Consumer Reports annual auto issue highlights

Top Picks 2008
First time a South Korean automaker is represented in Top Picks

Consumer Reports announced that it has named four new models to its Top Picks list for 2008--the Hyundai Elantra SE and Hyundai Santa Fe as top choices for small sedan and midsized SUV, respectively; the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado as the top choice for pickup truck; and the Lexus LS 460L as the best luxury sedan. This marks the first time that a South Korean automaker—Hyundai—is represented and the first time since 2005 that a U.S. model—the Chevrolet Silverado—has made the list as CR's choice for pickup trucks. Historically, Consumer Reports Top Picks have been a blend of Japanese, European, and domestic models.
Read the full story and watch the Top Picks videos.

Owner Costs
New owner-cost estimates help consumers find good deals on their next car
A cheaper car can cost consumers more in the long run than a more expensive alternative, according to Consumer Reports' new owner-costs comparisons. In fact, a car's sticker price doesn't tell the whole story, according to Consumer Reports. For example, at about $17,500, a Mitsubishi Lancer could cost $5,000 less than a Mini Cooper to drive home. But considering the total costs of ownership for each car, the Lancer could cost drivers around $3,000 more over five years. A Toyota Highlander can cost $3,000 more to purchase than a V6 Ford Explorer, but owning the Ford after five years can end up costing $6,500 more. Consumer Reports recommends that in addition to looking for a good deal on their next car, car shoppers also consider how much the model will cost them to own. CR's estimates include depreciation, fuel costs, interest, insurance, maintenance and repair, and sales tax. (Comprehensive data will be integrated into the model pages next week.)
Read the owner costs story.

Automaker Report Cards
We answer the question: Who makes the best cars?
Overall, the best cars sold in the United States are still made by Honda, according to the Consumer Reports' Automaker Report Cards. Honda also led the pack last year, the first time CR issued such information. With an overall score of 78 out of 100 points, Honda was followed closely by Toyota (75) and Subaru (72). BMW, Mazda, Nissan, and Volkswagen tied at 71, after rounding. Only Honda and Subaru earned the distinction of having all of the models tested make Consumer Reports' Recommended list. Detroit automakers garnered some of the lowest scores, but there have been significant signs of improvement in Ford and GM vehicles this past year. Of all the Ford vehicles tested, the percentage Consumer Reports recommended jumped to 64 percent from 54 percent last year, due to improved reliability. Ninety-three percent of Ford models had average or better reliability in Consumer Reports' latest survey, up from 63 percent last year.
Read Who makes the best cars?

Consumer Reports' Annual April Auto Issue is on sale from March 4 through June 4, and it is available wherever magazines are sold. Visit the April Auto Issue special section.