A leap ahead—Small SUVs road test and videos

For our test group in the August 2008 issue, we drove a half dozen small SUVs. "A leap ahead" features the Jeep Liberty, Kia Sorento, Nissan Rogue, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Subaru Forester. We also took a look at the Dodge Journey, Chrysler’s new midsized, car-based SUV.

As sales of large, gas-guzzling large SUVs have plummeted, interest in small SUVs has remained steady. They can be an appealing choice for families looking for utility, fuel economy, interior room, and all-wheel drive in an affordable package. However, they are not all created equal.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our staff of auto experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus they demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

Check out the video of the Subaru Forester, our new top-Rated small SUV, plus see the rest of our small SUV videos.

Ratings for all of the SUVs we have tested can be found with our dynamic New Car Selector tool.

—Liza Barth

Gas savers—Small sedans road test and videos

For our test group in the July 2008 issue, we drove small sedans. With record setting gas prices, more people are turning to these fuel efficient vehicles to ease the strain on their budgets. Even with prices below $20,000, the best of the small cars provide good fuel economy, convenience features, and a nice interior.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our staff of auto experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus they demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

"Gas-saving sedans" features the Chevrolet Aveo, Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Subaru Impreza, and Toyota Corolla. Ratings for all small cars we have tested can be found with our dynamic New Car Selector tool.

Check out the video of the Hyundai Elantra SE, this year's Top Pick in the small sedans category, plus see the rest of our small sedan videos.

Grand openings—Hatchback road test and videos

For our test group in the June 2008 issue, we drove small hatchbacks. These vehicles provide good fuel economy, practicality, and versatility. And one has all-wheel drive.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our staff auto experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus they demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

"Grand Openings" features the Mini Cooper Clubman, Saturn Astra, Scion xD, Subaru Impreza Outback Sport, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Rabbit. Ratings for all small cars we have tested can be found with our dynamic New Car Selector tool.

Check out the video of the Mini Cooper Clubman, plus see the rest of our hatchback videos.

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

Road smarts - Pedestrian danger at dusk

More pedestrians are killed between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. than at any other time. It is no wonder. In the hours as day transitions to night, commuters are rushing to get home; people are jogging and walking their dogs; and families are heading out to dinner or to sports practice, with a car-load of distractions.

This Road Smarts video from Consumer Reports Television shows drivers and pedestrians how to stay safe.

Learn more about car safety in our special section of ConsumerReports.org and visit the CR Safety blog.

2008 New York Auto Show video

Consumer Reports covered the annual New York auto show, with articles, photographs, blogs, and videos posted direct from the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Being a local event for us, we had an strong contingent attend the Big Apple show. Most coverage was posted prior to the doors opening to the public on Friday, including the videos below.

Filmed by CRTV, these videos help bring some of the most significant new models to life as the auto editors and engineers give bumper-to-bumper tours from the show floor.

Be sure to see our complete coverage of the 2008 New York auto show.

Video review - 2008 Volvo XC70

We recently completed the full road test of the 2008 Volvo XC70, the latest in a well established lineage of Volvo wagons. This model was tested outside a traditional magazine group, allowing us to provide our expert insights on the XC70 now without waiting to circle the luxury wagons.

The XC70 is now based on the new S80, which results in a longer car and brings the very latest in Volvo's arsenal of safety gear. We bought a typically equipped XC70 for $42,560. While the all-wheel-drive XC70 has a raised ride height and some SUV styling details, it is essentially the same car as the V70 wagon. We found the size and versatility of this wagon appealing and refreshing in a sea of SUVs. A quieter, better finished interior, a ride that's less stiff and more responsive handling than the previous model are welcome. The driving experience, engine performance and fuel economy aren't all that exciting, especially considering the price.

Watch the video to the right, hosted by Senior Automotive Engineer Tom Mutchler.

For the full road test, performance data, and pricing on the Volvo XC70 and any other model we have tested, visit the model overview pages from the pull-down search tools or Ratings charts in the Cars section of ConsumerReports.org. To see other car review videos, visit our video hub.

