Smart ForTwo crash test results and video

With the Smart ForTwo coming to the United States for the first time, we have heard many questions about this microcar’s safety than its fuel economy. How will its occupants fare in a collision? We now have some definitive answers regarding crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS); both organizations give the miniscule ForTwo decent marks.

In April, the NHTSA conducted front- and side-crash tests on the redesigned 2008 model, awarding the car four stars for frontal protection for the driver and three for the passenger. In the side crash test, the agency gave it five stars, though flagged a safety concern because the driver door unlatched and opened, creating a risk for occupant ejection.

After viewing the NHTSA test and videos, we were anxious to see how the Smart ForTwo fared in the more stringent IIHS tests. In a report released today, IIHS has given the ForTwo its highest rating of Good in frontal-offset and side-impact tests. As can be seen in the video (search in the Consumer Reports crash test video player), the ForTwo experiences some drama in the tests.

Frontal-offset test
When the Smart strikes the offset barrier, there is precious little structure ahead of the passenger compartment to absorb the crash energy, putting more work on the restraint system. The driver dummy’s head struck the steering wheel through the front air bag, though injury measures were considered Acceptable. The restraints and dummy kinematics were rated Good, matching the overall rating. In watching the video, the ForTwo spins around in what could be an adjacent lane or possibly off the road. Most vehicles do not spin nor move laterally in such a way, raising the possibility of other risks. In the NHTSA test, on the other hand, vehicles are crashed into a flat wall; the ForTwo rebounds expectedly in that test, without rotating or moving sideways.

It is important to note that the IIHS’s frontal-crash-test simulates what would happen if two cars of the same weight and type crashed head-on, left headlight to left headlight. The results can only be compared to other vehicles in the same class. However, there are no other microcars offered in the U.S. by IIHS’s classification. So, while the ForTwo would do well in a frontal impact with another Smart or in a single-car crash, the test results can’t predict how the Smart would fare hitting a larger vehicle. The reality is the Smart will always be the smaller car in a two-vehicle accident.

Side crash test
In the side-impact test, the 3,300-pound IIHS moving barrier pushed the diminutive car quite a distance across the floor of the test center. This test represents the impact from an SUV, and the visual is reminiscent of the Mini Cooper test (check out the video). Again, this could raise the possibility of other risks.

The ForTwo’s stiff side structure and standard side air bags protected the driver, earning the ForTwo a Good rating for side-impact performance. Injury forces recorded on the dummy’s head, neck, torso, pelvis, and left leg were all low. However, the driver door unlatched, as it had in the NHTSA test. As a result, IIHS downgraded the structural rating from Good to Acceptable, however the Institute notes that “the opening didn’t appear to affect dummy movement during the test and injury measures on the driver dummy were low.” Translation: make sure you’re wearing your seatbelt.

The risk of small cars
While the ForTwo performed well overall in the tests by these two organizations, the risk of death is high in crashes of smaller, lighter vehicles. "For vehicles 1-3 years old during 2006," reports IIHS, "minicars experienced 106 driver deaths per million registered vehicles compared with 69 driver deaths in large cars."

The ForTwo is the smallest car offered in the United States, measuring just 106 inches and tipping the scales at a bantam-weight 1,745 pounds. To put it into perspective, our tested Mini Cooper S was 146 inches long and weighed 2,690 pounds. Inquiring about the safety is only natural with the ForTwo.

"All things being equal, in safety, bigger and heavier is always better. But among the smallest cars, the engineers of the Smart did their homework and designed a high level of safety into a very small package," said Institute President Adrian Lund in a released statement. The ForTwo includes seat-mounted side air bags (as opposed to curtain-style, head-protection bags), antilock brakes, and electronic stability control (ESC)—car safety features we recommended you look for in any car. Having ESC in such an inexpensive car is commendable.

There are many small, comparably priced cars to choose from, though admittedly few are as distinctive on the roads, easy to park, or promise such high mileage as the Smart. As with any car purchase, be sure to research all your options to ensure you are making a truly smart decision.

Look for a full road test of the Smart ForTwo in the months to come.

—Jeff Bartlett

View videos of about 250 vehicles evaluated in IIHS crash tests.

For more information on safety, visit our car safety section and read "Crash Test 101."
Discuss Smart cars in the forum.

How to buy a GPS device for Mother’s Day

After a lifetime of dear ol’ mother telling you what to do, how to behave, and where to go, Mother’s Day is an annual occasion to show your appreciation. This year, you might consider returning her maternal favors with a portable GPS navigation system. A recent visit from my out-of-state parents had me thinking that a basic, entry-level device would be money well spent.

Between $150 and $200, you can find good, general-purpose GPS devices that are well-suited for occasional use, including the pink Garmin Nuvi 200 shown here. If Mom has a demanding commute or penchant for road trips, a model with a wide screen and spoken street names would no doubt be appreciated.

In our online GPS buying advice and video, we detail numerous factors and features to consider in choosing a portable navigation device, leading you to our comprehensive ratings, dynamic GPS product selector, and model overview pages filled with facts, figures, insights, and user reviews. By doing the quick-and-easy research, you can ensure you give Mother (or Father if you’re shopping early) a good GPS device on their holiday.

However, I encourage you to go a step further to make it a good gift.

Rather than order the GPS device online and have it shipped direct to her, send it to yourself or purchase it locally. With the device in hand, charge up the device and program it for her. Enter her home address, save into Favorites the addresses for family, friends, and likely vacation destinations where she is likely to use her new electronic assistant.

Many devices include a photo viewer. Go ahead and load up digital family pictures, giving her a mobile slide show.

Once you’ve personalized the device, gift wrap it, and treat her to a helpful, heart-felt surprise.

No doubt she may have questions about how it works, but because you set it up for her, you’ll be conversant in its operation. In a pinch, the owner’s manuals are typically available online, making it easier to help from afar.

And if you don’t use this idea for next Sunday, there’s always Father’s Day…

—Jeff Bartlett

See other gift ideas for Mother’s Day in our special section.

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums. 

