Car, pickup truck, SUV, and tire recalls

Recently, there have been several recalls worth noting from Audi, Bridgestone Firestone, General Motors, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mazda, and Mercedes-Benz. But first, a major one from Ford:

Ford, Lincoln, Mercury – Nearly five million unrepaired vehicles could pose serious fire hazard

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging owners of certain Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and passenger cars to take their vehicles to a local dealership immediately for a corrective repair. The vehicles contain a defective cruise control switch that could lead to a fire at any time, even while the vehicle is turned-off, parked and unattended. Repair parts are readily available.

NHTSA remains concerned that many owners have yet to respond to multiple safety defect recall notifications from Ford. Of the 12 million vehicles involved in the recall, nearly five million have not yet been brought to Ford for repair.

The involved vehicles are:

1993–2004 Ford F-150
1993–1999 Ford F-250 (gasoline engine)
1993–1996 Ford Bronco
1994–1996 Ford Econoline
1997–2002 Ford Expedition
1998–2002 Lincoln Navigator
1998–2002 Ford Ranger
1992–1998 Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car, and Mercury Grand Marquis
1993–1998 Lincoln Mark VIII
1993–1995 Ford Taurus SHO with automatic transmission
1994 Mercury Capri
1998–2001 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer
2001–2002 Ford Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac
1992–1993 and 1997–2003 Ford E-150-350 gasoline or natural-gas vehicles
2002 Ford E-550 gasoline engine vehicles
1996–2003 Ford E-450 gasoline or natural gas vehicles
1994–2002 Ford F-250 through F-550 Super Duty trucks (gasoline engine)
2000–2002 Ford Excursion (gasoline engine)
2003 F-250 – F-550 Super Duty, Ford Excursion
1995–2002 Ford F53 Motor home chassis
2002–2003 Lincoln Blackwood

Consumers with questions should contact their local Ford/Lincoln/Mercury dealer, or call 1-888-222-2751. Additional information is available at Ford.com.

Audi is recalling nearly 14,000 A8 vehicles equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. The locking cable may slide out of position over time, allowing the shifter to be moved out of the "Park" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock. This could allow the vehicle to roll, risking a crash. Dealers will make the necessary modifications to secure the locking cable in place. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Audi at 1-800-822-2834.

Bridgestone bias-ply motorcycle and scooter tires

Bridgestone Firestone (BFNT) is recalling over 4,000 Bridgestone bias-ply motorcycle and scooter tires that fail to conform to the labeling requirements of a federal safety standard. BFNT will notify owners and replace the noncompliant tires free of charge. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact BFNT at 1-615-937-3442.

2006-2008 Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS and Hummer H2; 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Saturn Outlook; 2008 Buick Enclave – heated wiper washer fluid system

GM is recalling over 850,000 Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer and Saturn vehicles equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system that could overheat. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge. GM has yet to announce when owners will be notified. In the meantime, owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608- 8080; Cadillac at 1-800-982-2339; Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; Saturn at 1-800-972-8876; GMC at 1-866-996-9436; or Hummer at 1-800- 732-5493; or MyGMLink.

2008 Buick Enclave and 2007-2008 GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook – windshield wipers

GM is recalling over 88,000 Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook vehicles currently or previously registered in the following states: AK, CO, CT, DE, ID, IL, IN, IA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NY, ND, OH, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WV, WI, WY and DC. Snow and ice buildup on the windshield or wipers could cause the wipers to become inoperative. Dealers will install a new wiper mechanisms. The recall is expected to begin during October. Owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608-8080, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, Saturn at 1-800-972-8876, or at MyGMLink.

2008 Hyundai Elantra – fuel pump

Hyundai is recalling 65,000 Elantra vehicles with 2.0-liter “beta” engines. The fuel pump motor may produce less pressure than required to supply the fuel-injection system. Dealers will replace the fuel pump subassembly free of charge. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.

2009 Jaguar XF – rear safety belt

Jaguar is recalling nearly 8,000 XF vehicles due to a problem with the rear safety belt. In the event of a crash, a seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury. Dealers will correct the condition. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Jaguar at 1-800-452-4827.

2007-2008 Mazda6 – fuel tanks

Mazda is recalling 7,200 Mazda6 vehicles with California emission specifications. The metal fuel tanks on the affected vehicles may have been damaged during the assembly process, which could lead to a fuel leakage. Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the fuel tank, if necessary. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500, Option 2.

2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (Model 215), 2002-2006 S-Class (Model 220)
2003-2007 SL-Class (Model 230), 2007-2008 CL-Class (Model 216), 2007 S-Class (Model 221) – acceleration sensors

Mercedes-Benz is recalling over 4,500 CL-Class, S-Class and SL-Class vehicles equipped with Active Body Control (ABC) acceleration sensors on the front struts. The ABC sensors may have been installed improperly, which can adversely influence the vehicle's directional stability and could lead to a vehicle crash. Dealers will inspect and replace, if necessary, the front ABC sensors in all potentially affected vehicles. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

—Desiree Calamari

Personal Picks: Sporty cars, part 2

Continuing our staff's personal insights into the October-issue sporty car test group. (Read: “Personal Picks: Sporty cars, part 1.”)

Rick Small: I was a bit disappointed in the new Subaru WRX/STi. The cars have more power but lost some of the sporty feel in acceleration and handling, thus losing some appeal. The Evo is much sportier with better low-end power and crisper handling. It is an enthusiast’s car with a stiff ride, limited driving position, and plenty of noise that may be too much for everyday use for some people. Definitely a “try before you buy.” And the Volkswagen R32 is nice. Still, I like the 135i best. It fits my tall body better than most competing models, and it’s quick, refined and sporty (but expensive). For a lot less money, the Cobalt SS is also quick, sporty and more fun to drive than you’d think.

Mike Quincy: I had the pleasure of buying the BMW 135i for the test program. When I drove it off the lot, I immediately knew this car was special. Didn’t take more than a few miles to realize that maybe (just maybe) this is the car that will help get BMW back on track. The 135i is a thrill to drive – it’s light, quick, has sensitive steering and fits me perfectly. But what turns the corner for this car is that its controls are WAY easier than any BMW we’ve tested for the last four or five years. There’s no iDrive, no confusing navigation system (although this stuff is optional…I wouldn’t bother). I wrote in the car’s logbook that the 135i is “magical.” I’ll also add that the 135i is a car that I’d drive for the rest of my life. Yes, it’s that good.

