Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2013

Buying Advice at
Your Fingertips
T
he CONSUMER REPORTS Buying Guide for 2013 Is your handy
one-st op source for maki ng i nfor med, money-savi ng
purchases. Consult i t before you shop, t hen bring it t o t he
store or keep it beside your computer t o help you compare
brands. Here's how t o make t he best use of t hi s guide.
If you are interested in squeezing the
most value from every dollar you spend,
this little book will be an invaluable shop-
ping tool. It's packed with highlights
from our exclusive buying advice and
Ratings for more than 1,800 specific
product models.
Preceding each Ratings chart, you'll
find a Quick Guide, to our buying advice.
You can access our full buying advice by
using your smart phone to scan QR codes
provided with each Quick Guide (see
page 11 for how to use QR codes), or by
using the website address provided with
each category.
But before you delve into the best stuff
to buy, be sure to read about the best
places to buy itbe it online or a walk-
in storein the Comparing Retailers
section, starting on page 5. Based on
valuable information provided to us
by thousands of CONSUMER REPORTS
readers, we discuss buying trends and
provide information on the service,
selection, and prices of dozens of re-
tailers of appliances, computers, and
many other electronics products.
After you've brushed up on your shop-
ping savvy, turn to the Product Ratings
section, starting on page 11, for guid-
ance from the experts at CONSUMER
REPORTS on 31 product categories, pre-
sented in alphabetical order. Along with
the Ratings, you'll find a brand repair
history for some products that reflects
survey results from thousands of
readers about repairs and problems
they've had with various brands.
Are you in the market for a car? The
Autos section, starting on page 145, has
the latest Ratings and data on new and
used models. In addition to reviews of
the 2012-13 vehicles, there's a section on
the best and worst used cars, and reli-
ability Ratings for 236 models currently
in the marketplace. The tires section
includes 170 models.
So grab this handy little book when-
ever you shop. Whether you are shopping
online or in a store, we're certain it will
save you money and help you get the best
value every time you pick it up.

Copyright of Consumer Reports Buying Guide is the property of Consumers Union and its content may not be
copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written
permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.

12 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Quick
Guide
B LU -R AY P LAY E R S
B lu-ray players can play high-definition B iu-ray discs, D VD s, and C D s,
and many can stream video from N etflix and other online services.
T hey're the perfect match for HD T Vs.
Shopping tip
With most Blu-ray
players, you won't
have unlimited
Web browsing,
only access to
specific sites as
arranged by the
manufacturer.
Scan this or see how, page 1 1 .
For more buying advice,
go to ConsumerReports.
org/bluray
What to look for
Wireless capability lets you
hook up a player to a home
network without running
cables from your TV setup to
a modem or router. It's built
into some models, but those
called Wi-Fi-ready need an
adapter (or dongle), which
might cost extra
If you have a 3D TV or may
buy one soon, future-proof
your purchase by buying a
3D-capable player
What to skip
A standard DVD player,
if you have an HDTV, espe-
cially a 1080p mode!, which
B rands model P rice O verall score T est results
can display all the detail on
a Blu-ray disc. The superior
picture quality is worth the
slight extra cost
A Blu-ray player, if you have
a standard-def TVwhich
can't display Blu-ray's higher
picture qualityand have no
plans to buy an HDTV
What you'll pay
Blu-ray players generally start
at about $ 7 5 , though you may
find some models on sale
for less. Many full-featured
models from major brands
cost $ 100 to $ 25 0. 3D players
start at about $ 100, though
some cost $ 400 or more.
.- . 3 i a! g g
i .i .is S s -
B B
m
^ 'S
ii
-Di o
S E
P I F I G I VG I E
A 3 D P LAY E R S
Q 5
LG B P 620
P anasonic
D M P -B D T 220
LG B P 520
S amsung
B O -E 650 0
S amsung
B D -E 590 0

B L U - R A Y P L A Y E R S 13
Brands model Price Overall score Test results
P I F
10 0
G IV G l E
< u a i S = ) ' * - o o o p E E v j ^
5. -a ;3 -^ i S
Q o ra mo
A 3D PLAYE RS continued
o
3 6
i f l
Z l 7
71 8
__l
7] 9
Zl 10
7] 11
71 12
7] 13
7] 14
7] 15
16
17
IR
xO
19
20
21
22
To shi ha
BDX530 0
Sony B0 P-S790
Samsung
BO-ES60 0 0
Pa na so ni c
DMP-BDT320
Sony BDP-S590
Pioneer Elite
BDP-52FD
Yamaha
BD-AIOIO
Panasonic
DMP-B0 T50 0
Pioneer
BDP-140
Denon
DBP-1611UD
Philips BDP540 6
Sharp BD-HP75U
Onicyo
BD-5P80 9
Sharp
B0 -AMS20 U
V izioV BR337
Oni(yoBD-SP30 9
V iz!oV BR133
B S TANDARD PLAYE RS
e
e
e
e
e
o
o
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o
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o
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e
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9
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9
o
o
e
o
e
2 8 -4 0
21-32
11-26
12-28
20-30
32-42
16-32
13-28
28-39
17-24
14-28
17-40
2 4 -4 6
16-36
23-43
18-42
23-47
17
20
U
20
24
12
14
20
12
14
17
26
18
18
14
25
15
[ill 1 LG BP32O
[7] 2 Pa na so nic
DMP-BD87
O O O 11-24 17
O 16-28 22
Ra ti ngs Key Excellent V ery good OG ood Fa i r Poor
Q CR Best Bu y These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended.
0 Reco mmended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.

14 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y i N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
B r ands model P ri ce O verall score T est results
.S r s- S i
0 100
P I F I G I V G l E
;^ L= -3 E E
^ ^ S S "^ "^
oj gj ' ^ ; ^ ^ ^
3 w "^ H '-' o
5 . ^ ^ Q
: ai ai
ixi a
! ^ E
: S -B
g j
m
p
a
t
o
"o
c
a
r
d
o
m
e
m
fTl
B S T AN D AR D P LAY E R S conti nued
3 LG B P 220
4 Sony B D P -S 390
5 Samsung
B D -E 53O O
6 Toshiba
B D X2300
7 Panasonic
D M P -B D 77
8 Philips
B D P 3406/F7
9 Sony Internet TV
NSZ-GTl
10 Magnavox
M B P 521O /F7
U V izioV BRMO
12 RCA BRC11082
80
O O O

o e o o
a o
o
o
o o o
o o
o o o
e _ o e
11-24 16
17-30 24
11-38 13
28-38 18
17-29 23
17-34 14
17-23 17
20-36 16
16-26 20 ._._
15-56 15
Ratings Key E xcellent V ery good O G ood Fai r P oor
B CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best combi hati oh of performance and pri ce. All are recommended.
[i d Recommended T hese are hi gh-performi ng models that stand out.
G uide to the R ati ngs
Overall score i s based mai nly on p i cture clari ty and ease of use. D i splayed score i s out of
a total of 100 p oi nts. HD and DVD picture quality evaluate clari ty and color accuracy from
B i u-ray di scs at 1080p and D V D s upconverted to quasi -1080p; si gnals for both are sent vi a HD M I .
Ease of use pertai ns to the controls on the front panel and remote, and navi gati on through
the player's menu. Useful features i nclude audi o/vi deo outp uts. I nternet connecti vi ty and
servi ces, and 3D capabi li ty. Blu-ray and DVD load time is the average ti me i t took to load test
di scs. Price is approxi mate retai l.