The best GPS for me, and you

With cars, we have become quite accustomed to the 4-5 year product cycle. This pattern sees a new model introduced,  a midlife update after 2-3 years, then the model is phased out or  replaced by a new, larger, more powerful, and pricier car.

But like other electronics, the fast-paced portable GPS navigation world is much different. There are now about 2-3 model cycles occurring each year, and the new models are typically sleeker, more feature packed, and sometimes less expensive than the models they replace.

Since we have accelerated our test program during the past 18 months, we’ve seen new abilities and features continually emerging. Many of these features truly improve the breed, or at least show great promise with further development. We have rated some excellent units, noting attractive Best Buys for their combination of features and price. But even recognizing how good today’s best units are, for my personal taste, there is not yet a single, do-it-all navigation device that hits all my hot buttons and sells for an attainable price. But I believe it is coming.

That hope brings excitement to testing each new product. Will this one be better than its predecessors? Just like with cars, I find myself often thinking, "The next generation will be perfect." I am still waiting.

As we have just added new units to Dash and Sony to our GPS ratings (available to online subscribers), and are now evaluating the next test group, I realize that GPS perfection may be  a never-ending quest. For now, if I could assemble a fantasy device from current units, my electronic platypus would include:

Ease of use—Garmin. From the moment you turn on any Garmin Nuvi, the interface is simple as can be. "Where to?" it asks. Being able to quickly find the destination you seek saves time and frustration. This is particularly valued if you have a passenger program the unit who may not be familiar with it or if you are a tech-averse, first-time GPS owner.

Wide screen—The larger screen width not only make the maps easier to read, but it can simplify address entry with larger on-screen buttons. Plus, I like using a split-screen with a large arrow indicating the next turn.

Spoken street names—Also known as "text to speech." Knowing exactly what street to turn on can reduce confusion, especially in urban settings. Driving through a major city, like New York, being told "Turn right" just isn’t specific enough.

Free traffic—Navigon 5100. Living in the greater NYC metropolitan area, traffic info is important to me. After all, the right information can mean the difference between domestic tranquility and a cold, lonely dinner. The MSN Direct service and Dash Driver Network both have proven to be useful services, with the Dash promising even more future potential. But, my life is overflowing with fees for other devices and I just can’t stomach one more. The free traffic information with the Navigon is similar to the data received from some other for-pay services. While not perfect, it is helpful and the price is right.

Historic traffic—TomTom, Dash. In my experience, so-called real-time traffic isn’t always up to the minute and still doesn’t adequately contend with rush-hour congestion. The increasing trend for units to tap historic traffic information means the route suggested at 8 a.m. may be different than the one proffered at noon, even if there isn’t a major accident. This is helpful for commuting to find better routes, and even more welcomed when traveling, where you simply don’t have local knowledge to predict likely traffic flow.

Reality view—Sony NV-U83T, NV-U73T, and TomTom 930, 730. Like latest Navigon units, these newer devices provide a so-called “reality view” that presents a simple graphic of an upcoming, major intersection, though their graphics are a touch more pleasing. I have found this feature to be very helpful in navigating complex highway interchanges, with clear guidance on the proper lanes to occupy.

Speed alerts—Integrated speed alerts can display the current speed limit and alert when it has been exceeded by a user-set amount. This can be a real help in unfamiliar areas where the speed limits rise and fall unexpectedly.

Processing speed—It can be frustrating to delay leaving on a road trip while a device seemingly flips endlessly through a card catalog to find and route to a POI, rather than whisking quickly through its electronic database.

Design—Give me a clean design that maximizes screen size, with a thin, non-reflective case. And place a hard-key button on the exterior for muting.

Best for you
As the innovation continues, more and more consumers will find the multi-function GPS devices to be an important tool in their mobile electronics inventory. However, it is the core navigation features that I want to see refined and gathered in a single, affordable model. To me, stuff like a video player or currency converters don’t contribute to the main purpose of a GPS device—just efficiently get me where I want to go.

So while the perfect GPS device (by my standards) may not yet exist, any online subscriber can quickly find the best GPS device available for their needs and budget using our dynamic ratings chart. Links from each product name will take you to a detailed product page, with our testers’ notes on the highs, lows, and bottom line.

If you buy a device, please return to the product pages once you’ve had some experience to share your insights with others via the user reviews. And rest assured, the GPS team will continue to rate models on our never-ending search for the perfect device.

In the meantime, what features matter most to you? Post your thoughts in the comments below.

—Jeff Bartlett

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums. 

New portable GPS navigation ratings

We have just completed testing 10 new personal navigation devices (PNDs) and posted the results to our online ratings. These new products include:

Delphi NAV300
Garmin Nuvi 260 and Nuvi 260W
Harman Kardon Guide+Play GPS-310 and GPS-810
Jensen Rock n Road NVXM1000 and Touch & Go NVX430BT
Lowrance XOG
Magellan Maestro 3140
Panasonic Strada CN-GP50U

The ratings are a result of months of in-lab and on-the-road testing, thousands of miles of driving, and putting the units through their paces in cities and the countryside. As we’ve found, portable GPS devices can all provide nationwide route guidance to help you find long-distance destinations and local points of interest. Where they differ most is in ease of use and their features. For our ratings, we factor heavily the qualities that make it easy to input destinations and give the most helpful directions.

With newcomers such as Jensen, Panasonic, Sony, and others entering the market, there are more choices and dramatically lower prices than ever before. Many features that were previously found only on high-end models are now available on budget-priced ones.

Yet, despite the influx of new models, the longtime GPS brands—Garmin, TomTom, and Magellan—are still making the best systems, accounting for 16 of the top 20 models in our Ratings.

To help in making PND selections, we have Quick Picks for Best Overall and Best Budget. Of course, online subscribers can browse the standard ratings chart and click through for the detailed model pages, complete with user reviews. We encourage GPS shoppers to engage with our interactive ratings tool that allows you to sort and filter by the parameters that matter most to you.

If you're not ready to replace a paper map this month, look for continued coverage in the near future. We will further expand the ratings when we complete testing on units from Dash, Garmin, Magellan, Sony, and Uniden.

