2009 Annual Auto Reliability Survey: 10 best and worst models

Just because a model is reliable doesn’t mean it is recommended by Consumer Reports. Four out of the top 10 most reliable vehicles don’t perform well enough in our tests for us to recommend them. The opposite happens as well—some vehicles that score well in our testing are not recommended because they have below average reliability. Seven out of the 10 least reliable vehicles have high enough test scores to be recommended, but their poor reliability prevents them from reaching that recommended status. So, it’s important to look at both performance in our tests as well as reliability because a high scoring car isn’t always a smart purchase choice if it isn’t reliable.

Our 2009 Annual Auto Survey reveals the best and worst vehicles in reliability based on our subscribers’ experiences with 1.4 million vehicles over the past 10 years (2000-2009). Our data helps determine which used cars to choose as well as to forecast how the 2010 models will hold up.

The vehicles listed below are the top 10 most and least reliable new cars in our reliability survey. Models with an asterisk (*) are based on data of one model year only. Click on the vehicles below to visit the model overview pages to see how they performed in our tests and also view a more-detailed look at reliability broken down by 17 potential trouble spots. (Model overview pages are available to online subscribers.)

Most reliable vehicles, listed in order of Ratings score starting with the best score.

1. Honda Insight*
2. Lexus SC*
3. Toyota Venza (4-cyl.)*
4. Mercedes-Benz GLK*
5. Toyota Yaris Hatchback
6. Toyota FJ Cruiser
7. Honda Fit*
8. Toyota Prius
9. Scion xD
10. Toyota 4Runner (V6)

Least reliable vehicles, listed in order of Ratings score starting with the worst score.

1. Volkswagen Touareg*
2. Jaguar XF*
3. Chevrolet Colorado (4WD)
4. GMC Canyon (4WD)
5. Ford F-250 (turbodiesel, 4WD)*
6. BMW 535i (AWD)*
7. Chrysler Town & Country
8. Dodge Grand Caravan
9. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (turbodiesel)*
10. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (V8)

For more details on our 2009 Annual Auto Survey including the full list of most and least reliable new cars by vehicle type, see our reliability report. Also, check out our guide to car reliability for more details on new and used car reliability, as well as owner satisfaction.

—Liza Barth 

Video: Diesel comparison - BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen

For buyers looking for a fuel efficient car, diesels provide an alternative to hybrids. Popular in Europe for years, more diesels are making their way to the U.S. market.

Modern diesels escape many of the liabilities of earlier designs. They are quieter, burn cleaner, and have much improved acceleration. Fuel economy is considerably improved over gasoline-powered versions.

But buying a diesel usually means paying more up front. Finding a diesel pump isn't quite as easy as locating gasoline, and diesel fuel prices recently have fluctuated widely. Except for Volkswagen, diesel vehicle availability is also limited to high-price luxury brands.

In this video, we take a look at four diesels—Mercedes-Benz GL320 Bluetec, BMW 335d, BMW X5, and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI—and their pros and cons.

—Tom Mutchler

2009 Frankfurt Motor Show: Mini Cooper Coupe and Roadster concepts

One of the highlights of the Frankfurt Motor Show is Mini Cooper’s unveiling of coupe and roadster concepts. OK, so that’s two highlights. Either way, these pocket-sized two-seaters are headed for production and eventual sale in the United States, according to corporate parent BMW. The Frankfurt festivities were staged as part of the 50th birthday celebrations for the original Mini, one of the cleverest mergers of fun and frugality in automotive history.

These two additions are brand extensions of the Mini Cooper line, helping to fill out a family that already includes the existing hatchback, cabriolet, and the Clubman wagon. A crossover is expected soon, as well. It’s a pretty clever strategy, since the Mini’s iconic design seems to have no end of appeal. Consider, too, that this gives BMW a channel to market premium small cars to a population that is in no position to buy a new, increasingly pricey BMW this year… or maybe ever.

The coupe and roadster look a little stubby, but they are around the same size as a regular Mini, admittedly with a slightly lower roofline. Disposing of the rear seats makes for more luggage (or roof-stowage) space. Front-passenger leg- and head room was already commodious. The show cars were equipped with the Mini’s largest 1.6-liter turbo engine offering, but we expect the production model will also offer the thriftier normally aspirated engines, as well. 