C A M C O R D E R S 15
Quick
Guide
CAMCORDERS
Camcorders do more than just play back video on a TV. You
can edit your videos on a computer, e-mail them, or upload
video clips to such sites as Facebook or YouTube. Some
camcorders even have 3D capability, GPS, and built-in projectors
Shopping tip
Electronic view-
finders can help
you shoot video
in bright light
situations.
Scan this or see how, page 11
What to look for
An LCD with very good
quality, since most models
don't include a viewfinder
and you'll need to compose
on the display
Long battery life, since
battery life varies greatly.
Also, look for models that
can be charged via a com-
puter's USB port
Although image quality
is the most important factor
in our tests, be sure to check
for audio quality, which
varies greatly
What to skip
Digital zoom, since this
type of zoom degrades im-
age quality
What you'll pay
For full-sized HD camcord-
ers, you'll spend $300 to
$1,500. For pocket camcord-
ers, you'll spend $75 to $250.
go to ConsumerReports.org/
I camcorders
.a- s .a-
2
= s-
=^ ra
= 2 "K
a = ~
A HD MODELS
0 10 0
P I F I G I VGl E
Sony HDR-TD20V
Sony HDR-PJ710V
SonyHDR-P1 5 8 0 VE
Panasonic
HC-X900M
Sony HDR-CX580V
Canon VIXIA HFGI O
o 1
^
1
1
o 1

1
^
1
1
1
1
i
1

^

1
^
b
^
5
1
220
110
120
75
120
113

16 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 t 3
B rand S model P rice O verall score T est result s
E
ro *- ro 4j_ o ro 1^ ro :TZ C: C
o- Q. cr o c r - o - e ^ 2 ^
< 'T=
Si ^ ^^ 'S
! 0 0
F I G I V Gl E
in C
A H D M O D E LS cont inued
0 7
0 8
0 10
0 11
0 12
g 13
~ 15
0
0
0
16
0 19
0 20
0 "
g 2 2
0 23
0 24
0 25
0 26
g 2 7
g 28
g 29
C anon VI XI A H FM 41
S onyHD R -C X2 60 V
S onyHD R -P J2 60 V
S ony HD R -XR 2 60 V
C anon VI XI A H FM 52
C anon VI XI A HF M 50
P anasonic HC -V70 0
S ony HD R -T D IO
)VC E yerio G S -T D l
S ony N E X-VG IO
P anasonic
HD C -T M 90 0
P anasonic
HD C -HS 90 0
C anon VI XI A HF M 3 1
JVC G C -P XIO
C anon VI XI A
HF M 3 0 0
P anasonic
HD C -T M 90
P anasonic
HD C -S 0 90
JVC G Z-G Xl
C anon VI XI A HFR 3 2
S ony HD R -P J50 V
P anasonic
HC -V50 0 M
S ony HD R -P J3 0 V
C anon VI XI A H FR 3 0
R at ing s Key Excellent Very good OGood Fair #Poor
Q C R B est B uy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 R ecommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

C A M C O R D E R S
Brands model Pnce Overall score Test results
-g
S! S
S s
S 5
1 I
g i f
0 100
p I F I G i V C l E
A HD MODELS cont i nued
30 Sony HDR-CX210
31 Panasonic HC -V 500
e O
e o e o o
e 95
o o 110
B POCKET MODELS
1 Samsung
HMX-W300
2 Panasonic HX-WA2
3 Sony Bloggi e Live
HD MH5-T555
e
o
o
o
o
o
e i
o
e 1
1 e
5 o
^ o
o
o
o
e
e
e
120
65
125
Guide to the Ratings
Overaii score mai nly reflects p i cture quali ty and ease of use. The disp layed score is out of a t ot al
of 100 p oi nts. Picture quaiity is based on recorded vi deo images shot i n good li ght at the highest
quali ty setti ng available. Low-iight picture quaiity is based on recorded vi deo images shot in di m
li ght at the highest quali ty setti ng availabie. Ease of use takes i nto account ergonomi cs of t he
controls and disp lays, and user manual readabi li ty. Auto focus takes i nto account sp eed and
accuracy. Audio quaiity rep resents accuracy using the bui lt-i n mi crop hone, p ius freedom from
noise, image stabiilzer reflects how well the modei reduces the shakes i n a scene. Display quaiity
refi ects image clari ty, color accuracy, and contrast of the LC D. It also i ncludes our judgment of t he
onscreen i nformati onai disp lays, the video p iayback under bri ght sunli ght, and (i f ap p iicabie) touch-
screen usabi li ty. Versatility i ndi cates features that increase a camcorder's u t i li t y or cap abi i i ti es.
Stiii camera refers to overall quali ty of t he p hoto functi ons of the camcorder, whi ch inciudes
p i cture quali ty and handi i ng. Battery iife (min.) is how iong t he camcorder can conti nuously
record images wi th t he LCD vi ewer in constant use and occasional use of other features such as
t he zoom lens. Price is ap p roxi mate ret ai l.


Quick
Guide
COMPUTERS, DESKTOP
Desktop computers are setting a new performance
standard, especiaiiy in models that use Intel's newest
third-generation Core processors.
Shopping tip
S ave money on
your computer
purchase by
using coupon and
forum sites such
as T echbargains,
FatWailet.com,
and E bates.
S can this or see how, page 11
What to iook for
For browsing the Web and
checking e-mail, a low-end,
dual-core processor such as
the Intel Pentium Dual-Core
or AMD Athlon/Turion X2
A faster processor such as
the Intel third-generation
Core i3, i5, and i7, or AMD's
A4, A6, A8, or AlO for watch-
ing videos or playing games
4GB of memory, enough for
anything other than heavy
multitasking or video editing
For more buying advice, go to
ConsumerReports.org/computers
What to skip
3D capability, because the
technology remains costly
What you'ii pay
Some full-sized desktops
that are excellent performers
could cost as little as $650 to
$700. Once you add features,
of course, prices rise.
I Brand S modei Pnce Overall score Test results
E
A ALL-IN-ONE
0
p 1 f 1
100
G IV Gl E
V
e
r
s
a
t
i
i
i
a*
e
i
l
o
r
m
a
n
a.
E
r
g
o
n
o
m
i
D
i
s
p
l
2
S
p
e
a
k
e
eu
>
rx3
a
5
X r
1 Deii I nspiran O ne 2 3 3 0 $1,100
2 S onyV A l O
S VL24116FXB
1,700
3 HP O mni22O -1185qd 1,000
4 HP T oucliS mart put 1,160
1,400
1,850
5 Dell XP S O ne
XP S 027-1176B K
6 Lenovo I deaC entre
A 7 2 0 ( 2 56 4 5C U )
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
o
o
o
23
24
21.5
23
27
27
C ore
7-377O 5
C ore
I 7-3610QM
C ore
7-377O S
C ore
5-3 4 50 S
C ore
5-3 4 50 S
C ore
7-361O O M
8 2000
8 1000
8 2000
6 1000
6 1000
8 1000

C O M P U T E R S , D E S K T O P
19
Brand Smodei Pnce Overaii score Testresuits
re c: o .
^ i g
o
1 0 0
P I F I G I V Gl E
A ALL-IN-ONE continued
7] 7
7] 8
7] 9
7] 10
7] 11
7] 12
7] 13
g 14
7] 15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
HP TouciiSmart
520 -1 0 70 pc
A ppl e iMac 27-inc!i
MC81 3a/A
HP Toucl iSmart
61 0 -1 250 xt
HP Omni 27-1 0 54
A SUSET270 H0
HP Toucl iSmart
52O-lO5Opc
Samsung
DP7OOA3B-A02US
HP Toucl iSmart
520 -1 1 40 t
A ppl e iMac 2L5-inch
MC30 9LL/A
V ZOCA27-A2
HP TouchSmart
420 - l l OOt
AcerAZ5771 -UR31 P
ASUS ET241 0 IUTS-0 5
HPTouchSmart
320 -1 0 50 pc
A cerV eritonV Z2620 G
Lenovo IdeaCentre
B52O(31111MU)
Gateway One
ZX4951 -33e
HP Omni 220 -1 1 25
HP TouctiSmart
320 -1 0 30
$1.250
1 7nn
1 ,/UU
1 r\r\
1 ,UUU
1,150
1 ,0 0 0
QCfl
V DU
1 0 0 0
Qnn
oUU
1 20 0
1,350
"7nn
/uu
825
880
7nn
/UU
740
T)r\
/U
MO
60 0
r n
obU
Core
I7-26OOS
Core 5
2.7GHZ
Core
5 - 2 4 0 0
Core
5-2400C
O 27 C o r e i 5 - 3 4 5 0 8
Core ,
5 -2 4 0 0 S
C ore
5-2390T "
23
O 23 Core 3-21 0 0 6
21.5
27
Core 5
2.5GHZ
Core
7-3610QM
23 Corei3-21OO 4
23 C o r e i 3 - 2 12 0 4
O 23.6 Core 3-21OO 4
2 0 A 6 - 3 6 0 0
Core
5 - 2 4 0 0 S
23 Corei3-212O 4
21.5 C o r e i 3 - 5 5 O 4
Q 21.5 P e n t i u m ^
G630
20 A4-340 0
2000
1000
1500
1000
1000
1000
1000
1000
500
750
1000
1000
1000
500
500
1000
1000
1000
Ratings Key Excel l ent V ery good OGood Fair Poor
B CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. A l l are recomnnended.
E Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