—Jeff Bartlett and Jim Travers

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

Midsized sedan crash tests - front, side looking good

In the latest crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), all seven midsized sedans provide good frontal crash protection and six provide good side-impact protection. However, results for the rear tests were mixed, with only the Kia Optima earning a good rating. With its latest report, the Institute notes that there has been a marked improvement in side-crash performance for midsized sedans, but it appears more can be done to protect passengers from possible whiplash injuries from rear-end collisions.

As we wrote in "Many cars don't protect against whiplash injuries": "A rear-end crash occurs every 17 seconds in the U.S. But a surprising number of vehicles offer inadequate protection from the whiplash injuries that can result, according to crash-test data and our own analysis."

This is again proven true with the latest test results from the IIHS, in which five of the seven vehicles tested earned marginal or poor ratings for rear-crash protection. Because rear crashes are rarely fatal, and the IIHS rear tests relatively new, Consumer Reports does not currently use them as a prerequisite for recommending a vehicle.

The good news with this test group is that vehicles are indeed improving, with better designs and increased safety equipment enabling them to more effectively protect occupants in the high-risk front and side collisions. As always, do check safety ratings before making a vehicle purchase. 

Midsized sedans
The April crash-test group from IIHS is listed below in rank order, with the specific air bag configuration tested and applicable model years listed. See how these vehicles perform in the crash test videos.

Dodge Avenger / Chrysler Sebring
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Acceptable
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2008 Avenger, 2007-2008 Sebring

Infiniti G35
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Marginal
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2007-2008 models

Nissan Altima
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Marginal
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2007-2008 models

Chevrolet Malibu
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Marginal
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front and rear: 2008 models. Side: 2008 models built after February 2008.

Saturn Aura
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Marginal
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2007-2008 models

Mitsubishi Galant
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear - Poor
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front and rear: 2004-2008 models. Side: 2007-2008 models.

Kia Optima
Front - Good; Side - Acceptable; Rear - Good
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front and rear: 2006-2008 models. Built after September 2005.
Side: 2006-2008 models. Built after June 2006.

See how these sedans and more than 200 other models perform in the crash test videos.

—Jeff Bartlett

GPS viruses - Has your device been infected?

The threat of direct-from-factory viruses in portable GPS navigation devices lit up the tech message boards and blogs about a year and a half ago. The risk may have been overstated that a virus could be transferred between a GPS device and PC, though the possibility raises some interesting questions.

We have seen only one official reference to a unit shipping with a virus. TomTom states in a press release from January 29, 2007: "A small, isolated number of TomTom GO 910's, produced in one week in the last quarter of 2006, may be infected with a virus. The virus is qualified as low risk and does not affect the navigation performance..."

We have not seen other such cases reported, nor experienced a virus with the 100 or so GPS units we've tested since then.

However, a recent report on CNN.com sourced from the Associated Press "Electronic gadgets latest sources of computer viruses" got the CR GPS test team's attention. It seems other household electronic devices including digital frames have been found to ship from the factory with a no-extra-charge virus onboard. The article cites TomTom as having had a problem.

For a quick reality check, we wanted to reach out to see if our readers have experienced such problems with personal navigation devices. If you have, please describe the problem and name the device in the comments below.

—Jeff Bartlett

Updated 4/4/08.

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

 

Dash Express - Unboxing our latest GPS

The innovative new Dash Express personal navigation device (PND) stands out for its clever approach to traffic data, combining historical patterns and traditional metropolitan alerts with real-time information gathered directly from other in-use devices. The promise is that a car a few minutes ahead of you on the highway could be your traffic service, rather than depending on periodic radio updates. Cool stuff, indeed. But what about the rest of the unit?

As our test engineers are just beginning to register and evaluate our Dash Express test units, we can provide more information about this much-hyped product. For instance, the Express has a 4.3-inch screen, measured diagonally with 480x272-pixel resolution, according to the manufacturer. It can display traditional two-dimensional maps, tilted-view three-dimensional, or just list the directions—all common representations. The traffic flow information is applied to the map, and the user can select the level of detail shown. Users can detour around trouble spots, and multiple alternative routes may be suggested.

Taking the units from their box, we were surprised at their girth and heft. Certainly, the official images hadn't prepared us for the units being so bulky. The tapered shape may render this a non-issue for outward visibility, though the mass impacts portability, including the ability to stow it out of sight in the car for security reasons. Also, we will watch closely how the weight impacts the mount stability.

The exterior has an odd shape, being deep front to back at the top edge and more slender at the base. Dash explains that the unusual design is to accommodate its "large" lithium-ion battery and three antennas for GPS, GPRS cellular, and Wi-Fi.

The claimed battery life is two hours with all receivers on--notably less than most GPS devices in our Ratings. It would be expected that connectivity would drain the battery more than non-Web-enabled devices, though that two hours would likely decrease over time. Of course, the included power cord enables unlimited in-car usage; an AC adaptor is also standard.

There are a couple other little surprises.The circular pad for adhering the mount to the, uh, dash looks very similar to our highest rating score graphic, the beloved red "blob." We're not sure if this is a coincidence or sly marketing. Needless to say, we'll be the judge of how this unit rates without fear or favor.

The package also includes a couple Dash logo stickers for putting on a car window. Certainly the device promises to endear itself among a loyal user base that will be sharing information, from real-time traffic to recommended points of interest (POI). Therefore, signaling you are in the unofficial Dash club seems a natural, right until you consider that it also alerts thieves that a unit may be onboard. Should it be stolen, the Dash Express can be disabled wirelessly. Of course, all that does it deter a few blog-reading crooks and provide solace that someone on the black market won't be navigating to your personal POI, including your home. Our advice: Don't put the sticker on your car.

In total, the Dash Express is focused on traffic and Internet-enabled connectivity, which promises future enhancements and invites third-party programmers to create their own downloadable applications. Notably absent are the usual array of non-navigation features found on mid-range and premium GPS units, like a photo viewer, MP3 player, video viewer, FM transmitter, Bluetooth, and pedestrian modes. It is an open question as to how important those extras are to buyers, though they are common at this price point. (We do not score for such features in our Ratings.)