See our New Car Preview site for more photos of the Mini coupe and roadster, plus check out other new cars heading to market.

 —Gordon Hard

2009 Frankfurt Motor Show: 2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

BMW brought a pre-production 5 Series Gran Turismo to the annual International Motor Press Association (IMPA) event at the Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania, some days before its official Frankfurt debut this week.
 
The 5 GT is an odd creature: neither a sedan nor a wagon and too wide and long to visually register as a hatchback. But call it a hatchback anyway. Porsche gets away with that classification for the Panamera, right? It joins a new emerging vehicle breed to soon be joined by the Acura ZDX and Honda Crosstour.
 
BMW says the 5 GT shares most of its essentials with the 7 Series. Given the width of the car and the nearly identical dash layout, that seems credible. BMW folks also whisper that the GT also hints at the look of the next 5 Series, due here around the summer of 2010, but the 5 sedan will have a smaller footprint.
 
The idea behind the 5 GT is to combine first-class luxury with a high level of functionality. For instance, you can discretely open just the bottom half of the two-piece rear hatch, or lift the whole gate, as in a traditional hatchback. The base model will seat five; more luxurious versions will seat only four. The base engine for the United States is likely to be the 300-hp twin-turbo in-line six cylinder. Although the 5 GT is rear-drive only, it will be priced roughly on par with the X6. Figure at least $60,000 to start.

The 5 GT goes on sale in December 2009. 

—Gabe Shenhar

2009 Frankfurt Motor Show: 2011 BMW X1

BMW has unveiled the X1, a new five-seat compact SUV that will be slotted below the X3 in price and size. It will be 4.3 inches shorter and the wheelbase almost six inches less than the X3. While the official U.S. details have not yet been released, we can expect the X1 to be available in all-wheel drive. The powertrain is expected to be shared with other BMW models including the normally-aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine as well as the turbocharged version of the 3.0. Both  six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions will be the likely transmission choices.
 
Standard features will include stability and traction control, daytime running lights, as well as front, side and curtain air bags. A Panorama glass roof and adaptive headlights are optional. The X1 will also have the latest iDrive system for adjusting audio, entertainment, and climate settings, as well as smart key and push-button start. The rear seat can be configured to fold down to a 40/20/20-split to increase utility and cargo capacity.
 
The X1 will compete against the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, and Volkswagen Tiguan in the premium compact SUV segment--models that have performed well in our testing.
 
Pricing is expected to start in the mid-30’s when the X1 goes on sale next year as a 2011 model. But before that, there will be a redesign of the X3. 

For more on the X1 and other upcoming vehicles, see our New Car Preview section.

 
—Liza Barth

Coming soon: hybrid versions of the BMW X6 and 7

BMW has announced two new hybrid vehicles headed to production that will blend fuel efficiency and performance. The BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 will both be unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

The X6, a four-passenger sporty SUV will be powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 gas engine producing 400 hp and two electric motors delivering 91 and 86 hp each. Maximum output is 480 hp. The hybrid can run entirely on electric power up to a speed of 37 mph for 1.6 miles. The electric motor receives power through a battery pack positioned under the floor of the trunk. BMW claims acceleration will reach 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. EPA numbers are not yet available, but the European test cycle shows improvement of 20% versus the gas version, which currently gets an EPA rating of 15 mpg city and 20 highway. The X6 will reach dealers at the end of 2009.

The ActiveHybrid 7 will have an upgraded twin-turbo direct injection V8 engine with an electric motor and 8-speed automatic transmission. Combined power is 455 hp, 55 more than the conventional 750i. Like the X6, the 7’s electric motor receives power through a lithium-ion battery and also mounted under the trunk floor. Preliminary acceleration figures are 4.8 seconds from 0-60 mph. Fuel economy is expected to be 15% better than the 750i, which gets 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway mileage. Unlike the new Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid, which is the least expensive S-Class entry, the 7 flagship is expected to command an additional premium over the typical, roughly $90,000 of a regular750Li.

Both BMWs will also use a start/stop function to maximize efficiency, but the air conditioning and ventilation system run on electric power, so the A/C can keep pumping when the gas engine stops.