Video review - Nissan Altima

As we found in our recent family sedan tests, the Altima 3.5 SE V6 and the four-cylinder Altima 2.5 S are relatively refined. Both are coupled to a smooth continuously variable transmission, which helps them attain commendable fuel economy. (A hybrid model has just gone on sale.) In our testing, the Altima had good ride and handling, although the sportier 3.5 SE was stiff. At $31,995, our 3.5 SE had options such as heated leather seats, a backup camera, bi-xenon headlights, and a navigation system. Despite its hefty price, our tested car didn’t have optional stability control. At $22,705, our 2.5 S came with antilock brakes and a power driver’s seat as options.

Watch our video review below on this high-scoring sedan.   

Read the full review (available to online subscribers), complete with detailed testing data and report.

See more car review videos, auto show videos, and crash test videos.

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

Consumer Reports new video hub

Consumer Reports has recently launched a new video platform that gathers all the videos of our testing all in one place. In the Cars tab you’ll find the latest videos from our March 2008 issue on sports sedans. It features the BMW 328i, Cadillac CTS, Mercedes-Benz C300, and Saab 9-3. Plus the best American family sedan we've tested, the Chevrolet Malibu. Our staff experts highlight the tests of each vehicle, plus they demonstrate their strengths and weaknesses.

In addition to car review videos, the main Cars tab includes videos on how we test batteries and tires. Scroll down and you’ll also find a segment with advice on how to choose the right portable GPS navigation device.

There are tabs for each major content category covered at ConsumerReports.org, allowing visitors to hone in on the topic of choice. If you click on the right-facing arrow, you’ll find even more categories, including our exclusive Auto Show coverage. There you’ll find the latest clips from the 2008 Detroit show.

This marks the beginning of a video revolution here, with better integration and more to come. Grab some popcorn and check it out. Let us know what you think in the comments below.

—Liza Barth

Video highlights of the Detroit Auto Show

The press days of the Detroit Auto Show may be over, but you can see video highlights of many vehicles featured at the show. Check out our videos of the Ford F-150, Honda Pilot, Subaru Forester, BMW X6 and many more on our video page, plus see our full coverage of all the models unveiled at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.

Video: Diesels in Detroit

Diesels cars are the latest trend at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. Watch our video to see which manufacturers are adding diesel engines to their vehicle lineups.

Consumer Reports track tour video

Last year, Consumer Reports invited journalists to attend a media day at the Connecticut-based Auto Test Center. Timed to correspond with the launch of the April annual auto issue, the media event was an opportunity for print, Web, and broadcast journalists to learn about the latest survey findings and research to be published. Further, it was a chance to witness a demonstration of the process that each test vehicle goes through at the 327-acre facility.

While the CR team is working now on the 2008 April issue, AutoBlog has posted a video shot at last year's chilly event. In the video, you can see Senior Director David Champion and his engineering staff explain the test procedures, as well as see them demonstrated. The weather wasn't perfect that day, but the video does give a good taste of the hard work the team puts in evaluating each and every vehicle tested by Consumer Reports.

Click here to watch the video.

Learn more about how Consumer Reports tests cars.

—Jeff Bartlett

Video: How to buy a GPS

GPS navigation systems are the hot holiday gift this year. Prices are going down and there are many models to choose from, but with so many options and features, it can be difficult to determine which GPS unit to buy. Check out our video below for tips on how to make the right GPS purchase.

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

—Liza Barth

Three-row SUV tests and videos

For our test group in the January 2008 issue we drove 3-row SUVs. These vehicles, designed to fit seven or eight passengers, have become the popular choice among families. They also come with all-wheel-drive.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our auto staff experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus they demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

"People movers" features the Buick Enclave, Ford Taurus X, Subaru Tribeca, and Toyota Highlander. Watch the videos.

We also look at the redesigned Chrysler minivans—the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan.

—Liza Barth

Claim check: Chrysler Town & Country, the Jenga mobile

Sometimes car advertising is a literal balancing act. Decades ago Lincoln showed a diamond cutter performing his craft in the back seat. More recently, Lexus famously balanced a pyramid of champagne glasses on the hood of a running (but not moving) LS.