As I write this, our test engineers are motoring into Manhattan, New York, for some behind-the-wheel time with the units. With more hands-on experience, we'll have more insights to share. Let us know in the Comments below what your thoughts are on the Dash Express. If there is interest, we will continue to explore facets of the Dash as we prepare our official First Look in the days ahead.

—Jeff Bartlett

Also read, "Dash Express GPS - redefining "real-time" traffic."

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

Dash Express GPS - redefining "real-time" traffic

This has been an exciting year for personal navigation devices (PNDs), with a flood of new products pushing the boundaries for convenience and high-tech features. Among the trends has been a drop in prices, while features continue to improve and increase. Looking back at our tests from just a year ago, we see top-end products with prices at $800 that would compete with current models at about half that price. As we posted recently, the portable GPS market shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, the revolution continues, and a California-based startup has just fired the next salvo in this marketplace battle with the Dash Express.

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the Dash Express caught our interest with its innovative connectivity and traffic information. The Express gathers information through Wi-Fi and GPRS cellular service, enabling an on-the-go Internet connection to deliver current, localized information such as cheapest gas stations or best restaurants. The Web connection extends to the user's PC, from which addresses or business names can be highlighted and sent directly to the device for future route planning.

The more intriguing role of connectivity is in the traffic information. Dash has taken a multi-pronged approach to traffic, drawing upon historical data and traditional metropolitan information for predicting traffic flow and delivering roadway alerts. In addition, Dash collects data from each unit to monitor current, real-time traffic conditions, sharing the data with other units in the area.

This strategy holds much promise, enabling drivers to get current information on their roadway. Should there be congestion, the device can provide information on the traffic flow for secondary streets to aid in detouring. While there is a scalability question, with the information detail becoming richer as more units are put in service, Dash has a solid base level of information that should match or exceed current offerings.

Commuting just outside New York City, we can see much appeal in the promise of this "TruTraffic" service. Traditional traffic information on GPS units is hampered by the same time delays and spotty coverage as radio alerts. Even stations that provide updates every 10 minutes have relatively old information that is imprecise and worse, may not be for the road you are traveling. On the occasion of a road being shut down, often the common detours are slow-moving car conga-lines.

Ultimately, this information comes at a price. The unit itself costs $399, with three free months of service. The traffic service then costs $9.99-$12.99 per month, depending on the length of contract. This fee is in line with traffic services from other brands. There is no additional cost for the cellular service or Wi-Fi connectivity.

We are anxious to see if this much-hyped new product lives up to its billing. We have just bought units for testing. Our test engineers will put the devices through our traditional, exhaustive test process, as well as delve into the unique features.

Look for more coverage in the Cars blog of the Dash Express in the days ahead.

—Jeff Bartlett

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums. 

 

Live from New York - the NY auto show

We are counting down the hours until the Jacob Javits Convention Center opens its doors to the media on Wednesday morning for the 2008 New York International Auto Show. Consumer Reports auto editors and engineers will attend this final major event of the American show season, reporting on the latest production models and concept cars. We already have a show preview online, and starting Wednesday morning, we'll post continuous coverage live from downtown New York.

Our target list of expected models now numbers about 30 cars, ranging from practical to indulgent. The show coverage story will feature updates to text and photography throughout the day and evening, reflecting our latest findings and insights. Plus, our blog will feature posts during the day with news and commentary. Starting late Wednesday, we will begin posting videos from the event, giving walk-around tours of significant unveilings.

Join us this week for a look at upcoming models, and enjoy the last show of the season.

—Jeff Bartlett

See the 2008 New York auto show coverage.

No sign of slowing down - new Garmin and Navigon GPS units

Here we are, just two months removed from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), and six new portable navigation devices (PNDs) from major companies have been introduced in rapid-fire succession. Granted, these introductions coincided with the European equivalent of CES, known as CeBIT, but at this rate, our interactive GPS ratings chart could grow significantly by the end of the year if we keep up. (It currently features complete ratings on 74 models, available to online subscribers.)

The exciting pace is likely to continue, given that PND sales were up over 300 percent in 2007 compared to the previous year, and they show no signs of slowing down. We are busy testing new models from Sony and Garmin, introduced at CES, and adding to our long shopping list of units we will be purchasing this spring. We haven't seen the retail availability of the new Becker, Dash, Magellan, and Uniden units from CES, but we are watching closely. Plus, we are planning for the new TomTom, Garmin, and Navigon models just announced.

TomTom kicked off this recent announcement wave with the GO 730 and GO 930 boasting two notable new features: IQ Routes traffic-informed routing and Advanced Lane Guidance with realistic views for major intersections. Both new features will be in the GO 730 and GO 930 models, on sale late April.

Navigon 2100 max/2120 max
Navigon introduced the 2100 max and 2120 max PNDs, each with wide, 4.3-inch screens; spoken street names; automatic speed warnings; and Reality View 3D representations of major highway intersections. A new feature called DirectHelp pinpoints a user's location and provides directions and phone numbers for nearby services such as hospitals, pharmacies, and roadside assistance. These twin devices differ in the packaged maps. The Navigon 2100 max ($299 MSRP) ships with maps of the continental U.S., while Canadian-market Navigon 2120 features maps of the U.S. and Canada.

Navigon also announced its new FreshMaps service for all the company's PNDs. For $79.99, consumers can download and install up to 12 quarterly map updates over three years, including points of interest.

Garmin 2x5 - nuvi 205 / 255
Garmin announced the next evolution for the popular nuvi 200 series, dubbed 2x5. These new devices promise swifter satellite acquisition times and expanded ability to step up to premium features. A new HotFix aids the start-up time for connecting with satellites by storing past location information to hasten establishing the current location.

The 2x5 units will be available in 3.5-inch and 4.3-inch screen formats, with sequential models providing progressive steps in added features. The maps now use shading to indicate elevation, giving the units a different look. An interesting feature is the ability to choose user-supplied pictures from the Garmin Connect Photos site to download to the device and use for seeking landmarks.