The ActiveHybrid 7 will hit showrooms in the Spring of 2010.

—Liza Barth 

Recalls: BMW, Honda, Subaru and Volkswagen vehicles

A few recalls have been announced recently that affect the BMW X5 and X6, Honda Accord and Civic, Subaru Baja, and Volkswagen Touareg models. If your vehicle is listed here, the manufacturer will contact you with information about what to do, or you can use one of the numbers we list below to contact the manufacturer yourself.

2009 BMW X5/X6
BMW is recalling all 2009 X5 and X6 vehicles because the rear brake discs may not have been made according to proper specs. The problem can result in reduced braking performance and larger stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash.

The manufacturer has not yet announced a remedy or notification schedule. Owners can contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.

2001 Honda Accord and Civic
Honda is recalling all 2001 Accord and Civic vehicles due to a problem with the airbag inflator, which could produce excessive internal pressure and may cause it to rupture when deployed. Metal pieces could go through the airbag and cause injury.

Dealers will replace the airbag inflator free of charge. Owners can call Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

2005-2006 Subaru Baja
Subaru is recalling over 15,000 Baja pickups due to a cracking problem with the fuel hose connection on the outlet pressure side of the fuel pump. Fuel could leak from the hose connection and cause a fire.

Dealers will replace the fuel pump bracket free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in September. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

2007-2009 Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen is recalling over 14,000 Touareg SUVs due to a problem with fasteners on the roof edge spoiler. The struts could crack and possibly cause the spoiler to become loose and detach from the vehicle. This could result in a crash or injury to people outside the vehicle.

Dealers will install wedges to reinforce the spoiler to the roof free of charge. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.

Buick to rival Lexus; Cadillac takes on BMW – Will it work?

Some auto-industry experts, as well as some staff members here, have openly questioned the need for General Motors to have even four brands remaining in its lineup. After decades of watered-down, rebadged products, it’s hard to see what defines a Buick or GMC and makes them essential in the brand portfolio. Plus, why does GM need two upscale car divisions positioned above Chevrolet?

At one time, GM expected buyers to progress from Chevrolets to Buicks and Cadillacs, with stops in Pontiacs and Oldsmobiles along the way. But for myriad factors, the market no longer works like that. Today, most automakers succeed with just two or three channels divided along mainstream and luxury models.

It’s pretty clear that GM argued, and the government agreed, to keep Buick and GMC because they make money. But do they make sense in the long run?

GM executives have recently made it clear what Buick and Cadillac will stand for and what will set them apart.

In a Web chat on Monday, GM product and now marketing czar Bob Lutz said, “Cadillac needs to display the characteristics to permit [it] to rival the German luxury brands. It will be Buick's task to take on Lexus.”

The next day, GM VP Global Design Ed Welburn described GMC’s design mission as “industrial precision.” We’re not sure why Chevrolets shouldn’t benefit from looking precisely manufactured, but maybe that’s just us. At least, turning a Chevrolet into a GMC doesn’t cost a lot of money. As to Buick, it may have lost its luster stateside, but it’s a hit in the growing Chinese market.

What is clear is that BMW and Lexus vehicles cater to different groups of upscale buyers, though there is some market position  overlap. With the CTS, Cadillac has shown it can be competitive with BMWs. And Buick’s upcoming LaCrosse looks promising. But the question remains: can a single company go after the two sides of the same segment, without competing with itself? Likewise, is there enough to distinguish Chevrolet from GMC?

Post your thoughts in the comments section below.

—Eric Evarts

Diesel power just in: Mercedes GL320, BMW X5 3.0 diesel, BMW 335d

Some automakers have had long-standing plans to offer diesel engines in this country. European automakers have stuck with those strategies despite the volatile price disparity between diesel and regular fuel. Japanese and domestic automakers, including Honda, Nissan and GM, have shelved their diesel plans for now.

Impressed by diesels we’ve previously tested from Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, we have added three more to our test fleet to see how they compare to their conventional counterparts. Our latest diesel models include the Mercedes-Benz GL320 Blue Tec and a pair of BMWs--the X5 and the 335d.