. s
"i
Brand & modei Price Overall score Test results Features
m c o .i2 "ra cu
"^ S a S. .^
o
P I F I G I V G l E
A ALL-IN-ONE continued
26 HP T o u c t i S ma r t
52O -1O 2O P C
27 Gateway
ZX6971-UB20P
28 AcerAZ1620-UR31P
29 VZOCA24-A0
O O O 23
O 0 O 23
O 0 O O 0 20
O 0 O 0 24
4 1000
4 500
2 500
4 500
B COMPACT
[ ] 1 HP P avil ion S l iml ine
S 5-I 260
[ 7] 2 Gateway
5X2370-U R 10P
3 LenovoH320-0411JU 550
4 Acer Aspire
AX1470-U R 11P
N A N A N A C orei3-212O 4 1000
O N A N A N A A8-3820 6 1000
O N A N A N A C orei3-55O 4 1 000
O 0 O N A N A N A A4-3420 4 5 00
C FULL-SIZE
0 1 Dell XP S 8500 7
2
3
4
S
6
7
8
9
10
U
12
13
Oeil XP S 8500 5
HP P avil ion HPE
P hoenix h9- l l 5 0
Gateway FX6860
U R I O P
ASUSCM6870-US-3AB
Gateway
FX6860-U R 20P
AcerAM3970-UR14P
Gateway
D X4860-U R 14P
Gateway
D X4860-U R 11P
AS U S C M 6870-U S -2AA
H P P a vi l i o n h8-1210
HP P a vi l i o n P 7-1210
Lenovo I deaC entre
K410-11681HU

O
O
O
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
C ore 17-3770
C ore 5-3450
C ore 5-3S 50
C ore 7-3770
C ore 7-3770
C ore
7-2600
C ore 5-3450
C ore 5-3450
C ore
7-2600
C orei5-3450
FX-6100
A6-3620
C ore 3-2120
8
8
10
12
16
8
8
6
8
12
10
6
6
1000
1000
2000
2000
2000
1500
2000
1000
2000
2000
1500
1000
1000

C O M P U T E R S , D E S K T O P 21
Brand & model
o ez
TO ex:
Price Overall score Test results
g- a
100
F I G I V Gl t
C FULL-SIZE c o n ti n u e d
14 Ac e rAM3450 -l l R30 P
15 Dell In spi ro n
I560-2133NBK
16 Asus Essentio
CM1630-05
17 Lenovo ThinkCentre
M58(7244-A35)
o a NA NA NA FX-4100 6 1 0 0 0
Rnntii im
500 O a NA NA NA "^^^ 4
455
250
a NA NA NA 750
^ ^ .=. Il ^ MA Pentium , .-nr.
O a NA O NA jgggg 2 500
Ratings Key Exc e l l e n t ave r ygo o d OGo o d F ai r Po o r
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
bd Recommended These are high-performing models that stand o u t.
Overall score re fl e c ts all the Ratings fac to rs. Displayed scores are ro u n d e d ; models are l isted
in order of precise score out of a to tal of 1 0 0 . Scores are comparabl e between the fu l l -si ze d
and compact c ate go ri e s. Scores fo r the mini and al l -in -o n e categories are not comparabl e wi th
any o the r category. Versatility includes hardware, such as me mo ry-c ard slots and A/V c o n -
n e c ti o n s; so ftware , such as se c u ri ty programs and pro d u c ti vi ty appl i c ati o n s; and te c h su ppo rt
and warran ty pro vi si o n s. Performance re fl e c ts speed whiie ru n n i n g pro d u c ti vi ty appl i c ati o n s,
mu l ti me d i a appl i c ati o n s, and 3D games. Ergonomics represents the qu al i ty of the keyboard and
po i n ti n g device, and accessibil ity of fe atu re s. For al l -in-ones, display is our ju d gme n t of c l ari ty,
color, bri ghtn e ss, and vie win g angle. Speakers covers fi d e l i ty, bass response, and loudness.
Price is appro xi mate re tai l .


OUR READERS RATE TECHNICAL SUPPORT
W
hile Apple stood out
among manufacturers, in
general, tech support is
among the lovêst-rated
services in Consumer Re-
ports National Research Center surveys.
The survey is based on our readers' per-
sonal experiences with more than 8,650
desktop, laptop, and netbook computers.
Apple owners are far more likely to have a
positive tech-support experience than
those with Windows computers. Apple
solved Mac problems 73 percent of the
time, according to those surveyed who
used its support. But its overall score of 78
is eight points lower than last year, so even
Apple has slipped somewhat in user satis-
faction with its support offerings. Accord-
ing to those surveyed, problems were
solved for only 60 percent of those who
had to contact tech support, on average.
And many computer makers' free techni-
cal-support policies end after a year or
less. One notable exception is, again, Ap-
ple, which offers unlimited free support
(after the 90-day free phone support runs
out) when you go to a Genius Bar in one of
its stores.
T ech support
I n order of reader score.
M anufacturer
e o
R eader score S urvey results
> W o rse
Apple
D ell
Le no vo
HP/Co mpaq
As us
T oshiba
Acer/G ateway/eM achines
O
73%
61
53
51
45
45
42
B as e o n r e s po ns e s f r o m 7 . 4 7 0 o w ne r s o f 8 . 6 5 2 d e s k t o p, l apt o p, and ne t b o o k c o mput e r s w h o c o nt ac t e d t e c h s uppo r t
b e t w e e n J anuar y 2 0 1 1 and J anuar y 0 1 2 .


C O M P U T E R S , L A P T O P 23
Quick
Guide
COMPUTERS, LAPTOP
S ome laptops offer features and capabilities that rival
those of traditionai desl<tops. You'ii find more thin-and-
llght iaptops than ever, while 750GB and larger hard
drives are becoming more common.
What to look for
An 11- to 13-inch model if
you plan to carry the laptop
around with you frequently
A 14- to 16-inch screen for
the ideal balance of perfor-
mance, portability, and price
A 17- to 18-inch model for an
entertainment-oriented desk-
top replacement
What to skip
A high-powered quad-core
processor if most of the work
you're doing is run-of-the-
mill like e-mail and word
processing. Save a few dollars
and stick with the dual-core
choice
What you'ii pay
A well-equipped, 15-inch
laptop in the middle price
range might cost about $600
and include one of the newer
processors.
ConsumerReports. org/computers
Shopping tip
If you want to
customize a
rTiodel, order
la carte from the
manufacturer's
website.
Scan this or see how. page 11
Brand 8 modei Price lO verali score Test resuits Features
i/l >, Oj >- >-
^ - ^ i_j - ^ _re
1 i 11 i
0 100
P I F I G I V Gl E
A 11 iNCH iUIODELS
[ ] 1 A ppie MacBook A ir
11-inch MD223LL/A
p i 2 A ppie MacBook A ir
11-inch MC968LL/A
3 ASUS Zenbook
UX21E-DH52 U itrahook
4 HP P avilion dml-4l70us
$1,000 6.5 2.4
6.25 2.5
O O O 4.75 2.5 5.^^^^,^
O O 8.25 3.3
C ore
B 13-INCH MODELS
p ] 1 A ppie MacBook A ir
13-inch MC965LL/A
p ] 2 ASUS Zenbook P rime
UX31A-DB51
1.300
1,100
O 9 2.9
C ore 5
1.7GHZ