Helpful in an emergency, the nuvis include the "Where am I?" feature that displays the exact latitude and longitude coordinates, the nearest address and intersection, and the closest hospitals, police stations and gas stations.

When used with an optional receiver, each nuvi 2x5 can display updated information from Traffic Message Channel or MSN Direct (for $49.95 a year, or a one-time charge of $129.95.)

The nuvi 205 and 205W will be available in versions that offer maps the contiguous United States, Canada, or regional sections of Europe. The nuvi 255 and 255W will be available in versions that include comprehensive coverage of North America, Europe, Australia, or New Zealand. In addition, the nuvi 255 and 255W models for North America speak proper street names when giving audio directions.

Clearly, the market is moving quickly, but we aim to stay on top of the most significant developments and products.

—Jeff Bartlett and Mike DiLauro

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums. 

TomTom GO 730 and GO 930 GPS - new traffic intelligence

In the hotly contested portable navigation device market, TomTom has announced its latest products, the GO 730 and GO 930, boasting two notable new features: IQ Routes traffic-informed routing and Advanced Lane Guidance with realistic views for major intersections. Both new features will be in the GO 730 and GO 930 models, on sale late April.

IQ Routes functionality draws on historical speed profiles of over 6.2 billion miles of roads driven by TomTom users. Devices already in service capture the data and then it is made available about four times a year when TomTom releases its regular map updates. By understanding the traffic patterns due to rush-hour congestion, traffic lights, rotaries, and other factors, this new feature reportedly enables the devices to provide a more appropriate route for the specific day and time, and subsequently give a more accurate prediction for time to destination.

Advanced Lane Guidance changes the map view to a relatively realistic depiction of highway junctions with lane-specific visual directions on a static image. Navigon offers a similar feature called "Reality View." In our testing, we found this to be helpful when navigating confusing highway intersections. (See Navigon 5100 first look and video.)

TomTom GO 730 and TomTom GO 930
The new personal navigation devices (PNDs) introduce a sleek, black design and new features to the company's GPS lineup. The two units appear quite similar, with few differences. The 730 includes maps for the United States and Canada, with 2 gigs internal memory. The 930 adds European maps and has 4 gigs memory, plus it has a unique dead-reckoning technology to maintain navigation even in tunnels and among skyscrapers. Otherwise, the models are quite similar.

Common to the GO 730 and GO 930:

• 4.3-inch screen
• Voice address input
• Spoken street names
• Bluetooth
• "Help me" direct access to emergency services
• FM transmitter

—Jeff Bartlett

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums. 

Midsized SUV crash test results - Nissan Murano Top Safety Pick

Nine out of 10 SUVs in the latest tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provide good frontal crash protection. However, the ratings in the side crash tests are mixed, once again reinforcing the need for consumers to carefully review the safety equipment and safety ratings for models under consideration for purchase. (These tests and over 200 others can be viewed in the Consumer Reports crash test video player.)

In this group, the 2009 Nissan Murano was the best performer, getting good ratings for front-, side-, and rear-crash protection. The Murano earned the Top Safety Pick designation, joining a growing list of midsized SUVs to earn that accolade. (However, read "Nissan recalls SUVs for air bag fix.")

At the other end of the spectrum, the Jeep Liberty, four-door Jeep Wrangler, and Kia Sorento are the worst performers in the side test. The Liberty, its mechanical sibling Dodge Nitro, and Wrangler earn the second lowest rating of marginal for protection in side crashes. The Sorento earns the lowest rating of poor.

In 2001 only half of the midsized models that were tested earned good ratings in the IIHS frontal offset test. In the latest evaluations, only the Hummer H3 falls short, and it earns an acceptable rating. The H3 is one of only two midsized SUV designs the Institute has recently tested that doesn't earn a good rating in the frontal test. (The other is the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and related GMC Envoy, Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7X).

As manufacturers introduce improved designs, the Institute sees more SUVs qualifying for Top Safety Pick by earning good ratings in all three tests and having electronic stability control (ESC).

"Performance of some of these models in the side test was surprising," said Institute senior vice president Joe Nolan in a statement. "SUVs should have an inherent advantage in such crashes because drivers and passengers ride higher up than in cars. People often think they're safer in an SUV, but many cars perform much better in our side test than some of the SUVs in this group."

Midsized, four-door SUVs
The February crash-test group is listed below in rank order, with the specific air bag configuration tested and applicable model years listed.

Nissan Murano
Front - Good; Side - Good
Front and rear head curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front and side: 2009 models

Mazda CX-7
Front - Good; Side - Good
Front and rear head curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front and side: 2007-08 models

Mazda CX-9
Front - Good; Side - Good
Head-curtain air bags for all three rows and front torso air bags
Front and side: 2007-08 models

Mitsubishi Endeavor
Front - Good; Side - Good
Front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags.
Front: 2004-08 models, side: 2007-08 models

Suzuki XL7
Front - Good; Side - Acceptable; Rear - Marginal
Head-curtain air bags for all three rows
Front: 2008 models, side: 2007-08 models

Hummer H3
Front - Acceptable; Side - Acceptable
Front and rear head-curtain air bags.
Front and side: 2006-08 models. (Head-curtain air bags optional in 2006-2007)

Jeep Wrangler
Front - Good; Side - Marginal
Without optional side air bags
Front and side: 2007-08 models

Jeep Liberty & Dodge Nitro
Front - Good; Side - Marginal
Front and rear head-curtain air bags
Front and side: 2008 Liberty models and 2007-08 Nitro models

Kia Sorento
Front - Good; Side - Poor
Front and rear head-curtain air bags
Front: 2007-08 models, side: 2003-08 models

See how these SUVs perform in the crash test videos.

—Jeff Bartlett

How cars are crash tested

Although vehicles, in general, are much safer in collisions than they used to be, about 30,000 people traveling in passenger vehicles still die in crashes every year. Many factors contribute to fatal crashes, including safety-belt use, driving behavior, road conditions, and a vehicle's crash-avoidance capabilities. But the actual vehicle you're in when a crash does occur can make a life-or-death difference.