Gabe Shenhar: The Mitsubishi Lancer Evo really gets my adrenaline going and puts a big grin on my face every time I drive it. This road rocket is a true driving machine with terrific handling; it’s essentially a go-kart with four doors. But you’ve got to be the most die-hard type to endure this car with its stiff ride and frenetic highway behavior.

That’s why my pick is the BMW 135i. It’s agile and fun yet smooth in every move, whether it’s the clutch action, shifter, steering, or the punchy, linear power delivery of the twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. It rides compliantly and lets you hear only the noises you want to hear. The seat, driving position, and interior quality are first class, as in every BMW. The car is perceived as small and expensive. But since it provides such a spectacular driving experience, close to, say, a Porsche Boxster, it’s a relative bargain in my opinion.

Tom Mutchler: For me, this group of sports sedans brought a bunch of surprises:

·    It’s amazing how enjoyable the BMW 135i is to drive, even beyond the high standards set by the various automatic-equipped 3 Series models we’ve tested. As I wrote before in “From the logbook,” it’s not perfect, but it’s a whole lot of fun.

·    What isn’t a whole lot of fun is driving the Subaru WRX and STi. Going beyond the turbocharged powertrain, I enjoyed driving our base Legacy 2.5i sedan more; it had better steering and body control. Tellingly, Subaru is making major revisions to the WRX just one year after introduction. Too bad they didn’t get it right the first time.

·    The Cobalt SS is the prime automotive example of making a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. I liked the supercharged version we tested in 2005, but this turbocharged model is even more fun and refined. It’s truly a welcome surprise.

·    One of the few automotive regrets I have is not buying a first-generation (1991-1994) Nissan Sentra SE-R. The new car, while likely empirically better in every way, just isn’t fun to drive.

Since we combined two price classes here, I have two picks this month. (Let’s assume I need a back seat, so a Miata is out of the running.) For $24K, I’d buy a VW GTI four-door – it’s practical, fun, and well-equipped. At $37K, I would find it very hard to resist an Infiniti G37 coupe. This gentleman’s coupe looks awesome (without all of the boy-racer flippery of the Evo or STi), has a great powertrain, and is roomier than the tight 135i.

One last surprise might be on the horizon: Could the Hyundai Genesis coupe be a contender? The specs and tentative pricing look very promising, but Hyundai isn’t known for building sports cars. We’ll see…

Small SUV crash tests - New Top Safety Picks

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named six small SUVs Top Safety Picks: the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Mercury Mariner, and Nissan Rogue.

To qualify for this accolade, the six got the Institute's top rating of Good in offset frontal and side crash tests, plus an evaluation of rear crash protection. They also all offer electronic stability control as standard equipment. The Mercury Mariner and the Mazda Tribute are twins to the Ford Escape; the test results also apply to the hybrid versions of these models.

The Honda CR-V, Honda Element, and Subaru Forester are also Top Picks in this class based on earlier tests.

IIHS rates cars in an offset frontal crash that is more severe than U.S. government crash test standards and more closely mimics real-world accidents. Side crash tests are conducted to simulate a vehicle being hit in the side by a tall, heavy SUV. Vehicles are rated on a scale of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor. (Learn more in "Crash Test 101.")

Other small SUVs, including the Suzuki Grand Vitara, Jeep Patriot, Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, Jeep Patriot, and Jeep Wrangler received lower grades in one of the crash measures. The Wrangler offered Poor protection in a side crash when tested without its optional side air bags.

If you're in the market for a small SUV, we recommend you look for one that has Good crash scores from both the IIHS and the government, as well as one that performed well in our testing and has good predicted reliability.

Of the IIHS Top Picks, we recommend the Honda CR-V and Element, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Subaru Forester. The Forester is our Top Rated small SUV.

Read our recent Small SUV and Sporty SUV tests covering many of the models featured here, including the Tiguan featured in the embedded CR road test video. Crash test videos based on the latest tests will be posted next week.

View more than 250 crash test videos.

—Eric Evarts

New car preview--Sneak peek at the 2009 and 2010 cars

We’re nearing the end of the 2008 model year, and already several new vehicles have hit dealerships. The model-change over means dealers are anxious to make room for new models and advertising tempting incentives. Before choosing a current model, it is wise to consider what is coming down the road.

Here is a peak at the most new and notable models you’ll be seeing this fall or early 2009. For a sneak peek at more new vehicles, see our comprehensive New car preview with the photos and videos.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro
The all-new 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is a modern interpretation of the classic original, built on a modern, rear-drive platform. Like the 1960s car, the new Camaro will be offered in coupe and convertible body styles, with 300-hp V6 and 400-plus-hp V8 engines. On sale: Winter 2009.
Read the complete Chevrolet Camaro preview.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse
The Traverse is Chevrolet's version of the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook SUVs. The Traverse will have three rows of seating for 7 or 8 passengers. Based on our experience with the sibling vehicles, the third row is comfortable enough to fit adults and retain storage capacity behind it. On sale: Fall 2008.
Read the complete Chevrolet Traverse preview.

2010 Ford Fusion hybrid
Few details have been released, but we expect the Fusion hybrid (and Mercury Milan hybrid) to use a powertrain similar to the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner hybrids. A style freshening is also expected for all Fusion and Milan models. On sale: Winter 2009.
Read the complete Ford Fusion hybrid preview.

2009 Honda Fit
The redesigned Fit is longer and wider than the previous version. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, side and curtain air bags, and active front head restraints. ESC will be available as an option. On sale: Fall 2008.
Read the complete Honda Fit preview.

2010 Kia Soul
This new front-wheel-drive, four-door hatchback is styled like a small SUV. Its boxy packaging also reminds of Scion xB, although it will be about five inches shorter than an xB. Similar to the Scion, Kia expects Soul owners to personalize this vehicle with extras. On sale: Spring 2009.
Read the complete Kia Soul preview.

2009 Mazda6
The Mazda6 is larger and roomier than the outgoing sedan. The four-door vehicle features two engine options--a 2.5-liter 4-cyl. and 3.7-liter V6—that are both larger than the previous version. ESC and curtain air bags are now standard. On sale: Late summer 2008.
Read the complete Mazda6 preview.

2010 Nissan Cube
On sale outside the U.S. since 2004, the next-generation Nissan Cube will be coming to the U.S. in 2009. This boxy vehicle is roomy for a small car, but with comfortable seating for four. The rear seats fold down to fit longer items and the large glass around the vehicle give it an airy feel with excellent visibility. On sale: Early 2009.
Read the complete Nissan Cube preview.

Pricing: 2009 Mazda6 sedan

Pricing for the redesigned 2009 Mazda6 sports sedan will start at $18,550 for the Mazda6 i SV equipped with a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. The Mazda6 s, with a 273-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed automatic, will begin at $24,130. Destination charges will be an additional $670.

