves

I Overaii score I Test results
g a
I
A Wiiiripooi
1 Si
0.9 1.5 1.1 1.4 0.9 1.2 1.5 2.2 1200 1200
LARGE COUNTERTOP MODELS
MT4155SP1B1 GE Profile JES22515J1SSI

WhiripoolGold GT4175SP[BI Panasonic Inyerter NN-T945[S1F Kenmore Elite 7915[91 GE Profile PEB2O6gDMLBB] _
185
150 230
1.7 1200 2.2 1250
1.5 1200 2 1200
82
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S modei
Similar models, iii
smail lype. are comparable to tested modei.
I Price I Overall score I Test results

E
D *-' 3 (y ml TO C
m
ra LJ A
"> m
Qj -j^
-o ai
S I F I G IVGI E
-^
B 0 0 B
iUlDSIZED COUNTERTOP MODELS 0.8 1.2 1200 a 0.9 1.2 1200 0.6 1 1000 .$.,., '""^'
1 Kenmore 663319] $140 2 itenmore 63251216912 i 130 3 Sanyo EM-S6588S 115 C OVR-THE RANGE iUODELS Samsung SMH9187[B] Kenmore Elite 885212] IGLMHM2O17I5W] Kenmore Elite 8601131 Samsung SMH92071ST] Wiiiripooi GH72O8XR|()1 Panasonic Genius Prestige NN-5D297I5R1 Wiiiripooi WMH1163XVI0] GE Profile Arivantium P5A1201RIS51 Protile
Advantium PSA200RII
Q 0 0 0 [7]
1 2 3 4 S
270 550 430 640
0.8 1.4 0.9 e 0.8 O 1 1.1
1.8 2 2 1.7
1100 1000 1100 950
2 1100 2 1200
[71 6 [7] 7 Q 8
O 0.8 O 0.8 0.8 O 0.9 0.8
2 1200 1.6 1000 1.7 925
[7] 9 0 0
10 LG LMV20151SW1 11 Kenmore 850419]
2 1100 1.7 1000
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Ali are recommended. bd Recommended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.
MICROWAVES
83

Overall score is mainly cooking evenness, defrosting, ease of use. Displayed scores rounded; models listed by precise overall score. Heating evenness is uniform heating of cold leftovers. Auto defrost is how completely and evenly program defrosted 1 pound of frozen ground beef. Ease of use is ease of setting without checking manual. Microwaving noise is determined when oven is on high. Usable capacity (cu, ft.) is the usable space based on our measurements, and excludes the corner spaces for models with rotating turntables. Note that most over-the-range models allow you to turn the rotation off to fit large dishes (a few countertop models offer this feature, as well). With the rotation off, measured capacity approximates claimed. However, food may reguire extra tending and stirring. Price is approximate retail.

M i c r o w a v e ovens Fewer repairs
1^ repairs
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
KitchenAid was the most repair-prone brand among over-the-range (OTR) microwave ovens, and there were no other meaningful brand differences. That's what we found when we asked over 19,000 readers who bought OTR microwaves between 2006 and the first half of 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. We've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the microwave. Models within a brand may vary, and changes in design or manufacture may affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model.
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RATING THE 2011-2012 MODELS
ncluded here are Ratings on nearly 300 vehicles that CR has recently tested. Within each category, they are ranked by their overall road-test score. To earn our Recommendation ( 0 ) vehicles must perform well in our road tests; have average or better reliability; and perform adequately if included in safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA has mandated that electronic stability control (ESC), a proven life-saving feature, be included as standard equipment on Scan this or see how. all light vehicles starting
with the 2012 model year. Survey results include predicted reliability, our forecast of how well a new car is likely to hold up, based on data from our 2010 Annual Auto Survey. Owner satisfaction also comes from our annual survey; it is based on a question where we ask subscribers if they would definitely buy or lease their vehicle again. Owner cost is a Rating of the five-year projected cost to own a vehicle, including depreciation, fuel, interest, insurance, maintenance/repair, and sales tax. Fuel economy is the overall mileage a vehicle achieved in OUT real-world tests, based on results from several tests, and reflects a realistic mix of city, countryroad, and highway driving. An asterisk (*) means the powertrain has changed since the last test.
For more Buying Advice, go to www. ConsumerReports. org/cars
Make S modei
Overaii Survey results Owner Fuel road-test score cost economy
E o
1=
100
F I G IVGl E
HATCHBACKS: FUEL EFFiCiENT Voii(swagenGoifTDi(MT) Toyota Prius Four Nissan Leaf SL 3 Lexus CT 2OO1 Premium CiievroietVoit Honda insigiit EX
1 MPGe 2 MPG 3 Electric car with limiled range
O new new new
new new new O
NA NA @
38 44 1061 40 99I/292 38
Ratings Key Excellent OVerygood OGCKXJ Fair P o o r
Recommended
AUTO Make & model
RATINGS
145
as
O 100 p I F I G IVGl
HATCHBACKS: SUBCOMPACT 0 0 0 Honda Fit Sport (MT) Honda Fit (base) Nissan Versa 1.8 SL Ford Fiesta SES (MT) Ma2da2 Sport (MT) 0 0 Scion xD(MT) Mazda2 Touring Scion xD Smart ForTwo Passion HATCHBACKS/WAGONS: SMALL ^ ^ ^ ^ ' O new new new new new O new O O
33 30 28 32 33 34 30 g 29 39 i
VoikswagenGoif(2.5) Hyundai Elantra Touring Mazda3sSport AudiA3 2.0T Ford Focus SEL Suzuki SX4 Technology (AWO) Toyota Matrix S (2.4L) Kia Forte EX Toyota Matrix (base. 1.8L) Scion xB Kia soui Plus* Nissan Cube 1.8S Mini Cooper Clubman ' Dodge Caliber SXT WAGONS ^ new O O new
O O
NA new O new O NA
24
26 25 25 28 24 27 26 29 23 25 28 29 24
0 p] 0 [7]
Mazda5 Grand Touring Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen TOI(MT) Subaru Outback 2.Si Limited Volkswagen jetta Sportwagen SE (2.5) ^ _ _
23 36 24 23
146
C O N S U M E R
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B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Mai(eSmo(iei
Overall Survey resuits Owner Fuei road-test score cost economy BS a o
O 100 P I F I G IVGI E
WAGONS continued
1^ 0
[71 0
Toyota Venza (V6, AWD) VOVOXC70

Honda Accord CrosstourEX-L (AWO) BMW325X* SEDANS: SUBCOIIPAa
O o e
NA
o
9
20 18 20 22
Hyundai Accent GLS Ford Fiesta SE SEDANS: SMALL ^

Zl 3 3
$16,050 16,595
new new
new new
31 33
Hyundai Eiantra GLS

Nissan Sentra 2.0 SL Mazda3 i Touring (MT) Toyota Corolla LE ^ ^ " ^ '
$18,445 19,530 18,895 18,404 19,040 . 16,419 19,745 20,530 25,100 20.280 18,375 17,519 24,800 17,515
Z l Kia Forte EX
Zl
Zl
Toyota Corolla (base, MT)

Mazda3 i Touring Chevrolet CruzelLTa.4T) VoiicswagenJettaTDI
e e e e o e e
new
29 27 30 32 28 32 28 26 34 28 26 26 40 25 30 25
o
new
new
new
new
Ford Focus SE CiievroietCruzeLS(t.8) SuzukiSX4 LE Honda Civic Hybrid Mitsubishi Lancer ES
new
new
N A
e e
N A
e e e
O
N A
e
.... #
Honda Civic LX
Voii(swagenJettaSE(2.5)
IIPRHI
19,405 20,300
e
new
e
0
SEDANS: FAMILY ENTRY LEVEL
^ Z
Zl
Nissan Altima 2.5 S (4-cyl.) Hyundai Sonata GLS (2.4)

Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium
$23.970 21,800 23,830
e e
o e e
e e e
26 27 25
AUTO
RATINGS
147
Make S model
Overaii Survey resuits Owner Fuel road-test score cost economy
SEDANS: FAMILY ENTRY-LEVEL continued
Suzuki Kizashi SE Kia Optima LX (2.4) Honda Accord LXP(4<yl.) Ford Fusion 5E (4-cyl.) ChevroietMalibuLT(4-cyl.) Mazda6 i Sport (4-cyl.) Mitsubishi Galant ES (4-cyl.) Dodge Avenger Mainstreet (4-cyl.)
SEDANS: FAMILY [>lJ 0 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR(V6) Honda Accord EXL (V6)
$22,489 E 25
25
24 25 . 24 23 21
22,290
Hyundai Sonata Limited (2.0T)

0 Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited Kia Optima SX (2.0T) 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ford Fusion Hybrid Chevrolet MalibuLTZ(V6) Mazda6 s Grand Touring (V6) Ford Fusion SEL (V6) Toyota Prius Four Ford Fusion SEL (V6.AWD) Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Chevroiet Impala LT (3.5) Chrysler 200 Limited (V6) SEDANS: COMPACT SPORTS 0 0 Infiniti G37 Journey Infiniti G2S Journey BMW33Sd 0 0 AcuraTSX (4-cyl.) Lexus IS 250
o e
new new
O O O
o o
24 21 25 22 24 34
20
'"
e
O
o o o o
j;
e
new new
20 22 44 20 33 20 '. 21
o o
21 24 28 25 24
148
C O N S U M E i R
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G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Mai(e&model
Price as tested

OS
.S B
Eg S G
0 PIF
100 I G IVGl E
SEDANS: COMPACT SPORTS continued

Volkswagen ce Luxury (2.0T) Buick Regai CXL (turbo) Buick Regal CXL (2.4) BMW 328i Volvo S6OT5 Mercedes-Benz C300 Sport Audi A4 Premium Quattro Saab 9-3 2.0T
24 23 23 23 23 21 25 23
SEDANS: UPSCALE 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 Lexus ES 350 Toyota Avalon Limited Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV Lexus HS 25Oh Premium Acura TL(base) Hyundai Azera Limited* Lincoln MKZ Buick Lacrosse CXS (V6) Ford Taurus Limited Dodge Cbarger Rallye Plus (V6) SEDANS: LUXURY
Inflniti M37 Mercedes-Benz E3S0 BlueTec Hyundai Genesis 4.6* CadiiiacCTS Premium (3.6)
O O
o o
o o

o e
new
a
9
9 9 O 9 9 9 O 9 9 9 9
22 23 23 22 31 24 20 20 20 19 21
21 9 9
26 20 19 25 23 19 18
lnfinltiM3Sb BMW 535i Acura RL* Chrysler 300 C
AUTO
RATINGS
149
Maiie & modei
Overaii Survey resuits Owner Fuel road-test score cost economy
=51 1 ^
O 100
p I F I G IVGl E
SEDANS: LUXURY continued

iMercedes-BenzE3S0* Lincoln MKS (EcoBoost. AWO) Jaguar XF (base)* Volvo S80 3.2 Saab 9-5 Turbo4 Premium SEDANS: ULTRA LUXURY 0 Lexus LS460L Audi A8 L 0 Mercedes-Benz SSSO* Jaguar XJL Hyundai Equus Signature* BMW7S0L
N A
N A
0 new
new
19 18
20
20 22
new
new
new new
new new
21 21 17 19 19 18
SPORTS CARS: HIGH-END

0 0 Porsche 911 Carrera S (MT) Ciievrolet Corvette Z06 (MT) Mercedes-Benz SLSSO
O
NA NA
Jaguar XK Convertible
20 W 17 19
SPORTS CARS: HIGH-PERFORMANCE Equipped witli manual transmission

BMW135 ;-::><V:J3JI:;-:-- '
Mazda RX-8 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR 0 0 0 rI Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8) Ford Mustang Premium (V6) Chevrolet Cmaro 2SS (V8) Hyundai Genesis Coupe Grand Touring (V6) Chevrolet Cmaro 2LT(V6) Dodge ChaiiengerR/T(V8)*
N A N A
N A NA
23
18 21 22 24 18 23 21 18
150
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Makes modei
Overall Survey results Owner Fuel road-test score cost economy
B-:=
"O rO
.2
O
^^ 1
SPORTS CARS: SPORTY Equipped with manual transmission

0 0 0 0 0 VoikswagenGTi(4door) MazdaSpeed3 Sport Mini Cooper (base) Kia Forte Koup S X VOVOC3OT51.0 Mini Cooper S Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (AT) Nissan Sentra SE R Spec V Scion t c Fiat SOO Sport Honda CR-Z EX Mitsubishi Eclipse GS (4-cyl.) SPORTS CARS: 2-SEAT & CONVERTiBLES Equipped with manual transmission 0 0 Porsche Boxster* Mazda MX-S Mita Grand Touring Nissan 37OZ Touring 0 Chevrolet Corvette (base)* Mini Cooper Convertible S CONVERTIBLES: 4-SEAT Voikswagen Eos Lux Infiniti G (base) Lexus iS 250 0 0 BMW328 Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8) Audi AS Premium Plus (2.0T)* Saab 9-3 2.0T 0 Volvo C70TB Mitsubishi EciipseGT(V6) Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor 22 28 23 21 30
27 26 33 27 25 30 20 30 28 33 35 23
NA
"ir
20 23 21 23 22 24 21 19
NA NA NA O NA
a
NA
0 Recommended
AUTO Make S model
RATINGS
151
Overall Survey results Owner Fuei road-test score cost economy
'S
I
0 100 P I F I G IVGl E MINiVANS Honda Odyssey EX-L Nissan Quest SL Toyota Sienna XLE(EWO) Toyota Sienna XLE (AWD) KiaSedonaEX Chrysler Town & Country Touring-L Dodge Grand Caravan R/T Toyota Sienna LE (4-cyl.) SUVS: COMPACT SPORTY Audi QS Premium Plus BMW X3 xDrive28i infiniti EX Journey* Cadillac SRX Luxury Acura RDX Volvo XC60 T6 Mercedes-Benz GLK35D Land Rover LR2 SE SUVs: SMALL 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited Toyota RAV4 Limited (V6) Toyota RAV4 (base, 4-cyl.) Volkswagen Tiguan SEL Subaru Forester 2.5X Premium Mitsubishi Outlander SE (4-cyl.) Nissan Rogue SV Mitsubishi Outlander XLS (V6) Kia Sportage LX Hyundai Tucson GLS new new new new new new new
I
e
new
19 19 20 19 18 17 17 20
e e
NA O
e
O
o o o o e
NA
19 22 18 17 18 17 18 18
20 22 23 20 22 22 22 19 22 22
152
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Make model
Overall Survey resuits Owner Fuei road-test score cost economy
SUVS: SMALL continued

Ford Escape Hybrid Ford Escape XLT (V6) Mini Countryman S Mitsubishi Outiander Sport SE Nissan Juke SV Ford Escape XLT (4-cyl.) Suzuki Grand Vitara Premfui (4-cyl.) Jeep Patriot Latitude Jeep Compass Latitude Oodge Nitro Detonator (3.7) Jeep Liberty Sport SUVS: MIDSIZED Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited
0 new new new

N A
e
O new new new O
NA
26
19 26 23 24 21 19 21 22 16 16
O O
N A N A
o e

KiaSorentoEX(V6)
Toyota Highlander Limited (V6) Hyundai Santa Fe Limited (V6) Nissan Murano SL Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring Hyundai Veracruz SE Kia Sorento LX (4-cyl.) Honda Pilot EX-L *""'''''-"''*
e o
O O O
27 20 18 20 19 16 17 20
Hyundai Santa Fe GLS (4-cyl.) Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo (V6) Subaru Tribeca Limited Chevrolet Equinox 2LT(V6) GMC Terrain SLT1(V6) Chevrolet Equinox LT (4-cyl.) GMC Terrain SLEl (4-cyl.) Ford Explorer XLT (V6)
e e e o e e e
new
o o
N A
1 8
20 18 16 18 18 21 21 18
O O O new
o o

e
new
AUTO Make & model
RATINGS
153
Overaii Survey results Owner Fuei road-test score cost economy

o >ir
^
'S
Ij
o 100 P I F I G IVGl
SUVs: MIDSIZED continued Ford Edge SEL (3.5) Nissan Pathfinder LE (V6) Mazda CX-7 Touring Dodge Journey Lux(V6) Nissan Xterra S Toyota 4Runner SR5 (V6) Toyota FJ Cruiser Jeep Wrangler unlimited Sahara* SUVS: LUXURY
|
^
$37,625 36.310 32,915 36.975 28,000 37,425 30,881 30,735
ES^lHi ^ ^ B H ^ B ^ B ^ ^ B QHHi E9BH E m EQ
new O new O O 9
9 N A new O
9 9 9 9 O 9 O 9
18 15
18 n
16 17 18 1 7 15
0 0 0 0
Lexus RX450h Acura MDX Volkswagen Touareg TOI Sport Lexus RX 350 Mercedes-Benz GL3S0 BlueTec Buick Enciave CXL Mercedes-Benz GL4S0 Porsche Cayenne (base, V6) BMWXS35d Land Rover LR4
new NA O NA
NA O O NA O
0 0
Lincoln MKT(EcoBoost) lnfinitiFX3S Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (V8)
26 18 24 21 19 15 15 19 22 15 18 18 14 14 17 17 15 13 18 14 13
Lexus GX 460 Audi 07 Premium Plus (V6)* Infiniti QXS6
Lincoin Navigator Ultimate Lincoln MKX (3.7) Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE* Cadillac Escalade (base)
o
NA NA
154
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Mai(e& model
Overaii Survey results Owner road-test score cost
Fuei economy
el
o 100 P 1 F I G IVGl E SUVs: LARGE 0 0 Ford Fiex Limited (EcoBoost) Chevroiet Traverse L T GMCAcadiaSLT2 0 Ford Flex SEL Dodge Durango Crew (V8) 0 0 0 Chevroiet Suburban LT3 (5.3) GMCYuitonXLSLT3(5.3) Toyota Sequoia Limited (5.7) Dodge Durango Crew (V6) 0 0 Ford Expedition EL Eddie Bauer Nissan Armada SV Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ (5.3) GMCYui(0nSLT?(5.3) Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid GMCyui(on Hybrid PICKUPS: COMPACT 0 0 0 Honda Ridgeiine R S T Nissan Frontier S (V6) V Toyota TacomaTRD(V6) Chevrolet Colorado L Z71 S (5-cyl.)* GMC Canyon SLEZ71(5-cyl.)* PICKUPS: FULL-SIZED 0 0 0 0 0 Chevrolet Avalanche IT(5.3LV8) Chevrolet Silverado 1500 tT (5.3L V8) GMC Sierra 1500 SLT(5.3LV8) Toyota Tundra SR5(5.7LV8) FordF-lSOXLT(5.0LV8) Ford F-150 XLT (3.5t EcoBoost V6) 0 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT (5.7L V8) Nissan Titan SV(5.6LV8) 'Powertrain changed since last test. _ O O W/
Is
t;
O
17 16 16 17 14 14 14 15 17 13 13 14 14 19 19
15 15 17
16 L6
14
14 14 15 15 15 14
13
84
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
PAINTS, EXTERIOR
Today's paints are tougher than those of a few years ago. They resist cradling and don't fade with years of sun exposure. Most aiso contain iower ievels of volatile organic compounds, so they emit fewer toxic fumes.
Shopping tip
Consider lesserknown brands. Some small regional brands have joined major brands at the top of our tests.
What to iook for
Flat and satin finishes for siding, to hideflawsby reducing reflections Semigloss for doors, windows, trim, and shutters for added protection and visual interest Mildew-resistant paint if your home is in the shade; a dirt-resistant one if it's in an urban area
What to skip
which don't weather as well as top-of-the-line products from the same brand Buying strictly by brand, because manufacturers often reformulate paints to comply with tougher regulations
What you'ii pay
The best values within each gloss level range from about $20 to $30 a gallon.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/paint Appearance Resists
Economy grades of paints.

