Consumer Reports annual auto issue now online

Consumer Reports has rolled out its annual auto issue features and data at ConsumerReports.org. This release follows the site unveiling a redesign of the Cars channel just days prior.

With the April issue content, the latest findings are collected into a special section to ease navigation. The data itself is reflected in ratings charts, the updated New Car Selector, and model overview pages—all available to online subscribers.

Videos of the 2008 Top Picks are posted, joining the latest road test and crash tests videos in the expanding multimedia offerings. 

Below are highlights from the annual auto issue:

TOP PICKS
The best vehicles in 10 categories, including the top family sedan and our first American pick in three years.

BEST & WORST
Winners and losers for performance, fuel economy, and more. Plus a sampling of the highs and lows from this year's testing.

SNEAK PEEKS FOR 2008-09
Drivers will see more SUVs and other vehicles with diesel and hybrid engines.

WHO MAKES THE BEST CARS?
Some manufacturers consistently turn out great cars while others are struggling. Find out how they compare.

RELIABILITY TRENDS
Asian brands continue to dominate, but Ford is improving.

WHAT THAT CAR REALLY COSTS
You can save thousands of dollars by comparing how much cars cost to own.

EXTENDED WARRANTIES
Our new survey shows why the odds are usually stacked against you.

RATINGS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Ratings for predicted reliability, owner satisfaction, safety, and fuel economy.

VEHICLE PROFILES 
Reviews of 250 models, including prices, reliability, specifications, and judgments by Consumer Reports'  automotive experts.

BEST & WORST USED CARS
The models least likely to cause problems, plus ones to avoid.

Comments

[ckeegan]

when should we expect the auto issue to be available on magazine racks?

[Jeff Bartlett]

The official on-sale date is March 4th, but it can be a little sooner or later based on distribution and retailer.

[Stephen Moody]

I am surprised at the lack of prominence given braking distances in CR's specifications and ratings. The worst braking distances I have seen recently for any car in other publications road tests have been for a Lexus LS and yet the adulation for this car seems focussed on things like quiet. (Also you have not educated the public about situations in which modern ABS can lead to longer braking distances, such as washboard roads). Indeed Toyotas are often poor in braking distance, a matter of life and death in an emergency. And I have loved my Toyotas in the past. I would appreciate your comments and greater prominence to this issue.