All Mazda6 models will have standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, traction control, and front side- and curtain-air bags (covering both rows).

The previous-generation Mazda6 was competitive among family sedans, but not as powerful or refined as the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. We’ll see if this redesigned version can zoom up in our Ratings when we test it in the coming months.

The 2009 MAZDA6 will arrive at dealerships in late August.

—Liza Barth

Personal picks: Hatchbacks

This month's group almost seems like a blast from the past. Hatchbacks are back and we are excited about driving them because of their combination of pretty good fuel economy and versatile cargo carrying capacities. Many of my colleagues have owned hatchbacks in the past. Here's a look at their picks:

Tom Mutchler: We heard it from family members and friends. We even heard it from contractors visiting the track. People see this group of hatchbacks and say, "Wow, you're testing a group of #@$%boxes this month." Sales figures of these hatchbacks versus their sedan counterparts hint that many Americans feel the same way.

But my fellow engineers at the track and I bristle at the dismissal of these logical cars. They do an awful lot of things right. They get good fuel economy, they can haul a wide variety of cargo, safety equipment is up to snuff, and the best ones can even be fun to drive. All this for not much money. In fact, before this group of cars, my top choice for "If I Had to Buy a Brand New Car Today, What Would I Buy?" was a Mazda3s Grand Touring hatch.

But the VW Rabbit vies for my affections and theoretical dollars. The Rabbit is fun to drive, comfortable, and has better crash-test data and a more substantial feel than the nimble Mazda. I really like that the Rabbit defies the logic that all German-designed cars must have inscrutable controls (Exhibit A: the Saturn Astra. Exhibit B: the Mini.)

Only one misgiving: having owned a VW, my attitude toward the company’s overall reliability history is "once bit, twice shy." The reliability charts for older VWs show that, as those cars aged, reliability went super bad. Hopefully the Rabbit can shake this history…

Gene Petersen: I love hatchbacks. My first brand new car was a three-door Honda Accord hatchback, the only way you could get one back in 1978. I would fold down the rear seats and use it like a station wagon to carry lumber, garden supplies, or move smaller pieces of furniture. This new crop of hatchbacks reminds of the versatility of that old Accord, plus these cars have four doors for getting passenger out of the rear seat in a respectable manner. My choice here is the Mazda3. It offers versatility, is roomy for four adults, and has a sporty flair that makes it fun to drive. It's also well finished, nicely styled inside and out and gets a respectable 25 mpg with the 2.3 liter engine and five-speed automatic. In this age of $4.00 gasoline, it may be time for me to consider a hatchback again…

Gabe Shenhar: It's too bad the Volkswagen Golf (sorry, Rabbit) isn't available with the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine attached to the DSG (automated manual) transmission. On second thought, it does exist, only then it's not a Rabbit anymore—it's called the GTI. Such a combo would give me greater agility, punch and fun-to-drive quotient as well as versatility and affordability. But I already had my GTI days in the 1980s (I owned two of them), so it’s time to move on. Besides, we’ve classified the GTI as a sporty car, so I better re-gear for the hatchbacks at hand.

Both the Rabbit and the Mazda3 hatchback possess similar driving characteristics: agile handling, decent ride and some zip in their acceleration. Both also have comfortable seats and interiors that are solid and pleasant and make you feel like you are surrounded by a nicer environment than is typical for the class. However, the Rabbit's standard 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine sounds too coarse for me and it doesn’t help that it has a relatively big thirst for fuel. The Mazda's 2.3-liter four-cylinder has a sweeter nature to it and sounds happier when it’s revved. So I’m leaning toward the Mazda3. And then there’s the likelihood of the Golf (woops—did it again—Rabbit) having more problems over several years then the Mazda3. But then again, the Rabbit has better IIHS crash test results than the Mazda3.

This has become a much bigger dilemma now, so I think I'll go with the Mini Cooper. All the Minis (S, non-S or Clubman) are a blast to drive. They look like nothing else and ooze charm and character. Good fuel economy is an extra bonus.

Rick Small: These small models are enjoying a surge in popularity due to the ever rising gas prices. The Subaru Impreza is a nice car but only comes in AWD, hurting fuel economy, and the driving position doesn’t fit my tall body as well as some others. The Saturn Astra has a nice ride, but it is slow responding and fuel economy falls short for this class. Of this group, I like the Volkswagen Rabbit the best. It feels more solid and sporty than the others here and has a good driving position for taller people. I also really like the Mini but not this Clubman version. While the "bigger" Mini does provide a little more room in the back, I dislike the split rear doors and big blind spot they create. The Clubman's handling is not as crisp as the other Mini versions, either. The Base or Mini S are a blast to drive, get very good fuel economy and (surprisingly) have a very good driving position for tall drivers like me. The back seat is petty much for storage or very small passengers, though. Fuel economy for this group is pretty good, but if you want even more mpg get the manual transmission.

Mike Quincy: My first new car was a 1987 Honda Civic Si. It was a three-door hatchback, got great fuel economy, and was more fun to drive than the car I replaced it with—a 1985 Mazda RX-7. To this day, it was one of the best cars I ever owned. Hence, I have a soft-spot in my heart for these little hatches. I think the Mini Cooper (Base model, manual transmission) comes closest to the fun and value of my original Honda. And while it's small inside, it doesn't drive that way. It's not too noisy, the ride is tolerable, and it overflows with personality. The Clubman is almost practical, but its styling seems just a bit out of proportion. Go easy with options and the Mini is affordable. Go nuts and you wind up shelling out money that could buy a larger, more comfortable car. Like I said: Base model Mini Cooper is the way to go.

Most fun cars to drive

"Fun to drive" is a subjective measure—an elusive quality that can mean different things to different people. From our experience, a car can have a very powerful engine and accelerate quickly, but without handling agility, it’s not much fun. For us, fun is a combination of factors such as handling response, sound, and the nature of the power delivery that lead to grin-inducing satisfaction. Here are the top fun-to-drive models that we’ve recently tested in order of ranking:

• Porsche 911 Carrera S
• Porsche Boxster
• Honda S2000
• Mazda MX-5 Miata
• Chevrolet Corvette Z06
• Mercedes-Benz SLK350
• Infiniti G35
• Mazda RX-8
• Volkswagen GTI
• BMW 328i
• MazdaSpeed3
• Subaru Legacy GT
• Mini Cooper S

See our complete list of Best & Worst cars in many categories.