Brand S modei Price Overal l score Test r esui t s Features
S
11
o S
P I F I G I V G l E
B 13-iNCH MODELS continued
*^ ^ ^-^ ^ 1 . 8 G H Z
O e 8 . 25 2. 9 5. ^^^^%
'-'^ 3 -' 5-2557 M
_ , , . ,. , C o r e
\i/\ Apple M acB o o k Air
1 3 -incb M O 23 I LL/A
Samsung
N P 90 0 X3 A-B 0 1 U B
Asus Z e nB o o k
U X3 1 -R S L8 U itr abo o k
Sony V AI O S V T 1 3 1 1 C G XS
U itr abo o k
$1 ,20 0
90 0
90 0
1,200
Sony V AI O S V S 1 3 I 1 2F XB 90 0
90 0
1,200
1,200
750
8 Toshiba P o r te ge
Z 93 5-S T 2N O 1
9 Apple M acB o o k P r o
1 3 -inc!l M D I O I LL/A
10 Apple M acB o o k P r o
1 3 -incl l M D 3 1 3 LL/A
11 Toshiba P o r te ge
U !tr abo o kZ 8 3 5-P 3 3 0
12 Dell !nspi r o n
I 1 3 Z -6591 S LV
13 Acer Aspir e S 3 -951 -6646
U i t r abo o k
14 LenovD ide aP ad U 3 1 0
U !tr abo o k - 43 7 52WU
1 5 H P E N V Y 1 3 -1 O 3 O N R
C 14-iNCH MODELS
7 0 0
7 0 0
7 20
90 0
O
O O 7 .7 5 3 . 3 5 . ^3 ^,,
O 8 3 .8 5.^3 ;ô
O O 8 2. 4 3 . ^3 ^^
e e O 7 .5 4. 5 ^
e O 8 4.5 ^ i l
o o o 8 .25 2.4 .^^^^^^
e O O 6. 5 3 . 8 5 . ^3 / ; ,,
e e O O 5. 7 5 3 . 7 3 . ^3 ^,^
O O O 4 3 8 '^''r e 2D u
1 H P P avio n dm4-3 0 90 se 90 0
Dell XP S 1 4 U l t r abo o k 1 .1 0 0
1 .1 50
1 .0 0 0
8 50
7 50
8 0 0
8 Sony V A!O S V E 1 41 1 2F XB 6 0 0
H P E N V Y 1 4-3 0 1 0 N R
S pe ctr e t l ! t r abo o k
Toshiba S ate l l i te
U itr abo o k U 8 45W-S 40 0
Samsung U l t r abo o k
N P 53 0 U 4B -A0 1 U S
Toshiba S ate ite
R 8 45-S 95
Lenovo ide aP ad
U 40 0 -0 993 2M U
5-2450 M
C o r e
C o r e

Brand & model
f f i
Pnce Overall score Test results Features
' ^ ^ re 1-^
i 1 i 11 i
F I G I V G l E
I
C 14 - IN C H MODELS continued
9 Acer Aspi re Ti mel i neX
AS4830T-6443
10 Lenovo Thi nkPad Edge
E430 3254-ACU
U D ell Inspi ron
I14Z-0256BK
12 HP Pavi l i on dv4t-5100
13 D ell Inspi ron 14z
14 Del l Inspi ron
I14RN-1228BK
15 Toshi ba Satel l i te
L745-S4126
16 Acer l coni a-6120
Touchbook
D 15-TO 16IN C H MODELS
O O 10.25 4.5
O O 5.5 4.7
O O 8.25 4.5
O O 6.75 4.8
O O 9.25 4.5
O O 6.25 5.2
O O 5.5 4.6
0 O O 0 3 6
Core
3-235OM
Core
3-235OM
C o r e
3 - 2 3 5 O M
Core
3-231OM
C o r e
3 - 2 3 3 O M
C o r e
3-2350M
Penum
B 960
Core
5-480M
2,200
1 SonyV AI0SV S1511HGXB 1.800
2 Appl e MacBook Pro
15-i nch wi t h Reti na
di spl ay MC975LL/A
3 HP Pavi l i on dv6-7014nr
4 Samsung NP900X
4C-A01US
5 Acer Aspi re Ti mel i nel l
Ul trabook M5-581T-6490
6 Appl e MacBook Pro
15-i nch MD318LL/A
7 D ell XPS 15
8
Appl e MacBook Pro
15-i nch MD103LL/A
9 HP ENV Y Ul trabook
6t-1000
Q 10 Toshi ba Satel l i te
P855-S52OO
Q U HP Pavi l i on m6-l O45dx
[ 7 1 12 Del l Inspi ron
I15RSE-2833BK
F I 13 MSIGE60 0NC-006US
Core
7-3612QM
Core i7
2.3GH2
C o r e
5 - 3 3 1 7 U
Core
5-3317U
Core i 7
2.2GHZ
Cor e 7
2.3GHZ
Cor e
5-3317U
Core
7-3610QM
Cor e
5-321OM
L Ofc

B rand & model P rice O verall score T est results Features
S H
a:
S ra
P I F
100
G I V G l E
D 15- TO 16-INCH MODELS continued
J 14
3 IS
1 16
1
E] 17
Z] 18
E] 19
7| 20
] 21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
Tosnma satellite
S 855-S 5254
Acer Aspire V 3-571G -9435
Dell I nspiron
15R -2nd G enis
Sony VAIO V P C F234FX/B
Sony V AI O S VE 15115FXS
HP P avilion m6-1035dx
Dell I nspiron
I15R -21O 8S LV
Lenovo I deaP ad
V 570-1066AWU
ASUS N 53S M -D S 71
Dell XP S 15z
Toshiba S atellite
58550-S 5253
Toshiba S atellite
L755-S 511O
Dell I nspiron
I 15R M -3529B K
HP P avilion g6-ld70us
Toshiba S atellite
L8550-S 5242
HP P avilion dv6z-7000
AS U S K53E -D S 31
HP E N V Y S ieekhook
6-lO lO us
Acer Aspire AS 5560-8480
Toshiba S atellite
C 855O -S 5237
Gateway N V 55S 22U
Acer Aspire
AS 5349-2899
(t "inn
850
oU U
1.125
700
650
u U U
4oU
850
900
600
A'iD
4JU
cnn
J U U
530
j-Qn
D oU
550
550
Ann
D U U
500
J U U
600
T c n
J J U
C ore
7-3610QM "
C ore ,
7-3610QM
C ore ,
5-2430M
C ore ,
7-2670QM
C ore ,
5-321O M "
A10-4600M 6
C ore ,
5-3210M
C ore ,
5-2450M
C ore g
7-26700M "
C ore ,
5-2450M
AI O -4600M 6
C ore
3-2350M
C ore ,
3-2350M
C ore
3-2350M
A8-4500M
A6-4400M
C ore
3-235O M
A6-4455M
A8-3520M
A6-4400M
A8-352O M
C eleron
B 8 1 5

Br a n d & mo d e l P n c e O v e r a l l score Test r esul t s Feat ur es
ili
.s? g f 0
p I F I G I V G l E
D 1 5 - T O 16-INC H MODELS c o n t in u e d
3 6 Toshiba S a t e llit e
1755D-SS109
37 Acer A sp ire
AS5733Z-4816
3 8 ASUSX54C-BBK15
3 9 Asus K52F-BBR5
4 0 Lenovo G575 43834WU
4 1 Toshi ba S a t e llit e
C 8550-S 5230
E 17- TO 18-INCH MODELS
o 5.25 5.3 A4-3305M 4
P e n tiu m .
. P 6 200 ^
P e n t iu m
B96 0
P e n t iu m
P 6100
O O 3.5 5.9
O 5.25 5.1 E-450
O O 6 5 El-1200
H P P avilio n d v 7- 70l2n r
S amsung
NP700Z7C-S01US
A p p l e M acBook P ro
17-incb MD311LL/A
H P P av ilio n dv7-'6c95dx
H P P av ilio n dv7-7O2Ous
Toshiba S a t e llit e
P 875-S 7200
D e l l In s p ir o n
I17R-2368SLV
HP P avilio n dv7-7010us
ASUSG75V W-BBK5
1 0 D e l l In s p ir o n
17R-2nd Gen i5
U D e l l In s p ir o n
I17R N-2944BK
12 Toshiba S a t e llit e
L775-S71
13 D e l l In s p ir o n
17R-2n(i Gen 3
1 4 H P P avilio n d v 7- 6 l6 5 u s
L775D-S7112
C875D-S7220
7-3610QM
Core
7-3615QM
Core 7
2.4GHZ
Core
I7-26700M
Core
5-3210M
Core
5-321OM
Core
5-321OM
7 A 1 0- 46 00M
7-36100M
Core
5-2410M
3-235OM
Core
3-235OM
71 '^'^
'' 3- 2 310 M
7.1 A8-35OOM
6 A4-3305M
5.6 E I-1200

