Pontiac G8 to live on as Chevrolet Caprice

Probably. The blogosphere has been abuzz with rumors that from the ashes of the shuttered Pontiac division that its G8 muscle sedan would be reborn as a Chevrolet Caprice. Consumer Reports editors and engineers have been lamenting the expected loss of this world-class, rear-drive car and are encouraged that one of GM’s best models may survive the restructuring process.

This afternoon, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz in a Web chat wrote:

The G8 has finally been discovered by a broader percentage of the buying public. The owners are ecstatic about them, many calling it the best sedan they've ever driven. We consider it too good to waste. So we're studying the feasibility of bringing it in as a Caprice for both law enforcement and the public.

The transition could be relatively minor, with the greatest challenge being the replacing the twin kidney Pontiac grille with a more-appropriate Chevrolet fascia, such as shown below on the Middle East version sold as the Chevrolet Lumina. Swap out a few Pontiac dart logos for Chevy bowties and call it a day. Shame the Impala moniker is already being used…

While GM is now focused on electrifying powertrains and producing fuel-efficient vehicles, we hope they are able to save this gem from the old GM.

See the Pontiac G8 model overview, with ratings, reliability, road test—available to online subscribers.

Read our G8 laments:
Don’t let the Pontiac G8 wither and die
GM shrinks performance model line-up
Pontiac–The excitement has faded from the line up
Personal picks: Pontiacs, modern and classic

—Jeff Bartlett

Announced: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

Honda has two core strategies for new model introductions:

1. Display a “concept” at major auto shows that turns out to be near-identical to the production model.
2. Skip the shows altogether and just put the car on sale, leaving the competition guessing.

The latter strategy is being tapped for the all-new Accord Crosstour, scheduled to go on sale in fall 2009. No further official information has been released.

However, spy photos reveal what appears to be a Honda interpretation of the Acura ZDX body-type undergoing field testing. Shown here in “concept” form, the ZDX is a genre-bending four-door sedan with a coupe-like profile and hatchback. Pricing has not been announced, but a spokesman said the ZDX will be positioned above the MDX SUV in the Acura lineup.

Despite speculation that Crosstour and ZDX share mechanical commonality, Honda has confirmed to us that they are different, distinct vehicles. The Crosstour is expected to be closely related to the Honda Accord, while the ZDX has much in common with the MDX. The Crosstour will likely offer both a four-cylinder and V6 engine.

The concept of a hatchback Accord is intriguing. It would appeal to Acura and Honda enthusiasts looking for a bit more versatility, but reluctant to transition from a car to a much thirstier SUV.

Details and official photos will be released and reported closer to production. 

—Jeff Bartlett 

Updated 8/9/09

First impression: 2010 Lexus HS 250h hybrid

At a recent New York introduction, Consumer Reports Senior Auto Test Engineer Gabe Shenhar and I had a chance to drive the new Lexus HS 250h hybrid, the brand’s first four-cylinder model. It’s designed for hybrid buyers who want a little more luxury without giving up great fuel economy. And for entry-level luxury car buyers who want a car with better fuel economy. So far, the HS is in a class of its own.

We drove two of the front-drive sedans about 40 miles, and thought we’d share some early impressions from our hands-on experience. (For a full preview, see the Lexus HS 250h report from the New York auto show.) First, the HS 250h is available with just about every whiz-bang new electronic feature on the market, including laser-guided cruise-control, forward and rear-view monitors, lane departure warning with steering assist, and a heads-up display.

Behind the wheel
Gabe and I found the ride rather stiff—especially for a car wearing a Lexus badge. Handling is OK, but the HS 250h is not particularly agile. Engine noise can be relatively pronounced for a luxury car.

Inside, the HS 250h feels narrow, with the back seat being especially tight. The second row struck us as being roomier than the Lexus IS rear seat, but not as spacious as the more accommodating Prius. Trunk space is compromised by the batteries. Adding green appeal, the interior uses organic fabrics on the seats that make a passable imitation of leather, and organic materials are also found in the carpet and dashboard.

Lexus says their customer research shows that 60 percent of hybrid buyers also own a luxury car, and 60 percent of luxury car owners express an interest in buying a hybrid. In addition to Lexus’s current performance-focused hybrids that are quick but yield only moderate economy gains, the HS 250h will soon give those buyers a thriftier alternative. Over a 9-mile city-loop driving route, we averaged fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range, according to the trip computer. EPA figures are 35/34/35 city/highway/overall.