Consumer Reports' Top Picks 2008

This year's Top Picks in 10 categories include four new models. For the first time since 2005, a U.S. model, the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado, made the list as our choice in pickup trucks. And for the first time ever, a South Korean automaker is represented: The Hyundai Elantra SE and Santa Fe are our top small sedan and midsized SUV, respectively. The fourth new entry is the Lexus LS 460L, the highest-scoring vehicle we've tested and best among luxury sedans.

Choosing the Top Picks
Our Top Picks are the most well-rounded models in their categories. Each must meet these stringent requirements:

• Road tests: Each Top Pick scores at or near the top of its category among more than 260 vehicles we've recently tested at our Auto Test Center.
• Reliability: Each has an average or better predicted-reliability Rating, based on the problems subscribers reported on almost 1.3 million vehicles in our Annual Car Reliability Survey.
• Safety: Top Picks have performed adequately in overall safety if tested by the government or the insurance industry. Starting this year, they also must provide a critical safety feature, electronic stability control (ESC), either as standard equipment or as a readily available option. That's why the Honda Accord, for example, is the Top Pick in family sedans over the Nissan Altima. The Altima scored slightly higher in CR's testing, but offers ESC only as a pricey option on the V6 and standard on the hybrid model.

"All the vehicles in Consumer Reports' Top Picks list are standouts for performance, versatility, reliability, and safety," says David Champion, senior director of automotive testing, Consumer Reports. "CR's Top Picks list is a great place for consumers to start when they're looking for a new car."

Consumer Reports' testing procedures are the most comprehensive of any U.S. publication or Web site. More than 50 individual tests are performed on every vehicle, including evaluations of braking, handling, comfort, convenience, safety, and fuel economy. Around 6,000 miles of general driving and evaluations are racked up on each test car during the testing process.

Here, by category, are the Top Picks:

Green car - Toyota Prius
Small sedan - Hyundai Elantra SE
Family sedan - Honda Accord
Upscale sedan - Infiniti G35
Luxury sedan - Lexus LS 460L
Fun to drive - Mazda MX-5 Miata
Small SUV - Toyota RAV4
Midsized SUV - Hyundai Santa Fe
Minivan - Toyota Sienna
Pickup truck - Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab

Read the full story and watch the Top Picks videos.

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.

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

Personal Picks: Small and sporty cars

Car testing at CR covers the gamut of the automotive world. It's strange, perhaps, but we'll really go from testing pickup trucks--with some weighing up to 8,000 pounds--to measuring the strengths and weaknesses of small, economy cars weighing considerably less (around 3,000 pounds). And with fuel prices never far from our minds, it's good to know that there are a number of good, capable small cars that deliver fine fuel economy but also relatively refined and comfortable driving experiences. For when you want more fun in your life (but still want to conserve fuel), we've uncovered a few small and sporty gems.

Here are more small car (and sporty car) picks based on our recent test groups:

Gabe Shenhar:
Small car: Among small sedans my choice is the Mazda3. It looks good, handles well, and has a pleasant interior; it doesn't feel like you are driving an econobox. Even though the Honda Civic is a logical choice--with more futuristic styling and more sparing with fuel--it's less fun to drive. Better yet, I would pick the hatchback version of the 3 for its added versatility and even better looks.
Sporty car: Out of the sporty cars, I'd take the Mini in a heartbeat. It's such a blast to drive. It handles like a go-kart, goes like hell, and it sounds awesome. I might even get used to the unintuitive controls. And while the Mazdaspeed3 is more capable on a track, on the road the Mini is more fun. The Mini looks like nothing else and oozes character. It's the closest thing to my original first-generation Volkswagen GTI that I was piloting two decades ago.

Gene Petersen:
Sporty car: This year, I'm picking the Mazdaspeed3. Few other cars provide the practicality, refinement, and fun-to-drive balance.  It's a perfectly easy car to live with as a commuter and for running around town with the family in tow.  I'm taken by the well-rounded refinement. There aren't many cars that deliver sports-car handling with a comfortable ride or have an exciting, smooth revving turbo engine that is equally drivable in normal use. And don't forget the sensible four-door hatch design that's versatile and yet sporty looking. Shortcomings? Not much, but I would prefer not to have to fill up with premium fuel and those sticky summer tires won't do in New England's winter months. 

Tom Mutchler:
Small and sporty car: Emerson wrote that "A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds." That might be why I don't just simply pick two different versions of the Mazda3 as my choice for best small car and best sporty car. The Mazda3 hatchback does everything I want a small car to do. It handles well, is lots of fun to drive, has a pretty nice interior, stability control is readily available, and it's been reliable. But picking a small, practical sporty car is a different story. As much fun as the Mazdaspeed3 is to drive (and, whoo-boy, it is a lot of fun), I'd probably try to find a 2003-2004 Ford Focus SVT five-door. Maybe an orange or yellow one with the European Appearance package, which also gets you lovely Recaro seats. The Focus certainly isn't as fast as the Mazdaspeed3 or a VW GTI, and it lacks modern safety gear, but handling is razor-sharp and the ride remains comfortable. It would only run around $13,000, leaving me plenty of budget for tires for track days.

Mike Quincy:
Small and sporty car: I know this is turning into a Mazda3 love fest, but if you haven't tried this car (and you want something that's fun, practical, affordable and economical) you must drive one. I can't really get worked up over the extra speed and pizzazz of the Mazdaspeed3 version when the "regular" 2.3-liter model is so good. I'm fond of the s Grand Touring hatchback version with the manual transmission. My two boys fit in the back with lots of room, and in those blessed moments when I have some time to myself, I can fold down the rear seats, load my bike in the back, and meet my buddies for a ride. While I wish there was less road noise on the highway, getting a model with the optional Sirius satellite radio would keep me happy for an extended road trip. Hence, this is the car that fulfills both my economy car and sporty car wants and needs. It does it all.

Read more Personal Picks from the sporty car group and Jim Traver's "Pick of the Litter."

Fuel for thought

Mazda invited us to a recent, local media event to show off their 2008 CX-9 SUV. For the new model year, this three-row crossover vehicle sees its engine enlarged from 3.5 to 3.7 liters. The result is a 10-hp increase to 273, and a 21 lbs.-ft. boost in torque to 270. Company officials were quick to point out that the bump in power comes with fuel economy equal to last year's model. When Honda came to our track to show us their new Accord in June, the song was the same: More ponies without consuming more oats.

While this news is all well and good, and our hats are off to the engineers who can make engines more powerful without sacrificing fuel economy, one has to wonder what those same engineers could do if they set out to improve fuel economy without bothering to increase power. After all, does the world really need a 300-hp Accord? (Honda is getting close; the current top rating for an Accord engine is 268 hp.)