Now Chrysler shows kids playing Jenga in the back of a Town & Country minivan to advertise its "smooth ride" and flexibility of the Swivel n' Go seating. But can you really play Jenga in a moving minivan? Off to the Consumer Reports test track to find out!

--Tom “The Driver” Mutchler

More vehicles top safety list

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced the winners of their 2008 Top Safety Pick awards.  This year, 34 vehicles made the cut—more than ever before and more than double from last year. This shows that manufacturers have made important changes and have introduced safer designs. To qualify for this award, vehicles must earn the top score in front, side, and rear crashes based on the IIHS’ tests.  They also had to be equipped with electronic stability control, which has been shown to reduce crash risks and helps keep a vehicle in control and on its path during a turn to avoid skidding and sliding.

There are 11 new winners for 2008.  They include the Audi A3, Honda Accord, Subaru Impreza (equipped with optional ESC), Honda Odyssey, BMW X3 and X5, Hyundai Veracruz (built after Aug. 2007), Saturn Vue (built after Dec. 2007), Toyota Highlander, Honda Element, and Toyota Tundra. 

Check out the Institute’s crash test videos of these models, plus over 200 vehicles tested in front and side crash evaluations.

—Liza Barth

Dodge Nitro video

From the outside, the Dodge Nitro styling is eye-catching, tough-looking, and boxy. However, our engineers were unimpressed with the overall package. Watch our video to see how the Nitro fared in our tests.

Small SUVs and SUV alternatives tests and videos

For our test group in the December 2007 issue we drove vehicles in the very popular small SUV category. These vehicles perform adequately, but can’t compete with the top performers in this segment: the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our auto staff experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus our experts demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

"Small SUVs" features the Ford Escape, Jeep Patriot, Kia Sportage, and Saturn Vue. We also took a look at two SUV alternatives: the Kia Rondo and Suzuki SX4. Watch the videos.

—Liza Barth

Luxury and ultra-luxury sedan tests and videos

Last month we looked at affordable small and sporty small cars. This month we drove vehicles on other end of the price spectrum by testing luxury and ultra-luxury sedans for the November 2007 issue. These vehicles offer a high level of comfort, roominess, and luxury features at a premium price.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos from our auto staff experts. These videos highlight our tests of each vehicle, plus our experts demonstrate some of the latest technologies.

"The Money Class" features the BMW 535i (ahem, drifting), Infiniti M35, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (which includes the E320 diesel engine as well as the E350), Lexus GS 450h, and the Volvo S80. Watch the videos.

"Ultra-lux face-off" features a one-on-one showdown of the Lexus LS 460L and Mercedes-Benz S550. These cars were covered in a comparison article in print, though we will soon have full road tests posted in the model overview pages (available to online subscribers). Watch the videos.

--Liza Barth

Small and sporty car tests and videos

The two complementary test groups in the October 2007 issue prove car buyers don't need to break the bank to drive fun and affordable models.

The full road tests from the magazine have been posted at ConsumerReports.org, along with videos featuring our Auto Test Center engineers Jake Fisher, Tom Mutchler, and Jennifer Stockburger. These experts bring the tests to life by driving the cars and demonstrating the strengths and weaknesses of each model.

"Small Wonders" features the Hyundai Elantra, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, and Scion xB. Watch the videos.

"Sporty Cars" features the Mini Cooper S, Mazdaspeed3, and Saturn Sky has also been reproduced. These cars were covered in a comparison article in print, though we will soon have full road tests posted in the model overview pages (available to online subscribers). Watch the videos.

--Jeff Bartlett

Video: Pickup trucks

This month’s road test includes comparisons of new and redesigned full-sized and heavy duty pickup trucks.  The Toyota Tundra, formerly a smaller, refined truck with carlike ride and handling, now goes head-to-head with GM and Ford in power, towing, payload capacity, and size. See which ones top our Ratings, plus check out our videos on the highs and lows of our tests of the Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, and the Tundra. 

Video: Self-parking Lexus

Hate to parallel park? Lexus may have a solution for you. The Lexus LS460 has an optional $1,200 self-parking feature, but does it work?  Our engineers put it to the test.  Watch our video to find out if it’s worth the added cost on this luxury sedan.  And read about our experience with this new technology.