To be offered exclusively as a hybrid, the HS 250h will go on sale at the end of August. We’ll buy one for our full test program shortly thereafter, and then we’ll see how the HS 250h really stacks up. 

—Eric Evarts

Learn about driving green in the Consumer Reports special fuel economy section

Just In: 2010 Lincoln MKZ

“Didn’t we test two of these already?” asked my colleague Eric Evarts. Yep. This is the third Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr that we’ve tested in five model years. (We tested a 2006 Zephyr and a 2007 MKZ.) Although we consider the name change to be a step back—Zephyr and Aviator were pretty good names, rather than a bunch letters that follow some obtuse branding scheme—Ford otherwise keeps on making substantial improvements.

The MKZ’s platform-mate, the Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan, was thoroughly freshened for 2010, so the Lincoln follows suit. (Follow the links for ratings and reviews.) It had already received a strong 3.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic back with the 2007 name change, and it finally got stability control (a big omission in this class) for 2009. For 2010 it gets a new fascia, making it hard to tell apart from our MKS that sits across the parking lot.

More important changes include better noise isolation and a revised interior that looks less like a throwback to the days of the Ford Fairmont. (I wish they had also moved the center-mounted stop light to the trunk lid, like they did on the 2010 Fusion/Milan, to improve rear visibility over the high rear deck.)

Our modestly equipped front-wheel drive MKZ has the Technology Package (basically HID headlights) and a power moon roof. It rings in at $37,160. I have to admit, this poses something of a head-scratcher, especially if you compare it to the Fusion. The Fusion SEL we’re testing lacks the MKZ’s 3.5-liter V6 and the dual full-power and ventilated front seats. And the Lincoln is somewhat quieter and more posh inside.

But our nicely-equipped Fusion drives well, like the Lincoln. The 3.0-liter V6 works well. (You could get the 3.5-liter in the Fusion Sport, if desired.) Our Fusion has blind-zone detection and a backup camera, options Lincoln doesn’t let you buy without the added cost of a navigation system. (You’d think the “Technology” package would include those technologies.) Finally, the Ford is nearly $9,000 less than the Lincoln. It’s hard to see the added $9K of value in the MKZ.

Perhaps even more troubling: There are a lot of excellent cars in this class for the same price or less, including the Acura TL and Infiniti G37. Indeed, even the larger, plusher, and faster Hyundai Genesis we tested is $1,000 less than the Lincoln.

Our first impression? The MKZ is a very quiet and pleasant car—just like its Fusion sibling.

—Tom Mutchler, photo by Mike Leung.

Personal Picks: Compact Sports Sedans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hyperest-miling: 1,445 miles on a tank of gas in a Ford Fusion Hybrid

In late April Ford set out to prove that the new Fusion Hybrid could travel 1,000 miles on a single tank of gas. The driving team of engineers, a hypermiling advocate, and NASCAR driver Carl Edwards actually broke that mark and kept going – all the way to 1,445 miles before electric power and fuel were fully depleted, for an overall average of 81.5 mpg according to Ford.

 The 69-straight hours of driving took place over a loop of public roads in Northern Virginia, using the George Washington Parkway as their proving ground. This loop included open roads, as well as stop-and-go traffic through downtown Alexandria, Virginia.

Having lived in that area, I know how both the traffic speed and density vary greatly along that route. So I spoke with Jay Ward from Ford with a few questions about the trip. He told me that they specifically chose a weekend, with its lighter traffic, to run the trail, but that they went much further than they thought they would and, consequently, ended up driving during weekday rush-hour traffic.

According to Jay, the average speed on the entire trip worked out to about 25 mph, although on the northern loop of the GW Parkway they drove around 35-40 mph to keep up with traffic. They were actually stopped by the police – for going too slowly! Each driver was instructed to drive with safety in mind before mileage. And high-visibility graphics were applied to the rear of the car for nighttime use.

They didn’t drive in any sort of caravan to block traffic or aid aerodynamics, and drove in a “convoy” only when photos or videos were shot. Still, they received their share of honks from other drivers who wanted to go faster.

Still, what does this mean for the consumer? Well, hypermiling certainly works, but safely keeping up with traffic flow is more important than absolute mileage. (Read our tips on how to improve the mileage on every car you drive.)

Consumer Reports has purchased a new Fusion Hybrid and it has racked up over 2,000 break-in miles. So far, we’re really impressed at its ability to combine an enjoyable driving experience with high fuel economy in a roomy family sedan. Even at “normal” speeds, we’ve seen over 600-mile cruising ranges on some trips. We’re marveling at the over 35 mpg we routinely experience in our commutes.