A 269-hp Toyota RAV4 V6 that can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds can certainly deliver the kids to school at anti-social speeds, but it's unlikely that's why most people buy small SUVs. The V6 nearly matches the four-cylinder's fuel economy--an impressive feat--but would most V6 buyers give up a second or two of acceleration for a little less quality time and cash spent at the pump?

Press coverage of the recent Frankfurt Auto show indicates manufacturers showed European car shoppers a wide assortment of new models and concepts that put an emphasis on going green rather than going fast. But while the diesel hybrid shown by Citroen--reportedly good for 90 mpg--is impressive, it's highly unlikely to ever see U.S. shores. Just as well, a host of other carmakers showed a variety of plug-ins, electrics, fuel-cell vehicles, and brand-new technologies that could influence home-market products. Mercedes-Benz, for example, unveiled a full-sized sedan concept powered by a twin-turbocharged engine displacing just 1.8-liters. Packed with high-tech features, the small engine is said to deliver 0-60 mph times of about 7.5 seconds in the big F700 concept sedan (pictured), while also returning 44 mpg.

Manufacturers today are responding to consumer demand for performance, and it will take a shift in domestic market priorities before car engineers are driven to focus on economy over performance. Hopefully, it won't take European fuel prices before some of these innovative powertrain alternatives gain traction in the United States. Given the capabilities of today's vehicles, it's clear we can go green and still get the kids to school before the bell rings. And maybe even put a few more bucks in the college fund while we're at it.

--Jim Travers

Personal Picks: Sporty cars

The October 2007 issue had two test groups, the "Small Wonders" economical cars and a "PeeWee Sports" trio of sporty cars. These all-new and redesigned models provided a dramatic contrast to the recent full-sized pickup trucks Picks from the staff.

We'll  explore the editor and engineer opinions for these two groups, as the team shares their personal insights and picks. For this installment, we'll focus on the sporty cars. In the coming days, we'll continue our Personal Picks and expand to consider the affordable, small cars.

For more perspective, view the video reviews of the sporty cars.

Eric Evarts: Making a single pick each month can be tough, and I know picking a single car to buy and own for years can be even tougher. Therefore, I don't take this task lightly. That said, as much as I like the Scion xB, what I'd really like to have in my garage is our Screaming Yellow Zonkers Mini Cooper S. So many cars today are bland and boring that it's easy to lose track when you drive different ones every day. The Mini stands out, both for its looks, razor-sharp steering, and turbocharged power.

Sure, like all our testers, I hate its controls. And I find it somewhat annoying when the stiffly-sprung front end crashes through bumps in mid-corner. But having grown up on old Hondas, Saabs, and front-drive VWs, its torque steer doesn't faze me as much as some of my colleagues. And I found I don't usually have to drive the Mini hard enough to encounter it.

What I love is the slot-car handling, the tiny size that adds to its agility, and the resulting 30 mpg that takes the sting out of my commute. I also love the big double sunroof.

Other testers will sing the praises of the Mazdaspeed3, and I share their respect. It is a much more capable car. But it struck me as overkill. I found that I had to be wailing well above the legal limit to notice the Mazda's great grip and raucous power - a feat my insurance policy won't tolerate for long. At ordinary speeds, the Mazda struck me as, well, ordinary - only louder (and hotter inside).

By contrast the Mini demonstrated the validity of two old automotive saws:

• It's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow, and
• No boring cars!

There's nothing boring about this Mini Cooper S.

Jeff Bartlett: Fun, reasonably affordably cars with personality... Sign me up. The October 2007 test groups were eagerly anticipated by this auto scribe. Particularly, since my family has been enamored with the BMW-reinvented Mini Cooper. In fact, as my young son's first word was "Dada," as it is for many kids, his second was "Mini."

I had a long-term Mini Cooper in my previous life that I drove coast to coast, twice. And I commuted in it to the Detroit Auto Show from Florida. I knew this car inside and out (not difficult given that you wear it like a glove), and welcomed it as part of the family for months.

The latest Mini has been received with some disappointment. The dreams of buying one faded on the first outing with our test model. Egregious torque steer and a skittish ride made my Connecticut-to-New York commute an overly exciting, white-knuckle experience as the wee machine fought to hop around in its lane on the sometimes bumpy and imperfect Saw Mill River Parkway. The baffling interior controls accomplish neither artistry nor elegant function. For example: The window switches are by the six-speed manual shifter--often a useful tool when approaching and departing toll booths. But the switch does not have an auto-up feature, making the inconvenience downright unpleasant in the rain or snow.

The real deal breaker was the rear seat. Naturally, an adult should expect to find the bench snug in one of the smallest cars on the market. But, my four-year-old son, who now has a much larger automotive vocabulary, didn't have enough leg room. If he can't fit without his feet twisted sideways and the driver NASCAR-close to the steering wheel, who can?

The Mini has changed some over time, and perhaps, so have we. The family love for this adorable car has faded.

Fortunately, we found an enticing option in the Mazdaspeed3. It delivers more room, more power, better ride, excellent interior and tremendous driver satisfaction. I've driven a Mazda 3 cross country, too, and can attest, even in more basic 2.3 form, it is a rewarding car that could bring a smile to my face on even a simple commute. Eric can have the Mini.

Gas prices fuel lifestyle changes

Even though gas prices have been declining for most of the summer, consumers are still feeling the pinch and are changing their lifestyle to reduce the impact on their wallets. According to a recent Wall Street Journal Online/Harris Interactive Poll, 80 percent of U.S. adults are making changes to their lifestyle in response to gas costs. Almost six in 10 are minimizing non-critical travel, 40 percent are adjusting spending habits, and 32 percent have put a leisure road trip on hold.

Most of the people surveyed said they believe it is important to reduce energy consumption from vehicles, and 80 percent believe it's important to encourage the development and use of alterative fuels.

For those consumers who are planning to buy or lease a new vehicle, 49 percent would consider a hybrid. That finding synchs with a recent Consumer Reports survey that found that consumers want better fuel-efficiency and would consider an alternative-fuel vehicle.

The surveys reflect the sales data, as well. For example, in the first half of 2007, Toyota Prius sales have increased over 50 percent from last year. The trend continued in the month of July, as well, seeing the total number of Priuses climb to over 96,000 so far.

An August JD Power & Associates study found that hybrid vehicles are on their way to record sales in 2007, up over 35 percent from last year. According to the report, there will be as many as 65 hybrid models in the market by 2010, with sales expected to reach nearly 775,000 units.