Price
Overaii score
All produrt5 clean up with water.
Si Si g '
s 5 >'
o 100 p I F I G IVGU
S S a
i
3
A
1 2 3 4 5 6
FLAT May hide ininor surface iinperfections.

Caiifornia Paints Fres-Coat Velvet Flat $39 Giidden Spred Flat Giidden PretDium Flat (Home Oepot) Beiir Premium Plus Flat (Home Depot) Vaispar Ultra Premium Flat (Lowe's) Vaispar DuraMax Flat (Lowe's) ff: 100 100 100 100 100
100
PAINTS,
EXTERIOR
85
Price '.!! products clean tip witii water.
Overall score
Appearance Resists
IC O I F I G I v t l E . '
.2
B
1 2 3 4
SATIN Adds slight gloss to finish.

Glldden Premium Satin (Home Oepot) Giidden Spred Satin ValsparDuraMax Satin (Lowe's) i l Sears WeatherBeater Ultra Satin $22 27 35 35
50 50 150 53
C
[7] Q B 1 2 3 4
SEMIGLOSS Use mainly for trim, windows, and doors.

Siierwin-Wiiiiams Duration Semi-Gloss 1 Behr Premium Plus Semi-Gloss Enamel (Home Oepot) Giidden Spred Semi-Gioss Giidden Premium Semi-Gloss (Home Depot)
41 150 50 50
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood OFair #Poor O 0 CR Best Buy Tfiese models offer tfie best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are fiigh-performing models ttiat stand out.

Overall score is a weigfited average of each year's appearance for up to 3 years of testing. Appearance after 3 years Sijmmarizes performance after 1 year of Oijr acceierated Vieatfiering (i.e., equivaient to 3 years on a vertical wall). Testing stops wfien 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 acceierated weathering (i.e., equivaient to 6 years on a vertical wall). 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 9 years on a vertical wail). Testing stops after 3 years, regardless of whether appearance falls to Fair or Poor. Products that at this point stiil rate at least Good for appearance are considered superior products. Resists indicates product scored at least Good for that attribute. Claimed VOCs is maximum grams per iiter as stated on can. Price is approximate retaii per gaiion.
86
C O N S U M E R 1 Product
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
1 Pricel Overaii score 1 Appearance 1 Resists

0 >-
1
y
Idatiion|
-S
All Drodiicts clean up with watei.
>-
.E'
.2 *
S
per Aft
0 10 0 P i F 1 G IVOl E STILL BEING TESTED Completed the equivalent of three to six years' exposure. Siierwin-Wiiiiams Duration Satin i Siierwin-Wiiiiams Duration Fiat i Pratt S Lambert Accolade Eggshell Vaispar Ultra Premium Satin (Lowe's) ! Siierwin-Wiiiiams Resilience Satin Vaispar Ultra Premium Semi-Gloss (Lowe's) Sherwin-Wiiiiams Resilience Flat Vaispar DuraMax Semi-Gioss (Lowe's) i Beiir Premium Plus Ultra Flat (Home Depot) i a. Benjamin Moore MoorLife Flat 2 Benjamin Moore Aura Fiat -i Kiiz Casual Colors Satin $59 58 40 26 ..,...,.,., 107 92 162 150 48 150 48 50 100 50 83 50 ,.^^ _.., 50 50 50 50
cn
55 28 52
36 35 39 62 26 62
""-*'
- ,,
*'
Benjamin Moore Aura Low Lustre i i '.
Benjamin Moore MoorGard Low Lustre 2 48 Betir Premium Plus Ultra Semi-Gloss 38 Enamel (Home Depot) -x iKiiz Casual Colors Semi-Gloss 27 Beiir Premium Plus Ultra Satin Enamel j/ 3!Smm (Home Depot) 1 Caiifornia Paints Fres-Coat Satin Gloss 42 Beiir Premium Pius Satin Enamel 26 (Home Depot)
37
150 lUU 50 150

inn
Benjamin Moore Aura Semi-Gioss 1 z Benjamin Moore MoorGio Soft Gloss ^
62 50
ill Self-priming. - MtmiifaclurercLiimsproductwasreformulatedsincetesting.
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price All are recommended. 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Cla
PAINTS,
INTERIOR
87
Quick Guide
PAINTS, INTERIOR
No one paint can do it ali-we found winners for each gloss level, with one-coat hiding ability, smoothness, suitability for sunny spaces and even low VOC ieveis. What to look for What to skip
Flat paint for a forma] living room, dining room, or other space that doesn't see heavy use, because it isn't the most stain resistant Eggshe]] or satin, for fami]y rooms, Icitchens, bathrooms, ]<ids' rooms, ha]]ways, and the like Semigloss for windowsills, trim, and other woodwork to add contrast (while typicaily stain resistant, many semigloss paints will duU when cleaned)
Bright greens and yellows for sun-drenched rooms, because these colors tend to fade a lot; whites and browns are better choices
What you'il pay
Shopping tip
For the best coverage, we recominend using two coats, even with a topscoring paint.
About $17 to $51 per gallon. Each ga]]on covers about 400 square feet of smooth wa]]; rougher surfaces require a bit more.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/paint Price (per gai.) Overaii score Testresuits
u .B 's
A
1 2 3 4 5
SATIN & EGGSHELL Best for most applications.

Beiir Premium Plus Ultra Satin Enamel (Home Depot) i Kiiz Casual Colors Satin Giidden Premium Satin (Home Depot) Beiir Premium Plus Satin Enamel (Home Depot) Benjamin loore Regal Eggshell lac* $33 26 22
48
88
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S Price (pergal,)
B U Y I N G Overall score
G U I D E 2 0 1 2 Test results
^ ftj
m er
"
"" :i ^ ~ o s
1
o
g
B SEMiGLOSS Best for trim, doors, and shelves.

1 2 4 5 6 Behr Premium Plus Ultra Semi-Gloss (Home Depot) 1 Benjamin Moore Natura Semi-Gloss " Behr Premium Plus SemiGloss Enamel (Home Depot) Vaispar Ultra Premium Semi-Glo5s (Lowe's) Roval Interiors by ACE Semi-Gloss 4! Martha Stewart Living Semi-Gloss (Home Depot)
50
e e o
e e o 50 o e o 50 e e o 50 e e e e 50
B FLAT & MATTE Best for low-traffic areas.

[71 Q [7{ 1 2 3 Behr Premium Plus Ultra Flat Enamel (Home Depot) i t Behr Premium Plus Flat Enamel (Home Depot) Benjamin Moore Natura Flat i : Vaispar Signature Colors Matte (Lowe's) 'i Giidden Premium Flat (Home Depot)
e e 11 e e 0 i1 e e 0 ^1 e e
0 50 0 50 0
0
[71 4 Q 5
e e e e e e e e e o o
5 0 50
I Self'priuiing paint, i : Flatter than labeled. 3 Glossier than labeled. ''.Manufacturer claims paint has been reformuiated since our last tests.
R a t i n g s Key E x c e l l e n t V e r y good O G o o d F a i r Q
Poor
CR B e s t Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
Ld R e c o m m e n d e d These are high-performing models that stand out.
Guide to tiie Ratings

Overall score is mainly hiding, surface smoothness, resistance to staining, scrubbing, gloss change, sticking, mildew, fading. Volatile organic compounds aren't scored. Most results reflect white, pastel, and medium-tint bases. Hidinq is coverage of contrasting color with one and two coats (one-coat weighted most heavily). Smoothness is the absence of roller marks when dry. Staining is resistance to greasy stains. Scrubbinq is ability to resist abrasive cleaner. Gloss chanqe is change in appearance after cleaning. Stickinq is ability to resist tackiness when dry. Mildew is ability to inhibit mildew growth. Fadinq is resistance to lightening under UV light. Claimed VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the maximum grams per liter for untinted base as claimed. Price is approximate retaii.
PRINTERS,
ALL-IN-ONE:
89
Qujck Guide
PRINTERS, ALL-IN-ONE
If all you do is print, you can save money and space by purchasing a dedicated printer. But if tiiere's any chance you might want to copy or scan, it's worth investigating an aii-in-one. What to iook for
If you don't need to print or scan color photos, an all-inone laser for superior quality, faster print speed, and a lower cost per page An all-in-one inkjet, if you want a printer that excels at printing photos A built-in duplexer to print on both sides of the page
What to si(ip
bargain-priced printer a bad deal in the long run An inkjet with a single color cartridge, because separate color cartridges may be more economical, depending on your photos
What you'ii pay
Shopping tip
If you're printing photos, a memory card reader or PictBridge compatibility can be heipful.
All-in-ones are actually getting less expensive and more versatile. They cost $60 and up.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/printers
High ink- or toner-cartridge costs, which can make a

Brands model Price
Overall score
Testresuits
SL
il!
0 100 ^ p I F I G IVGl E * A BLACK A N D W H I T E LASER MODELS Deii2355dn Brotiier MFC7360N HP LaserJet Pro M1212nt Brotiier MFC 74600N Brotiier DCP-70600
il
O O e ^ 0 5 o ee o e o e o e e o e e
0 0 0
8
Brotiier MFC 78600W Deii 1135n Samsung SCX-4623FW
$11.40 NA NA NA 7.30 NA NA NA 5.50 NA NA NA 2.70 NA NA NA 2.90 NA NA NA 2.70 NA NA NA 6.20 NA NA NA 3.80 NA NA NA
E E E E E.W
e e
E E.W
90
C O N S U M E R
R E P O F T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brands model
Price
Overaii score
Test results
w 'w ra o o +-. .c: -c X d o. >
3 =
A 9 U
BLACK AND WHiTE LASER MODELS continued OKIMB460 Panasonic KX-MB2000 $400 190 130 200 $2.40NA NA NA
1.60 NA NA NA e 2.20 NA NA NA e 2.10 NA NA NA
10 Panasonic KX-MB2O3O 12 Brother MFC-7340 B Lid 1 2 3 4 5 C

\^ 1
Oe e O e Oe e
e o e e e o o o
e e e e e o e O e e o o e e o
E E.W E,W E,W E
COLOR LASER iUODELS Deii2155cn Brother MFO9970CDW HP LaserJet Pro CMl4l5fnw Deli 1355cn OKi MC160 iNKJET MODELS
Canon Pixma MG8120 E.W E,W E.W E,W
500 600
12.10 O NA 6.10 11.80
300 400
13.30 O
9.90 e
[7| 2
[^ 3 [7] 4
HP PhotoSmart Premium Touchsmart WebC309n Canon Pixma MG6120 HP PhotoSmart

Premium Fax e-AII-in-One C410a
0 0 0 0
5 6 7 8
DeiiP713w Canon Pixma MX7600 HP OfficeJet Pro 8500A e-AII-in-One A9I0a DellP513w 300
100
0 9 DeilV715w [71 10 Lexmarii Prospect Pro205

Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor Q
e e e eO e e e o o eeeeeeee e e e e e ee e e e e e e e
E.W E E,W W E.W W
CR Best Buy These models offer the best combinatioh of performance and price. All are recommended.
E l Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
PRINTERS,
Brand S modei Price Overaii score Test results
ALL-IN-ONE
91
D.
O.
0 100 P I F i G IVGl E
INKJET iUODELS continued
0 u 0 "
13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20
Canon Pixma MP640 HP PhotoSmart Premium e-AII-in-One C310A Lexmark Pinnacle Pro90l HP OfficeJet Pro 8500A Pluse-AII-in-0neA9l0g HP PhotoSmart e-Ali-in-One DllOa Lexmark Genesis S815 HP PhotoSmart Plus e-Ali-in-One B210a Epson Artisan 725 Epson Stylus NX625 HP OfficeJet 75OOA e-AII-in-OneE9l0a
$10.10 9.30 8.80 5.90 10.20 11.00 8.70 10.80
E,W W E,VI/
. EW
oo
w o w w
E.W E,W
8.10 O
7.90 11.30 10.10 9.60 6.60
o ooo
E.W
21 Canon Pixma M)(882 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Canon Pixma M P990 Lexmark Interpret S40S Lexmark Platinum Pro905 Lexmark Prevail Pro7O5 Epson Workforce 635 Epson Workforce 520 Lexmark Prestige Pro8OS Kodak ESP 7250 Lexmark intuition S5O5
E,W
EW .
m 8.20 O o o o 10.60 o o o
7.70
7.40 6.90
o oo o

W
EW . E,W EW . EW , EW . E,W
W
oo

7.50
10.20 8.00
31 Canon Pixma MX87O 32 33 HP OfficeJet 6500A PlusAI0E710n Kodak ESP 92S0
E.W
E,W
710
ooo
E,W
92
C O N S U M E R Brand & modei
R E P O R T S Price
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Overaii score
Testresuits
.w
-M
cr
^_,
a-
cr
a-
a
D IDO P I F I G IVGI E
ttl^l 3 I
% O
O
oo
Q. i-D
u^
INKJET MODELS continued
34 HP Envy 100 e-AII-in-One D410a 35 Epson Workforce 840 36 Canon Pixma iylX860 37 HP OfficeJet 6500 Wireless 38 Epson Artisan 835 39 Kodai( ESP Office 6150 4 0 Lexmark Interact S605 41 HP PhotoSmart C4680 42 Canon Pixma I/X35O 43 Canon PJxma MX410 44 Canon Pixma MX33O 45 Canon Pixma MX420 46 Kodai(ESPC310 47 Canon Pixma MP28O 48 Canon Pixma MP495 49 Epson Artisan 810 50 Canon Pixma MX340 51 Brother MFC-J6510DW 52 Brother MFC-6890CDW 53 Canon Pixma MX360 54 Epson Stylus NX515 55 Brother MFC 295CN 56 KOdail ESP 5250 57 Brother MFC 5890CN 58 HP Deskjet 3050 59 Kodak ESP 3250 60 Brother MFC-J220 61 HP OfficeJet 4500 Wireiess 360 100 70
w
E.W E,W E,W E,W E,W W E,W W
o o
o o
E.W W W
o o o
E.W W E.W E,W E,W E W E W
o o o
e o
o o o
o o
o o o o
PRINTERS, Brand S model Price Overaii score Testresuits
ALL-IN-ONE
93
0 '^ 3 g- 3
.L
3
a-
.w
O"
,^^
O-
1 f ai t s s .s a
0 100 ^ P I F I G IVGl E "
C INKJET MODELS continued

62 Epson Workforce 325 63 Epson Wori<force 310 64 Epson Stylus NX215 65 Epson Stylus NX420 66 Brother 0CP-I65C 67 Lexmari(X4650 68 Lexmari(X2670 $90
$13.10 O O O 10.30 o o o a o 11.80 a o o 12.00 o a a 10.80ocacaoo

19.90 O O O O O O 31.50 e a o o
w w
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. ' IZl Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based on speed and quality of print, scan, and copy functions, pius ease of use. Ttie displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Ink and paper/month is estimated cost (in dollars) for ink and photo paper in a montfi of typical use, based on our tests and how our readers told us they print. For inkjets: 23 text pages, 9 graphics pages, 2.4 large photos, 3.5 small photos, and 3.5 photos on plain paper. For lasers; 62 text pages, 24 graphics pages, 1.7 large photos, 1.9 small photos, and 2.3 photos on plain paper. Photos cost the most, text documents the least, so your results may vary from these figures, but they are useful for comparing models. Photo quality reflects a color photo's appearance. The 4x6 photo time score reflects how guickly the model can print one 4x5 photo on photo-guality paper. One minute or less is excellent; 1 to 2 minutes is very good; 2 to 4 minutes is good; 4 to 5 minutes is fair; and longer than 5 minutes is poor. The 8x10 photo time score reflects how guickly the model can print one 8x10 photo on photo-quality paper. Two minutes or less is excellent; 2 to 4 minutes is very good; 4 to 5 minutes is good; 5 to 8 minutes is fair; and longer than 8 minutes is poor. Text quality assesses clarity and crispness of biack text. Text speed score reflects how quickly the model can print text on five pages of plain, letter-sized pages. Thirty seconds or iess is excellent; 31 to 50 seconds is very good; 51 to 90 seconds is good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and longer than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics quality assesses the appearance of color graphics produced by the printer. Black and white lasers were judged on black and white graphics. Scan quality is for color photos, graphics, and text scanned at each model's default settings. Copy quality is for graphics and text. Power saving indicates how well the printer conserves power between uses. For networking, E indicates the model can network using wired Ethernet; W indicates wireless capability. Price is approximate retail.
94
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
PRINTERS, REGULAR
InkJet and laser printers have become more affordable and increasingiy fuil featured.
Shopping tip
A printer with an Energy Star label will consume very little power when not printing.
What to iooi( for
If you'll print only text, a laser printer is your best choice for fast, low-cost, top-quality black-and-white text For printing graphics or text in black and color, go with an inkjet Features such as a memorycard reader, PictBridge support, or a wireless interface, if you want to print photos without a computer
Wiiat to siiip
are still more costly than their monochrome counterparts Snapshot printers, most of which didn't provide the photo quality of the best plain inkjets
What you'ii pay
Color inkjets can cost as little as $30, and monochrome laser printers less than $50.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/printers
Color laser printers, which

I Price I Overaii score I Testresuits
T;
Brand 8 model
ra
I I IS i 11 f
.;;; .;:3 n-. "ii ni ."^
1^
gj
'.^
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-3 C
o 0 100 P I F I G IVGI E
i I S - i^ S
A BLACK AND WHITE LASER iMODELS

HP LaserJet Pro Pi606dn
0 2 Brother HL-5370DW \Z\ 3 Lexmark E260dn HP LaserJet

[] 4
P2O55dn Brotiier HL-227ODW HP LaserJet P2035n
0 5 0 6 0 7 PI 8
DeiilUOn
OKi B411dn
$5.00 NA 1.50 NA 6.60 NA 2.90 NA 2.70 NA 4.20 NA 5.50 NA 3.10 NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
O e O O O O O O
O O e e e e
NA E NA E.W NA E NA E E.W N A NA E NA E
PRINTERS, Brand & model

ra g oc
REGULAR
95
Price
Overall score
Test results
> x e u > D > Q D
OJ
CO O
ra
CL
o o
100 . g p I F I G IVGI E ^
BLACK AND WHiTE LASER MODELS continued Samsung UL-1665 Samsung MI-1865W Dell235Odn B $ 90 80 240 5.70 NA NA NA 2.30 NA NA NA 4.30 NA NA NA 11.20 NA NA NA
N A
E.W W E
Samsung ML-3712OW 300
O e e
COLOR LASER MODELS
[ ^ 1 Deii 1250c
2 HP LaserJet CP1215 0 3 Lexmark C540n [ ] 4 HP Color LaserJet CP2C25n 5 HP LaserJet Pro CPlO25nw 6 7 8 Samsung CLP-315 Brother HL3040CN
150
200 250
13.30 e NA 10.70 o
e e e
e e
o e O
e e o o o o E E
7.00 o NA 8.20 O
400 180
200
11.30 e
Brother HL4570C0W 440
6.00 11.10 NA 10.50 NA e 10.50 NA e 8.50 o NA e
E,W
250 370 100 200
9 OKiC330dn 10 Konica Minolta Magicolor 1600W 11 Samsung CLP 325W
11.10 e
E,W
0 1 0 2 0 3
iNKJET MODELS HP OfficeJet Pro 8000 Wireless HP OfficeJet 6000 Wireless Canon Pixma P4820 Canon Pixma _P!5_9000_Mark il
6.60 e e e
80
eee
E,W E.W
8.00 e e e 11.10 o e e 11.80 e e e o
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor H CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Ali are recommended. IZI Recommended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.
rki
O
DD "^
o c
3 eu
Z
96
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S model
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits
rS
100 .^ P I F I G IV6i E ^
C INKJET MODELS continued Ld 5 6 7 8 9 10