This point has been driven home for us in producing nearly 250 crash test videos in cooperation with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These high-impact segments show how vehicles hold up in the Institute's stringent frontal off-set barrier test and side-impact test, using a moving barrier that simulates the strike from an SUV. The results from these tests provide valuable insights into the passenger injury risks, allowing consumers to seek the safest models that satisfy their needs, as well as encourage manufacturers to deliver vehicles with safe structures.

In addition to the IIHS, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a branch of the Transportation Department, also conducts crash tests and other safety evaluations.

These organizations each conduct front- and side-impact crash tests using different methodologies. Of the two, IIHS challenges vehicle designs more. (Learn more about how NHTSA tests cars.)

Let's take a closer look at how the IIHS crash tests vehicles.

Front
The IIHS front-crash test simulates what would happen if two cars of the same weight and type crashed head-on, left headlight to left headlight. In contrast to the NHTSA test, the impact speed is 40 mph instead of 35 mph, the barrier is deformable rather than rigid, and only the left front of the car hits the barrier.

This is a more severe test than NHTSA's because the speed is higher and the crash energy is concentrated on a smaller area. An instrument-equipped crash dummy in the driver's seat records forces to the head and neck, chest, legs, and feet. Vehicles are rated as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor based on what happens to vehicle structure, as well as forces on the dummies. Consumer Reports puts more emphasis on the IIHS tests when it derives its "crash protection" rating.

Side
The IIHS side-impact test is more sophisticated and also more severe than NHTSA's. The test uses a heavier striking barrier (3,300 pounds), compared with NHTSA's (3,015 pounds). Further, the IIHS barrier strikes higher up on the tested vehicle to simulate a car being hit on the side at 90 degrees by a typical-height SUV or truck. The IIHS bases its scores on head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis and leg injury rather than just chest injury, as NHTSA does.

The two dummies in the IIHS side-crash test represent a small adult female or a 12-year-old adolescent. One is the driver, the other a left-rear passenger. Other crash tests performed by NHTSA and the IIHS use a dummy that simulates an average-sized adult male.

Before buying your next car, be sure to check the safety ratings and watch the crash test videos, available at ConsumerReports.org. The difference between Good and Acceptable crash-test ratings come through loud and clear when you can see the damage done to the vehicle and learn about the potential injuries.

See videos of how cars perform in IIHS' front and side crash tests.

Learn more about how crash tests are performed in Crash Test 101.

Best new car buys for President's Day

As the United States goes through the Primary process for selecting presidential candidates, the media is awash in promises and hyperbole. Likewise, in the car world, President's Day sales are often promoted with print and broadcast ads that pledge change and a better economic package. In both races, it is clear not all promises will be kept.

With some research, you can make a smart, informed decision, saving money along the way. As the sound bites fly, the multimedia propaganda can sidetrack you from choices that might be a better fit for your needs and distract you from thoroughly researching your prospective purchase. It is important to note that beyond the advertised promotions, dealers might be more willing to negotiate during this sales period, as winter weather can often mean fewer serious buyers are visiting showrooms in some parts of the country.

Consumer Reports Auto Price Service has cut through the marketing oratory to highlight the best deals for February. As they do each month, our analysts scrutinize the available incentives on Consumer Reports recommended vehicles to assist shoppers in finding good deals on good cars. (For the monthly best new-car deals for Canada, visit crcanadacars.org.)

Featured best new car deals for February

2008 Acura RL. This luxury sedan achieved a Very Good rating in Consumer Reports' testing, but ranks only mid-pack in the competitive luxury sedan class. The RL will be significantly updated for 2009.

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab LT V8 4WD. This redesigned Silverado has a selectable, full-time, four-wheel-drive system and generous load capacity. The truck has a very good ride and it's fairly easy to get into the cabin, but its braking distances were long.

2008 Saturn Aura XE V6. The Aura uses the same platform as the new Chevrolet Malibu. The XE model has a coarse 3.5-liter V6 paired with a four-speed automatic and returned 20 mpg overall in our testing. Our tested XE was nimble and responsive and had well-weighted steering. We only recommend the XE; the XR trim line has below-average reliability.

See the complete list of best new car deals with prices.
Read our complete report on how to get a great deal during the President's Day sales.

—Jeff Bartlett

Chicago - Show me the green

The Chicago Auto Show seems to fall in a tough place on the calendar, that is, after the Los Angeles and Detroit shows where combined 60-80 vehicles may have been unveiled. Each event has a typical theme: LA is usually on the leading-edge of the Green movement and high fashion; Detroit tends to combine American muscle, technology innovation, and memorable design; Chicago is often a blend of truck news and also-rans (minor updates and decidedly unsexy models).

Disappointingly, the pattern holds true this year. The show itself isn't to blame, being a hapless victim of timing and circumstance. I place the blame on the manufacturers. Hear me out...

Reflecting back on the announcements after one last tour of the show floor, there were more than a fair share of mild updates and rebadged models. These may be all important to their respective companies, but not fodder for fueling consumer (or diehard automotive) passions.

Trucks did rule here in Chicago, with several interesting announcements although little that rocked my automotive world. The Chevrolet Traverse looks great. The Ford Works computer system is quite impressive. The GMC Sierra is welcomed to the hybrid revolution. The GMC Denali XT concept is, well, different.

What I wanted to see was inventive, thrifty trucks and SUVs. Rather than just targeting full-throttle, off-road assault monsters, I was looking forward to more vehicles that could commune in nature in a reasonably environmentally responsible way.

Turns out Detroit was the show for that, with the Ford Escape Plug-in, Hummer HX, Jeep Renegade (shown above), Land Rover LRX, Saturn Vue Plug-in, and Toyota A-BAT concepts. No question the Hummer H3T rocks in its own conquer-the-Earth way, but the HX concept from Detroit alongside it rocks harder. Fit it with a clean diesel engine and consider it the brand's savior.

The show season isn't over until New York next month. Just hope we don't have to wait until the next Detroit show to be tantalized with vehicles that combine fun and "green" in the same exciting package.