Mercedes-Benz GL320 Blue Tec
We were impressed with the GL450 when we tested it in 2006--a roomy, comfortable, yet responsive handling vehicle. We were also impressed with the 210-hp, 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine when we tested it in the E320 Blue Tec, which combined strong performance and refinement, yet returned 29 mpg overall. It was also free of traditional diesel smell, smoke, and sluggishness. Hence, we wanted to see how this engine performed in the GL.

Even though the GL is very heavy (5,655 lbs.), this engine remains smooth and muted, but initial off-the-line acceleration is sluggish. Once underway, it pulls strongly and manages to hit 60 mph in less than 10 seconds--a far cry from the 7.4 seconds we recorded for the GL450. Observed fuel economy, so far, is averaging 20 mpg overall. We got 15 mpg for our V8-powered GL450. If you’re starting to crunch the numbers, you should know that the GL320 is actually $1,000 cheaper than the GL450.

The other major difference between the two is that the GL320 comes with 20-inch run-flat tires, which brings more impact-harshness to the ride quality. Plus, the steering feedback is compromised. The GL benefits from a $1,550 federal tax credit for the first 60,000 purchasers, but you won’t qualify if you hit the AMT tax.

BMW X5 3.0 diesel
In contrast to the Mercedes example above, the X5 diesel adds an eye-opening $3,700 to the price of the 265-hp, regular-gas 3.0 model. So far, our diesel X5 is getting 23 mpg on average, compared with 17 mpg overall for the gas version. The X5’s diesel is not quite as refined as the Mercedes but feels punchier. In fact, it beats the regular X5 in 0-60 mph acceleration, but it’s less quick initially from a standstill. Other than that, the diesel X5 retains the choppy ride, excellent steering and agile handling (as well as confusing controls) of the standard X5.

Diesel and gasoline are about equal in price these days, so it’s a matter of how far you drive when it comes to payback time for the diesel version’s higher price. There is also added maintenance due to the replacement of the Urea solution (also required with the Mercedes), which serves in emission-cleaning arsenal. BMW replaces it at service intervals and will warn you 1,000 miles prior. This diesel qualifies for a $1,550 federal tax credit. With that, and at current gas prices, and with an annual mileage of 12,000 miles it would take more than four years to break even.

BMW 335d
On the face of it, there is a $2,275 premium for a 335d over the rear-wheel drive 335i, once adjusted for the standard automatic transmission in the diesel. However, assuming your attitude is one of saving money and fuel, you’d probably look at the more popular 328i. In that case, the diesel commands a whopping $8,975 price premium. So far we’ve been getting 33 mpg with the diesel according to the car’s trip computer. Our last 328i attained 23 mpg overall.

Beyond the questionable economics, the diesel 3 retains its excellent steering and body control and one might argue is even more of a hoot to drive. We haven’t completed our acceleration tests yet, but the torque of the diesel delivers an addicting mid-range rush that, if you’re not careful, will send the car into three-digit speeds all too easily. The 335d benefits from a $900 federal tax credit. With that taken into account it would take about 20 years to break even compared to a 328i at an annual mileage of 12,000.

Bottom line
In general, diesel engines cut fuel consumption by about 30 percent and as a byproduct reduces C02 emissions. And contemporary common-rail diesel combined with devices that abolish smoke and smell make the engines a lot more livable. That said, in terms of particles causing soot, diesels are still not as clean as modern gas engines.

Opting for a diesel in today’s environment may not save you money. It is a function of the price differential to the conventional version, the price of diesel fuel and your annual mileage. Other than economics, any diesel can be fueled with an up to 20 percent bio-diesel blend, which further cuts petroleum consumption. If diesel prices remain similar to gasoline, as they are today, there would be true appeal.

—Gabe Shenhar

Personal Picks: Compact Sports Sedans

We used the word “fun” several times in our recent comparison test of sports sedans. The test group included the Acura TSX; Audi A4 2.0T; Infiniti G37 Journey; and Volkswagen CC. And while few of the available models are actually dull, most tested models fulfill the goal of scoring decently in the fun factor. But they’re not cheap – ranging from around $32,000-$40,000.