Canon Pixma X6520 $150 HP Deskjet D1660 Canon Pixma P27O2 Epson Artisan 50 HPDesi<jet3000 HP OfficeJet 100 Mobile L411 30 30 100 60
$11.40 e 9.20 o o o 10.70 13.40 O O O
12.90 O O 6.60 O O e 11.80 o o o 8.60 o o o o 11.50 o o 9.70 o

E,W
220
70 ,. " "
U Epson WorkForce 30 13 Epson Stylus Photo
12 Epson Workforce 60 100

1400 Epson Stylus Photo R2880
14
550

Overall score s based mainly on speed and text/photo quality. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Ink and paper/month is estimated cost (in dollars) for ink and photo paper in a month of typical use. For inkjets: 23 text pages, 9 graphics pages, 2.4 large photos, 3.6 small photos, and 3.5 photos on plain paper. For lasers: 62 text pages, 24 graphics pages, 1.7 large photos, 1.9 small photos, and 2.3 photos on plain paper. Photos cost the most, text documents the least, so your results may vary from these figures, but they are useful for comparing models. Photo quality reflects a color photo's appearance. The 4x6 photo time score reflects how quickly the model can print one 4x6 photo on photo-quality paper. One minute or less is exceilent; 1 to 2 minutes is very good; 2 to 4 minutes is good; 4 to 6 minutes is fair; and longer than 6 minutes is poor. The 8x10 photo time score reflects how quickly the model can print one 8x10 photo on photo-quality paper. Two minutes or less is exceilent; 2 to 4 minutes is very good; 4 to 6 minutes is good; 6 to 8 minutes is fair; and longer than 8 minutes is poor. Text quality assesses clarity and crispness of black text. Text speed score reflects how quickly the model can print text on five pages of plain, letter-sized pages. Thirty seconds or less is excelient; 31 to 60 seconds is very good; 61 to 90 seconds is good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and longer than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics quality assesses the appearance of color graphics produced by the printer-or black and white graphics for black and white lasers. Power savinq indicates how well the printer conserves power between uses. For networkinq, E indicates the model can network using wired Ethernet; W indicates wireiess capability. Price is approximate retail.
RANGES
97
Quick Guide
RANGES
Manufacturers have added many new features and functions to ranges, mai<ing them more versatile. What to iook for
On electric and gas ranges, at least one high-heat element or burner (at least 2,500 watts or 15,000 Btu), to heat large quantities quickly Dual ovens, if you want to roast a turkey while baking a pie An induction cooktop, for the fastest heating and the most energy efficiency
What to si<ip
a gas cooktop with an electric oven, because they tend to be pricey and don't necessarily provide better performance
What you'ii pay
Shopping tip
Many higherpriced models include a convection oven, which can reduce cooking time, especiaiiy for large roasts.
Our Ratings can help you find a high-performing gas range without spending a bundle. Many moderately priced models offer stainless-steel trim, high-power burners, and other features.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/ranges
Dual-fuel, which combines

Brands modei Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
ttJS s =
.s
Similar modeis, m small ivpe. arc comparable lo tested model.
I
P I F I G IVGi E A [7] 1 30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS GE Profile PGB910SEM1SS1 0 0 [7] 2 4 LG LRG30971ST1 LGLRG309515T1 KitchenAid KDR55O5XI551 0 [7] 5 6 7 8 LGLRG3O91SW Eiectroiux EW3OGF65G1W1 Maytag MGR8772W[W] Frigidaire Gallery FGGF3O31KIW1
1.000
98
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand modei
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
g -g
If
S S
O 100
PIFIGIVGIE
30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS continued 9 Maytag UGR7665WIBJ $ 700 10 Whiripooi Gold 1 Af)O
GW399tXU[QI
11 Frigidaire FGF368G[S] 12 Frigidaire FGF382HIS1 13 GECafeCGS980SEM[SSl 14 Maytag MGR7661IWWI
500 700
2,700
500
IS GECafeC2598OSEM15S] 2,800 t6 GE1GB400DEPIWW] 750

2,400
o o o o o o o
a a
o o o
o O O O O O O
Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas
a r^ ""âl^ ^ fuel o Gas '-' O fuel Gas Gas
17
Jenn-AirJD58860BD[P]
18 GEJGBP28OEMIBB] 19 Frigidaire Gallery

FGGF3O54KIW!
700
ocn
ojU
o o o o o e o^ 9
20 GE JGB800SEPISS1 21 GEJGB3OO5EPBS1 22 Eiectroiux

EW30GS65G[W]
1.100
e O Gas a O Gas
700
,00
o a
O o
Gas
23 Kenmore 72703 24 KitchenAid

KGRS206XWH
850 850 700

1.800 2,100 1.850
Gas O Gas
25 26 27
GEJGB2B1SERSS Kenmore 78013 GEPGS9755EM(SS1
28 Jenn-AirlGR8890AD(Pl
29 Whiripooi GGG388LXIQI 1,100 30 Hotpoint cnn

RGB745DEP1WH)
o o o o o
o o
o o
O O O O
Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas
31 Kenmore 72313 32 Kenmore 72903
1,100 1.000
o a a Gas o O a Gas
Ratings Key Excellent averygood OGood Fair APoor D B CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. AM are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
RANGES
99
Brand & model

Similar models, in small type, are comparable to tested model.
I Price
I Overall score I Test results g ; E s

is
S S
1= -S . 2
O .a: r O
a8 ^ s
30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS continued Kenmore 72503 Whiripooi WFG361LVIQ] Maytag Gemini MGR6775BDIS] Whiripooi GFG464LV[B| Kenmore 70602 Maytag MGT8885XIS] Kenmore 70502 KitchenAid Architect Series KGRS807S[SSL
33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
$700 WEM 450 B ^ H1 14 0 E I H1 ,0 800 600 .soc 500 E O H I1 EHBB1 EDHI ESBI
O O o
Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas
o o oO
A o N o a O o o NA
17 0 EBI ,0
o
o
B
1 2
30-INCH PROFESSiONAL MODELS: GAS A N D DUAL-FUEL WoifDF304 GE Monogram ZGP304NRSS Kenmore Pro 7952I3J 5,200 5,000 3,400
Oualfuel Gas Dualfuel Gas Gas Gas Gas Gas
o o
3 4
Thermador 5.000 Professional PG3O4B(S1 Jenn-AirJGRP43OWP DCS RGU-305 DCS RGTC305SS Dacor Epicure ER30G5CH Vii(ingVOSC53OlSSj Dacor Epicure ER30D WoifR304 Fisher &Payi(el OR3O5NOGX1 Bertazzoni A30 4GGV
XEA30 4GGVX5
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13
3,800 3.700 4,700 3.600
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
o NA
o NA
Dualfuel Dualfuel NA Gas
o o
O NA Q NA
Gas Gas
100
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brands model
similar modeis, m small Ivps. ufe comparable to tested model.
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits ing Broi IIing

&
Cooi( Coolktopl
S.
E c o a S g on ra o o S "1
100 p 1 F 1 GIVGl t
C [7] 1
36INCH PROFESSIONAL MODELS: GAS AND DUAL-FUEL KitciienAid K0RU763VI5S1

KDRU767VSS. K0BS463VSS. KDRS467VSS. K0RS462VSS
6.000
e e e e e o e oe e e e oe o e e e oo eoooe
Dual fuel Dual fuel Gs a

Ga5
[71 2 GE Monogram 7500 Z0P364N0P1S51 [ 7 ] 3 Tiiermador Pro Grand

PG366B[51 Pro Grand PG364GEBS, Pro Grand PG364GIBS
6,000
4 5
Vii(ingVGSC536-4G Kenmore Pro 7962[7|
7.200 5,400
Dual fuel
Brand S modei
similar modeis, i ivpe. are comparable to tested model.
Pnce
Overaii score
Test resuits
.S I M M .f
-g ra o on
D 1 2
30-INCH COIL iMODELS GEJBP35SMISS1 Hotpoint RB757DPIWHI
3
4 5
Kenmore 942112]
Amana AER5523XAW Wiiiripooi Rf 263LXTIQ]
6 7
Kenmore 90313 Kenmore 90112
Ratings Key Excellent @Verygood OGood OFair P o o r Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are higti-performing modets that stand out.
RANGES Brand & model similar models, in small lype. are comparable to tested model. 0 100 p I F I G IVGi E Price Overaii score Test resuits
J= $
OJO OJO
101
>
DO
-a K'i SP 1 ;
E 0 0 0 1 2 3 4 F 0 0 Q 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
30-INCH INDUCTION MODELS GE Profile PHB925SPISS1 $2,400 Samsung FTO3O7NWGX Kenmore Eiite 97203 Eiectroiux EW30IS65JS 1,800 2.500 3,200
30-INCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS Kenmore 92163 9 1 3 70 GE Cafe CS980SNISS1 GEJB700DNIWW1 GE Profile PB92ODP[BB1 Kenmore 92803 Maytag MET888SXIS1 Eiectroiux EW3OEF65G1W] GE 1B8500P1WW1 Amana AER6011VAS
10 Samsung FE R300SB 11 LGLSE3092ST 12 GEJSP420N1WW1 U LGLRE3O91[SB1 14 GE 1SP460N1WW]

JSP46DPIWI
15 LGLRE304S3ISB] 16 Frigidaire Gallery FGEF3O55K1W1 17 Maytag Gemini MER6765BAIS] 18 Eiectroiux EW30ES65GIW] 19 Maytag lyiER8770W[Wl 20 WhiripooiWFE371LVB 21 LGLRE309551ST)
o o
o o
102
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S model Similar models, in small type, are comparable to tested model.
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
i s
0 100 P I F i G IVGl I
ti o a o
F 30-INCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS continued

22 23 24 25 Frigidaire Gallery FGEF3O31K(W] Kenmore 98053 Kenmore 92603 KitchenAid Architect Series KERS807S[SSI
26 Whiripooi GGE388LXIQ] 27 28 29 30 Jenn-Air JER8885RA[S] Samsung FTO353IWUX Maytag MER7765W1W1 LGLDE3O17ST
31 Whiripooi GFE461LVIQI 32 33 34 35
36
Whiripooi Gold GY399LXU101 Samsung FTQ387LWGX Frigidaire FGEF3040KIW] KitchenAid KERS206XWM

GE PB975SM155] PB975SPISS|
37 38 39
GE PB970SMISSI Whiripooi WFE361LV[Q] Kenmore 91312

Overall score reflects cooktop performance, oven capacity, baking, broiling, and oven cleaning. Displayed scores rounded: models listed by precise overall score. Cooittop hiqh is how quickly highest-powered element or burner heated water to near-boil. Cooktop iow is how well lowest-powered element or burner melted and held chocolate without scorching and how well the highest-powered burner, set on low, held tomato sauce below a boil. Baking reflects even browning of cakes and cookies on two racks. Broliinq is even browning of a pan of burgers and high-heat searing. Oven capacity is our evaluation of usable space. Oven cieaninq is ability to remove a mix of eggs, cheese, pie filling, and other ingredients on self-clean setting. Price is approximate retail.
RANGES
103

Gas ranges Fewer repairs Hotpoint GE Frigidaire Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag KitchenAid GE
More repairs
m
9
0%
'4
5% GAS
r : i '
9 11 14 18
10% 15% 20% 25% DUAL-FUEL
Electric ranges Fewer repairs Hotpoint GE Whirlpool Frigidaire Kenmore Amana Maytag Jenn-Air KitchenAid More repairs
KitchenAid was ttie most repair-prone brand of gas ranges. Althougti we lacked sufficient data to include Kenmore dual-fuel and Jenn-Air ranges in ttie repair graphs, data we have indicate that Kenmore dual-fuel ranges have been reliable and Jenn-Air dual-fuel and gas ranges have been repair-prone. That's what we found when we asked over 26,000 readers who bought a gas or dual-fuel range between 2005 and the first half of 2011 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the gas or dual-fuel range. Models within a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reiiability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model. Hotpoint, General Electric, and Whirlpool were the least repair-prone brands of electric ranges, and Jenn-Air and KitchenAid were the most repair-prone. That's what we found when we asked almost 59,000 readers who bought an electric range between 2004 and 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the age of the range. Models within a brand can vary, and changes in design or manufacture may affect future reliability.
104
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
REFRIGERATORS
Easy access, flexible interior space, consistent temperatures and energy efficiency were the hailmari<s of our top-rated refrigerators.
Shopping tip
Energy Star refrigerators must be at least 20 percent more efficient than the minimum
required by federal standards.
What to look for
Print-resistant stainless steel or faux-stainless finishes, because regular stainless typically boosts the price and often shows fingerprints Temperature-controlled drawers to keep meat, fish, cold cuts, and other foods at lower temperatures Adjustable door bins and shelves, to make the most of available storage space
Wiiat to skip
cost more, use more energy, and require considerably more repairs than those without it Built-in refrigerators, when a cabinet-depth model can provide the same look, with more storage space, for thousands less
What you'ii pay
Some refrigerators that are best at keeping your milk cold and your frozen food frozen still cost well under $1,000.
Through-the-door water and ice dispenser, because refrigerators with this feature
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/refrigerators
Brands model
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
m at
= fc E 'S
100
I G IVGl E
Si
= s e - s e .E .E
.s
3 S
m >-
o "c
S1 1 1
O O $63 17.1 21.7 68 33 32 16.5
21 22 20.6 67 33 68 33 70 30
--s s. 1
o .2 e
TOP FREEZERS
GE Profile PT522LHSIWWJ
Profile PTS22SHS11
$1,400
Maytag M1TXEMMW[WJ Kenmore 7930(2] Frigidaire Gallery FGUI2149L[P1
O O 56

e 55 15.1 O g 46 16.4
REFRIGERATORS
105
Brand S model _ S 'S _ Sitnilarmodels, in small S type, are com|)arable to tested model.
Price
Overall score
Test results
tn
't^
-*-
."^
c;
A
5 0 6
100 P 1 F 1 G IVGl E
S slap s i i s s iti lit s a .i .2 .2 I "S S I I

e e O O O O O O

TOP FREEZERS continued

GE GTH18KBXIWWJ GTHUieXI 1 LG LTC2235O(SW1
O e $59 15.3 17.9 67 30 32 O 54 173 22 68 33 33 O 56 16.7 20.6 70 30 33 O 54 14.7 18.3 67 30 32 a O O 51 14 18.3 67 30 31 O 59 15.3 20.7 67 32 32 O 71 17.8 21.9 67 33 31 O O 51 13.7 17.6 69 28 32 o 64 171 21.9 67 33 33 40 13 16.5 65 28 30 O O 45 14 18.1 68 28 31 O 61 13.7 18.2 68 28 30 57 13.7 175 69 28 30
O O O O O O 40 56 65 53 54 13.8 13.4 13.6 13.4 16.6 177 69 28 31
[7] 7
Frigidaire Gallery
FGHT2144K1F1 Gallery FGHT2134KI1. Gallery FGKT2146K11
[7] 8
Frigidaire Gallery
FGHT1844KIF1 Gallery FGHT1846KI I. Gallery FGHTI84KI! Frigidaire Professional FPUI1888L1F] Gallery FGUI1849U] Haier PRT5215AC[W1
10
11 Amana A2RXNMFW[W1
12 iitea Energisit B18W U Wiiiripooi

W2RXNMMWIQ] 14 15 16 17 GGTH17JBX1WW1 GEGTH18XCT(WW1 Hotpoint HTS18GCS[WW] Wiiiripooi W8RXEGMW[0] 8TXEWFVI1 Kenmore 7093121609311 Estate T8TXNGFWIQ] r8TXNWFW|U8RXNGFWll Maytag M8RXEGMX[W1
18 19 20
17.6 68 28 30 175 69 28 31
21 Amana A8RXNGMW[E] 22 GE GTH21KCX1WW1 GTHlKflX||
17.6 69 28 31 21 67 33 31
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combihation of performance and price. All are recommended. [Zl Recommended These are high-performing nnodels that stand out.
106
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S model
Similar models, in small type, are comp. tested model.
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits
I g I
gs'-a.E
.s .o
B CONVENTIONAL BOTTOiU-FREEZER iUODELS 1 Whiripooi Gold GB2FH0XW[01 Q 2 Amana ABB222IWEIWI " AB8a4WEl 1 [ 7 ] 3 Maytag MBF2258XE[W] 0
'' MBL2258Xt[).MBR2258X||
$51 15.4 21.9 70 33 31 O O 55 16.4 21.9 70 33 32 O 51 15.4 21.9 70 33 31 e O e e e O O e e O O O e O O O 49 68 60 55 68 67 63 12.8 13.2 15.8 13.6 13.1 15.4 13.3 18.5 67 18.5 68 22.4 69 18.5 67 18.7 70 22.4 69 197 68 30 30 33 30 32 33 30 31 31 33 31 28 32 32
0 Q
4 Maytag MBF1958XE[W1 5 Amana ABB1921WE[W]
6 LG LOC22720ISW]
7 8 9 10 U Whirlpool EB9SHKXVI0J Samsung RBI97AB[WP| Kenmore 7620121 Kenmore 780912] GEGBSCOHBXIWWI
GBSCOHCXII. GOSCOKCXI1. GDSSOKCXd.GDSLOKCXII
e e O O O
e O
58 14.7 20.3 68 30 33
12 HaierHBQ18JA0[W] U LGLBC22518ISW1D
LBC22520I)
74 12.5 175 66 30 32 e 101 17.4 22.4 69 33 32 e O 75 11.3 173 67 32 28 e 77 11.1 13.8 76 28 25
14 Fisher &Payi<eiE522B 15 Biomherg BRFB1450 C FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOiU-FREEZER iUODELS 1 Whiripooi Gold 1.700 GX5FHTXVI0]
GoldGX5FHDXV||
59 16.2 24.8 70 36 33 O 50 18 25 70 36 O 66 18.5 28 70 36 O 66 16.9 25 70 33 e 65 17.4 25.8 70 36
LG LFC25776ISW1 Kenmore Eiite 7106121 0 4 Kenmore Elite 710312] H 5 Samsung RF266AE[WP]

RF263AEI1 Ratings Key Excellent @Verygood OGood Pair APoor B
2 3
CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination ot performance and price. All are recommended.
hd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
REFRIGERATORS
107
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
ai aj >>
.2
Similar models, in small Ivpe, are comparable to tested model.
fc
Q. o
'*
-cr = 5
H :S 2 S S S
2 "J UJ
I
H 0 0 [71 6 7 8 9 LGLFX28978(SW] LGLFX25976I5W1 IG LFX28977[5W1 Samsung
RFG298AA1WP1 RFGW7AAII
100 G IVGl E
C FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOiM-FREEZER iMODELS continued

70 36 33 70 36 33 70 36 33
0 10 Kenmore 710U21 [71 11 Frigidaire Gallery

2,300 FGHB28691.il, Professional FPHfl2899lI 1. GallCTY FGHB2844UI, Gallery FGHB2846LII
FGHB2878L1P1 Gallery
17.4
278 70 36 34
[71 12 Frigidaire Gallery

FGHN2844L(P1 Professional FPHN2899111 0 13 LGLFX21976(ST|
o 67
19 27.8
70 36 34
o 62 13.5 21
70 36 28
[7] 14 Frigidaire Gallery

FGUB2642L1P1 0 15 Amana AFD2535OE[W1 Samsung RF267AE[WP1 RF26XAE( I. RF268AAI | Samsung RF4287HAIR5] GE Profile PGS55PJX1S5] Profile PGSS5PJZ1SSI Eiectroiux EI28BS36IIWJ Maytag MFT2771WE[W1 GEGF5F2K[X1WW|H GFSF2KEY(| Q 22 Samsung RF217AC[WP] EW28B571IIS1 *ave Toucll EI28BS56II | [ 7 1 16 ' ' 0 17 18 0 0 19 20 21
O 59 17,7 26,6 70 36 33 e 59 17.5 25.1 70 36 32 o 73 16.4 25.8 70 36 34 O 87 18.2 28