Meanwhile, I need to reread the Suzuki Equator materials to learn more about how it has an "exclusive" grille.

—Jeff Bartlett

Read our complete coverage of the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

Car safety goes to the dogs

The automaker press conferences at the Chicago Auto Show today ended not with a whimper, but a bark, as Volvo brought canine safety center stage. The Volvo-dog connection is natural. Our recent Brand Perceptions Survey found that among new-car shoppers, safety (63 percent) is the most important consideration. And the Swedish brand owns the safety category, according to this nationwide survey.

Pet safety group BarkBuckleUp had pooches on hand as they addressed the avoidable dangers of traveling with dogs. Some are obvious, others less so. Given that more than 67 percent of U.S. households own a pet, with 44.8 million having a dog, chances are you have or will at some time travel with a dog.

Dogs present a variety of risks, beyond drooling, shedding, and scratching the interior. Dogs can also distract a driver with their behavior or insufferable cuteness.

Among the most threatening risks is simply being unrestrained in an accident. In a BarkBuckleUp example, a 60-pound dog in a 30-mph collision can impact a car seat, windshield, or a passenger with 1,200-pounds of force.

Less obvious are some of the other risks. In a prior interview, BarkBuckleUp co-founder Christina Selter told of how emergency workers face dangers from a wounded or overly protective animal preventing, or at least challenging, their access to a crashed automobile to help its occupants. Think German Shepherd scared witless, staring down mortal threats, with sirens, flashing lights, and strangely dressed people approaching its family…not a welcoming scenario.

Tragically, Selter says she hears reports of when emergency team members open a vehicle door, only to have a frightened animal run into traffic, causing another accident.

Dogs are beloved family members in many households and can bring lots of joy. It’s hard to envision Fido at such risk, but clearly the threat is there. Pet harness restraints and cargo-section barriers are available that can help keep the whole family safe. If safety really is a top concern, investing in a harness or barrier seems like a small price to pay to make the whole family safer.

—Jeff Bartlett

Read our complete coverage of the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

Ford trucks redefine mobile office

A new competitor to the rugged Panasonic Toughbook laptop was introduced in Chicago—the Ford F-150. Ford unveiled an integrated, computerized office for commercial users, with more technical partners to thank than a NASCAR team. Together, Ford and this high-tech cabal have assembled a powerful suite of tools that can help manage businesses on the road.

Here’s a quick look:

Computer: An in-dash computer with high-speed Internet access via the Sprint mobile broadband network is integrated in the center console space used by typical double-DIN stereos. It uses a 6.5-inch, touch screen, and it includes a wireless keyboard and mouse. The computer has two gigabytes of memory, plus a slot to add a memory card and a USB port.

The computer works with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, offering hands-free calling with push-to-talk voice recognition, access to user phonebooks, and the ability to receive text messages. More significantly, it allows access to a home or office computer from anywhere. Files can be transferred and even printed in the truck via Bluetooth.

Tool Link: Yes, even power tools are becoming computerized. By placing a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) tag on tools, or other equipment, the truck can inventory the equipment loaded in the bed. Conversely, the user can program lists of equipment needed for specific jobs, and the Works system can verify that everything needed is on board.

Crew Chief: Fleet owners and managers can use this telematics and diagnostic tool to monitor vehicle locations and condition. Using the integrated Garmin navigation system, drivers can see their fleet in real-time on the dash display. And they can confirm the tool inventory, to make sure they have the right equipment onboard. Because the computer is integrated into the vehicle electrical architecture, it can tap a wealth of information. It would know if a tire is low, or an oil change is due. Further, it can be programmed to alert if a vehicle is idling excessively. To aid the back office, it can deliver detailed fuel reporting to calculate consumption and taxes. All this information can also be accessed from a desktop computer.

Cable lock: Developed with Master Lock, the non-electronic Cable Lock system is essentially a recoiling cable in the bed that can be looped through tools to protect them from theft. Not high tech, but handy.

All four Ford Work “Solutions” will be available this fall on the new 2009 Ford F-150, F-Series Super Duty trucks, and 2009 E-Series vans. Several of the features will be available for dealer installation to upgrade Ford trucks model years 1997 to present, including the core computer system.

No pricing has been released, but a Ford representative said the aim is to keep the basic package within the pricing range of their current factory navigation systems. Translation: $1,500-$2,200. Of course, the customer will be responsible for monthly Sprint mobile fees. Each feature, like Tool Link or Crew Chief, will cost extra. In some cases, additional equipment will be needed, from RFID readers to transponders for other vehicles. The full Works computer is not necessary for the entire fleet to be linked.

To me, Ford Works is to Sync what the iPhone is to the iPod Shuffle. Cool stuff, indeed.

—Jeff Bartlett

Read our complete coverage of the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

The challenges of a modern muscle car era

One thing I learned from the Twilight Zone television show is that dreams can come true, but there’s always a catch. As a life-long muscle car enthusiast, I’ve often dreamed of the classic 1960s cars being reborn with modern amenities and performance.

My youthful desires were further kindled by my second car, a Pontiac Firebird. Since then, I’ve driven numerous, memorable muscle machines, each thrilling and disappointing in their own ways. A few years ago, I bought an older Chevrolet Corvette treated to a ground-up restoration and modernization, with a late-model powertrain. Stock appearance with somewhat modern dynamics. Very cool indeed, but not the true fantasy realized.

The current Ford Mustang GT and Shelby GT500 hit my hot button. And the new Chevrolet Camaro has my enthusiasm firing on all cylinders, recalling great memories of flogging a big-block Yenko Camaro. And now, along comes the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 here in Chicago. Wow.

Aside from gaining a little girth with age, as many of us tend to do, it too has that perfect recipe of being the car we all wish the originals were. (Ever go back and drive a ‘60s muscle car? Not quite what you may remember…)

Hard to believe it has been 35 years since the classic Challenger had been retired. The new one casts a familiar shadow, and it is instantly recognizable. Throw in a 6.1-liter V8 producing a magical 425 horsepower, as every Hemi should, and a track-inspired chassis… My right-foot has muscle-memory twitches just anticipating tire-liquefying power and lung-clogging smoke.