Overall score reflects all the R atings factors. D isplayed scores are rounded; models are listed in
order of precise score, out of a total of 1 0 0 . Ergonomics represents the quality of the keyboard
and pointing device, and accessibility of features. Portability score is based on battery life
and weight. Performance is based on performance while running productivity applications,
multimedia applications, and 3 D games. Versatility includes hardware such as memory-card
slots and A/V connections, software such as security programs and productivity applications,
and tech support and warranty provisions. Display covers display size, clarity, color, contrast,
brightness, and glare. Battery life (hr.) is estimated in hours while running productivity applica-
tions. Weight (lb.) is the weight of the laptop as you would carry it around, including the battery
but without the power adapter. Price is approximate retail.
iviost & Least Reiiabie
DESKTOPS
0% 5%
10% 15%
20%
Apple was among the least repair-prone
brands of desktop computers. T hat's what
we found when we asked readers who
bought 8,0 0 7 desktops from 20 0 9 through
the first half of 20 1 2 about their experi-
ences. T he graph shows the percentage of
models from each brand that were repaired
or had a serious problem. D ifferences of
fewer than 4 points were not meaningful,
and data are adjusted to eliminate differ-
ences due to the age of the desktop. M odels
within a brand may yary, and design and
manufacturing changes may affect future
reliabiiity. S till, choosing a brand with a
good repair history can improve your odds
of getting a reliable brand.
S ource; Annual P roduct R eliability S urvey,.
C onsumer R eports N ational R esearch C enter.
LAPTOPS
5% 10%
N o one laptop computer brand stood out as the most
or least reliable in 20 1 2. Although we lacked suffi-
cient historical data for all years to include C ompaq
in the graph, our data indicate that it has been as
reliable as the brands that appear in the graph.
T hat's what we found when we asked more than
23 ,50 0 readers who bought a full-size laptop be-
tween 20 0 9 and 20 1 2 about their experiences. T he
graph shows the percentage of models from each
brand that were repaired or had a serious problem.
D ifferences of less than 4 points aren't meaningful,
ahd we'ye adjusted the data to eliminate differences
linked to the age and use of the laptops. M odels
within a brand may yary, and design or manufacture
changes may affect future reliability. S tili, choosing
a brand with a good repair history can improye your
odds of getting a reliable model.


C O M P U T E R S , N E T B O O K 29
Quick
Guide
COMPUTERS, NETBOOK
If you're in the market for a netbooi<, models with duai-
core Atom processors are setting the performance
standard for that category. Netbooks are suitable as
secondary computers for performing routine tasks.
What to look for
2GB of memory, which will
improve performance on a
netbook
Intel's beefed-up, dual-core
Atom processor if you plan
to watch videos
An external optical drive,
if you want to install soft-
ware from a disc or play CDs
or DVDs
What to skip
Skip the netbook altogether
and invest in a tablet if you
want a device not only for
e-mailing and web brows-
ing, but also for a variety of
entertainment options
What you'ii pay
You should be able to find a
netbook with very long bat-
tery life and light weightits
two most important specs
for $200 to $250.
Shopping tip
Shop in January,
Juiy, and
October, when
older inventory
is cieared out
to make room
tor new models.
Brand & model
f
Of
Price Overall score Testresuits Features
'S E ra s
a.
P I F I G I V G I E
1 0 - TO 11-INCH MODELS
Acer Aspire One
AO722-OO22
Asus Eee PC
1O25C-MU17-BK
HP Mini 1104 A7K66UT 370
Acer Aspire One
A0D270-1410
HP Mini 210-4150NR 300
lenovD IdeaPad Net- n,,,
bopkjabiet_O65}7 HlL _ _ _
240
O O 7 3 C-60 4
O O O O 10.75 2.5 AtomN2600 1
O O O O 9.75 2.9 AtomN2600 1
O O O O 8.5 2.5 AtoniN2600 1
O O O O 9.75 3 AtomN26OO. 1
O O O 4 2.9 AtomN455 1

3 0 C O N S U f V l E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
R a t i n g s Key E x c e l l e n t V e r y good O G o o d 0 F a i r P o o r
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ail are recommended,
E Recommended These are high-performing modeis that stand out.
Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in
order of precise score, out of a total of 100. Portability reflects battery life and weight. Ergo-
nomics represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features.
Performance is assessed while running productivity applications: Display covers display size,
clarity, color, contrast, brightness, and glare. Versatility includes hardware such as memory-
card slots and A/V connections, software such as security programs and productivity applica-
tions, and tech support and warranty provisions. Battery life (hr.) is estimated i ni ours while
running productivity applications. Weight (lb.) includes the battery but not the power adapter.
Price is approximate retail.


C O M P U T E R S , T A B L E T 31
Quick
Guide
COMPUTERS, TABLET
Lightweight and highly portable, tablets are made
to be carried wherever you go. Most have 7- to
10-inch screens.
What to look for
A 10-inch screen for better
Web surfing, video, and gam-
ing; a 7-inch screen for better
portability
A display with a wide view-
ing angle
An operating system that
can be upgraded
Ability to access a rich vari-
ety of apps authorized by the
OS manufacturer
What to skip
. A 3G or 4G model, unless
you need "everywhere access"
and are willing to pay extra
for it
What you'll pay
You'll spend about $400 for
a good, 10-inch Android tab-
let with 16GB of memory
that's Wi-Fi-only. An equiva-
lent iPad costs $500. Smaller
Android tablets that we rec-
ommend start as low as $200.
Shopping tip
Tablets can double
as e-readers
and movie
viewers, and a
vtfide variety of
inexpensive
apps is available.
Brand & model Price Overall score Test results F eatures
Similar models, in small type,
are comparable to tested model.
l/l ^ .-ti
S S P
!r. " = .SP
0 IOO
p I F I G I V Gl E
A 7-TO8-rNCHSCREEN,3G/4G+WI-FI
[ 7 1 1 Samsung G alaxy Tab 7.7
( W i-F i, 4 G ,16 G 8 )
[ ] 2 Pantech E lement
( W i-F i, 4 G , 16GB)
[ ] 3 Samsung G alaxy Tab 7.0 P lus
( W i-F i, 4 G , 16GB)
[ 7 1 4 T-Mobile 5 pringB oard
( W i-F i, 4 G , 16GB)
p ] S Motorola D roid X yboard 8.2
( W i-F i, 4 G , 32GB) D roid X yboard
8.2 ( W i-F i, 4 G , 16GB)
B 6 ZTE O ptik ( W i-F i, 3G, 16GB)
0 7 Sony Tablet P ( W i-F i, 4 G , 4GB)
8 V iewSonic V iewP ad 7
W L F J J G J G B )
0.9 A nd. 3.2
0.8 A nd. 3.2
0.8 A nd. 2.2

B rand S model P rice O verall score T est results Features
S imilar models, n small type,
S111 i i
O 1 0 0
P I F I G I V G l E
t f
S .
o
B 7-TO 8-INCH SCREEN, WI-FI-ONLY
250
350
380
20 0
0 1 Toshiba E xcite 7.7 (Wi-Fi, 1 6G B ) {50 0
Q 2 Google N exus 7 (Wi-Fi, 1 6G B ) - , . .
N exus 7 (Wi-Fi, 8G B )
Q 3 Samsung G alaxy T ab 2 (7.0 )
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
M 4 Samsung G alaxy T ab 7.0 P lus
(Wi-Fi, 1 6G B ) G alaxy T ab 7.0
P lus (Wi-Fi, 32G B )
Q 5 B lackB erry P layB ook (Wi-Fi,
1 6G B ) P layB ook (Wi-Fi, 32G B ),
P layB ook (Wl-Fi, 64G B )
[ 71 6 Toshiba T brive 7" (Wi-Fi, 1 6G B )
T brive 7" (Wl-Fi, 32G B )
Q 7 Amazon Kindle P ire
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
[ 7 ] 8 B arnes & N oble N ook T ablet
(Wi-Fi, 1 6G B ) N ook T ablet
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
9 Acer I conia T ab AlO O
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
10 Lenovo I deaP ad T ablet Al
(Wi-Fi, 1 6G B )
11 Archos 70 b I nternet T ablet
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
12 Archos 80 G 9 (Wi-Fi, 1 6G B )
80 G 9 (Wi-Fi, 8G B )
13 Pandigital 5uperN ova
(Wi-Fi, 4G B )
14 ViewSonic V iewP ad7e
(Wi-Fi, 4G B )
1 5 C obyKyrosM I 0 70 35
(Wi-Fi, 4G B )
16 ViewSonic V iewB ook V B 730
(Wi-Fi, 8G B )
20 0
20 0
30 0
170
110
2 10
9.3
e O 9.5
8.3
0 .7 And. 4
0 .7 And. 4.1
0 .8 And. 4
6.5 0 .8 And. 3.2
7.6 1
RIM
O 5
O 6.3
6.2
O O 4.7
O 6.5
O 5.4
O O 5.7
O O O 6.1
O O 5.2
O O 4.3
O O O 6.6
0 N X2-
0 .8 And. 3.2
0 .9 And. 2.3
0 .9 And. 2.3
0 .9 And. 4
0 .9 And. 2.3
0 .7 And. 3.2
1 .1 And. 4
U And. 2.3
1 And. 2.3
0 .7 And. 4
1 And. 2.2
Ratings Key E xcellent V erygood O G ood Fair P oor
D C R B est B uy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
Ld Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