70 36 34
e e e o e e e o
e e
2,800 1.800 2,200 EE 2,500
e 70
o 65 O 62 e 63 e 67
15.6 19.9
24,9 70 36 33 277
70 36 34 71 36 33 33 32
15.6 26.6 15.2 14.9
22.1 70 19.7
70 32 30
23 Eiectroiux Wave Touch
e 74 18.6 27.8 70 36 34 o 56 13.6 21.8 72 36 28 o 65 15.5 25.6 70 36 33 O 70 14.8 22.6 70 36 29 O 81 16.7 28 70 36 33
0 24 Jenn-Air JFC229OV[EP1 0 2S Maytag MFI267OXEIM1 [71 26 Eiectroiux El23Ba6[lWl

'' EW23BC71II1
27 Kenmore Elite 710712]
e o o
108
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & model
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
I t
similar models, i lype. are comparable 10 tested model. i3 S s ' S g !1 *
10 0
P I F I G IVGI
FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOM-FREEZER MODELS contifiued
0 28 0 2 9
Whiripooi Gold GI6FDRXXI01

GoldGlSORXXlKLowe'sl
$1,800 2,500 2,400 1,400 1,800 1.850 2,300 2,400 3,200

1 k^d l.ODU
Maytag MFX257IXEIW] KitciienAid KFI527CX[WH)
a a o a a o

$69 15.5 25.6 70 36 33 63 16.2 25 70 36 33
65 15.1 26.6 70 36 33 62 14.5

21.7
31 Maytag MFF2258VEIW] 32 Maytag Ice 2 0

MFI2569VE1W1
a o o a a

71 33 32
72 14.9 24.9 70 36 36 67 15.7 80 15.4 89 18

25.1
33 GE Profile PF5F5NFY(WW1
Profile PrSFSNrzil. Profile Pr5S5Nrz| I
o a
71 36 33 70 33 34 70 36 34
34 LG LMX25988ISWJ 35 GE Profile PFSS9PKYIS5)
25
28.5
a o
36
Vii(ingVCFF136[SS] GI6FARXX101
37 Wilirlpooi Gold 38 Maytag MFI2665XE1WI 39 Wilirlpooi Gold

GoldGlSFVAXVn
o a 0 a o o

65 12.8 19,6 70 36 28 67 15.5 25.6 70 36 33 67 15.5 25.6 70 36 33 71 14.9 24.9 71 36 33 74 63 177 177
13.4 16.4 26.7 70 36 34
1,650
o o a o o o
GBFSAXVlQlGoldGlssvAxvll. 2,000
o o 0

40 Eiectroiux EI278S26JM 41 KitchenAid

KBFS22EW1WH]
2,200 1.450 1,100 2,400

) c n n
42 43 44
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Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor O CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. iZI Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
REFRIGERATORS I Brand S model Similar models, m small lype. are comjjarable 10 tested model. Price Overaii score Testresuits
109
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FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOM-FREEZER MODELS continued

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110
C O N S U M E R
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B U Y I N G
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89
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O 77 15.6 25.4 70 36 31 Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood OFair SPoor O B CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
REFRIGERATORS Brands modei g - g Siindarmodels, m mail S S 'VPi-' ^'^ comparable lo g tested model. Price Overaii score Test resuits
111
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BUiLT-INS
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112
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i Brand S model g ^ similar models, m sinall ^ S type,,ire comparable to 5 tested model.
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108 19.5 29.5 84 48 26 o 69 13,6 20,9 84 36 25 87 15.9 20.4 79 37 24 95 15 20.3 84 42 24 20.3 83 35 25 24 83 42 26 O O O
16 KitchenAid KSSS36QTIX1 6,900 18 GE Profile PSB42YSX(SS1 5,900 19 Viiting Professional VCBB536L1S51 7,000
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Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair H 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based on tenaperature performance and energy efficiency; noise and ease of use are also considered. Displayed scores are rounded; models are in order of precise overall score. Temperature performance is performance at different room terTiperatures and flow uniformly eacfi maintained 37 F in refrigerator and 0 F in freezer. Energy efficiency is electricity use based on our measurements and usable capacity Noise is with the compressor running. Ease of use assesses features and design including layout, controls, and lighting. Enerqy cost/yr. Is based on our energy tests and may differ from the EnergyGuide label. Total usabie capacity is our measurement of total usable space. Claimed capacity is maker's total cubic-foot measurement. Heiqtit, width, and depth are without handle, rounded up to nearest inch; height includes hinges, but they're forward of standard wall cabinets. Under brand & modei, bracketed letters/numbers are color codes. Price is approximate retail; includes icemaker, if available.
REFRIGERATORS
113
Most S Least Reliable >

Top-freezer r e f r i g e r a t o r s fewer repairs Whirlpool Frigidaire ^ ^ " More repairs GE was the most repair-prone brand of topfreezers with an icemaker and for bottomfreezers with and without an icemaker. Maytag has been the most repair-prone among top-freezers without icemakers, while
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LG has been among the more repair-prone side-by-side brands. That's what we found when we asked over 75,000 readers who bought a refrigerator between 2006 and 2010. The graph shows the percentage of brands that needed a repair or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 5 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked soiely to the age of the refrigerator. All refrigerators in the graphs are free-standing models, with the exception of Sub-Zero bottom-freezers. Models within a brand may vary, and design or manufacture changes may affect future reliabiiity. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can imrepairs prove your odds of getting a reliable model.
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Whiripooi H g i ^ Kenmpre H H J H E l Frigidaire H | ^ H E G E 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%

I NOICEMAKER I I ICEMAKER
Bottom-freezer refrigerators
repairs Kenmore
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey. Consumer Reports National Research Center.
SIde-by-side refrigerators
More repairs Whirlpool Kenmore Frigidaire Maytag KitchenAid Samsung GE LG
0%
5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
30%
I :-,-i NO ICEMAKER I
I ICEMAKER
0%
5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
30%
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Quick Guide
SMART PHONES
Smart phones are getting smarter every day. They're not only great for texting, e-mail, and social networking, but they can also play music, shoot photos, and offer GPS navigation.
Shopping tip
Phones that display incoming and outgoing numbers in large black type against a white background are easiest to read.
What to iook for
The phone's operating system, which dictates its features and capabi]ities How many apps are available and what they cost The keyboardphones with virtual keyboards tend to be less bulky than models with physical keyboards, but it's easier to type on a physical keyboard without looking
What to sl(lp
in the extra expense, high dductibles, and low chance of using them
What you'ii pay
Phone prices with a two-year contract, including rebates, range from about $50 to $300. Smart phones purchased unlocked without a contract can cost significantly more, starting at $500.
5can thl5 or see how. page 11
Phone insurance and extended warranties, which are not worth it when you factor
Price Overaii score
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/celfp '
Brand S model
: Similar models, in small type. ' i l ' : "(iiparaWc to tested
Testresuits
cu ^ >~ . oj:t 00 c = c: o c
O 10 0 p I F I G IVGI E
A VERIZON Among the more satisfying carriers in almost all of the cities in our survey. 0 0
0
1 HTC ThunderBolt 2 LG Revolution

3 Samsung Oroid Charge
O e e O L And e o o L And e o L And
0 0
4 Motorola Oroid X2 5 llotoroia Oroid X 6 Appie iPhone 4 (16GB)

Verizon IPhone 4 (32GB) Verizon
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SMART Brand & model similar models, in small type, are comparable to tested model. Price Overaii score Test resuits
DO
PHONES
115
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100 P I F I G IVGl E A 7 8 VERiZON continued Samsung Fascinate HTC Droid Incredible 2 o
9 Motoroia Oroid 2 Global 10 Casio G'zOne Commando 11 Sony Ericsson Xperia Play 12 IGAIIy 13 HTCTropby 14Blaci(Berry 5torm2 9550 B 0 0 0 0
O O O O O
O O M O O M O M O L O a O M O O M O O M O O O M
And. And. And. And. And. And. WP 8 B
SPRINT NEXTEL Among the more satisfying carriers in a iarge majority of the cities where we rated it.
1 Samsung Epic 4G 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 U HTC Evo 3D HTC Evo 4G Samsung Nexus S 4G Kyocera Echo Blaci(Berry Style 9670 HTC Arrive Biaci(Berry Bold 9650 Samsung Replenish PaimPixi
10 Biaci(Berry Curve 3G 9330
0 0 0 O O
O O M And. O O L And. 0 0 L And. O O O M And. O O M And. 0 0 0 5 B B 0 0 M WP 0 0 0 M B B 0 0 0 M And. O O O O M B B O O O O O S webOS
T-iMOBILE Among the more satisfying carriers in more than haif of the cities where we rated it. 0 0 1 Samsung Galaxy s 4G 2 T-M0bileG2x o M And. M And.
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor H CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. [E] Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
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i Brand & model Similar models, in small type, ate comparable to tested modei.
Price
Overaii score
Test results
DO DD OD
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0
T-iUOBILE continued HTC Sensation 4G Samsung Vibrant T-Mobiie Sidekick 4G T-Mobiie myTouch 4G
MotoroiaCliq2
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7
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8 9 1 0 U
Samsung Nexus S HTC myTouch 3GSiide HTCH07 Nokia Astound
12 BiackBerry Bold 9780 U BiackBerry Curve 3G 9300 14 Nokia 5230 Nuron D AT&T Scored low in most regards. Samsung Infuse 4G Motorola Atrix 4G HTC Inspire 4G AppieiPhone4(l6G8)
iPhone4(32GB)
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SMART
PHONES
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Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score mainlv reflects the attributes in test results; size, weight, and the ability to edit documents without extra apps are also considered. Display considers size, resolution, and leqibiiity in a range of lighting. Ease of use reflects how easy it is to access features and modes: phoning, messaging, camera, etc. It also considers programmable shortcuts and touch screens. Voice quality considers what caller and recipient heard on live calls in noisy and quiet settings. Phoninq considers voice command and Bluetooth, speed dialing, ringer controls, security options, keypad readability in different lighting, and more. Messaqinq reflects keyboard ergonomics, e-mail readability, attachment capability, and text-messaging features. Ease of PC synchronizing and access to apps while on call are also considered. Web browsinq assesses browser capabilities, including multitouch. Flash video, and iink seiecting, as weli as the phone's ability to handie more than one browser and muitiple Web pages. It also considers data connections, such as 3G, 4G, and Wi-Fi. Camera mainly considers still-picture quality and shutter lag. It also considers camera capabilities and features, such as flash, manual ISO settings, face detection, focusing, and picture and video messaging. Battery life reflects talk time with strong and weak signals, plus standby and display times. Size: S is for small; M, midsized; L, large. Operatinq system: And. is for Android; BB, BlackBerry; Symb., Symbian; WM, Windows Mobile; WP, Windows Phone. Price is approximate retail.
About our testing

Besides picture quality, our Rating of a smart phone's camera considers capabilities and features such as flash, manual ISO settings, face detection, and focusing. Many new phones have cameras with resolutions of 2 megapixels and up that are capable of producing respectable snapshots, though many lack a flash, which is helpful when taking pictures in dark environments. Look for models with 3-megapixel cameras or higher if you intend to print some of what you shoot. Those models take photography more seriously by pairing sharper image sensors with high-grade lenses, auto focus, zoom, and brightness controls for greater photo control. Some higher-megapixel camera phones may be a bit sluggish at taking pictures. Another increasingly common smart-phone feature is a second, front-facing camera for self portraits and, often, video ciiats.
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Qujck Guide
TIRES
Tires have a diFect impact on your caF's handling, bFaking, ride, corTifort qualities, and fuel economy. More important, the cornering grip, braking distances, and resistance to hydroplaning affect youF safety on the Foad.
Best for: Improved handling and grip over Remember that if all-season tires on wet and you buy your tires dry pavement. But they online, you'll have to often have shorter tread pay for shipping as wear than many all-season well as mounting and balancing yvhen the tires. mail-order tires arrive. Speed ratings: H (130 mph), V (149 mph). Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Ultra-high performance all-season Found on Scan this or see how. page 11 sports cars, sports sedans, For more buying advice, go to and some lower-priced Consiwu'rReports.org/tires sporty models. Types and features Best for: Wet and dry All-seasonThese are the braking and handling. But tires that come standard they trade ultimate warmon many cars, minivans, weather grip for passable and SUVs. winter performance. Best for: Year-round Speed ratings: Z (more traction, long tread life, than 149 mph), W (168 mph), and a comfortable ride. Y (186 mph). But they typically lack the Tread-wear warranty: preci.se handling and grip None or 30,000 to 40,000 of performance tires. miles. Speed rating.s: None, S Ultra-high performance (112 mph), T (118 mph). summerFound mostly Tread-wear warranty; on high-performance sports None or 40,000 to 100,000 cars and sports sedans. miles. Best for: Wet and dry Performance all-season braking and handling. But These come standard on they don t perform well in newer cars. cold weather, ice, or snow.
Shopping tip
Speed ratings: Z (more than 149 mph), W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). Tread-wear warranty: Typically none. WinterSpecially made for use in freezing temperatures and on snow and ice. Best for: Maintaining traction on snow and ice. But fast wear and so-so wet and dry braking make them suitable only for coldweather use. Speed ratings: Q (99 mph) and higher. Tread-wear warranty: None.
s a V/PICA:M/)Designed
for the rigors of truck use. Best for: All-terrain models are designed for on-road and light-duty offpavement use; all-season models are made primarily for on-road use. But some automakers recommend staying with whatever type of tire came with your vehicle. Speed ratings: S (112 mph for many). Tread-wear warranty: None or 40,000 to 70,000 miles.
TIRES Within types, in performance order. Brand & model Overall score Three-season driving Winter driving Comfort
211
Snow tracti
Wet braki
Ice braiii
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100 P I F I G IVGI E
ALL-SEASON S- AND T-SPEED RATED Michelin HydroEdge Continental ProContact ECOPLUSt Micheiin Energy Saver A/S Hanitook Optima H727 Pireili P4 Four Seasons Goodyear Assurance TripieTred Pireiii Cinturato P5 Kumho Solus KR21 Haxxis Escapade MA-Tl Toyo Extensa A/S Toyo Versado LX Cooper GFE BFGoodrich Traction T/AT General Altimax RT Yokohama Avid TRZ Dayton Quadra LE Cooper CS4 Touring Uniroyal Tiger Paw Tour SR Yokohama Avid Touring-S Cooper Lifeliner GLS Yokohama Avid T4 Bridgestone Turanza EL400 Falken Sincera SN828 Dunlop SP60 Sumitomo HTRT4 Firestone FR710
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Within types. In performance order. Brand & model Overall score Three-season driving Winter driving Comfort
100 P i F I G IVGI E
I i 11
PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON H-SPEED RATED

Michelin Primacy MXV4 Falken Ziei(ZE9l2 NofcianWRG2 Kumho Solus KH16 Continental ContiProContact Hichelin Pilot Exalto A/5 Falken Zie)(ZE512 Cooper CS4 Touring General Altlmax HP Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max Pirelli P6 Four Seasons Hankook Optimo H418 Fuzion HR
Ratings Key Excellent yerygood OGood Fair P o o r
Quick Picks
ALL SEASON TIRES S- AND T-SPEED RATED Best for three season (non-winter) drivinq and long tread life: Michelin HydroEdge Michelin Energy Saver A/S Best for all weatfier conditions: Continental ProContact ECOPLUS + Hankook Optimo H727 Goodyear Assurance TripleTred PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON H-SPEED RATED Best for three season (non-winter) drivinq: Falken Ziex ZE9I2 Best for all weather conditions: Michelin Primacy MXV4 Nokian WRG2 Kumho Solus KH16
TIRES
213
Within types. In performance order. I Brand & model
Overall score
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Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P o o r
Quick PicKs PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON V-SPEED RATED Best for tfiree season (non-winter) driving: Firestone Firehawk GTv Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Toyo Versado LX General Altimax HP Best for all weather conditions: Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S Dunlop Signature
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W i t i i i n t y p e s , in perfornnance order. Brand & inodel Overall score Three-season driving Winter Comfort driving
OJ OJ D QJ
100 P I F G IVGl E
UHP ALL-SEASON
Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season Cooper Zeon RS3-A Sumitomo HTRA/SPOl Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus Yokohama Avid ENVigor Continental Extreme Contact DWS Sumitomo HTR * Uniroyai Tiger Pav GTZ A/S BFGoodrich g-Force Super Sport A/S Nitto Premium NT8S0 Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole Position Goodyear Eagle Fl All Season Goodyear Eagle GT Falken ZiexZE912 Kumho Ecsta ASX Yokohama Advan S.4. Dunlop SP Sport Signature Maxxis Victra Z4S Nitto Neo Gen Nexen N7000
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair P o o r
Quick Picks
UHP ALL-SEASON TIRES Best for all weather conditions: Pirelli P Zero Nero All Season Cooper Zeon RS3-A Sumitomo HTR A/S POl Otiier very qood ciioices: Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus Continental Extreme Contact DWS Best for iong tread life: Cooper Zeon RS3-A Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Plus
TIRES
215
Within types, in performance order. Brand & model Overall score Three-season driving Comfort
100 P I F G IVGl E
1 ra
o.
SI
UHPSUMMER
Michelin Pilot Super Sport Goodyear Eagle Fl Asymmetric Duniop SP Sport Uaxx GT Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Continentai Extreme Contact DW Hankooii Ventus V12 evo Pirelli P Zero Duniop SP Sport Maxx TT BFGoodrichg-ForceT/AKDW Kumho Ecsta SPT Bridgestone Potenza RE030A Pole PGsition Nitto NT 05 Duniop Direzza Sport Zl Star Spec Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport Yokohama Advan Sport Firestone Firehawk Wide Oval Indy 500 BFGoodrich g-Force Sport Sumitomo HTRZill Maxxis Victra MA-Zl Nitto iNVO Faiken FK-4S2 Fuzion Zri Yokohama S.drive
Quick Picks
UHP SUMMER TIRES Best UHP summer tires overall: Michelin Pilot Super Sport Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Other good choices: Continental Extreme Contact DW Hankook Ventus V12 evo
216
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U i D E 2 0 1 2
Within types, in performance order. Brand S modei Overaii score Winter driving Three-season driving Comfort
>- S
100 G IVGl f
m ca. ^ 2
PERFORMANCE WINTER TIRES

Nokian WR G2 Hankook Winter i'cept evo Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3 Nokian Hakkapeliitta R Goodyear Ultra Grip Performance 2 Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D Bridgestone BlizzakWS60 Vredestein Wintrac Xtreme Toyo Snowprox S952 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 Nokian Hakkapeiiitta 5 Pireiii Sottozero Winter 240 Series II Yokohama W drive Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood 9 F a i r P o o r
9 O 9
Quick Picks
PERFORMANCE WiNTER TiRES Best for severe winter conditions: Nokian WRG2 Hankook Winter i*cept evo Michelin Piiot Apiin PA3
TIRES Within types, In performance order. Brand a model Overall score Three-season driving
DD DO DO t Z t Z C Z
217
Winter Comfort driving
'S
a
a/ E o o 100 p I F I G IVGl E ALL-SEASON TRUCK Hichelin LTX M/S' Michelin X Radial LP Continental CrossContact LX20 EcoPlus Michelin Latitude Tour HP Michelin Latitude Tour Hankook Dynapro HT Nokian WR G2 Sport Utiiity General General Grabber HTS Goodyear Wrangler SR-A Cooper Discoverer CTS Nokian HT Sport Utility Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza H Kumho Road Venture APT KL51 Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza T BFGoodrich Long Trail T/A Tour Dunlop Rover H/T Maxxis 750 Bravo H/T Firestone Destination LE Nexen Roadlan HT SUV Toyo Open Country H/T Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country Yokohama Geolandar H/T-S GOSl Pirelli Scorpion STR A Ratings Key Excelient every good Good Fair P o o r
.a
e o e e e o o e e eo e o o o o
o o
oo e o
o
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o o e o
eo e o o o o o e o o e o e o
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o o o
e o
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o o e o oo e o o o o o o o o o
o o o o
oo o oo e e oo e o o o e
o o