Sure, the official presentation and subsequent press materials are filled with references to Keyless Go and MyGig entertainment. Whatever. The real entertainment comes from under the twin hood scoops. The factoids that stuck with me from the unveiling were 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, 13.3 seconds for the quarter mile, and estimated EPA fuel economy 13 city, 18 highway.

Rod Serling, cue music.

I paid $3.35 a gallon to fill up this week. That’s for regular ol’ 87 octane, mind you. The Challenger drinks premium – and has a 19-gallon fuel tank. Another Dodge product is rated at 13/18, the Durango 4x4 with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Understanding this is not a direct comparison, it is worth noting that in Consumer Reports testing, we got just 12 miles per gallon. Sure, a person who buys a $40,000 muscle car may not stress over a few dollars for the driving excitement, but hear me out.

If were I to drive a Challenger SRT8 on my 90-mile round trip commute at $3.65 a gallon, it would cost $27.37 a day, $136.88 a week, and about $7,000 a year for fuel. Not to mention, the Challenger SRT8 carries a $2,100 gas-guzzler tax when purchased. Like it or not, fuel economy is a factor, and one that may prove a spoiler for these reborn muscle cars (at least for those with V8s) after the first year or two of sales.

These calculations sent my mind recoiling during the press conference to the never-ending “What would I buy?” question. The Scion xB and Toyota Matrix would be nice commuters, but is it really worth the operational cost for that BIG 2.4-liter four-cylinder?

To reset my agitated brain, I turned to a senior manager from General Motors and asked, “425 horsepower. Will the Camaro be able to beat that?” He smiled and replied, “I think so, and with better fuel economy.”

There may be hope just yet…I mean, our 505-hp Corvette Z06 got 13 mpg city and 28 on the highway. Understandably, the Z06 is about 945 pounds less than the full-boot Challenger but who would have thought that during the peak of the muscle car wars that a 500+-hp anything would get 28 mpg?

What do you think of the latest muscle cars? And do you think fuel economy will be a factor in their sales? Post your Comments below.

—Jeff Bartlett

Read our complete coverage of the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

Where is the VW Microbus?

Back at the 2001 Detroit auto show, we were introduced to the Microbus concept vehicle that recalled the look of the air-cooled classic but with a modern reinvention. It reminded us of what Volkswagen had done with the New Beetle. As it toured the international circuit, it was received with wide acclaim; the VW designers were retro-cool rock stars.

As the fervor faded, I recall the goatee scratching over how to convert such a snub-nosed design into a production vehicle that could meet front crash requirements. No doubt, that would be a challenge. But, with money and reputation on the line, at least I had confidence that the Germans could engineer their way around this road block.

In 2004, Volkswagen issued an encouraging statement that the Microbus was on track for production in 2007, albeit with changes to better address international market opportunities.

We lose by a nose.

But here we are at the 2008 Chicago show with a Dodge Grand Caravan given “Das auto” treatment. Sorry, this one is not straight out of Wolfsburg.

I knew it was rude, but I couldn’t help it. At the press conference, I stared at the abundant front overhang on the latest VW model to bear an unpronounceable name. It… is… huge. The Routan is no Microbus. (Perhaps it should be dubbed the “Rhinoplasty.”)

What happened? Business realities came crashing in. Engineering a Microbus that could meet increasingly stringent safety regulations in the States and abroad was adding significant cost, according to Volkswagen, and thereby reducing its market and profit potential.

The short-term fix in the United States was to partner with Chrysler, a relationship not unlike those VW had struck with other automakers in Europe through the years. From a business standpoint, this arrangement makes a lot of sense. Volkswagen of America was seeing a steady stream of customers outgrow their wagon offerings and want a larger people hauler. The Touareg kept some in the fold, but others fled to competing brands to buy a minivan or larger, three-row SUV.

Within about two years, Chrysler and Volkswagen were able to cost-effectively develop a Grand Caravan variant. Even at the likely modest sales volume, the Routan can be quite profitable. And because it shares the production line with other minivans, the factory can readily adjust to accommodate fluctuations in demand over its life cycle. Low risk, high profit potential, what’s not to love?

The basic unibody structure and glass is shared with the other minivans, leaving the Routan to be distinguished by a unique front end, interior, and suspension tuning. VW passed on the clever Stow N’ Go, instead developing plusher, more comfortable seats. Less is more, as they say.

The Routan strategy is sound, and it is well timed. With the weakened dollar, VW would have had no chance of profiting from importing a German-built minivan. The local manufacturing is a solid hedge against currency fluctuations.

Plus, it’s interesting that VW wants to join the minivan market when two of Detroit’s heavy hitters (GM and Ford) have abandoned it.

I’ve been told the Microbus isn’t off the table, but it will be at least a model generation before it would happen, if ever. Hopefully the Routan proves to be better than the sum of its Mopar parts. Of our Chrysler Town & Country and Grand Caravan test vehicles, we wrote, “Despite some notable new features, though, they haven't risen to the level needed to compete against better models from Japan and South Korea.”

We’ll withhold judgment until we purchase and test one, of course. But I can say with confidence, this is no Microbus.

—Jeff Bartlett

Read our complete coverage of the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

Chicago Auto Show - Live coverage begins

The 2008 Chicago Auto Show has opened its doors for the first of two media preview days, enabling auto scribes and industry insiders to get an early look at the production vehicles and concept cars unveiled in the Windy City. We arrived last night amidst a flurry of media attention to Super Tuesday election results and threat of a serious snow storm. However, the real excitement starts today, with a series of press conferences beginning with General Motors.

We will attend the events throughout the day, sharing reports, photos, and blogged insights from McCormick Place. Right now, we are anxious to get a closer look at the GMC show vehicles, significantly freshened Acura RL, oddly named Volkswagen Routan, and about a dozen other known models from various manufacturers.

Stay tuned for our around-the-clock coverage these next couple of days.

—Jeff Bartlett

Detroit auto show - Personal picks