For First Time In Years, Civic Isn’t ‘Recommended’

Whoa! I didn't think I'd ever see the day.... I got to say I'm not sure what to think, on one hand I do agree with consumer reports on the quality of materials taking a step back, but the noisy choppy ride I couldn't disagree with more, especially having done a comparison ride and drive between all the major competitors listed in the top 12 and knowing how each drives.

CR's also says that the rear seat room is a positive, well, I am no giant but I have noticed that there is less head room in the rear compared to the previous model. Hmm.

I think Honda is a victim of their own success, there is no doubt that the competition has gotten better, it's very hard to have a 'revolutionary' new bodystyle everytime but I do feel they made some improvements; safer (10% more high tensile steel), better fuel economy (with or without Eco mode), and more features (bluetooth is standard, new multi-informational display, USB is more standard, power seat in a Civic EX-L, and I could go on).

At the end of the day it is going to come down to what the consumer says and if early indications are anything, at least here in Canada, we can't get enough of them. I expect a revision to this rating some time, might not be until their May 2012 issue, but I expect something.
A popular consumer magazine known for its automotive road tests says it can no longer recommend the Honda Civic compact sedan. The Civic, which has been a top finisher in comparisons with rivals in the small-car segment for decades, finished second from the bottom in a 12-car shoot-out in Consumer Reports.

The magazine’s announcement, which coincides with distribution of its latest issue, marks “the first time in recent memory” that the Civic has not received its stamp of approval, a magazine spokesman says.

Summing up the Civic’s performance in its small-sedan evaluation, Consumer Reports says, “The Civic, long one of our top-scoring small cars, has slid backward with its latest redesign and no longer scores high enough in our testing for us to recommend it. The new Civic dropped a whopping 17 points — from a very good 78 to a mediocre 61 on our 100-point scale.”

The statement continues: “Compared with its predecessor, the 2012 Civic has lower interior quality and suffers from a choppy ride, long stopping distances, and pronounced road noise. Vague steering impairs its agility and robs it of its fun-to-drive feel.”

Among the positives, the magazine says, are the car’s rear-seat room and fuel economy of 30 mpg overall .

Honda released the following statement:
“In a broad sense, we disagree with Consumer Reports’ findings. Without question, the small sedan segment is more competitive than ever. In virtually every way, the completely redesigned 2012 Civic is a step forward. The new Civic excels in areas that matter to small-car customers, including fuel efficiency, safety, and reliability. Among the Civic’s greatest competitive strengths, is a smooth and efficient powertrain that, in Consumer Reports testing returned, “… an impressive 30 mpg overall on regular fuel and 47 mpg on the highway.” Also noted in Consumer Reports findings, the Civic excels in the area of safety, with a long list of important features standard on all trim levels, and a class-leading ‘Top Safety Pick’ rating from IIHS. Lastly, the Civic has a stellar reliability history with Consumer Reports, and we are confident that the new Civic will be a reliability leader as well.”

Here is the finishing order in the Consumer Reports test:
1. Hyundai Elantra GLS
2. Nissan Sentra SL
3. Subaru Impreza 2.5i
4. Toyota Corolla LE
5. Kia Forte EX
6. Mazda Mazda3 Touring
7. Chevrolet Cruze 1LT
8. Ford Focus SE
9. Chevrolet Cruze LS
10. Mitsubishi Lancer ES
11. Honda Civic LX
12. Volkswagen Jetta SE

Source;
http://blogs.wsj.com/drivers-seat/2011/08/01/for-first-time-in-years-civic-isnt-recomended/

Consumer Reports picks best cars for teens and seniors: Honda Accord

Consumer Reports Picks Best Cars for Teens and Seniors
Honda Accord is the right fit for the young, old, tall and small

YONKERS, N.Y., Aug. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With the fall semester just around the corner, Consumer Reports offers its best choices for parents and teens out shopping for a car to bring back to school.

When looking for the right car for teens, including used models, Consumer Reports recommends picking cars with safety features such as electronic stability control and curtain air bags and good crash-test results.

"Often parents think that putting their child in the biggest car is the safest thing they can do, but that's not so. Teens are the most inexperienced drivers on the road, so you want to make sure they're driving something that handles well, is agile and has as many safety features as possible--especially electronic stability control," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports Automotive Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut.