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Quick Picks
ALL-SEASON TRUCK TIRES Best for most weather conditions: Michelin LTX M/S' Michelin X Radial LT' Continental CrossContact LX20 EcoPlus Michelin Latitude Tour HP Micheiin Latitude Tour
218
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Within types. In performance order. Brand & model Overaii score Three-season driving
OQ
Winter driving
OJO
Comfort
kin
o ro
ra o. O S
ra
'5 z
100 F I G IVGi E ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK 0 0 0 0 0 Cooper Discoverer A/T' Michelin LTXA/T' Hankook Dynapro ATM Kumho Road Venture AT KL-78 Kumho Road Venture SAT Kt6l I I I i I
O O O O
e o 9 e o o o
o 9 o
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9 9 9
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e 9 O O O O 9
Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 2 I BFGoodrich Rugged Terrain Pirelli Scorpion ATR Toyo Open Country A/T Firestone Destination A/T Bridgestone Dueler APT IV Nexen Roadian AT li I I I I I I
Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S G0121
9 9 9 o o 9 o 9 o o e O 9 o 9 o o o 9 o a o 9 o o o o o 9 o o e o 9
Quick Picks
ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK TIRES Best for most weather conditions: Cooper Discoverer A/T' Michelin LTX A/T' Hankook Dynapro ATM For longer tread life: Micheiin LTX A/V Kumho Road Venture AT KL-78 Kumho Road Venture SAT KL61
TIRES Within types, in performance order. Brand S model Overall score Winter driving
DJO
219
Three-season driving
DO DO OD
Comfort
lanii
& oo
'akii
'akii
m m
0 10 0 p 1 F GIVGl E 1 WINTER TRUCK TIRES Continental ExtremeWinterContact Nokian Hakkapeliitta R Sport Utility General Altimax Arctic Michelin Latitude X-lce XI2 Yokohama Geolandar i/T GO72 Bridgestone Blizzak OM-Vl Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT Toyo Open Country G-02 Plus BFGoodrich Winter Slalom KSI Firestone Winterforce UV
1
e o e
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o o o o
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Hydr
e e e
e o o
o o o
e e e e o o o e o e o e o o
o o o o e e e o
o o o
Ratings Key Excellent every good OGood Fair Poor
Quick Picks
WINTER TRUCK TIRES Best for severe winter traction: Mictielin Latitude X-lce XI 2 Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 Best baiance of winter traction and stoppinq qrlp on cieared roads: Continental ExtremeWinterContact Nokian Hakkapeliitta R Sport Utility General Altimax Arctic Yokohama Geolander i/T GO72
Guicie to the Ratings

Overaii score is based on 12 to 14 tests, with braking, handling, and hydroplaning resistance weighed most heavily for most tires. Snow traction and ice braking weigh more heavily tor winter tires. Braitinq tests on dry pavement are from 60 mph; on wet pavement, from 40 or 60 mph; and on ice, trom 10 mph. Handling combines how well a tire did in wet and dry cornering grip, steering teel, and an emergency handling maneuver Wet handling tor UHP tires is evaluated by driving the car through a wet slalom course and wet cornering grip course. Dry handlinq for UHP tires combines the emergency handling maneuver, dry cornering grip, and steering feel. Hydroplaninq denotes a tire's ability to resist skimming along the surtace ot 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. TVead iife is an indicator of wear potential from CR's vehicle test.
TVs,
3D
125
Quick Guide
TVs, 3D
3D Isn't really a type of TV; it's an added function, with) an added cost. You'll get the same 2D picture you'd see with any hiqfi-definition TV until you switch to 3D mode and put on special glasses that transform blurry double images into 3D. What to iooic for
A TV that scores well for regular HD picture quality, then one that also does well with 3D For 3D images that look brighter, a TV that requires the newer passive glasses, which are more comfortable to wear than active glasses Universal glasses that work with different brands of TVs, if active glasses are required but not included with the set
Wiiat to skip
bothered by seeing less picture detailin 3D mode, the TV's vertical resolution is cut in half, from 1080 lines to 540
Wiiat you'ii pay
Shopping tip
Keep in mind that you'll need a 3D-capable Blu-ray player, currently starting at less than $150.
Prices are falling, but you'll pay about $1,000 to $4,000, depending on screen size and features. Bought separately, prices for active-shutter glasses start at $50 a pair, and some use replaceable or rechargeable batteries. Passive glasses don't need batteries, and extra pairs cost $10 to $30.
Models using the newer passive glasses if you'll be

Brand & modei Price Overall score Test resuits
For more Buying Advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/ivs
aj
aj
0 100 p I F i G iVGl E
5.
o.
A
0
LCD TV MODELS
1 Sony Bravia XBR-55HX929 $3,800
0 0 0 0
2 LG47LW5600 1.330 3 IG55LW65OO 2,430 4 Sony Bravia XBR-52HX909 3.100 5 Sony Bravia KDL-46NX810 2,060 6 Sony Bravia KDL-55EX72O 2,160
e o o
O o o o o o
N $27 Full W 28 Edge W 23 Edge M 46 Full M 30 Edge N 38 Edge
126
C O N S U M E R Brand & model
R E P O R T S Price
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2 Test results >->->-
Overall score
ra
" i .5
p I F I G iVf.l E
A
7 8 9
LCO TV MOOELS continued

Toshiba 55WX800U Vizio XVT3D554SV Sony Bravia XBR-46HX909 $1.850 1.500 2.500 1,500 3,000 1.440 1,380 2,900 2,190
o o o o
M 548 Edge 38 42 50 Full Full NA M M M N N N N
o e

10 Samsung LN46C750 11 Vizio XVT3D6505V 12 Samsung UN46D6400 13 Sharp A0UOSLC-46LE835U 14 Samsung UN5508000 15 Sharp A0UOSLC52LE835U
o o o o o o o
51 Edge 24 Edge 23 Edge 27 Edge 28 Edge
0 o o o o
PLASMA TV MODELS
Panasonic Viera TC-P55VT3O LG 5OPZ55O Panasonic Viera TC-P5OST3O Samsung PN59D8000
u
u
91 83 62 12! 88 44 91 98 76 50 72 55
NA NA N A NA NA NA NA NA NA NA N A NA
0 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 Q 0
'
6 7 8 9 '0
Panasonic viera
TC-P55GT3O Samsung PN5OC8OOO Samsung PNS1D550 Samsung PN50C680 Samsung PN50C490 Panasonic Viera TC-P425T30 Panasonic Viera TC-P42GT25 LG42PW350
o o o o o o o o o o
O
u u u u u u u u
U U
0 "
0 1 2
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. I 0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand cut.
TVs,
3D
127

Overall score is based primarily on picture quality; sound quality, ease of use, and viewing angle are also considered. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. 3D effeci: All the 3Dcapabie TVs in our Ratings are capable of providing an immersive 3D experience when displaying 3D programs from Blu-ray or broadcast. However, 3D TVs may have one or more issues that can detract from their 3D performance. These include ghosting (double images visible even when wearing 3D glasses), image dimming, loss of resolution, and even viewing angle problems that are specific to the 3D mode. HD picture quality is a trained viewing panel's evaluation of the TV's picture clarity and color accuracy with 1080 sources. All signals were sent through the HDMI input. SD picture quality indicates how a TV displays "regular," non-HD TV programming with 480i. Sound quality is measured from the set's built-in speakers using computer-driven test equipment, with subjective testing by a listening panel. Remote ease of use assesses the usability of the TV's remote control, considering button layout, labeiing, and practical features. Onscreen menu ease of use considers interaction with the remote, menu layout, and practical features. Versatility indicates features that increase a TV's utility or capabilities. Viewing angle evaluates picture quality from various horizontal and vertical viewing angles; M is moderate; N is narrow; U is unlimited; W is wide. Energy cost/yr, is the estimated cost per year in doilars. calculated for 8 hours a day turned on and 16 hours in the off (standby) mode, based on the current year's national average electricity rate. LED backlight indicates either full-array or around the edge (called edge-lit). This can potentiaiiy allow for improved black levels, colors, and contrast. Price is approximate retail.
About our testing

Our TV tests are based on settings that you would use at home, with content that reveals the strengths and weaknesses of a given set, so you can use our Ratings to get an accurate assessment of picture quality. It's harder to judge TVs well for yourself In stores. That's because TVs are usually set to a Retail or Store mode, which pumps up brightness and color to a level that looks great under fluorescent lights. Also, retailers often displav sports programs, which tend to be super-bright with unnaturally vivid colors that minimize any flaws in the picture. See whether a salesperson will set the TV to Home mode and tune in programming with typical indoor scenes (including closeups of people, if possible, so you can evaluate skin tones). With an LCD, pay attention to the viewing angle. Look at *he set from the side, not just head on, to judge the viewing angle. Vary your vertical position so that you can judge how the screen looks when you are sitting and standing. You may notice that the picture guality deteriorates as you move away from the center. We've found considerable variation among brands and models, so check our test results.
118
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
TVs,
LCD
Choose an LCD if you vânt a tiiin, iightweight TV that comes in a wide range of sizes. No matter hovif large the screen, these sets are only a fevi/ inches deep and light enough to be wall mounted.
Shopping tip
Unless you always sit right in front of the screen, look for a TV with a wider viewing angle to get the best picture quality.
What to iook for
Screen size of at least 37 inches, and preferably 40 or more, for your primary TV 120-Hz technology to minimize motion blur Full HD {1080p) resolution for larger screen sizes or if you plan to use your TV as a computer display
What to sitip
erally not worth the money

What you'ii pay
Expensive HDMI cables; cables costing a few dollars work just as well The extended warranty, genPrice Overall score
Figure on spending about $600 or so for a good 37-inch set and a few hundred dollars more for each size you move upfor example, in the $800 range for a 40- to 42-inch set and about $1,000 for a 46- or 47-inch LCD.
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/tvs. Testresuits =, =, ^ => ^ = =
Brand & model
g > .E
g, s
B 3
0 10 0 P I F I G IVGl E A
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
o o
27-INCH AND SMALLER MODELS

Toshii>a26C100U Sanyo DP26640 Samsung LN22C45O Sitarp AQUOS LC-265B28UT AOC Envision Series LC27H060 ViewSonic VT273O SyivaniaLC260SSl VZOM261VP Razor LED
N $12 N N N N N 16 12 1 2 19 18
NA N A NA N A NA N A
o o
o o o

o o o o a o o w
N 18 NA
13 Edge
T V s ,
L C D
119
Brand & model
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
S
3 3 ^ o- or o S or oo-
-a
100 P I F I G IVGI E
A 27-iNCH AND SMALLER MODELS continued

9 10 U 12 Magnavox26MF330B ViewSonic VT23OOLE0 iMagnavox26M0350B Phijips22PFL35O5D
$240 240 330 215 EM
O O
M N N N
$18 NA 10 Edge 20 14 NA NA
e a O o a o o
o o o e
B 32-INCH MODELS
1 2 3 4 s 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 S 16 Samsung LN32O5SO Samsung LN32C53O Sony Bravia KDL-32BX320 Samsung UN32C4000 VZOM320NV Razor LED VZOE322VL Sanyo 0P32670 Sharp AQUOS LC-32059U Siiarp AQUOS LC-32LSS10UT RCA32LA3ORQO SyivaniaLC320SS2 TOSiliba 32C11OU Piliiips32PFL4SO5D JVCLT32E71O WestingiiouseLD3255VX WestingiiouseLD3260
C 37-INCH MODELS
1 2 3 Samsung LN37CS50 VZOXVT373SV Razor LED Magnavox37MD3S0B 550 600 500
O O O o
M W N
33
NA
29 Edge 30 NA
o ooo o
Ratings Key Excellent averygood OGood Fair P o o r D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. l ^ Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
120
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
I Brand & model

,= ra
Price
Overall score I Test resuits s
3 = 3 'S
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is
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I
D 40-TO 42-INCH MODELS
S>
I I
100 o P I F I G IVGl E
[v;J 1 Samsung UN40C5000

12] 2 IG42LV3700
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
E
Sony Bravia KDL-40EX500 LG 42LE55OO Sony Bravia KOL-40BX420 Samsung UN40D5500 Panasonic Viera TC-L42U30 Sanyo DP42840 Sony Bravia KDL-40EX520 JVCLT-42E910 RCA42LA45RQ Siiarp AQUOS LC-42D69U Toshiba 42SL417U Mitsubishi Unl$enLT-40164 Syivania LC407SS1 Toshiba 40E21OU ViewSonic VT4210LE0 Westinghouse LO-4255VX
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O o e o o o o e o o o e
o o e
e e e e
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o o e o o o
e e e e o o e o
M N M W N N o W o M N o N e N M N M M e M e N o M
$20 Edge 27 Edge 37 NA 29 Edge 37 NA 25 Edge 35 NA 50 NA 23 Edge 26 Edge 61 NA 35 NA 26 Edge 27 Edge 52 NA 34 NA 28 Edge 22 Edge
[^ Q Q [71
IG47LV55OO JVCLT-46P510 Sharp AQUOS LC-46D78UN Bose VideoWave Entertainment System 5 Sony Bravia K0L-46EX620 6 Sony Bravia KDL 46EX523 7 Mitsubishi UnisenLT-46164 8 Philips 46PFL37050 9 Westinghouse L0-46S5VX 10 Toshiba 46UL605U 11 JVCLT-46E910
1 2 3 4
31 50 45 58 26 22 28 55 20 24 26
Edge NA NA NA Edge Edge Edge NA Edge Edge Edge
TVs,
LCD
121
Brand S modei
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits g ^
s 5
0 100 p I F I G IVGl E o ^

Samsung UN55C65OO Samsung UN55C5OOO VizioXVT553SVTruLEO Sanyo 0P52440 Samsung tN52C53O Tosiliba 55VX7OOU Philips 55PFL57O5O TOShiha55UX600U Dynex DX 55115OA11 Phiiips 55PFL77O5D
oo
o o0 o o oo o o 0 o o o o o
N $34 Edge 32 Edge 52 Full 52 53 21 56 N A N A NA N A w M N
M M M O w N
41 Edge
38 Edge 48 Edge
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair APoor H 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
122
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2

Overall score is based primarily on picture quality; sound quality, ease of use, and viewing angle are also considered. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. HD picture quality is a trained viewing panei's evaluation of the TV's picture clarity and color accuracy with 1080 sources. All signals were sent through the HDMI input. SD picture quality indicates how a TV displays "regular," non-HD TV programming with 480i. Sound quality is measured from the set's built-in speakers using computer-driven test equipment, with subjective testing by a listening panel. Remote ease of use assesses the usability of the TV's remote control, considering button layout, labeling, and practical features. Onscreen nnenu ease of use considers interaction with the remote, menu layout, and practical features. Versatility indicates features that increase a TV's utility or capabilities. Viewing anqle evaluates picture quality from various horizontal and vertical viewing angles: M is moderate; N is narrow; W is wide. Energy cost/yr. is the estimated cost per year in dollars, calculated for 8 hours a day turned on and 16 hours in the off (standby) mode, based on the current year's national average electricity rate. LED backlight Indicates either full-array or around the edge (called edge-lit). This can potentially allow for improved black levels, colors, and contrast. Price is approximate retail.

LCD TVs LCD TVs continue to build an impressive record for reliability. Of 18 LCD brands, Mitsubishi, Polaroid, and Westinghouse were the most repair prone. That's what we found when readers told us about 198,049 LCD TVs they purchased between 2007 and the first half of 2010. Our data suggest that flat-panel TVs break early if at all; 68 percent of TVs that were ever repaired had a repair during the first 12 months. In addition, 76 percent of consumers who had a TV repaired paid nothing, probably because almost all new TVs come with a 12-month warranty. Those findings support our stance that an extended warranty seems like a poor investment for most consumers. The graph shows the percentage of TVs in each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 percentage points aren't meaningful. Data are adjusted to eliminate differences linked solely to a TV's age. Models in a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reliability, but choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable TV. 15%
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey, Consumer Reports National Research Center. 20%
TVs,
PLASMA
123
Quick Guide
TVs, PLASMA
A plasma TV is a good choice if you want a thin TV with a screen 42 inches or larger with an almost unlimited viewing angle. What to iooi( for
Antiglare screen, so you won't see reflections from windows and lamps Screen-saving technology lo prevent burn-in caused by static images
What to skip
Models touting high contrast ratios and brightness, because manufacturers arrive at specs differently
What you'ii pay
You'll pay $500 to $4,000, depending on screen size.