C O M P U T E R S , T A B L E T 33
Brand & modei Pnce Overaii score Test resuits Features
g - Simiiar modeis, in small type,
'ffi S are comparabie to tested model.
I I i
.E
P I F
100
I G I V Gl E
C 9-TO 12-INCH SCREEN, 3G/4G+W-FI
Appie iPad (Wi-Fi, 4G, 16GB)
(3ra gen) ipati (W -F , 4G, 64GB) (3rti
gen). iPad (Wi-Fi. 4G, 32GB) (3rii gen)
Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9
(Wi-Fi, 4G, 16GB)
Appie iPad 2 (Wi-Fi, 3G, 16GB)
iPad 2 (Wi-Fi, 3G. 32GB),
iPad 2 (Wi-Fi. 3G, 64GB)
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
(Wi-Fi, 4G, 16GB)
M otoroia Droid Xyboard 10.1
(Wi-Fi, 4G, 16GB)
Acer iconia Tab A501
(Wi-Fi, 4G. 16GB)
11.6 1.5 iOS5
8.9 1 And. 3.2
11.6 1.3 iO55
8.9 1.3 And. 3.1
8.9 1.3 And. 3.2
8.1 1.7 And. 3.2
D 9-TO12-iNCHSCREEN,Wi-Fi-ONLY
p ] 1 Appie iPad (Wi-Fi, 16GB)
(3rd gen)
[ ] 2 Asus Eee Pad Transformer
Prime TF201 (Wi-Fi, 32GB)
p ] 3 Samsung (Sataxy Tab 2 (10.1)
(Wi-Fi, 16G)
p ] 4 Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9
(Wi-Fi, 16GB)
[ 71 5 Acer I conia Tab A700
(Wi-Fi, 32GB)
p ] 6 Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
(Wi-Fi, 32GB)
p ] 7 ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T
(Wi-Fi, 16GB)
M 8 Lenovo ideaTab S2109
(Wi-Fi, 16GB)
[ ^ 9 Appie iPad 2 (Wi-Fi, 16GB)
0 10 Toshiba Excite 10 (Wi-Fi, 16GB)
[ 7 ] 11 Toshiba Excite lOLE
(Wi-Fi, 16GB)
I T] 12 Acer I conia Tab A510
(Wi-Fi, 32GB)
Q U Sony Tabiets (Wi-Fi, 16GB)
500
1
1
1
i

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
^
1 i
1 i
1 i
1
5 i
1 i
1 i
1
1 0 i
1 i
1 i
1 i
1
11.5
^ 8.5
5 12.4
8.4
5 9.5
5 9.3
^ 8.9
^ 10
1 11.6
^ 8.8
^ 8.1
^ 10
5 9.1
1.5
1.3
1.3
!
1.5
1.2
1.4
1.3
1.3
1.3
1.1
1.5
1.3
ios 5
And. 4
And. 4
And. 3.1
And. 4
And. 3.1
And. 4
And. 4
OS 5
And. 4
And. 4
And. 4
And. 4

Brands model Price Overall score Testresuits Features
S i m i l a r model s, i n s m a l l t y p e ,
a r e c o m p a r a b l e t o t e s t e d m o d e l .
i/> r o u^ *^ ,-ti 1-^
100
F I G I V G l E
D 9 - TO 12- INCH S CR E E N, W I- FI- ON L Y c o n t i n ue d
14
I S
16
17
18
19
2 0
2 1
2 2
2 3
2 4
2 5
Asus E ee P ad T r a n s fo r m e r
( W i - F i , 16 G B )
Motorola Xo o m (Wi -F i , 32G B )
Acer I c o n ia T ab A2 0 0
( W i - F i , 16 G B )
Acer I c o n ia T ab A50 0
( W i - F i , 16 G B )
Asus E ee P ad S l i d e r S Ll O l
( W i - F i , 16 G B )
LenovD T hin kP a d T a b le t 1838
, ( W i - F i , 16 G B )
Toshiba T hr i ve (Wi -F i , 16G B )
Velocity M ic r o C ruz T a b le t T 5I 0
(Wi -F i . 8G B )
ArchOS 1 0 1 G9 (Wi -F i , 16G B )
ViewS onic V ie wP a d lO e
(Wi -F i , 4G B )
ArchOS 1 0 1 G 9 (Wi -F i , 250G B )
ViewS onic V ie wP a d l O p i
JWi :F i , 64G B )
390
2 50
R atings Key E xc e l l e n t V e r y good O G o o d F a i r P o o r
D CR Best Buy T hese m o d e ls o ffe r t he b e st c o m b i n a t i o n of p e r fo r m a n c e a n d p r i c e . Al i a re r e c o m m e n d e d .
0 R ecommended T hese are hi gh-p e r fo r m i n g m o d e is t ha t s t a n d o ut .
Guide to the R atings
Overall score is based o n ease o f us e , d is p la y , t o uc h re s p o n s e , ve r s a t i l i t y , b a t t e r y l i fe , a n d we i ght .
We jud ge ease of use r e a d i n g b o o ks , p l a y i n g m e d i a , a n d us i n g e -m a ii a n d t he Web. D isplay
s c o r e r e fl e c t s c o lo r , vi e wi n g a n gl e , b r i ght n e s s , a n d a m o un t o f gl a r e . Touch response i n d i c a t e s
r e s p o n s ive n e s s o f t he t o uc h s c r e e n whe n s e l e c t i n g a n d m o vi n g o b je c t s o r t y p i n g. Versatility
r e fl e c t s t he p r e s e n c e o f us e ful fe a t ur e s . Portability s c o re is b a s e d o n s ize , we i ght , a n d b a t t e r y
i i fe . Battery iife (hr) i n d i c a t e s t he t i m e i t ta ke s t o d e p i e t e a fui l y c ha r ge d b a t t e r y whi l e t he
t a b l e t lo a d s a s e que n c e o f Web p a ge s o ve r Wi-F i. Weight (ib.) is wi t ho ut a c a s e o r c o ve r . T he
operating system is t he p r o gr a m t ha t r un s t he us e r i n t e r fa c e a n d a p p s . Price is a p p r o xi m a t e
r e t a i l .


C O O K T O P S 35
Quick
Guide
COOKTOPS
Remodeiing your kitchen? Now's the time to consider
the added flexibility of a separate cooktop and wall-oven
combo. WW\\e gas and smoothtop electric cooktops still
make up most of the market, prices are dropping for induction,
which speeds cooking using an electromagnetic field.
What to looic for
A gas cooktop if you want
the visual confirmation of a
flame, a smoothtop electric for
easy cleaning
An induction model for
quick heating; some now cost
just over $1,000, though you
can still pay far more
At least one high-powered
gas burner or electric element
for quick heating
What to skip
Buying by Btu. Short for Brit-
ish Thermal Unit, this merely
indicates gas used and heat
generated and doesn't guaran-
tee better or faster cooking
Models with recipe databases
and other pricey features if you
just want good cooking
What you'll pay
You'll probably pay $1,300 or
more for a separate cooktop
and wall oven, while some
high-performing electric and
gas ranges sell for less than
half that amount.
ConsumerReports,org/cooktops
Shopping tip
Remember
that you'll
need magnetic
CQOkware for
the induction
cooktop
technology
to work.
Brand S model Price Overall score Test Features
results
Similar models, in small
type, are comparable to
tested modei.
il il
I F I G I V G l E
A 36-I NCH G AS COOKTOPS
0 1 ThermadorSGSX365fS $1,900
HTI 2 G E Monogram
ZGU385N5M[SS]
f TI 3 GE Profile
1GP975WEKIWW]
M 4 GECafeCGP6505ETSS
' ' Profiie PGP986SETS5
[71 S Electrolux
EW36GC55G[S1
0 6 LG LCG369U5T]
0 7 Bosch NGM8654UC
0 8 Kenmore 32313 32333
e
o
o
o
o
e
o
e
e
e
e
3
3
1
1
2
2
4
2
2
2
2
3
2
2
0
2
0
0
2
1
1
1
1
1