If you’re looking for basic, four-door transportation, you can save a lot of money forgoing these sports sedans – and you’ll note that several of us lean toward this. But if fun is on your radar screen (and you’d like a dash of luxury thrown in), look no further than the current offerings of sports sedans.

Which ones piqued our fancy? Here are our Picks from this highly-touted (but expensive) category:

Tom Mutchler: "You know how I always say I’d buy a (Infiniti) G if I needed a car? Let’s face it – I’d never spend that much money on a new car.” Those words from my colleague Jake, spoken during one of our morning coffee sessions, ring true to me this month, especially as the economy tends to waver.

This is a fine group of cars. There are quibbles with each, but not a loser in the bunch. Like Jake, I would definitely gravitate toward the G37 if I were buying a new luxury sports sedan. But as I wrote before in a BMW 135i logbook blog, my arms are short and my pockets deep. Put simply, there are a lot of things I could do with $38K.

So my sports sedan aspirations may be less ambitious, but they’re still very pleasing to me. I’d buy a nice used, first-generation Acura TSX. I’ve been kidded on our forums about how often I advocate this car, but I think it’s an overlooked gem. Super-nimble handling (better than the new TSX), compact dimensions yet roomy enough, a well finished interior, one of the best manual transmission linkages out there, and an engine that loves to rev. All this for easily under $20K.

Gabe Shenhar: Out of this whole category, there’s no question that I’m going with the BMW 3 Series. It’s such a terrific driver’s car that’s thoroughly enjoyable, yet totally livable. In terms of what makes a sports sedan a sports sedan, in my opinion, no manufacturer has yet surpassed the 3, even though several competitors come close, including the Infiniti G37 and new Audi A4.

What makes the 3 Series special? It’s that wonderful steering feedback and response, tied-down ride control, and good compliance that speak to driving connoisseurs and puts a smile on my face.

Unfortunately, BMW chose to equip the non-sports package cars with underachieving Bridgestone Turanza run-flat tires, which cost the car points in our testing in terms of empirical stopping distance and avoidance maneuver speed. To make this car really spectacular, I’d buy the optional sports package, bringing sharper steering response and more grip, yet with a negligible loss of ride comfort. I realize I’d have to switch to winter tires, as the performance tires are not all-season, but I do that anyway.

What I also love about this car is the pull and tractability of the straight six-cylinder engine, which sings a perfect soundtrack -- be it the 230 hp in the 328i or the 300 hp in the 335i. Thankfully, our 328i also delivered decent fuel economy, to alleviate the guilt of how many times I put my foot into it. That awesome powertrain (even with the automatic) and sporty handling, augmented by supportive seats and the innate quality of the interior can really start my day on a good note. Yes, one can nit pick about some unnecessarily complicated controls and a cramped rear seat. But ultimately, when it comes to sports sedans, what matters is which car elicits the biggest grin. And, for me, my smile is never broader than when I’m driving a 3 Series.

Rick Small: In this group, I prefer the G37. It has loads of power, delivers decent economy and is very sporty and is competitively priced. Downside? The G is just a little tight for my 6’3” frame. Considering these tough economic times, I would buy a Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, or Ford Fusion. All are roomier, have good performance and economy are reliable and much cheaper to own. They offer four-cylinder or V6 engines, and the Fusion Hybrid delivers good performance and excellent fuel economy.

Mike Quincy: Do you ever find yourself rooting for the underdog? You vote for candidates that don’t win, root for movies to get nominated for Academy Awards that don’t have a chance, or you’re a Cubs fan... I think I do this with cars. For some strange reason, I have a soft spot in my heart for beleaguered Saabs. For me, the cars’ many flaws are somehow overcome by their charm and personality. But no more. I’m turning the page and moving on. The company is on the ropes and I’m jumping ship. Instead, I’m getting behind the Lexus IS 350. It’s not as sporty as the edgier G37 or 3 Series, and the IS’s interior is snug. But I love its combination of comfort, reliability and relatively decent cost of ownership. I’d also consider the cheaper IS 250 with a manual transmission (good luck finding one, though). Is the IS still somewhat of a dark horse in this sports sedan derby? Sure, but you never know when an underdog might surprise you. I still like Saabs, but I don’t think enough people share my affection to keep the flame burning bright.