The extended warranty, because plasma TVs have been very reliable during the first few years of use
Brand & model Price
For more buying advice, go to www.ConsumerReporls.org/tvs Overaii score Testresuits
- - a> a>
^ ^ ^
=
.Si E 5 ?-
G G
100 F I G IVGl E
A
1 2 3 4 5
42 TO 46 iNCH MODELS
Panasonic Viera TC-P42S30 $670 Panasonic Viera TC-P42X3 Samsung PN43D450 insignia NS-42P650A11 Sanyo 0P42740 500 540 450 430
U $51 1920x1080 U 36 1024x768 52 1024x768
U31 1024x768
U 24 1024x768
B 50 iNCH MODELS
1 2 3 4 5 Panasonic Viera TC-PS0S30 LG5OPV45O Samsung PN51D45O LG50PT350 insignia NS-5OP65OA11 940 900 720 720 550
U 67 1920x1080 U 78 1920x1080
O O o
u 79 1360x768 U70 1024x768
U 44 1365x768
124
CONSUMER
REPORTS
BUYING
GUIDE
2012
Ratings Key Excellent evefygood OGood Fair Poor Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based mostly on picture quality; sound quality, viewing angle, and ease of use are also considered. HD picture quality assesses clarity and color accuracy of a high-definition (1080) signal, such as that from a Blu-ray player, digital-cabie box, or satellite receiver. Ail signals were routed through an HDMI input. SD picture quality indicates how a TV displays "reguiar," non-HDTV programming. This picture quality score is based on a standard-definition TV signai, known as 480i, sent through the TV's HDMI inputs, except where indicated. Sound quality is measured from the set's built-in speakers using computer-driven test equipment, with additional subjective testing by a listening panel. Remote ease of use assesses the remote controi's usabiiity, considering button layout, labeling, and practical features. Onscreen menu ease of use considers interaction with the remote, menu layout, and practicai features. Versatility indicates features that increase a TV's utility or capabiiities. Viewinq angle evaluates picture quality for clarity and color accuracy at various horizontal and vertical viewing angles; U means uniimited. Energy cost/yr. is the estimated cost per year in dollars, calcuiated for 8 hours a day turned on and 16 hours in the off (standby) mode, based on the current year's national average eiectricity rate. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reiiabie

Plasma TVs Fewer repairs Panasonic t^K Samsung ^ ^ H More repairs Plasma TVs continue to build an impressive record for reliability. No plasma brand stood out as less reiiabie than t h e others. That's what we found when readers told us about 29.794 plasma TVs they purchased between 2 0 0 7 and the first half of 2010. Our data suggest that flat-panei TVs break early if at ail. The graph shows the percentage of TVs in each brand that were repaired or had a seri-
0%
10%
1% 5
20%
ous problem. Differences of fewer than 3 percentage points aren't meaningful. Data are adjusted to eiiminate differences linked solely t o a TV's age. Models in a brand can vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reiiability, but choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reiiabie TV.
178
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G U I D E
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USED CARS: THE BEST & THE ONES TO AVOID
hese lists guide you to the most reliable vehicles for 10 model years, 2001 through 20i0, and alert you to those that have been problematic. Reliable vehicles and vehicles to avoid include all models that showed above- or below-average overall reliability (Used Car Verdicts) in our 2010 Annual Car Reliability Survey, which drew responses on about 1.3 million vehicles. Pay particular attention to the Best of the Best and Worst of the Worst, which
we compiled from the longer lists. They cover the models for which we have sufficient survey data for at least three model years, and that have either performed notably well or have been especially troublesome. CONSUMER REPORTS considers
problems with major engine and transmission components, engine cooling, and drive systems to be more serious, and they are weighted more heavily than other areas. For detailed reliability Ratings on the six latest model years, see the charts starting on page 185.
Each of these models earned an above-average Used Car Verdict in our 2010 survey (see page 185). 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 Acura CL 01 Chevrolet Prlzm 01-02 Ford Crown Victoria 01-02 Honda Civic 01 Hyundai Sonata (V6) '03-04 Infiniti G20 02 Lincoln Continental 01 Mazda Protege 01-02 Mercury Grand Marquis 01 Mitsubishi Lancer 02 Toyota Corolla '01-02; Echo '01-03; Prius '01 $4,000-$6,000 Acura CL '03; RSX 02; TL '01-02 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (V6, 2WD) 01 Ford Crown Victoria 03; Escape (V6, FWD) 03; Expedition (2WD) 01; F-150 (V6, 2WD) 01; Focus 05; Mustang (V6) 03; Mustang (V8) 01 GMC Sierra 1500 (V6, 2WD) '01-02 Honda Accord 01-02; Civic 02-03; Civic Hybrid '03; Civic Si '02-03; CR-V 01; Prelude '01 Hyundai Elantra 06 Inflniti 130 01; 135 02-03 Lexus ES 01 Lincoln Town Car 01 Mercury Grand Marquis 02 Mitsubishi Galant '04; Outlander 03 Nissan Altima (4-cyl.) 03 Pontiac Vibe '03-04 Scion xA 04; x8 '04 Subaru Impreza '03 Toyota Avalon 01-02; Camry 01; Camry Solara '01-02; Clica '01-02; Corolla 03; Echo 05; Matrix 03; Prius 02-03; Sienna 01-02; Tundra (V6) 01 $6,000-$8,000 Acura MDX 01; RL 02; RSX '03; TL '03 Buick LeSabre 05 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (V6, 2WD) 02; Silverado 2500 (2WD) 01-02; Tahoe 01 Chrysler Crossfire 04 Ford Crown Victoria 05; Escape (V6, FWD) 04; F-150 (V6, 2WD) 02-04; Focus '06; Focus hatchback 07; Mustang (V6) 04; Taurus sedan '06 GMC Sierra 1500 (V8,
THE
2WD) 01; Sierra 2500 (2WD) 01 02; Yukon 01 Honda Accord 03; Civic 04; Civic Hybrid 04; Civic Si '04-05; CR-V '02-03; Element '0304; Odyssey '02-03 Hyundai Santa Fe 03-04; Sonata (4-cyi.) 06; Tucson 05 Kia Sportage 05 Lexus ES 02; GS (RWD) 01; IS sedan '01-02; RX 01 Lincoln Town Car 02 Mazda MX-5 Mlata 0102; Tribute (4-cyl., FWD) 05; Tribute (V6, FWD) 0304; 3 hatchback 04; 6 hatchback/wagon 05; 6 sedan (V6) 05; 6 sedan (4-cyi.) 03-04 Mercury Grand Marquis '03; Mariner (4-cyi., FWD) 05 Nissan Aitlma (4-cyl.) 04; Altima (V6) 02 Pontiac Vibe 05 Scion xA 05-06; xB '05 Subaru Impreza 04 Toyota 4Runner (V6) 01; Avaion 03; Camry 02; Camry Soiara 03; Coroiia '04-05; Highiander '01-02; Matrix 04; RAV4 0102; Sequoia 01; Sienna 03; Tacoma (4-cyi.) 01-02; Tundra (V6) 02-03; Tundra (V8) 01 Volvo V70 02-03 $8,000-$10,000 Acura MDX 02; RSX 04 BMW Z3 '01-02 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (V8, 2WD) 01-02; Tahoe 02 Ford Escape (4-cyl., FWD) 05; Escape (V6) 05; Escape Hybrid (AWD) 05; F-150 (V6, 2WD) 05; F-150 (V8) 01-02; Fusion (4-cyl.) 06 GMC Sierra 1500 (V8, 2WD) 02-03; Yukon 02
BEST
& WORST
USED
CARS
179
Honda Accord 04; Civic '05; Civic Hybrid '05; CR-V 04; Eiement 05; Odyssey 04; Piiot '0304; S2000 '01-02 Hyundai Eiantra 07; Tucson (4-cyi.) 06 infiniti i35 04 Kia Optima 07; Rondo 07; Sportage 06 Lexus ES 03; GS (RWD) '02; IS sedan '03; RX '02 Lincoin Town Car 04 Mazda MPV 06; MX-5 Miata 03; Tribute (4-cyi., FWD) 06; Tribute (V6) '05; 3 '05-06; 6 sedan (4-cyi.) 06 Mercedes-Benz SLK '01 Mercury Grand Marquis '05; Mariner (V6) 05; Miian (4-cyi.) 06 Mitsubishi Endeavor 05 Nissan 350Z coupe '03; Aitima (4-cyl.) 05; Altima (V6) 03; Pathfinder '03-04 Pontiac Vibe 06-07 Scion tC '05-06; xB '06 Subaru Forester 04; impreza 05-06; Legacy (4-cyi,) 05 Suzuki SX4 08 Toyota 4Runner (V6) 02; Avaion 04; Camry 0304; Camry Soiara 04; Coroiia 06; Highiander '03; Matrix '05-06; Prius 04; RAV4 '03-04; Tacoma (4-cyi.) 03-04; Tacoma (4-cyi., 2WD) '05; Tacoma (V6, 2WD) '01-02; Tundra (V6) 04; Tundra (V8) '0203 Voikswagen Rabbit 07 Voivo C70 04; S80 (5-cyi.) '04; V70 '04 $10,000-$12,000 Acura MDX 03; RL 04; TL '04; RSX '05; TSX '04 Chevroiet Siiverado 1500
(V8, 2WD) 03 Chrysier Crossfire 05 Ford Escape (FWD) 06; F-150 (V6, 2WD) 06; F-^250 (2WD) 03; Focus 08; Fusion (FWD) 07; Fusion (V6, FWD) 06; Mustang (V8) 03 Honda Accord 05-06; Accord Hybrid 05; Civic '06-07; CR-V '05; Fit '07; S2000 03 Hyundai Eiantra 08; Santa Fe 06; Sonata (V6) 07; Sonata '08 infiniti G Sedan 04 Kia Optima 08; Sportage 07 Lexus ES 04; GS (RWD) 03-04; iS '04; LS '01; RX'O3 Lincoin Town Car 05 Mazda MX-5 Miata 04; Tribute (V6, FWD) 06; 3 07; 6 sedan (4-cyl.) 07 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (4cyi.) 04; CLK 02 Mercury Mariner (4-cyl., FWD) 06-07; Mariner (V6, FWD) 06; Milan (FWD) 07; Miian (V6, FWD) 06 Nissan 350Z coupe 04; Aitima (V6) 05; Aitima 06; Sentra '09 Pontiac Vibe 08 Porsche Boxster 01 Scion tC 07 Subaru Forester 05-06; impreza 07; impreza WRX 05 Toyota 4Runner 03; Camry 0 5 0 6 ; Camry Soiara '05-06; Coroiia '07-08; Highiander 04; Matrix 07; Prius 05; RAV4 '05; Sequoia 02; Sienna (FWD) 04; Tacoma (4cyi., 2WD) 06; Tacoma (V6, 2WD) 03; Tacoma (V6, 4WD) 01-02; Tundra (V6) 05; Tundra (V8) 04
180
CONSUMER
REPORTS
BUYING
GUIDE
2012
Volkswagen Rabbit 08 Volvo S80 (6-cyL) 04; XC70 04 $12,000-$14,000 Acura MDX 04; RSX 06; TSX '05 Ford Crown Victoria 08; Escape (FWD) 07; Escape Hybrid 06; F-150 (V8) 03; Focus sedan 09; Fusion (FWD) '08; Mustang (V8) 04 Honda Accord 07; Accord Hybrid 06; Civic 08; Civic Hybrid 06; Civic Si 06; CR-V 06; Element '06; Fit '08-09; Pliot '05; S2000 04 Hyundai Elantra sedan 09-10; Elantra wagon 09; Sonata (4-cyl.) 09; Tucson (V6) 07 infiniti FX35 03; 0 Coupe '04 Kia Rondo 09; Sportage 08 Lexus GS (RWD) 05; iS - sedan '05; LS '02 Mazda MX-5 Miata 0 5 0 6 ; 3 sedan 0?; 6 sedan (4cyl.) 08 Mercedes-Benz CLK 03; E-Ciass sedan (V6, RWD) '03-04 Mercury Grand Marquis 08; Mariner (V6, FWD) 07; Mariner Hybrid (AWD) 06; Milan (FWD) 08 Mitsubishi Outiander 07 Nissan Altlma (4-cyl.) 07; Altlma Hybrid 07; Frontier (2WD) 07; Sentra '10 Pontiac Vibe 09 Porsche Boxster 02 Scion tc 08; xB 08; xD '08-09 Subaru Forester 07; Impreza 08; impreza WRX 06; Legacy (4-cyl.) 07; Legacy 06; Outback (4-cyl.) 06
Suzuki SX4 09 Toyota 4Runner 04; Avaion 05; Corolla 09; Highiander 05; Land Cruiser '01; Matrix '08; Prius '06; RAV4 06; Seguoia 03; Sienna (FWD) 05; Tacoma (4-cyl.) 07; Tacoma (4cyl., 2WD) 08; Tacoma (V6, 2WD) 04; Tacoma (V6, 4WD) 03; Tundra (V6) 06; Tundra (V8) 05 Volkswagen Rabbit 09 Volvo S60 (FWD) 06; V70 05; XC70 05 $14,000-$16,000 Acura TL 05; TSX '06 Chevrolet Corvette '02 Ford Mustang (V6) '08; Mustang (V8) 05 Honda Civic 09; Civic Hybrid 07; Element 07; Fit '10; Ridgellne 06; S2000 05 Hyundai Eiantra wagon '10; Tucson (V6) 08 Infiniti FX35 04; G sedan '05 Kia Sportage 09 Lexus ES '05; LS '03; LX '01; RX '04; SC '02 Mazda MX-5 Mlata 07-08; 3'09 Mitsubishi Outiander 08 Nissan 350Z coupe 06 Pontiac Vibe 10 Porsche Boxster 03 Scion xB '09-10 Subaru B9 Tribeca 06; Baja '06; Forester '08; Impreza '09-tO; Legacy (4-cyi.) 08-09; Outback (6-cyl.) 06 Toyota 4Runner '05; Avaion 06; Camry (4-cyi.) '07-08; Camry Solara (V6) 07; Highlander 06; Matrix '09; Prius '07; RAV4 '07; Sequoia '04; Sienna (FWD) 06; Tacoma (V6, 2WD)
05; Tacoma (V6, 4WD) '04; Tundra (V6) 07 Volkswagen Golf 10; Jetta (5-cyl.) 08 Volvo S40 07; S80 (5-cyi.) '06 $16,000-$18,000 Acura MDX 05; RL 05 Audi A4 (V6) 06 BMW Z4 05 Chrysler Aspen 07 Dodge Ram 1500 (2WD) 08 Ford Edge (FWD) 07; Escape Hybrid (FWD) 07; F-150 (2WD) 07; Fusion 09; Mustang (V6) 09-10; Mustang (V8) 06 Honda Accord Hybrid 07; Civic 10; Civic Hybrid '08; Civic SI '08-09; CR-V 07; Element 08; Odyssey '06; Piiot '06; S2000 '06 Hyundai Santa Fe 08; Sonata (4-cyl.) 10 infiniti FX35 05; G '06; G coupe 05 Lexus ES 06; GX 03; LX '02; RX '05; SC '03 Mazda 3 '10; 5 '10 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan (V6, RWD) 05 Mercury Milan (4-cyl.) 09 Mitsubishi Outiander 09 Nissan Altlma (4-cyi.) 09; Aitima Hybrid 08 Subaru Forester (turbo) 07; Legacy (4-cyL) '10; Outback (4-cyl.) 07-08; Outback (6-cyi.) 07 Toyota Avaion 07; Camry (4-cyl.) 09; Camry Hybrid 07; Camry Solara 08; Corolla 10; Highiander '07; Matrix '10; Prius '08; RAV4 08; Tacoma (4-cyl., 4WD) '10; Tacoma (V6) 06; Tacoma (V6, 4WD) '05; Tundra (V6) 08; Tundra (V8) 06 Voikswagen Jetta (5-cyi.) '10
THE
Voivo C30 08-09; S6b (FWD) 07; XC70 '06 $18,000-$20,000 Acura MDX 06; TL 06; TSX '07 Audi A4 (4-cyl.) 07 BMW X3 06 Chevrolet Corvette 04 Chrysler Aspen 08 Ford Edge (FWD) '08; F-250 (2WD) '08; Fusion (V6, AWD) 10; Fusion Hybrid '10; Mustang (V8) 07 Honda Accord (4-cyl.) '09; Civic Hybrid '09; CR-V '08; RIdgeline 07; S2000 '07 Hyundai Santa Fe 09 Lexus GX '04; LS 04 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (V6, RWD) 07; E-Ciass sedan (turbodiesel) 05 Nissan Frontier (2WD) '10; Maxima 08; Rogue 09-10 Subaru Forester 09-10; Outback (4-cyl.) 09-10 Toyota 4Runner 06; Camry Hybrid 08-09; Highlander Hybrid 06; Prius 09; RAV4 09; Sequoia '05; Sienna (FWD) 08; Tacoma (V6) 07-08 Volvo S60 (FWD) 08; S80 (6-cyi.) 07; XC70 07 $20,000-$24,000 Acura RDX 07; RL 06; TL '07; TSX '08 Audi A4 (V6) 07 BMW 3281 07; Z4 06 Chevrolet Cmaro (V6) '10 Dodge Ram 1500 (2WD) '10 Ford Escape Hybrid '09; Expedition (2WD) 07; F-150 (V8, 2WD) 09; Mustang (V8) 08-09; Taurus 10 Honda Accord '10; Accord Crosstour '10; CR-V '0910; Odyssey 09; Pilot 07; Ridgeilne 08
BEST
& WORST
USED
CARS
181
Hyundai Santa Fe '10 infiniti FX35 06; G '07; M '06 Lexus ES '07; GS (RWD) 06; GX '05; IS '06; LS '05; LX '03; RX '06; SC '04 Lincoln MKZ (FWD) 08 Mazda MX-5 Miata 09-10 Mercedes-Benz SLK 05 Mercury Mariner Hybrid (FWD) 10; Mariner Hybrid 09; Milan (V6, AWD) '10; Milan Hybrid '10 Nissan Altima (V6) '10; Murano 09 Subaru Forester (turbo) '10; Legacy (6-cyl.) 09; Outback (6-cyl.) 09 Toyota 4Runner (V6) 08; 4Runner 07; Avaion 08; Camry Hybrid 10; Highlander Hybrid 07; Highlander (V6) 08; Highlander 09; Land Cruiser 04; RAV4 10; Sienna (FWD) 09; Tundra (V8, 2WD) '07-08; Venza '09 Volvo S80 (6-cyi.) 08 $24,000-$30,000 Acura RDX '08-10; RL '07; TL'O8 Audi A4 (4-cyl.) 08, 10; A4 (V6) 09 BMW 3281 (AWD) '10; 328i '09; Z4 '07 Chevrolet Cmaro (VB) 10; Corvette 06 Ford Edge (FWD) '10; Escape Hybrid (FWD) '10; F-150 (V8) '10 Honda Odyssey '10; Pilot '08-09; RIdgeline '09 Hyundai Genesis sedan (V6) 09; Genesis sedan '10 infiniti EX 08-09; FX35 '07-08; G sedan 08-09; M35 '07-08; M45 '07 Lexus ES '08-09; GX '06; IS 07-08; i S 250 sedan (RWD) 09; LS 06; LX
'04-05; RX '07-08; RX Hybrid '06-07; SC '05 Lincoln MKX (FWD) 07-09 Mazda CX-9 09-10 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (V6) 08; C-Class (V6, RWD) 09; CLK 07; EClass sedan (V6) 07 Nissan Murano '10; Pathfinder '10 Porsche Boxster 06 Subaru Tribeca 09 Toyota 4Runner (V6) 09; Avaion 09; Highlander '10; Highlander Hybrid '08; Land Cruiser 06; Sequoia '06-07; Sienna '10; Sienna (AWD) 09; Tundra (V8, 4WD) 10 Voivo C70 07, 09; XC70 '09 $30,000 and up Acura MDX '07-10; RL '08; TL '09-10 BMW M3 08; X3 09 Chevrolet Corvette '08 Honda Pilot 10 Infiniti FX35 '10; G sedan '10; M35 (AWD) '09-10 Lexus ES '10; GS (RWD) 0809; GX 07; iS 250 sedan (RWD) '10; LS '07-08, '10; LX '06-09; RX '09-10; RX Hybrid '08-09; SC '06 Lincoln MKT '10; Navigator '08 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (V6, AWD) '10; CLK 08; E-Ciass sedan (turbodiesel) 08; E-Class sedan (V6, AWD) 08, 10; E-Ciass sedan (V6, RWD) '08-10; S-Ciass '08 Porsche Boxster 08; Cayman 08 Toyota Highlander Hybrid '10; Sequoia '08, '10 Volvo XC60 10
182
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Worst cars, year by year