Look for new 2008 hybrids including the Mazda Tribute and Saturn Aura hybrid to hit the showroom floor in the next few months, also check out our list of future hybrids.

With gas prices and saving energy on the minds of many consumers, the manufacturers are looking to fuel their interest by increasing their hybrid options in the market. It's a trend that is certain to grow in the coming years.

--Liza Barth

The wagon Legacy ends

It's that time of the year again when we start to pore through automotive press kits to see what is changing for 2008. We use this info to update our databases and decide if the inevitable annual changes mean it's time to retest a car.

While leafing through stuff from Mazda, this cheery nugget caught my eye:
"To better meet customer demands for the Mazda6 Sports Sedan and 5-Door, the Mazda6 Sport Wagon will be discontinued for the 2008 model year."

Hmmmm. It doesn't seem like Mazda is short on production capacity for the sedan and hatchback. Last time I checked, there were plenty of Mazda6s in rental fleets; stats show that 43 percent of all 6's wind up as fleet vehicles. That sounds like they're building a few too many.

I'm guessing that this press release wording is just a nice way of saying that "No one bought the Mazda6 wagon, so we're canceling it." Given the slow sales, it would probably be a stretch to expect a new Mazda6 wagon when the car gets redesigned for 2009.

And there's more bad news for wagon fans in 2008. Subaru has been winnowing down their Legacy wagon line since the 2005 redesign. The Legacy GT wagon with a manual transmission? Gone for 2006. Now all Legacy wagons are dropped from Subaru's line-up for 2008. They fell victim to the much higher sales of almost identical Outback wagon (albeit with a higher ride height and plastic body-cladding). Subaru also dropped all Outback sedans to simplify the line. When the Chevrolet Malibu gets sleekly redesigned for 2008, the frumpy-but-practical hatchback/wagon Malibu Maxx is also getting the axe.

It's odd. Do wagons have to be SUV imitators (Volvo XC70 and Subaru Outback) or stuffed with a Hemi V8 (Dodge Magnum) to sell here? We often hear from people on our forums who crave an Acura TSX or Toyota Camry wagon as a less expensive or more reliable alternative to European wagons. Most European companies still sell wagons here; unfortunately, it seems that most Japanese or American auto makers would rather simply point to their SUVs as a wagon alternative. No doubt they sell better and they provide certain CAFE advantages, but SUVs often don't handle as well in our tests or return the same fuel economy as sedan-based wagons. Finally, some people just don't want to own a SUV.

Obviously, the appeals of a few voices in the crowd (count me in - I've owned two wagons) don't seem to be enough to support a broad selection of wagons. That's unfortunate--we're losing vehicles that blend practicality, better fuel-efficiency, and increased driving enjoyment in the process. Instead of hearing the traditional call of "Wagons Ho!" we'll instead hear a deafening "Wagons No."

--Tom Mutchler

Personal Picks: Midsized SUVs, part 2

Our staff shares personal insights, and selections, inspired by the midsized SUV test featured in the August Consumer Reports.

Rick Small: These car-based SUVs are pretty nice vehicles--I like them better than the much more expensive ones we tested in July.  In this group, the Saturn Outlook is nice, but it felt a bit too big and sluggish to me. The Hyundai Veracruz is a quiet, well-rounded choice, but I don't fit in it that well and it feels less sporty than most. Overall, I like the Mazda CX-9 best. It has the best driving position for my tall frame, good rear seat room, and a useable and accessible third-row seat. Yet, with all this room, it still feels nimble. On the inside, it looks, feels and sounds better than the Ford Edge and the more expensive Lincoln MKX--which are all based on the same platform. The 3.5-liter V6 delivers lively performance and decent fuel economy and it can tow 3,500 pounds. It does everything I need it to do.

Gene Petersen: The Saturn Outlook is one that GM nailed right out of the box. It looks like an upscale SUV inside and out, but is reasonably priced. I must admit, though: I was a bit leery at first since the old Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT was not that exciting. GM pulled out all the stops on this one and included their "high feature" 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed transmission, resulting in fairly spry and refined performance. Granted the transmission could use some re-tuning, but it still works generally well. Ride and handling are carlike, too. Fuel economy is not a high point, but it's better than some of the competition and shines when compared to GM's truck-based SUVs like the Tahoe. And I would tell anyone considering a Tahoe to cross-shop this one--particularly if you don't need to tow more than 4,500 pounds (or you don't tow at all). Let's hope reliability will be at least average. Maybe this is the start of good things to come from GM.

Mike Quincy: A little bird told me that there's an editor in CR's home office who's tired of Auto Test staffers continually praising the Nissan Murano. So I'll join Tom Mutchler and get off the Murano bandwagon this month.

Instead, I'll turn to a vehicle that faithfully took my family and me on a Maine vacation a few years ago: the (marginally) politically incorrect Toyota 4Runner. Why would I pick a model that's slightly below mid-pack in the Ratings and not on any of my colleague's radar screens? I like the 4Runner because it's not uncomfortable (at least, not for me) for a long-distance drive. It's also reasonably quiet. And for a truck-based SUV, it handles pretty well and has standard stability control. For the rare times that I drive off-road, the 4Runner can hold its own for the type of terrain I'd attempt (which, admittedly, isn't much). I guess it's politically incorrect because it's not car-based, it's not a hybrid (only about 16 mpg overall...a big, black CR circle as far as fuel economy is concerned), and it's, well, a truck. I don't care. It has a reliability history any car maker would die for, which further puts me at ease. Not only can the 4Runner get me out of an off-road jam, it's built to keep me rolling down the road for years to come. Now, if only the Murano could go off-road...

Personal Picks: Midsized SUVs

Several of us here working at the track--as well as many of my colleagues in Yonkers--have young children. Hence, we like practical vehicles that are kid- and child-seat friendly. We're also a fairly active bunch, as we typically haul kayaks, mountain and road bikes, and other assorted outdoor gear every weekend. Perhaps these are reasons why we like this vehicle class as much as we do.

The August issue of CR showcases several midsized SUVs--models that make up the bulk of the SUV market. Here's an inside look at which models we could envision populating our driveways. Check out these vehicle's Ratings (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers) for even more information.
-- Mike Quincy

Tom Mutchler: So, let's assume this time that I can't use my normal cop-outs when picking a midsized SUV: I can't pick a minivan and I can't pick a Nissan Murano.

The close scores in our most recent group of three-row SUVs shows how competitive this market is becoming. Nothing is quite perfect, but two models from this group especially appeal to me, more so than the ever-so-practical box-on-wheels Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. We've written before about our admiration of the Saturn Outlook (here and here). And every time I drive it, I marvel at how small the big vehicle feels to drive. To me, that's a sign of a vehicle done right.