That said, whether it can best the overall fuel economy (including our city, highway, and trip test cycles) of its competitors, such as the Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry hybrids, remains to be seen. And perhaps we’ll stock up on the caffeinated drinks and do our own “run until empty” challenge. So if you spot a slow moving Fusion Hybrid somewhere in Southeastern Connecticut, near our 327-acre test facility, please don’t honk.

Also read: "Ford Fusion – The best car you don’t know about."

—Jon Linkov

Hyundai Equus: White knight or dead horse?

While other auto companies are rapidly shifting into reverse, Hyundai is pushing forward with plans to introduce its first super-luxury sedan, the Equus, to America. First seen at the New York International Auto Show, the Equus will be displayed nationwide this summer as Hyundai seeks to gauge public reaction to this high-end model. (See "The Genesis of Hyundai’s luxury brand?")

In Asian markets, the Equus competes with the prestige-brand flagships such as the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS, and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It’s a big, rear-drive cruiser that is a step up in size and price from Hyundai’s upscale Genesis sedan, upon which it is based. Should the Equus be sold in the U.S. market, it would likely come with the same 375-hp, 4.6-liter V8 used in the top-trim Genesis, plus the full panoply of high-end, high-tech interior amenities one expects in the luxury class.

South Korea’s Hyundai has come a long way from the old cheap-and-crummy days to become one of the top brands in quality and reliability. The Equus shows just how far the company has come.

Today, we recommend most current Hyundai models we’ve tested, which is nearly all of them., The question for consumers is how much “image” they’re willing to give up for the sake of underlying quality and value. The luxury market is hard club to join, since so much depends on positive buzz and intangible curb appeal. The key issue of price is not yet settled, either. USA Today speculated that the Equus would weigh in at around $75,000, comparable with the base BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz flagships. But that’s not the formula Hyundai has followed so far, or indeed, the formula used by Toyota when it launched the Lexus brand. To succeed, the price would probably have to be lower, say under  $60,000.

The Lexus LS met rapid acceptance because it was a terrific car that started out much cheaper than its European competitors, and because it promised Toyota-levels of reliability, something the Europeans still aspire to. Hyundai plowed the same furrow with the Genesis. The V6 version is equipped like a $50,000 car but is priced in the mid-to-high $30s. Therefore, we would expect that Hyundai would try steal a march on the $75,000 luxury corps by starting Equus pricing much lower than that.

Hyundai’s foray into the deep end is not so much a plunge as a toe in the water. The Equus has already launched in South Korea, and the company plans to import only about 100 of them into the U.S. this summer, serving equal parts consumer survey and marketing tool. This approach has much upside, and it reduces the risk of a potential flop, like Volkswagen had with the pricey, heavy Phaeton a few years ago. If the Equus has legs, then Hyundai will have only to ramp up production for its U.S. model as needed. 

How do you think the Equus would be received in the States?

—Gordon Hard

Mother’s Day: Happy Moms on the road

Moms are always on the run whether it’s commuting or acting as the family chauffeur--driving kids to school, activities, a friend’s house and daily errands, Moms always seem to be in the car and on the go.

In commemoration of Mother’s Day, check out our ideas for family friendly vehicles and tips on how to help Mom on the road. For those looking for a new car, here are some recommended models that have done well in safety tests, in reliability ratings, and that we've found to be comfortable, quiet, and spacious during our testing, yet attain reasonable fuel economy.  In addition, we’ve also included models from some of our car testing staff, who also happen to be Moms, that are particularly functional and include features that make them easier to live with such as easy access, quiet, have good visibility, and particularly roomy and versatile interiors.

Minivans: The Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey minivans are roomy, comfortable and seat up to eight people. They have ample storage and above average reliability. The Sienna also offers AWD.

Mom’s pick: Let’s face it, if you add up all of the criteria that a Mom may need or want you're more than likely going to come up with a minivan.  But if you don’t need quite that much room or just aren’t quite ready to make the leap to a minivan consider the Mazda 5 or Kia Rondo. These somewhat smaller hatches give you roomy, versatile interiors that are minvan-like but aren’t quite as large or uncool.

Sedans: The Honda Accord is a good choice in a mid-sized sedan. It has a generous back seat and powerful four- and six-cylinder engines. Stability control is standard on all models and crash-test results are impressive. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, the Infiniti M is roomy and comfortable with a well-appointed interior and logical controls. All-wheel drive is also available.