This is CR's iist of unreliable vehicles based oh our 2010 survey. The vehicles earned belowaverage Used Car Verdicts, meaning they proved worse- or much-worse-than-average for the model years listed. Acura TL (AWD) '10 Audi A3 06, 08; A4 (4-cyl.) '03-05; A4 '02; A6 (2.7T) '04; A6 (3.0T) '10; A6 (V6) '01-03, '08; A6 Allroad '01, '04; A8 '04; 05 '09; 07 '07-08; TT '08 BMW 1351 08; 3251 (AWD) '01, '03; 3301 (AWD) '04; 3301 (RWD) '02-03; 335i (AWD) 08; 335i (RWD) 07-10; 5 Series (6-cyl., AWD) '06; 5 Series (6cyl., RWD) 10; 5 Series (VIO) 05. 07; 5 Serles (V8) '01-05. '07; 5351 (AWD) '10; 5351 08; 7 Series '01, '03-04; X5 (6-cyl.) '01-03, '08-09; X5 06-07; X5 (turbodiesel) '10; Z4 '04 Buick Century 02; Enclave (AWD) '08-09; LaCrosse (V6, AWD) 10; Rainier 0 5 0 6 ; Rendezvous '02-03, '05-06; Terraza '05 Cadillac CTS (V6) 0 8 0 9 ; CTS (V6, RWD) 03; DeVille '01-04; DTS 06, '09; Escalade '07-08; Seville 01; SRX (V6) 05-07; SRX (V6, AWD) '04, '08; STS (V6) '07-08; STS '05-06 Chevrolet Astro 01-03, '05; Avalanche 1500 '03-07; Aveo '04-09; Blazer 01-04; Cavalier '05; Cobalt '05-07, '09; Colorado (2WD) 04, 08; Colorado (4WD) 0 5 0 6 , '08; Corvette '05; Equinox 05-06; Express '02; HHR '06, '08; Impala (V6) '0107, '10; Impala (V8) 06-08; Malibu (4-cyl.) 05; Malibu (V6) '01-04, 07-08; Malibu Maxx '05, '07; Monte Carlo '01-02, '04, '06; S-10 Pickup (4WD) '01-04; Silverado 1500 (V6, 2WD) 09; Silverado 1500 (V8, 4WD) 04-07; Silverado 2500 (4WD) 04-05, '07-08; Silverado 2500 (turbodiesel, 4WD) 06, 09; Suburban 1500 04-09; Suburban 2500 '03, '05. '07; Tahoe '07-08; Tahoe Hybrid 08-09; TrailBlazer (6-cyl.) '04-07, 09; TrailBlazer (V8) 03-04, '06-08; Uplander '05-08; Venture '01-03, '05 Chrysler 300 (V6) 06, 09; 300 (V8) 05-06; 300M '03-04; Concorde '04; Pacifica '07-08; PT Cruiser (nonturbo) 01-07; PT Cruiser (turbo) '03-06; Sebring convertible '02, 04, '06. 08; Sebring sedan '01-04, '07-08; Town & Country (AWD) 01-02; Town & Country 01-09; Voyager 01-03 Dodge Avenger 08; Caliber '07; Caravan '01-07; Challenger '10; Charger 07; Dakota (4WD) '01-02, '04-05, '07-08; Durango 01, '03, 06-07; Grand Caravan (AWD) '01-02; Grand Caravan 01-09; Intrepid '02, '04; Journey '09; Magnum '05-06; Neon '03, '05; Nitro '07-08; Ram 1500 (2WD) 01-02; Ram 1500 (4WD) '0104, '06-07, '10; Ram 2500 (2WD) '03; Ram 2500 (turbodiesel, 4WD) '02-04, '06-08; Stratus '01-04 Ford Edge (AWD) 0708; Escape (4-cyl., AWD) '08-10; Escape (V6, AWD) 08; Escape (V6) '09; Excursion 05; Expedition (4WD) '05-06; Expedition 08; Explorer (2WD) 02. 04-07; Explorer (4WD) '02-06, '10; Explorer Sport Trac (4WD) '07; F-150 (V6, 2WD) 08; ' F-250 (2WD) 06; F-250 (turbodiesel, 4WD) 04-09; Flex (AWD) '09; Focus Hatchback 02; Focus Wagon '02-03; Freestar 05; Thunderbird 03-05; Windstar '01-03 GMC Acadia 07-08; Acadia (FWD) 09; Canyon (2WD) 04, 08; Canyon (4WD) '05-06, '08; Envoy (6-cyl.) 04-07, 09; Envoy (V8) 03-04, '06-08; Jimmy '01; S-15 Sonoma (4WD) 01 04;
THE
BEST
& WORST
USED
CARS
183
Safari '01-03, '05; Savana 02; Sierra 1500 (V6, 2WD) 09; Sierra 1500 (V8, 4WD) '04-07; Sierra 2500 (4WD) 04-05, 07-08; Sierra 2500 (turbodiesel, 4WD) V6, 09; Terrain '10; Yukon 07-08; Yukon Hybrid 08-09; Yukon XL 1500 04-09; Yukon XL 2500 '03. '05, '07 Honda Element 10; Odyssey 07; Passport '02 Hummer H3 06-08 Hyundai Accent 02; Elantra 02; Entourage 07-08; Santa Fe (V6) 01; Sonata (4-cyl.) '02-03; Veracruz '09; XG350 02 Isuzu Rodeo 02 Jaguar S-Type 03, 05; XF '09-10; X-TVpe '02 Jeep Commander 06-08; Compass 07; Grand Cherokee 0108; Grand Cherokee (V8) 09-10; Liberty '05-07, '09^10; Wrangler (2-door) '05-07, '09; Wrangler (4-door) '07-08, '10 Kia Borrego 09; Optima '04. '06; Sedona '02-08; Sorento '03-05, '07 Land Rover LR3 06 Lexus GS (AWD) 08; IS 250 convertible 10 Lincoln Aviator 03-04; LS '04; MKS '09-10; MKX (AWD) 07, '10; MKZ (AWD) 07 10; Navigator '03, '07 Mazda 626 01; CX-7 '07-08; MPV '02; RX-8 04-05; Tribute (4-cyl., AWD) 08-10; Tribute (V6, AWD) 08; Tribute
(V6) '09; Mazda5 '06; Mazdaspeed3 07 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (V6, RWD) '10; CLK 09; E-Class coupe 10; E-Class sedan (V8) '10; GL-Class '07-08; GL-Class (turbodiesel) 08; GLK '10; M-Class 06; M-Class (V6) 08; R-Class 06-08; S-Class '06; SL '07 Mercury Mariner (4-cyl., AWD) '08-10; Mariner (V6) 09; Mariner (V6, AWD) 08; Monterey 05; Mountaineer (2WD) 02. 04-07; Mountaineer (4WD) '02-06, '10 Mini Cooper Clubman 08; Cooper Clubman S '08-09; Cooper convertible 05-09; Cooper hatchback '02-06; Cooper hatchback S 04-09 Mitsubishi Eclipse 01 Nissan 350Z convertible 04; 370Z coupe 09; Armada 05; Cube '10; Frontier (4WD) 05-06, '10; Murano 03; Pathfinder 05-06; Quest 04-07; Sentra 05; Titan (2WD) 08; Titan (4WD) 04-06, 08; Xterra '05-06, '10 Oldsmobile Alero 01; Aurora 01; Silhouette '01-03 Pontiac Aztek 01, 03; 8onnevllle 01-02, 04; G6 coupe, convertible 06-08; G6 sedan (4cyl.) 09; G6 sedan (V6) '05-08; G8 '09; Grand Am 02-03; Grand Prix '01-03, '07; Montana '0103, '05; Montana SV6
'05-06; Solstice 07; Solstice (turbo) 08; Sunfire 05 Porsche 911 04, 09; Boxster 07; Cayenne '04, '08 Saab 9-3 convertible 06; 9-3 hatchback 02; 9-3 sedan '03-05; 9-5 '0103, '05 Saturn Aura (V6) 07-08; Ion 06; L300 (V6) '01-04; Outlook '07-08; Outlook (FWD) 09; Relay 05-07; Sky 07; Sky (turbo) 08; Vue (4-cyl.) '03, '06, '08; Vue (V6) '02-03, '07-08 Smart ForTwo 08 Subaru Impreza WRX 09; Legacy (turbo) 05, 09 Toyota Camry (V6) 10; Tacoma (4-cyl.) 09; Tacoma (V6, 2WD) '10; Venza (4-cyl.) '10 Volkswagen Cabrio 01; Eos 07-09; Golf '02; GTI (4-cyl.) 06; GTI R32 08; Jetta (4-cyl.) 0305; Jetta (5-cyl.) 06; Jetta (turbo) 01-04, '06, '10; Jetta sedan (TDD 03-04; Jetta sedan (V6) 01; New Beetle Convertible '04-06, 08; New Beetle Hatchback '01, '04-06; Passat (4cyl., AWD) 04; Passat (4-cyl., FWD) 01-04, '06-08, '10; Passat (V6, AWD) 01, 07; Passat (V6, FWD) '01-04. '06; Routan 09; Touareg '04-05 Volvo S60 (AWD) 05; XC70 (nonturbo) 01; XC70 (turbo) 01-02; XC90 (6-cyl.) '04-05, 07; XC90 (V8) 07
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CR Best of the Best & Worst of the Worst

BEST OF THE BEST These 2001-2010 models (except where noted) have performed well in our road tests 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 the 2001-2010 models. All are listed aiphabetically. Infiniti G35, G37 Infiniti 130,135 Infiniti M35 Kia Sportage ('05-09) Lexus ES Lexus GS (RWD) Lexus GX Lexus iS sedan Lexus LS Lexus RX Lexus RX Hybrid Lexus SC Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr (FWD) Mazda CX-9 Mazda MX-5 Miata Mazda Protege Mazda3 Mazda6 sedan (4-cyl.) Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan (V6, RWD) Mercedes-Benz SLK Mercury Milan (FWD) Mitsubishi Outiander Nissan Altima Nissan Altima Hybrid Nissan Rogue Pontiac Vibe Porsche Boxster Scion tC Scion xB Subaru B9 Tribeca, Tribeca Subaru Forester Subaru Impreza nonturbo Suzuki SX4 Toyota 4Runner (V6) Toyota Avaion Toyota Camry Toyota Camry Hybrid Toyota Camry Solara Toyota Clica Toyota Corolla Toyota Echo Toyota Highlander Toyota Highlander Hybrid Toyota Land Cruiser Toyota Matrix Toyota Prius Toyota RAV4 Toyota Sequoia Toyota Sienna (FWD) Toyota Tacoma (V6, 4WD '05-10) Toyota Tundra (V8, 4WD) Volkswagen Rabbit Volvo C70 Volvo S60 (FWD)
Ford Fusion
Best of the Best

Acura MDX Acura RDX Acura RL Acura RSX Acura TL Acura TSX BMW Z3, Z4 Ford Fusion (FWD) Ford Mustang Honda Accord [Honda Civic Honda Civic Hybrid Honda Civic Si Honda CR-V Honda Fit Honda Pilot Honda Ridgeiine Honda S2000 Hyundai Tucson (V6) Infiniti EX Infiniti FX35
Worst of the Worst

Audi A6 (2.7T, 3.0T) BMW 535i (AWD) BMWX5 Cadillac SRX (AWD) Chevrolet Astro Chevrolet Aveo Chevrolet Blazer Chevrolet Colorado (4WD) Chevrolet Impala (V8) Chevrolet S-10 Pickup (4WD)
Chevrolet Uplander Chrysler PT Cruiser (turbo) Chrysler Town & Country Dodge Caravan Dodge Grand Caravan GMC Acadia (AWD) GMC Canyon (4WD) GMC S-15 Sonoma (4WD) GMC Safari Hummer H3 Jaguar S-Type, XF
Kia Sedona Mercedes-Benz R-Class Mini Cooper Convertible Pontiac G6 Coupe & Convertible Saturn Outlook (FWD) Saturn Relay Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible Volkswagen Passat (V6, FWD)
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R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
VACUUM CLEANERS
Carpets top the list of critical cleaning chores, an area where upright models have traditionally excelled. But you may prefer a canister vacuum for other cleaning, especially on stairs.
Shopping tip
Some vacuums are easier than others to push, pull, and carry. See which feels best at the store.
What to iooi( for
A vacuum that's easy to push, pull, and carry, so try before I for most cleaning jobs you buy Bagless models if you have For better deep-cleaning of asthma or allergies, because carpets, an upright beats a emptying the dustbin and canister cleaning a filter is an especially dusty, messy chore For cleaning drapes, upholstery, on stairs, and under furniture, a canister is better What you'ii pay than an upright You'll find strong performers for as little as $50.
What to skip
Splurging on extra cleaning tools, when the basic tools that come standard should suffice
Scan this or see how. page 1!
For more buying advice, go to Coti.ûmerReporls.org/vacuums
Brand & model similar models, in small type, Me compiirahle to tested model.
Price
Overall score
Weight Test results (ib.)

CZ O
2 0 100 P I F I G IVGl E
A
[7] 1
BAGGED UPRiGHTS Tbese tend to be better for carpets and are easier to store.
Hoover WindTunnel Anniversary Edition U6485-900 UH50000 Mieie 5 7210 Tviiist Kenmore Intuition 31100
21
22 21 22 1 6 1 7 21
g O e
0 [Z 0 Q Q 0
2 3
4 Mieie 5 7260 Cat &0og S Hoover Tempo Widepath US140-900 6 Hoover WindTunnel Max UH3O6OO 7 Panasonic MC-UG775
e e e ^ o 1 1 e e i1 e o 1 1 e e o i1 e o i1
e e
o o o e
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
NA 5 $2 5 NA 5
A 2 N
NA 6 NA 8
1 o 1 1 o 1
VACUUM Brand S model Similarmodels, ins are comparatile to tested model. Price Overaii score
CLEANERS
129
Weigiit Testresuits
(ib.)
s. s s
5
0 100
.i= re .a
S s
p I F I G IVGI E
A BAGGED UPRIGHTS continued

8 H o o v e r P l a t i n u m Bagged j . . .
UH30010COM 1 Kenmore Intuition 31810
*''"" 350 oo^ " 650 n ^'" 600 150 .-jr.

^'^ -.rn
''"
13 21 22 22 20 16 1 7 9 9 20 13 19 14 19 17 11
NA 0
a a
NA $5
10 iMieie S 7580 Bolero Swing. Tango 1 Miele S 7280 lazz Salsa 1 12 Eureka Boss Smart Vac 48701 ! 13 Sebo Felix Premium 14 Panasonic MC-LIG471 15 Riccar Supralite RSU
16 17 SimplidlyFreedomF36OO 2 Riccar Supralite RSL3
Simplicity Freedom F35OO 2
e a a e e
a 0 a e 0 e
0 $2 5 0 NA 5 0 NA 5
N A N A NA 3 3 8
0 0 2
2 3 NA
0 0 e 0 0 0 NA e
e e
NA
a a
NA NA
Riccar Brilliance Premium simplicity Synchrony Premium
gm
18 Kenmore Progressive Glide 30100 "" 19 Lindhaus Oiamante 380 900 20 DirtDeviiFeatherlite Bagged M085590 21 Sebo automatic X5 22 Panasonic MC-UG509 23 Aerus FreshEra 2 .n 820 300 500
NA 0
4 NA
4 NA
4
0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
0 e 2 NA
0 0 0
NA
a a
NA 3 NA 4
24 Royai Eminence MRY975O 600 25 Panasonic MC-UG413 100
20
15 22 19
26 Cirrus Performance Pet CR99 450 27 Kobienz U610 ::
0 0 0 0 1 3 e 0 0 1 NA A 0 a 0 N 1
300
N A
0 2
N A
B
1
BAGLESS UPRIGHTS These trade a bag for a bin but are messier to empty.
Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Bagless
UH7O12O UH70110 3
1 8 22 2 1 1 8
e o o o o o a e o o a e e o o a
I 2
LG Kompressor Total Care LUV400T I 3 DYSon DC28 Animal I 4 Eureiia Airspeed ASIOOOA [ _ ., jswoiA G0J4 lgoM craigea
100
130
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand & model

g ^ -g Similar models, m small type. S are comparable to tested tnodel.
Price
Overaii score
Weigiit Test resuits (ib.)
I I I I I I I
- E l
100 F I G IVGl E
B 0 0 0 n 5 6 7 8
BAGLESS UPRIGHTS continued LG Kompressor LUV300 Hoover Platinum Bagiess

UH7OO15
22 22 23 16
o e
00
O O e
LG Kompressor LUV200 Bisseil CieanView Helix
Dirt Devii Featherlite Bagiess M085845 (Target) Siiark Navigator Lift Away
NV352 NV351 (walmarti
e e e o
o 0
e O
O O O O
13
.,
14 19 19 18 23 19
HooverWindTunnel Pet Rewind UH7021O s Hoover WindTunnel TSeries Purely Clean UH7O202 3 Bisseil Momentum 82G71 Kenmore Intuition 31040 Hoover WindTunnel Rewind PIUSUH7O2O5 3 Panasonic MC-UL915 Hoover WindTunnel Max UH70600 Siiark Navigator NV22L Bisseii Pet Hair Eraser 87B4 87B4-2 (LOe's). 87B4-3 (Best Buy) Eiectroiux Nimble EL860211 EL86O5ll(LO*e'5) Bisseii PowerClean 16N5-9 Bisseil Healthy Home 16N5-F Eureka Whirlwjnd+Pet Lover 327611 Bissen PowerGroom 92L3W
00
250
21 20 16 21 19 22 22 20 18 16 17
e o e o e e e o e o e o o e 00 o o o e e o o o e e o oo
o 00 o o o o
O O
e o e o o e o o e o o e o
e O o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. I bd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
VACUUM Price Overaii score
CLEANERS
131
Brand S modei g ^ similar models. In smalltype. S S are comparable to tested model.
Weigiit Test resuits (Ib.) g. fe
100 P I F G IVGl E
Si
S 2 b
BAGLESS UPRIGHTS continued
27 Kenmore Intuition 31811 28 Hoover WindTunnei Pet Cyclonic UH70085 29 Eiectroiux Versatility EL8505
EL8502
23 23 24 22 1 3 1 7 1 2
23
O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O
O O O O
30 Bisseil Lift-off MultiCyclonic Pet 89Q9 8909-4

(Kohl's). 8909-6 (BBB). 18Z6 (Target)
31 Hoover WindTunnei Air UH70400 32 Bissen ProLite Multi Cyclonic

17G5 I7G5-2 (Lowe's)
33 Dyson 0C24 Ball All Floors 34 Hoover WindTunnei Pet Rewind Plus UH70086
1 Comes with a mini canister vacuum that accepts tools; we did not test the canister 2 Does not accept tools. 3 The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on May 27,2010, announced the recall of this model due to fire and shock hazards. See the CPSC recall notice for more details.
Brand S modei similar models, in s ! ,ire comparable 10 tested model.
Price
Overall score
Test results
S
0 100
P I F I G IVCl E
o .S '
i S
o
A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
BAGGED CANISTER Kenmore Intuition 28014 iMieleS5281Callisto Eiectroiux Oxygen EL6988I1 Kenmore Progressive 21514 Hoover WindTunnei 53670 Eiectroiux UltraOne EL707OA Panasonic MC-CG9O2 Eiectroiux Ultra5ilencer OeepClean EL70601J ultraSilencer tjeepClean EL7061II (Lowe's)
O O O o O O o O O
250 500
26 24 22 23 24 25 23
O e O
o o
132
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand & modei Similar models, m sinalltype,
Price
Overall score
Testresuits
E s 100 P I F G IVGl E A
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
-a .
BAGGED CANISTER continued

Eiectroiux UltraSilencer DeLux EL7066 Panasonic MOCG983 Riccar Immaculate Premier Gusto Mieie S 2181 Mieie S 2121 Mieie S 2121 Titan Olympus Delphi
O O 9 O O O O 9 O o e O
23 24 27 17
16 16 17
O N N 13 A A
o e O9
A o e o N A o o o N
Eiectroiux UltraSilencer Green EL6984A Eiectroiux UltraSilencer EL6986A Metropolitan Professionals A0M-4PNHSF Aerus Lux Legacy Aerus Lux Guardian Ultra Sebo Air Belt C3.1
21 Sebo Air Belt K3 Volcano 22 23 24 Eureita Surtacemax 6833D Eiectroiux Ergospace EL4100 Bissen CleanAlong Canister 48K2
9 9 O OO o O 9 o
o o o o
160
9 O o 9 O O o 9
22 21 21 25 21
20 15 23
9 o o o
B
[^ [] 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
BAGLESS CANISTER
IG Kompressor LCV900B Hoover Platinum Bagiess Canister S3865 Rainbow e-seriesE2 Hoover Elite Cyclonic S3825 Eiectroiux UltraActive DeepClean EL4300A Hoover Multi-Cyclonic SH40060 Hoover Zen Whisper SH40080 Dirt Devil Vision M082750
eOO9* OO9'
27 33 24
OO22 00009' 9e99* 1 7 2 0
VACUUM
CLEANERS
133