But after spending the Memorial Day holiday weekend--and 500 miles--in the Mazda CX-9, I'm pleasantly surprised by how much I'm drawn to it. In this group, it's the quiet one in the corner; the one that sneaks up on you slowly. Comfortable seats, nice ride, stylish inside and out, good steering, an excellent automatic, roomy second-row seating for my in-laws--it all adds up. I also like that it's smaller than the Outlook. The CX-9 even comes close to matching the fun-to-drive quotient of the Murano. There are only two major hang-ups: we don't know if it will be reliable, and braking distances are long, costing the CX-9 points in our scoring.

Gabe Shenhar: It rarely happens, but this time my personal choice is actually the number four ranked vehicle in this group. Well, to put it in perspective, the scores are really close, but the Mazda CX-9 has emerged as my personal pick.

You might think it's an unlikely pick, given how lukewarm we were about the CX-7, but the CX-9 is a whole other story. It has a polished and refined V6 rather than the delayed turbo response of the CX-7. Plus, it's much quieter -- probably the quietest vehicle Mazda's ever built. The fit and finish is nice and slick. But it's the handling, steering and ride control that do it for me. A comfortable seat and good driving position are additional pluses. The big lever to push the second-row seat forward for third-seat access is ergonomically sound and requires very little effort. Too bad the big Mazda suffered from long stopping distances in our tests. Overall, I think it would be fair to say that the CX-9 provides a driving experience similar to that of the $10,000 more expensive Acura MDX, which was my pick last month.

Mazdaspeed3 - Torque steering it straight

We make a big deal about buying all of the cars that we test. That's because press cars don't always represent what you, the consumer, can buy off of the dealer's lot. Sometimes they lack options you'd expect, like a sunroof or four-wheel drive. With a sunroof-less model, for example, an automotive journalist might think that it's quiet. But if most of the cars sold to the general public come with sunroofs, the cabin might not be as serene as you'd think from that review. Likewise, a model without four- or all-wheel drive will likely produce better fuel economy and acceleration.

Sometimes press-fleet cars are the best examples of the model that will never be built, or at least sold to the public. Some are gone over with a fine-tooth comb to help hide or accentuate certain traits. And sometimes their condition is just the opposite, especially after several thousand miles at the hands of automotive journalists. We wouldn't count on a press-fleet car to be 100-percent representative of what you'll get at a local dealer.

That seems to be the case with the Mazdaspeed3 (model overview available to online subscribers). Like other enthusiasts, we read all of the "buff" magazines, too. Curiously, some of these reviews mention heavy torque steer--the steering wheel squirms when you accelerate hard--but some of them say this isn't an issue.

We've experienced this same difference of opinion, even among the CR staff. When I picked up our test car from the dealer and accelerated hard onto the freeway, it tracked straight and true. Jake Fisher, one of my fellow engineers here at the track and an avid racer, commented how well the car puts down its 263-hp through just the two front wheels. This is probably due to the car's standard limited-slip differential and the "Mazda Advanced Torque Management System," which bleeds off boost in some situations to keep things in check.

But another colleague, Managing Editor Jon Linkov, commented that a Mazdaspeed3 press car he drove at a motoring journalist organization track event in California torque steered quite a bit on both the street and the track. As an experienced driving instructor, Jon also knows his way around a racetrack, so I don't discount what he said.

But it makes me wonder: could the press car he was driving (and that some of the magazines have driven) have a cooked limited slip? (One press car mile probably equals ten normal-owner miles, especially on a car with such hooligan-potential as the Mazdaspeed3.) Or, maybe the boost has been cranked up a bit for the press car. Either scenario might explain the difference between that car and the one we bought... For our money, literally, the Mazdaspeed3 tracks true.

--Tom Mutchler

Read "Mazdaspeed3 faces the digital sound barrier."

Mazdaspeed3 faces the digital sound barrier

I set out for a weekend in our new Mazdaspeed3, knowing that I was going to cover approximately 700 miles on my trip to New Jersey and back. Golf clubs: Check. MP3 player for car: Check. Satellite radio in the car in case I get bored with MP3's: Check. Snacks and beverages: Check. Clean underwear: Check. As you can see, everything was in order. What more could you ask for in a good road trip than a fun car, free gas, and good music? NOTHING!

That is until I couldn't figure out how to get the MP3 player working with the auxiliary jack in the car. No big deal, I thought, since a local radio station was actually playing some music I like--a rarity. However, as expected, 100 miles into the trip the original local radio station is well out of range, but I'm not finding anything worth listening to while scanning the radio dial. Time to go to satellite radio mode! (The comedy station REALLY helps pass the time). But when I pressed the "SAT" button all I got was a display that said "please call 1-800-blah, blah, blah" (or whatever number is). Unfortunately, my cell phone doesn't have the alphabet on the number keys, so I couldn't even activate the radio. 

I finally get to my destination with some time to spare, so I decide that I'm actually going to read the car's owner's manual and figure out how to get the auxiliary jack to work. Turns out you just need to hit the media button.  Hmm...I think I did that, but maybe I need to hold it down for a longer period. Pressing the button does nothing, so I hold it down 10 seconds...still nothing.

Grrr...

I feel a little better after cursing, but not much.

Only then do I notice a sticker in the center cubby where the AUX jack is located (see image).

Arghh!

How stupid. Isn't it bad enough that its cars are among the few that don't support MP3 CDs? Why would you disable something just so you could have satellite radio? It's like pulling up to a fast-food drive-through only to be told that you can have a burger or fries, but not both... A bit hard to swallow, this was an Unhappy Meal, indeed.

--Mike Leung

Personal Picks: Sporty and off-road... 3

More staff insights on the latest test vehicles, from the January 2007 issue of Consumer Reports:

Gene Petersen: Sporty SUV or off-road SUV? Some people may truly need an off-road vehicle or just want one, but the access, stiff ride, and poor visibility in some are not worth the price of admission for someone like me who drives predominately on public roads. A sporty SUV sounds appealing and seems to be a growing sub-segment. The Nissan Murano was one of the pioneers in this segment and still viewed as one of the best. It looks slick, drives like a car with nimble handling and comfortable ride, and the spunky V6 and continuously variable transmission operate smoothly. The Acura RDX and Mazda CX-7 try to compete in size and personality, but come up short with turbocharged four-cylinder engines that are not terribly fuel efficient or pack the low-end punch found in the Murano. The BMW X3 looks good on paper, but lacks rock-solid reliability and comes with a big-SUV-like price tag.