In addition to naming good cars for young and older drivers, Consumer Reports also names good picks for all sizes and types of drivers including the tall and small. All the models on Consumer Reports' lists have at least average reliability and are Recommended vehicles. Consumer Reports named only one car suitable for all four driver types: the Honda Accord.

"When it comes to finding the right cars for seniors, we recommend vehicles that offer easy access, good visibility, a roomy driving position and comfortable seats," Champion added.

Here is a look at some of Consumer Reports' picks for teens and seniors:
Good Models for Teen drivers: (ESC is standard or optional starting with the years listed below).

-- Small sedans:
Hyundai Elantra SE (2008-2010),
Mazda3 (2007-),
Scion xB(2008-)

-- Midsized sedans:
Acura TSX (2004-),
Honda Accord (2008-),
Kia Optima(2007-)

-- Small SUVs:
Honda CR-V (2005-),
Nissan Rogue (2008-)

Good Models for Senior drivers:

-- Minivans:
Honda Odyssey

-- Small SUV:
Subaru Forester XT Limited

-- Upscale sedan:
Hyundai Azera

-- Family sedan:
Honda Accord

-- Microvan:
Kia Rondo

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/consumer-reports-picks-best-cars-for-teens-and-seniors/

2010 Honda Odyssey gets its #1 Rating back

If I remember correctly this happened in 2004 as well, where the out going Odyssey was given the nod at top spot, if this isn't a testament to how advanced Honda makes their models when they first come out I don't know what is (I am thinking that this is the very reason for the Civic delay)....
Drivers who need to carry more than five people can choose from models of various types and sizes. There are conventional minivans, three-row SUVs, and so-called microvans, each with their own pros and cons. For this issue, we tested a new or recently updated model from each group. The results might be surprising.

Overall we were most impressed with the Mazda5 (available to subscribers) microvan, which scored an excellent 95 in our testing and earned a Top Pick in our April issue in the Family Hauler category. Despite its modest size, it is versatile and relatively roomy, with sliding rear doors, a small third-row seat, and seating for up to six. It also gets better gas mileage and is more agile and fun to drive than larger alternatives. A 2010 upgrade brought standard ESC.

If you need more room, especially in the third row, a minivan is a better choice. But while the redesigned Toyota Sienna (available to subscribers) is a very good vehicle, it doesn't measure up to the previous model, which had been our top-rated minivan for three years. The Sienna is still roomy and fuel efficient and has a smooth ride, but a drop in interior fit and finish and quietness, among other things, contributed to a drop in its overall test score from 93 to only 80 for the redesign (I didn't see this coming....). The Sienna remains the only minivan offering all-wheel drive, but that version also dropped in its test score for the same reasons. The six-year-old Honda Odyssey now leads the category. A resigned Odyssey is due out this fall.

Rounding out our group is the Ford Flex EcoBoost SUV (available to subscribers). The Flex employs the EcoBoost engine's turbocharging and direct fuel injection technology to optimize performance and fuel economy. That improvement boosted this version of the Flex to the top of its category, below only the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. While its boxy shape may not appeal to everyone, it helps give the Flex a very roomy and versatile interior with seating for up to seven. And like all car-based SUVs, the Flex is available with all-wheel drive.

Prices for the vehicles in this test group varied greatly: from $23,805 for the small Mazda5 to $46,720 for the Flex.

Only the Mazda5 is recommended. The Toyota Sienna and the Flex EcoBoost are too new for us to have reliability data.

Source;
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/2010/september/cars/minivan-and-minivan-alternatives/overview/index.htm

Consumer Reports: Best used SUVs: Affordable utility

SUVs continue to be a popular vehicle choice for many drivers due to their higher driving position, versatile cargo-carrying capabilities, towing capacity, and available all-wheel drive. Plus, full-sized models can seat up to eight and offer even greater towing capacities. New SUVs range in price from around $17,000 to luxury models costing over $60,000. Used models can save you significantly as long as you choose wisely.