Overall score is mainly cleaning, airflow, tiandling, noise, and emissions. Carpet is ability to lift embedded talc and sand trom medium-pile carpet. Bare floors is vacuuming sand without dispersing. Tool airflow is ttirough hose with increasing amounts of dust-simulating wood flour. Noise reflects decibel-meter results; models scored Poor mandate hearing protection. Emissions measures release ot small particles with motor on. Handlinq Is ease of pushing, pulling, and carrying. Pet hair is pickup of long hair on medium-pile carpet. Weight is vacuum and onboard tools. Baq costs are per bag. Under canister features, baq denotes whether the model has a disposable bag. Brush on/off indicates whether there's a switch for the rotating brush. Easy on/off refers to a switch that's located on the handle or where your foot can activate it. Manual-pile adjust changes the height of the machine to a carpet's pile height. Price is approximate retail.
iôst & Least Reliable Canister vacuums

Fpu/pr ^
More
repairs
repairs
Ds n M H M K yo
K n ce H H H e mr
Mee ^ 0 ] il H oe ^ 1 1 1 ! o vr Ee tou ^ H i cr i x
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
Upright vacuums Fewer repairs More repairs
Among canister brands, Dyson and Kenmore were among the least repair-prone and Eiectroiux was most repair-prone. Kirby was among the least repair-prone brands of upright vacuums while Simplicity and Riccar were among the more repair-prone. That's what we found when we asked almost 96,000 readers who bought a vacuum between 2007 and 2011 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 4 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to age and usage. Models within a brand may vary, and design or manufacture changes might affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model. Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey. Consumer Reports National Research Center.
0%
5%
10% 15% 20% 25%
134
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
WALL OVENS
Flexibility is the biggest reason to choose a cooktop or wall oven instead of a range. And a viiall oven can also eliminate the bending required by cooi<ing in the oven of a range. What to iooi( for Control lockout, if the control panel will be within a young child's reach Smooth cover or floor over the bottom baking element, which can help with easier cleanup of spills Five or more oven rack positions, for more flexibility in arranging racks and bakeware Price Overall score What to skip A small oven window, which won't give a full view to the interior What you'ii pay While you can get an electric cooktop and wall oven for as little as $1,300 or so, you'll find high-performing electric and gas ranges for less than half that amount. Testresuits
DO OO
For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports. org/ovens Brand 8 model
Features
^-;
g -^ similar models, in small type. ' S S lire comparable to tested model. E 0 100 p I F I G IVGI E
" S
=i
Kenmore Elite 480413148093
2 Thermador ME301EIS1 3 Boscii HBL54I501UC (Stainless) 4 Viiiing Professional VE5O13OISS1 5 GE Profiie PT916BMIBB] 6 GE Monogram ZETlSLllSSl
Monogram ZEIIPHISSI
7 Eiectroiux Icon E30EW75EI5S1 icon E3OEW7SG(ss| 8 Kenmore Pro 4100(31 9 LGLWS30811ST1 10 Frigidaire Gallery GLEB30S9FIS1 11 GE Profile PT925ON[BBi 12 GE JTP7O5MI5S1
e 3 0
WALL
OVEINS
135
Brands model
^ Similariiiodels, in small type. S are coiiiparablc lo tpsti'd motlci
Price
Overaii score
Test resuits
s =
Features
:i= m
" 5 'S
100 I F I G IVGl E
= d
2 ca. o
Be
13 Frigidaire FGEW3065K(F]
O O O
1,300
O O O
30 30 30 30 30
14 GEJTP30DP1BB1 15 KitciienAid KEBS1O7S[SS1 16 Whiripool RBS3O5PVIO] (White) 17 Wiiiripooi GBS3O9PVIQ]
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair ^Poor O 0 CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. AM are .-ecommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score reflects oven capacity and baking, broiling, and self-cleaning ability. (Self-cleaning ability is not shown; all tested models have this feature.) Oven capacity measures usable space. Baking reflects whether cakes and cookies baked on two racks were evenly browned. Broiling is based on even browning of a pan of burgers and high-heat searing ability. Price is approximate retail.
Most SI Least Reliable Electric wall ovens

pwpr ^
repairs GE Frigidaire Kenmore Whirlpool KitctienAid Jenn-Air
More repairs
0%
i5%
10% 15% 20% 25%
Source: Annuai Product Reiiability Survey, Consumer Reports Nationai Research Center.
Jenn-Air has been the most repair-prone brand of electric wall ovens: also troubling is a noticeable uptick in its failure rate over the past year and a half. Although we lacked sufficient historical data for all years to include Maytag and Thermador in the chart, our data indicate that Maytag has been reliable and Thermador repairprone. That's what we found when we asked more than 14,000 readers who bought an electric wall oven between 2005 and 2011 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of brands that needed a repair or had a serious problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked solely to the oven's age. Models within a brand may vary, and design or manufacture changes may affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reliable model
136
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Quick Guide
WASHERS
improvements inciude mid-wash soal<lng and more aggressive agitation. You'ii aiso find more programmabie wash menus and even buiit-in USB ports that aliow for future software upgrades.
Shopping tip
Washers must now use 11 percent less energy and 20 percent less water to qualify for an Energy Star seal.
What to look for
A porcelain top or lid, which resists scratching better than painted metal A stainless-steel or plastic tub, which won't rust if there is a chip An extra rinse cycle, if you are sensitive to laundry detergent residue Dial controls, generally easier to use than some touchpad or digital controls
What to skip
because basic cycles and settings can handle most washing needs Steam setting, because the steam models that we tested cleaned well even when we didn't use the steam option
What you'll pay
You can get good value for $700 to $900.

For more buying advice, go to ConsumerReports.org/washers
Customized programs.
Price Overall score
Brand & modei similar models, in small lype. are comparable to tested model.
Test results
OJ >>-
11 ^ 1
- g
11 1
I
.o
100 ^
P I F I G IVGl E
g
S
FRONT-LOADING
whiripooi Duet WFW94HEX[W1 oi/et
WF*97HEXII.DuetWFW95HEXIl
$1.000
Samsung WF511AB[W1 1.300 iUaytag Maxima MHW6000XIW1 1,000

Maxima MHW7000XII
Kenmore 402712] Samsung WF52OABIPI
800 1.400
WASHERS
137
Brand & model

: Similar models, in small i type, aie comparable 10 tested model.
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
re OJ
i
S oj
s s " 2
1 I ai 1
^ .E o ^
'S "^
A 0 6
FRONT-LOADING continued Kenmore Elite 4413111 $1,900

Samsung WF331AN[W] Whirlpool Ouet Steam WFW9700V1W1 LG WM3875HIW1A Miele W4842W4802 GE Profile Steatnwasher WP0H8900JIWW1 Whirlpool Duet Steam WFW97S0W1W1 GE Profile WPDH8800JIWW1 LGWM3885HIWICA
LSWF88HVS
GE WCVH6800J1WW]
0 0 0 0 B 20 0 0
23
Maytag Performance Series MHWE950W1W1 LG SteamWastier WM28O1H1W1A Mavtag SOOO Series MHWE5SOW[W1
5000 Series MHWt45OAI I
Samsung WF33OANIW1
WF504NII
Whirlpool WFW9OSOX[W1 Whiripooi Duet Steam WFW955OW[W1 GE Profile PFWS4600L[WWl

Protile Pf WS460SLII
1,300
Maytag 2000 Series MHWE200XIW1
650
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor B 0 CR Best Buy These models fter the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended Ttiese are tiigti-performing models ttiat stand out.
138
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2
Brand & modei Similarmodels, in small lpe. aie comparable lo tested model.
Pnce
Overaii score
Testresuits
1 I I I1I 1 1I I 1
g ra 0
P I F I G IVGl E
>. u
a;
.E o ^ X "= - S
*^ -ez S
S! Si
A
'
FRONT-LOADING continued
GFWS3500LI1.GFWH2405L11. GFWS35O5LII
I 24 GEGFWH2400UWW] I 2S Kenmore 490312] 26 Amana NFW73OOWIW1 27 Amana NFW7600XIW] 28 Haier HWF53OOA[W1 29 IGWM23O1H[W1 30 Eiectroiux iQ Steam EIFLS55IIIW]
IOEIFLW55lll.lOEIflW55IRR
o 90 o o 70 o 100
1,200
o o
O O O O O O O 0 O 0
e 65 o o 80
31 Samsung WF419AAIW]
WF410ANII
32 GE WBVH530OK[WW] 33 Samsung WF218ANIWJ 34 Frigidaire Affinity FAFS4474L[W] 35 Frigidaire Affinity FAFS4473L[W1 36 Wilirlpooi Duet WFW9150W[W] 37 ASiOWL6532XXL[W] 38 Eiectroiux Waye-Touch EWFLS70J[IW] 39 Whirlpool Duet WFW925OW(W1 4 0 Haier HWF5000AIW] 41 LGWM2140C1W] 42 LGWM2240C[W] 43 LG WM336OH|W]CA
WM235OHIW1C
e o 70 o o 90 o 50 o 55 o 55 O 70 O 55 O 5 5
5 6 090 90. 0 8 5
44 Frigidaire Affinity FAFS4272L1W1 45 Bosch Vision 300 Series WFVC33OOUC 4 6 Frigidaire Affinity FAFW38O1UW]
0 0 50. . . 0065 O50
WASHERS
139
Brand S modei '= _ Similar models, in small s lype, are comparable to tested model.
Price
Overaii score
Testresuits
1 11 ; 5 1 1 i
L^
ndat
=s
-^ -^
S
DO ^
0 P 1 F 1 G IVGl t A 47 FRONT-LOADING continued
S s
I
O O
o 60 95 60 o
Boscii Vision 800 Series WFVC8440UC 48 LG WM0642H1W1 49 Speed Queen AFB50R AFN50R 50 LG WM2010CIW] 51 GEGFWNllOOLIWW] 52 Frigidaire Affinity 53 FAFW4221LIW] Frigidaire Affinity FAFW4011LIW]
$1,300
700
o o e
90 o 70 O 50 50
600 O B
TOP LOADING Wiliripooi Vantage WTW7990X1G]

Kenmore 280012] 2600I1 Wiliripooi Cabrio WTW5700X[W] Cabrio WTWSOOXWl. Cabrio WT5640X11 (Lowe's) Whiripooi Cabrio HE WTW6800W1W] Wiliripooi Cabrio WTW6300W1W] Maytag Bravos MVWB300W1Q1 Maytag Bravos MVWB75OW1O] Bravos MVWB850WI1. Bravos MVWB4S0I1 Kenmore Elite 290012] Wiliripooi Cabrio WTW55OOXIW] Cabrio WTWSSSOX[W|
2.000 620
Q Q
2 3
[71 4 Q Q 5 6
1.000
800
o o 1 o o ^
1 o o1
50 50 50
[71 7
e
800
o o i^ o
^ 1
50 60 45
8 9
550
1 o o1
10 Kenmore Elite 294712] 1.310
1 50
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor Q 0 CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
140
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E
2 0 1 2
Brand S model g S "B -g Similarmodels, m small S type, are comparable to tested model.
Price
Overall score
Test resuits
i 'I 'i 11 i I i I i
i
100
P I F I G IVGl E
o.
<
B TOP-LOADING continued
LG Waveforce 5 900 WT5001C1W1 12 GE Profile Harmony 950 PTWN8050M1WW1 Profiif Harmony PTWN8055M[ | 13 Wiiiripooi Cabrio 825 WTW7600X[W] Cabrio WTW7800XI) 14 Maytag Bravos X MVWX500X[W] Bravos X MVWX600XIWI. 550 Bravos XMVWX700XIVII, Bravos X MVWX55OXIWI
11
OO65 0055 O
. .
4 5
IS LG WT5101H[V] 16 wiiiripooi Cabrio

WTW6500W[W]
1,050 ftfin ouu
60 0060 O 5 0
17 Wiiiripooi Cabrio
WTW73OOX1W1 Cabrio WTW7340X[l(Loe's)
800 430
18 GE GTWN3O0OM[W51 19 GE Profile
PTWN625OM1WT1 PTWN6O50M1.GRWN5150MI1. GLWN505OMI ] (Lowe's), G1WN5O5OMI1
000040 00050 #65 O O . O O 4 0 0050 O
600 920 400

r:nn
JUU
20 Kenmore Elite 2927(2] 21 GE GTWP2OOOM(WW1

GLWP2000MWWI (Lowe's), GTWP?005MICC1
22 Maytag Centennial
MVWC400XIW1 23 Fisiier&Payicei Aquasmart WL42T26DW1 24 iiaier Encore
RWT350A[W1RWTI5OA|1
800
4JU
5 0
2S Haier GWT450A[W| 26 GEGTWN4450M1WS]

GTWN4250M( 1
560
OOOOO60 0050 . . 000050 OOOO55
27 Haier Encore
GWn50A[Wl
500
WASHERS
141
i Brand & modei

Simllarmodels, in small type, are comparable to tested model.
Price
Overall score
Test resuits
QJ CZ ^^
s
> E
il
_ai
QJ
s
P I F G IVGl E S
S.
B
28 29 30
TOP-LOADING continued
Hotpomt
VBSR3100GIWW1
Maytag Centennial MVWC2OOX(W1 Kenmore 211012]
$ 400
e O O O O 4 5
31 Staber HXW2304 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 Hotpoint HTWPIOOOMIWW] GE GTVN4000M[W5] Whiripooi WTW4800XIQ] Fisher SPaykei EcoSinartWA42T26GWl Maytag Centennial MVWC500VIW1 Speed Queen AWNS42 Maytag Centennial MVWC300VIW1 Amana NTW4800XIQ1
oooeeo 5 5 ooao50 ooo 5 5 ooaoao45 oooeoa45 oooaao55 oaoeo5o oaao'5 OOOOO35 oaao45 ooa40 a a a o 4 0
380
Whirlpool WTW495OX[W1 41 GE GTWPIOOOMIWW]

_ GHWPIOOOMIWW) (Home Oejot).
OOO35
Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair Poor B [^ CR Best Buy Ttiese models offer the best corrbination of performance and price. All are recommended. Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
142
C O N S U M E R
R E P O R T S
B U Y I N G
G U I D E 2 0 1 2

Overall score is based mainly on performance, capacity, and efficiency Washing performance is measured for multiple ioad sizes. Enerqy efficiency includes total power use and amount of water extracted by the washer in final spin. Water efficiency is based on totai water used for multiple loads. For top-loaders, capacity is based on how well the washer agitates increasingly large loads. For front-ioaders, the score is based on our judgment of the maximum-sized load that the washer holds. Models that earned lower scores for gentleness are more likely to treat your clothes roughly, causing wear and tear. Noise reflects panelists' judgments. Vibration reflects usage on a suspended wooden floor. Cycle time is rounded to nearest 5 minutes. Price is approximate retail.

Washers
Fewer repairs More repairs
L G
Whiripooi Kenmore Frigidaire Maytag Bosch
numpu
' ^ 1 ^ ^ V
WEamv
DEM
-' 1 ' V
G E
Rpr oe A aa ^ H ^ ^ ^ ^ K I mn Frigidaire ^ E K n oe ^ ^ H emr Whirlpool [ [ M ya B H H M m at g

Fisher S Payiiel 0% 5% FFONT
LG was the most reliable front-loader brand. Tor top-loaders. Roper was one of the more 'eiiable brands and Fisher & Paykei among the more repair-prone brands. That's what we found when we asked over 104,000 readers who bought a ciothes washer between 2006 and 2010 about their experiences. The graph shows the percentage of models for each brand that were repaired or had a serious problem. Differences, of fewer than 4 points are not meaningful, and we've adjusted the data to eiiminate differences linked solely to the usage and age of the washer. Models within a brand may vary, and changes in design or manufacture may affect future reiiabiiity. Still, choosing a brand with a good repair history can improve your odds of getting a reiiabie model. Source; Annual Product Reliability Survey, Consumer Reports National Research Center.
L
15%
I TOP 20%
10%

Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2012

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AUTO

DETAILED AUTO RELIABILITY

ConsumerReports.org. Respondents reported on any serious problems they had

How to use the charts

00 01 02 03 04 O 0 07 08 09 S 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 < <1 <1 1 8 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 1 < 1 6 5 4

4 3 2 2 1 1 <l <1 <1 1 8 7 5 4 4 3 2 2 1 1 9 9 8 7 6 6 5 S 4 2 1 11 10 9 8 6 5 4 2 3 2

AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS

BMW 32Si, 3 2 8 i (RWD) '05'06'07'08'09 '10

Much worse than averaged

Buick Enclave (AWD) '05'OS'07'08'09'IO

AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS

Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 OS'06^07'08'09'10

* * * OOP * * o * bto topi* ob

o oo otetopp* te bbbb* to* o tobbb* ooo^*

Worse than average

Chevrolet Cmaro (y8) 'OS'06'07'08'0910

Chevrolet Cobalt Sedan W06'07'08'09'10

Chevrolet Colorado (4WD) 'OS'06'07^08'09'10

Chevrolet Corvette O5'06'07'08'09^10

Chevrolet Equinox (y6) '05'06'07'08'09"10

a* * a *a* p ate* Opte * { * ototopp* * tobbb* * a o o* * * a I * o *

a*p* oa* *to o* a* to** o* *{*

oaa to ooa o ooo

Better than avera(

Chevrolet Impala (V6) 05 06 07 08 09 10

Chevrolet Maiibu (4-cyl.) 05'06'07'08'09'10

obb o* ooo* o* ooo

o ooeo ole| ooppb o op|po O | oo o |bo OO I oo OO pfel ppppp oppppp

oo|e PPI oe oo| oee o eeoe o^oo OO oooooo

Chrysler 300 (V6) '05'06'07'08'09 '10

Chrysler 300 (V8)

Chrysjer PT Cruiser (non-turbo) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

Chrysler Sebring Sedan '0S'06'D7'08'09'10

o* ooo * eo o o o * 90 e Ole* ee* oo e e * ee* oe oo o* ee o* oe* oo

ooo e* oo* oe* te oe* pe* k

e^oo* ee ooeo* e oo* pboto* ooeo* ppp*

oob ooep* eoo oolep* o p^p*

Chrysler Town S. Country (extended) OS'06'07'08'0910

Dodge Dakota (4WD) 'O5'06'07'08'Q9'1O

e* l lte* bo* e* epee* be o* aee totobo* * kk e o

oe o * o oeo9* Op)6p* eb6* I* oooe*

Worse than average

2012 Dodge Nitro 'OS'06'07'08'09'10 Dodge Ram 150(3 (2WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

TROUBLE SPOTS 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

Dodge Grand Caravan

Dodge Journey 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

eooo eeoeo opp|p|

Dodge Ram 1500(4WD)

Ford Crown Victoria 'OS'06'07'08'0910

Ford Escape (V6, AWD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

ee oeoooo ooo o oe oeo

Q topbp ooee 'oob bbbbb o p ob 00 plepl b o e I op ppppp

AUTO TROUBLE SPOTS Ford Explorer (4WD) 'OS'06'07'08'09'10

Ford F-150 (V8, 2WD) '05'06W08'09'10

Ford F-150 (V8,4WD) 05'06'07'08'0910

Ford Five Hundred, Taurus 05'06'07'08'0910 '05'06'07'08'O9'10

oaaa oaoo boo ee

oo| o oo| ooo^

I o|bop| Pl bl I ob| o ooo|a| o

oaaa oaaoala ooooo ooooap oooo

oo ooo a oo o o o oo o o oo ob|ep|ab oppppi obpppb

Ford Focus Sedan 05'06'07'08'09'10

Ford Mustang (V8) 'O5'06'07'08'09'10

a oaoa opop|a oaoaa 00^ 00 || 000 o oo bb|lb op|opp

a* * a a p ate* Opte * { * ototopp* * tobbb* * a o o* * * a I * o *

ap oa* to o a* to** o* {

a* * a* o bo eo * * o* ao* OO* o* ao* o o