3 6 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
B r a n d & m o d e l
O v e r a l l score Test F e a t u r e s
r e s u l t s
.SP
-= i ^ o
: tu n3 (
L E -g (
0 1 0 0
p I F I G I V G l E
B 30-INCH ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP MODELS
0 1 Kenmore 44273
Q 2 Ke n m o r e 42733
[ 7 1 3 F r i gi d a i r e P rofessional
FP E C 3085K[S ]
0 4 G E C afe C P 3505T S S
[ 7 ] 5 E l e c t r o l u x I con
E 30E C 65E 1S S I
0 6 LG LC E 3O 81[S T 1
Q 7 Whirlpool
G 7C E 3034XP
[ 7 ] 8 G E P r o f i l e
P P 945B M [B B 1
0 9 Bosch N E T 5054U C
C 30-INCH INDUCTION COOKTOPS
[ > ^ 1 Ke n m o r e 4 38 2 0
[ 7 1 2 G E P r o f i l e
P HP 900D M 1B B 1
0 3 Kenmore 43800
0 4 Bosch N I T 5065U C
[ 7 ] 5 E l e c t r o l u x I con
E 30I C 75F[S S ]
Q 6 F r i gi d a i r e P rofessional
FP C C 3085K[S ]
[ 7 | 8 KitchenAid
KI C U 500XB
Q 9 Whirlpool
G C I3O 61X[B ]
0 10 LG LC E 30845
D 36-INCH ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP MODELS
1 F r i gi d a i r e P rofessional
FP E C 3685K[S 1
1,000 1 3
Ra t i n gs Key E xc e l l e n t V e r y good O G o o d Fa i r P o o r
Q CR B e s t Buy T hese models o ffe r the best c o mbin a tio n of p erformance and p r i c e . Al l are recommended.
0 Re c o m m e n d e d T hese are high-p e r fo r min g models tha t s ta n d o ut.

C O O K T O P S 37
Most & Least Reliable
COOKTOPS
GE
Whi rl pool
Frigidaire
Kenmore
KitchenAid
Jenn-Air
KitchenAid
GE
Kenmore
Wolf
Jenn-Air
0% 5% 10% 15% 20%
ELECTRIC
,,, GAS
J e n n - A i r vas t h e m o st r e p a i r - p r o n e br a n d
o f e l e c t r i c c o o kt o p s a n d a m o n g t h e m o st
r e p a i r - p r o n e g a s c o o kt o p s. A l t h o ug h we
l a c ke d suf f i c i e n t h i st o r i c a l d a t a t o i n c l ud e
Da c o r a n d W h i r l p o o l g a s c o o kt o p s,. we d i d
h a ve e n o ug h i n f o r m a t i o n t o c o n c l ud e t h a t
W h i r l p o o l has be e n r e l i a bl e a n d Da c o r
r e p a i r - p r o n e . Th a t ' s wh a t we f o un d wh e n
we a ske d o ve r 16, 000 r e a d e r s wh o bo ug h t
a c o o kt o p be t we e n 2007 a n d 2011 a bo ut
t h e i r e xp e r i e n c e s. Th e g r a p h sh o ws t h e
p e r c e n t a g e o f m o d e l s f o r e a c h br a n d t h a t
we r e r e p a i r e d o r h a d a se r i o us p r o bl e m .
Di f f e r e n c e s o f l ess t h a n 4 p o i n t s a r e n ' t
m e a n i n g f ul , a n d we ' ve a d j ust e d t h e d a t a
t o e l i m i n a t e d i f f e r e n c e s l i n ke d so l e l y t o
p r o d uc t a g e . Mo d e l s wi t h i n a br a n d m a y
va r y, a n d c h a n g e s i n d e si g n o r m a n uf a c -
t ur e m a y a f f e c t f ut ur e r e l i a bi l i t y. St i l l ,
c h o o si n g a br a n d wi t h a g o o d r e p a i r h i st o r y
c a n i m p r o ve yo ur o d d s of g e t t i n g a r e l i - ,
a bl e m o d e l .
Source: Annual Product Reliability Survey,
Consumer Reports National Research Center.
Overall score refl ects cooktop performance at high and low heat. The displayed score is out
of a t ot al of 100 points. Hlqh heat refl ects how quickly the highest-powered element heated
a large pot of water to near boi l i ng. Low heat refl ects how well t he lowest-powered element
melted and held chocolate wi t hout scorching and how the most powerful element, set to low,
held t omat o sauce below a boi l . Price is approximate retai l cost.


Quick
G uide
C O R D LE S S D R I LLS
You don't have to pay hundreds for a contractor-grade drill
if you're mostly doing smaii jobs. We also found low-priced
drilis that breezed through bigger projects.
S hopping tip
Check the drill's
baianceigrip it
and lift it as if
to drive a screw.
The chuck shouid
point straight
ahead and not tilt
up or down.
What to look for
Drills with two batteries for
use in tandem
Chargers that recharge in
an hour or less
Multiple speeds
A meter that indicates the
remaining charge
What to skip
Buying strictly by volt-
age; some 14- and 15.6-volt
models had more oomph
and staying power in our
tests than some with 18 volts
The maximum power and
run time of a drill powered by
lithium-ion or nickel-metal-
hydride batteries if you're
simply hanging pictures;
consider a less-expensive,
nickel-cadmium-powered
drill for lighter-duty chores
What you'ii pay
Models with 14.4 to 18 volts
typically offer the best balance
of power and light weight,
and cost about $70 to $200.
ConsumerReports. org/dritls
B rand & model Price I O verail score I Test resuits
'S
O J QJ QD > '~^ l i ^ QJ
a j S . E. E; = a J : 3 i O >-
c a . o *- ' *- ' - o *- ; " : : : ; >- *-
r.S So
0 10 0
P I F I G I V G l E
A C O R D LE S S I M P A C T D R I V E R S
0 1 Panasonic EY720 2GQW $30 0
0 2 Panasonic EY7540 LN2S 310
Q 3 Makita6980 FDWOE
Q 4 RyobiP230 C
[ 2 ] s Milwaukee 240 1-22
0 6 DeWaitDW920 K-2
4 12 NiMH 55 1
3.2 14.4 Li 50 2
a 3.6 12 NiMH 60 1
O 4.6 18 NiCd 60 1
# 0 0 2.1 12 Li
0 O O 2.5 7.2 NiCd
30 1
60 1
B G E N E R AL U S E D R I LL/ D R I V E R S
0 1 H itachi DS180 SAL 170
0 2 Panasonic EY6432GQKW 20 0
0 3llakitaLXFDOlCW 20 0
o 3.4 18 Li 40 2
O O 4.9 15.6 NiMH 55 2
O O 3.318 Li 15 2