The first major purchase consideration is deciding what size you need: small, medium, or large. For most drivers, a small or medium-sized car-based SUV (aka crossover), such as a Toyota Highlander or Nissan Murano, can provide a good balance of features, fuel economy and function.
Be honest with how you intend to use your SUV. For example, if you almost never go off road or tow a trailer, it doesn’t really make much sense to buy a heavy truck-based model (such as a Toyota 4Runner or Ford Explorer), and have the vehicle carry around all that extra weight and hardware that you’ll never use. Plus, truck-based models tend to be thirstier at the pumps than car-based vehicles.

As with all cars, safety is a key concern with SUVs. Due to their inherent higher center of gravity, SUVs are more prone to rollovers. When shopping for a used model, check to make sure that it’s equipped with electronic stability control and curtain air bags—two features we strongly recommend. Most 2005-present midsized and large SUVs have these important safety features.

To help you narrow the field, we have compiled a list of Consumer Reports recommended used SUVs. These vehicles have performed well in our road tests, have average or better reliability, and have performed adequately if included in crash tests.
If you are in the market for a used SUV, keep these buying tips in mind:

-Determine your needs. Narrow down your choices between car-based and truck-based models.

-Car-based SUVs have better handling, comfort, and fuel economy. Truck-based SUVs generally have a rougher ride, but have true four-wheel drive, which is useful for towing and serious off-roading.

-Evaluate engine and power. SUVs have a variety of engine sizes, from four-cylinders to V8s.

-You will also need to determine whether you want two-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive. AWD is especially useful if you drive on snow or ice.

-Compare fuel economy. The mileage can vary significantly--and made worse with roof carriers, brush guards, oversized tires, and towing.

-Check safety features. Many later model-year SUVs have standard stability control and side air bags. A backup camera may also be useful, since the blind spots of SUVs make it difficult to see when backing up.

-Take it for a test drive. While many people enjoy the higher seating position of SUVs, some may find it difficult to get in and out and find a proper seating position. Try before you buy to make sure it’s a good fit. Uplevel trims and luxury SUVs typically have seat-height adjustments that may improve comfort.

-Look at private sellers for the best price, but make sure you have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy.

-Check your insurance. An SUV can be more expensive to insure than a conventional car, so find out the rates before you feel that you absolutely have to have one.

-For Ratings and recommendations on convertible models, see our SUVs buying guide. Also, check out our used car buying guide.

Source;
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/07/best-used-suvs-affordable-utility.html

2009 Annual Auto Reliability Survey: Domestics vs. the imports

Asian vehicles continue to lead in car reliability, but a number of domestic and European automakers are showing improvements. Of the 48 models with top reliability scores, 36 are Asian—Toyota accounts for 18; Honda, eight; Nissan, four; and Hyundai/Kia and Subaru, three each. The rest come from Ford with eight; Mercedes-Benz, one; Volkswagen, two; and Volvo, one.

European brands continue to improve in reliability with a significant rebound from Mercedes-Benz and improvements from Volkswagen and Audi. Most Volvo and Porsche models have also done well in our survey.

Ford leads the domestics with about 90 percent of models scoring average or better in our survey. Overall 20 of the 48 GM models have average reliability, but only the Chevrolet Malibu V6 has above average reliability in our survey. Last year, we couldn’t recommend any Chrysler product due to low test scores and poor reliability, but this year the 4WD Dodge Ram did well in our tests and has average reliability.

However, more than one-third of Chrysler products are much worse than average in reliability. The graphs above shows the percentage of models that rate above average, average, and below average for Asian, European, and American brands.

Source;
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2009/11/2009-annual-auto-reliability-survey-domestics-vs-the-imports.html

Honda and Toyota Top Reliability Survey, but Ford Closes Gap

Consumer Reports has released results from its annual car reliability survey, which will be published in the December issue of the magazine.

According to the survey, Honda and Toyota continue to have the most reliable vehicles, but Ford is very close behind. The magazine said Ford’s performance in the survey “dispels the notion that only Japanese manufacturers make reliable cars.”

Leading the way for Ford were the 4-cylinder versions of the Fusion and its sibling, the Mercury Milan, which were judged to be more reliable than two old standbys, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The Lincoln MKZ, a luxury version of the Fusion, also bests the Lexus ES and the Acura TL.