Mom’s pick:  When the noise and chaos of the day put you on the brink of overload you may find some solace in the Toyota Prius Hybrid which his surprisingly more roomy than you might think and the quiet (at times silence) of the interior can have an almost calming effect for any crazed Mother.

SUVs: The Toyota RAV4 is comfortable, agile, and gets impressive fuel economy.  For a larger SUV or minivan alternative, the three-row Toyota Highlander scored high for its refinement, quiet interior, ride comfort, power, fuel economy, and flexible and roomy second-row seat. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers great fuel economy.

Mom’s Pick:  The Subaru Forester is also a great choice. It has a quiet cabin, very good fit and finish and a roomy backseat.  Kids also find the Forester easy to get in and out of and if you have to be out driving in poor winter conditions (and what snowbelt dwelling Mom doesn’t) the AWD can provide some additional security.

If you’re the Mom who always ends up with an extra kid or two, then you may also want to take a look at the Hyundai Santa Fe. It's another SUV where the optional third row can come in handy and is easy to raise and lower.

Hatchbacks and Wagons: The Volkswagen Rabbit hatchback is sporty, practical and fun to drive. It has a versatile interior and good crash-test results.

If a new car is not in the cards this year, you can help Mom by giving her a driving break on her special day. Many people hit the road on Mother’s Day to visit family. On this road trip, let Mom just relax in the passenger seat or even in the back seat. Let Dad drive and have kids play a leading role in road trip preparations--getting directions (see our Ratings of GPS navigation systems), choosing activities and snacks, and bringing her favorite music or DVD along for the ride (including headphones). For more information on in-car entertainment, see our guide to mobile electronics. Better yet, Dads should be encouraged to take the little darlings out of the house so Mom can get some peace and quiet for a change.

By giving a Mom a break on the road it will ensure for at least one day she’ll be stress-free and prepared to take on Monday’s challenges.

—Liza Barth 

Presidential pitch may be helping Buick sales

In a March 30 speech, President Obama urged Americans to buy American cars, saying among other things, that Buick tied for first place as the most reliable car in the world. The President didn’t say where he got his information, but it was most likely from J.D. Power and Associates, whose 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study released on March 19th have Buick and Jaguar tied for most-dependable honors. The study measures problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old (2006 model year) vehicles.

Buick reliability has long been a bright spot for General Motors in the Consumer Reports’ annual Car Reliability Survey. Most Buicks have been consistently reliable. In the 2008 survey, based on our subscribers' experiences with 1.4 million vehicles, Buick ranked about mid-pack of 34 brands in new car reliability.

Jaguar, on the other hand, has a spottier history in CR reliability surveys. This year, its XK roadster gets a below-average rating from owners. The XF is too new to have data, and we have insufficient reliability data for the XJ sedan.

Ratings aside, it looks like a brand mention from the President of the United States may be just the thing to help move some sheet metal. According to General Motors, Buick sales were up by 21 percent in April. 

Interested in buying American? Check out our American Top Picks 2009.

—Jim Travers

Volkswagen CC: The cost of looking good just got better

Call me selfish, but I’ve always been more interested in how a car impresses me from the inside than from the outside. After all, I’m the one who has to live with it, spend time in it, and gets to foot the bills to keep it around. So in my view, things like ride, handling, sensible controls, and comfort are more important than the shape of the sheet metal.

That said, I realize not everybody agrees with me. An excellent case in point is our Volkswagen CC, which I have been driving the past few days. The CC turns more heads than anything I’ve driven recently, and some of those heads have commented on what a good-looking car it is. My head tends to agree with them, but I also think the CC makes a really good case for the garden variety Passat on which it is based.

The two share a platform, powertrains, and suspensions, so performance and handling are virtually the same. But where the more stylish CC gives up interior room and visibility in the interest of impressing people outside the car, the not-so-bad looking Passat sedan looks and feels a whole lot better to the folks inside. And it can appeal to more of them, because the standard Passat has seating for five, while the CC can only accommodate four. Not that the CC’s interior is shabby – its fit and finish is impressive.

But there is some good news for those of you more style conscious than me, something, incidentally, that it isn’t hard to be. While looking good in anything from cars to shoes often comes with a monetary cost in addition to sacrifices in comfort and practicality, that isn’t the case with the CC. Prices for the better-looking sibling start at about $1,200 less than the more upright Passat, but a big part of that difference is that the CC has a standard manual transmission while the Passat comes with an automatic.

Score one for the fashionistas. Unless, of course, you’re the guy who just lost a seat.

–Jim Travers