Mike Quincy:
Sporty: I'm trying not to jump on the Nissan Murano bandwagon, since a number of my colleagues have tagged this SUV as the one they'd buy. Can't help it, though...the Murano has it all over these other SUVs. For me, nothing combines the Murano's acceleration, good steering, and snow-weather traction. The premium-only fuel, though, is a bummer, and the ride and controls could be a tad better, but these are negatives that are still easy to swallow.

Off road: Truthfully, I can't see a time in my life when I'd need a tough-off-road focused SUV; I'd rather hike the trails some of the vehicles traverse. My trip in Texas (see "The Texas truck two-step"; "More Texas trucks - Digging in the dirt"; "Toyota Land Cruiser - Aging gracefully") gave me some additional seat time in the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ Cruiser for some challenging off-road driving. Both are well-designed for this purpose. For me, however, the Wrangler's classic good looks and the top-down option put it slightly ahead of the FJ. Plus, the deal-killer for the FJ is that it requires premium fuel. But I'd choose the Nissan Xterra over both, since it's nicer to drive on-road and has competitive off-road abilities. It also has a roomier back seat for my young kids and a cargo area big enough to haul stuff for a week's beach vacation.

Personal picks: Economy cars, part 4

In the final installment this month, Consumer Reports writers offer their own views on the budget cars featured in the December 2006 issue.

Jim Travers: There are only two good reasons to buy a Smart ForTwo. One is if you live in a place where parking is tight. The other is if you're lonely. When you drive a ForTwo, everybody wants to talk to you. It helps if you're forlorn enough you don't mind having the same conversation over and over again.

If you have both parking and friends, anything in our December group of subcompacts is a better bet. They all have seating for four, plus room for luggage.  All cost thousands less than the two-seater Smart's almost $22,000 price tag and get mileage close enough to the ForTwo's that you're unlikely to ever make up the difference in fuel savings. Plus, in terms of safety in the land of the giant SUV, it's reassuring to have a little more car around you.

The ForTwo may make sense in Europe, but unless the next-generation model, said to be coming to the United States in 2008 is much more impressive, even its expected $15,000 price won't offset its shortcomings compared against its four-door subcompact rivals.

Of the rest of the group, the Honda Fit gets bonus points for utility with its foldable, versatile interior that allows it to double as a mini-minivan. But what really seals my deal is that the Fit is a hoot to drive, particularly the Sport model with the five-speed manual. A balanced chassis, plenty of grip, and a rev-happy yet economical engine are always a good combination. For me, the Fit is just a Smarter choice.

Mike Quincy: I think the Mazda 3 is the best bet in this category. I realize that adding a few options blows the price out of the water, but this car's combination of fun, finesse and frugality are too good to pass up. The base i Sport model with the manual transmission, ABS/air bag package and A/C comes to around $15,600 before haggling - not a far cry from this group's low of $12,500 (Toyota Yaris) and high of $16,600 (Nissan Versa). I'd rather a Mazda 3 with the 2.3-liter engine, but even the cheapest (an s Sport) would cost almost $18,000 with the side air bags. Perhaps a good used model is the one to buy.

From the logbook: Mazda CX-7

The CX-7 is Mazda's new crossover sport-utility vehicle. We bought a refrigerator-white AWD Grand Touring model and tarted it up with a few options, including a very nice - but pricey "Technology Package," which came with a mega-watt Bose surround-sound stereo, DVD navigation system, and rear-view camera. At $32,915, it's not cheap, but at least side- and head-protecting air bags and stability control are standard.

How close does the CX-7 get to Mazda's "Zoom-Zoom" corporate philosophy? Have a look:

"Nice light handling. It feels agile and steering gives good feedback."

"Very high rear waist line makes it feel claustrophobic."

"Evident cost-cutting inside: no vanity mirror lights, no telescoping wheel, exposed screws on the door panel, and really hard plastic everywhere."

"Drivability is a problem [from the 2.3-liter, 244-hp turbo Four]. No low-end torque, too much turbo lag...and the vehicle's weight create nonlinear throttle response and hesitation on accelerating. It's a bit scary pulling out in traffic."

"Auto headlights are too sensitive and activate all the time. For example, I was parked in the shadow of a large building in bright sunshine and I couldn't even see the images in the reverse camera."

"Why are the radio/nav controls set up for right-hand drive?"

"Seat heaters have only one setting...which I normally hate because they tend to roast you, but these are weaker...will they be adequate for winter?"

"Roomy rear seat for two teenagers."

"Love the seating position, controls and view out."

"Has a stiff ride with pronounced road noise."

"Nice family car, just needs a decent engine."

"This doesn't seem like a good value at $33K."

"Can't hold a candle next to the Nissan Murano."

Check back soon to find out how this crossover faired in our first look, and later this year, in a full road test.

--Mike Quincy

Final thoughts: Mazda MX-5 Miata

Automotive Engineer Tom Mutchler waves bye-bye to a staff favorite, the Mazda MX-5 Miata:

I've gone on record before about my Miata affection, listing it as my favorite car based on spending a week around San Francisco and Marin County in a ratty first-generation Miata many years ago. Now a new MX-5 Miata  (with a rebadged moniker that threatened to disregard years of name recognition and brand equity here in the States) is out, and it’s faster, more comfortable, and a lot nicer inside. My heart only grows fonder.

I drove our tested model to work recently on a partly sunny, 75-degree morning. The top lowers in all of two seconds, the benchmark for all manual convertible tops. (The available power hardtop for 2007 seems like gilding the lily.) A "snick-snick" shifter, excellent steering, an enthusiast-friendly stability control, and a free-revving engine that actually makes a stock, normally-aspirated Miata quick for the first time all add up to make the car a joy to drive. Not that you have to speed in the Miata--it feels fast even going slow, helping to keep my license clean.

I'm not alone in my thoughts, judging by flipping through the car's logbook. After we test a car, we usually keep it around for a few months. Logbook entries become sparse, usually limited to a terse "No problems." Sometimes cars get forgotten in the back lot, pushed aside from there being another 80+ cars a year to drive and test. But not our MX-5; there are several pages of post-test entries, and most are variations on one theme:

"Still a ball to drive!"
"Fun, fun, fun!"
"Problem: it's not mine."
"So much fun to drive. Rolling therapy!"

Being my favorite car sure doesn't make it a perfect car. Relatively narrow seats, high levels of noise, a taut ride, and short wheelbase mean that this isn't my first, second, or hundredth pick for a road trip car. But for an hour- or two-long sortie on a windy back road, there isn't much better--especially at the price.

--Tom Mutchler