In fact, 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles in the survey were found to have average or better-than-average predicted reliability. But all was not perfect in Blue Oval-land. The all-wheel-drive versions of the Lincoln MKS, MKX and MKZ all scored below average in reliability. And all-wheel-drive versions of the Ford Edge and Fusion were not as reliable as their front-wheel-drive versions either.

The annual Consumer Reports reliability ratings are based on a survey covering 1.4 million vehicles leased or owned by subscribers of Consumer Reports. The magazine averages the overall reliability scores for up to the most recent three model years if a model didn’t change in that period and didn’t change substantially for 2010. If a model is all-new or has been redesigned during that time, Consumer Reports may use one or two years of data. Conducted last spring, the current survey covers the 2000-9 model years.

The Honda Insight scored the highest of any vehicle in predicted reliability. And of the eight most reliable family cars, five were hybrids: Toyota Prius, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercury Milan Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Small cars and gas-electric hybrids also performed well. Twenty of the 37 small cars surveyed, including the Honda Fit, Scion xD and Volkswagen Golf, had above-average predicted reliability.

Among automakers over all, Honda was at the top, with every Honda and Acura vehicle surveyed having average or better-than-average predicted reliability.

Toyota and Lexus models were right behind, with 98 percent of the models surveyed having average-or-better predicted reliability. The Lexus GS was the one Toyota model with below-average reliability.

Consumer Reports said General Motors’ performance “shows some bright spots.” It found 20 of the 48 G.M. models surveyed had average predicted reliability. One star was the Chevrolet Malibu V-6, with a better-than-average score. The magazine said it “is on par with the most reliable family sedans.”

The news was not so good for Chrysler, which the magazine said “continues to struggle.” It also noted that more than one-third of Chrysler products “are much worse than average, including its new car-based S.U.V., the Dodge Journey.” Last year Consumer Reports could not recommend any Chrysler products. This year it is recommending one: the 4-wheel-drive version of the redesigned Dodge Ram 1500 pickup, which rates average in reliability.

Mercedes-Benz significantly improved, the magazine said, “with most models average or better.”
Also, the diesel version of Volkswagen’s Jetta is the only diesel of those surveyed that Consumer Reports recommends.

Among Hyundai and Kia vehicles, models getting top scores were the Hyundai Elantra and Tucson as well as the Kia Sportage.

Source;
http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/10/27/honda-and-toyota-top-reliability-survey-but-ford-closes-gap/

Consumer Reports blasts Honda Insight, ranked 21 of 22 tested

Ouch! Although there have been nothing but glowing reviews for this car, Consumer Reports is a bible for some and I can't help but think that this will impact sales on the Insight. I for one am driving a Insight as a demo to get a proper feel for the car so that I can do justice in explaining its many features and I don't think it's anywhere near as bad as CReports says it is. Is it the perfect car for everyone? Of course not, but if you are looking for a fuel-miser that is dependable and are doing primarily city driving, this is a great choice. It pains me to post this, but I don't want to be seen as only posting the praise.
Calling it "the most disappointing Honda Consumer Reports has tested in a long time," America's most influential product testing magazine has given extremely poor marks to the Japanese automaker's new Insight hybrid.

In a verdict that reminds us of a certain Jeremy Clarkson review (albeit more kindly worded), Consumer Reports blasted the gas-electric hatchback for its "ride quality, handling, interior noise, acceleration, rear-seat, access, and visibility," consigning the hapless Honda to a 21 out of 22 ranking among other small hatchbacks and wagons. Tallying a road test score of 54 points, it was trailed only by the widely-panned Dodge Caliber, which managed just 49 points.

Despite the fact that it won't receive a much-coveted CR "Recommended" nod, the Insight still managed to post a "Good" overall road test score (largely on the strength of its 38 miles-per-gallon as-tested fuel economy). Regardless, it was comprehensively beaten by both the Volkswagen Jetta Wagon and the Hyundai Elantra Touring, which scored 80 and 79 points, respectively.

The Insight was the only vehicle in CR's test group to not to be Recommended, save Kia's Soul, which was excluded because the organization hasn't compiled any reliability data on the vehicle yet. Check out the press release after the jump.

Follow this link to get the press release;
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/30/i-consumer-reports-i-lambasts-honda-insight-ranks-it-21-out/

Again, OUCH!