C O R D L E S S D R I L L S 39
Brand & model Price O verall score Testresuits
^ s.
p I F I G I V G l E
B GENERAL USE DRILL/DRIVERS continued
0 4 R idgid R86008K
0 5 D eWait DCD760KL
B 6 C raf tsman 17310
Q 7 Porter-C ahlePC i80D K-2
Q 8 R yobiP850
C LIGHT USE DRI LL/ DRI VERS
O 4 18 Li 25 2
a O O 3.9 18 Li 30 2
O O 3.8 19.2 Li 30 2
O O O 5.1 18 NiCd 60 2
O O O 4.9 18 NiCd 6 0 2
[^ 1 Hi tachi 0S14DSFL
0 2 D eWaI t 0CD710S2
0 3 M i i w a u i t e e 2410-22
0 4 R idgid R92009
B s C raf tsman 17586
0 6 DeWaltOC742KA
0 7 Makita62800WPE
B 8 Porter-CablePCLl20DDC
Q 9 C raf tsman 17191
0 10 Skii 2895-01 .
0 11 Hitachi DS12DV F3
D TOUGHER JOB DRILL/DRIVERS
O O 3.3 14.4 Li 40 2
O O 2.5 12 Li 30 2
O O 2.6 12 Li 30 2
O O O 2.6 12 Li 30 2
O O 2.2 12 Li 30 2
O O 3.8 12 NiCd 60 2
O 3.5 14.4 NiCd 30 2
O O 2.3 12 30 2
O a 4.4 19.2 NiCd ' 60 1
O O O O 4.7 18 NiCd 60 2
a O 3.4 12 NiCd 30 2
iU ai(ita BHP454
DeWaIt DCD 940KX
Hitachi 0S18DMR
iU ilwaukee 0726-22
Maki t a BDF451
Milwaukee 0824-24
O 5 18 Li 30 2
O O 6.1 18 NiCd 60 2
O O 6 18 NiMH 30 2
6.2 28 Li 60 2
a a a O 4.9 18 L 45 2
o o 6.2 18 Li 60 2
G u i d e t o t h e R at i n g s
Overaii score is based on p ower and torque, run time, charge time, and handling. Speed is for driil-
ing and driving screws. Power is twisting force. Run ti me is work p er battery charge. Charge time
is for a fuiiy discharged battery. Handiing is weight, balance, and effort to p osition head. Noise at
ear denotes sound p ressure, measured in decibels. Weight (ib.) inciudes the drill and battery p ack.
Volts is as sp ecified for the battery p ack. Under battery type, Li is L ithium-ion, NiMH is nickel-
metal hydride, and NiCd is nickel cadmium. Price is ap p roximate retaii with batteries and charger.


Quick
G uide
D E C K S T AI N S
T tie longest-lived stains kept their color and resisted
cracking, dirt, and mildew for at least three years. S ome
also meet tougher regional C alifornia limits for VO C s. B ut
several looked shabby after just one year in the elements.
S hopping tip
Semitransparent
stain is a good
choice for cedar,
redwood, and
other pricey
woods that you
want to show off.
What to look for
A mildew-resistant stain
for shady areas, and a fade-
resistant one for sunny spots
Opaque, or solid, stains for
a long-lasting finish
Clear finishes to show off
natural color and grain
provided you're willing to
reapply them each year
Semitransparent stains for
a reasonable compromise
What to skip
Buying strictly by brand;
different products from the
same manufacturer often
performed difFereritly
What you'll pay
You'll need about a gallon
of solid stain ($25-$40) for a
350-foot deck that's been pre-
viously stained, twice as much
for two coats on a new deck.
Double the amounts for semi-
tr.ansparent stains ($30-$40)
or clear sealers ($18-$42),
which tend to soak into
the wood.
go to ConsumerReports.org/stains
B rand & M odel P rice O verall score T est results F eatures
aj ^ oj ' aj ' * ^ go ^ ^
I
100
S
a.
a.
<i
3 S o. r
S -!
i
Cl. '
O)
1/1
.!2 = a
P I F I G I VG l E =
C LE AR S E ALE R S Soak into wood showing grain but allowing the wood to age naturally.
T hompson's W aterSeal
A dv aneed W aterproofer
T hompson's W aterSeal
W aterproofer Plus Clear
Wood P roteetor
O lympic M ax imum W ater-
proofing Sealant (Lowe's)
Wolman R aincoat Clear
W ater R epellent
$25
15 f E
33 B I
18 B I
O N A N A
O N A N A
e N A N A
O N A N A
250
100
2 3 0
2 5 0

D E ; C K S T A I N S
Brand & Model Price Overall score Test results Features
ra 'S s ~
5 W ' E ^
s =
o IOO
p I F I G I V GI E
A CLEAR SEALERS continued
5 Benj ami n Mo o re
Waterp ro o fer
6 Sherwin-Williams
Deckscap es Cl ear Seal er
$22
38
9
9
NA NA
NA NA
250
311
B SEMI -TRAWSPARENT STAI NS So ak i n t o wo o d ad d i n g c o l o r but grai n s t i l l v i s i bl e.
1 Behr Premium Semi- _ _ _ _ _
Transp arent Weatherp ro o fing 36 Q i H B i O NA
Wo o d Stain (Ho me Dep o t)
2 Sherwi n-Wi l l i ams
Deckscap es Semi-Transp arent
3 Fio o dTWF-SEMI Semi-
Transp arent Wo o d Stain
4 Sik k ens Ceto l SRD
Semi-Transp arent
5 Ol ymp ic Maximum Deck,
Fence & Siding Semi-
Transp arent Stain (Lo we's)
6 Wo l man DuraStain
Semi-Transp arent Stain
7 Sherwin-Wiil iams Wo o dscap es
Semi-Transp arent Stain
24
43
36
36
46 HM
e NA
e NA
o NA
NA
. NA
NA
100
170
250
250
233
250
79
Ratings Key Exc el l ent V ery go o d OGo o d Fai r P o o r
B CR Best Buy These mo dels o ffer the best co mbinatio n o f p erfo rmance and p rice. All are reco mmended.
0 Recommended These are high-p erfo rming mo dels that stand o ut.
Overall score is a vielghted average o f each year's ap p earance fo r up to 3 years o f testing.
Appearance after 3 years summarizes p erfo rmance after 1 year o f o ur accelerated weathering
(i.e., equivalent to 1 year o n a deck o r 3 years o n a vertical surface). Testing sto p s when ap p ear-
ance falls to Fair o r Po o r, at which time the p ro duct must be reap p lied. Appearance after 6 years
summarizes p erfo rmance after 2 years o f o ur accelerated weathering (i.e., eguivalent to 2 years
o n a deck o r 6 years o n a vertic al surface). Testing sto p s when ap p earance falls to Fair o r Po o r,
at which time the p ro duct must be reap p lied. Appearance after 9 years summarizes p erfo r-
mance after 3 years o f o ur accelerated weathering (i.e., equivalent to 3 years o n a deck o r 9 years
o n a vertical surface). Testing sto p s after 3 years, regardless o f whether the p ro duct ap p ear-
ance fails to Fair o r Po o r. Pro ducts that at this p o int stil l rate at least Go o d fo r ap p earance are
co nsidered sup erio r p ro ducts. VOCs (qrams/liter) is the level o f vo l atil e o rganic co mp o unds
stated o n the can. Price is ap p ro ximate retail .

Brand & Model Price Overall score Test results Features
|
ra re fT3 en o
ai cu OJ 'w *-'
0 100
P I F I G l y G l E
S OL iD S TA I N S Form p aint- lik e f ilm th at sh ow s only tex ture of w ood g rain.
Beh r S olid C olor D eck, Fences
S iding Wood S tain (Home D epot)
Wolm an O uraS tain S ol id
S ears Weatherbeater Dea,
Fence S S iding S ol id
S h erw i n- Wi l l i am s
Woodscapes S ol id
Oiy m p ic M aximum O ecl<, Fence
S S i di ngS ol i d S tain (Lowe's)
Beh r P remium S olid C olor D eck,
Fence S S iding Weatherproofing
Wood S tain (Home D epot)
S ik k ens R ubbol S ol id
S iding Finish
Woodsm an S ol id C ol or
O eck S tain
O
O
O O
O
O
39
35
O
O
100
100
90
136
166
100
200
250
D S TIL L BE iN G TE S TE D C om p leted th e q uivalent of th ree to six y ears' ex p osure.
1 A ce Wood R oy al S emi-
T ransparent O eck & S iding
2 Beh r S emi-T ransparent D eck,
Fence & S iding (Home D epot)
3 Benjam in Moore Arborcoat
D eck & S iding S ol id
4 C abot S emi-T ransparent
D eck & S iding (Lowe's)
5 C abot S ol id Acry l ic S iding
(Lowe's)
6 C abot S ol id C olor D ecking
S tain (Lowe's)
7 Flood S WF-S O LI D
S ol id Wood S tain
8 S h erw i n- Wi l l i am s
D eckscapes S ol id
9 S ik k ens R ubbol S ol id D E K
D eck S tain
10 Th om p son' s WaterS eal D eck &
House S emi-T ransparent Latex
11 Th om p son' s WaterS eai
D eck & House S ol id Latex
30
44
38
36
38
2 7
43
N A N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
O N A N A N A N A
e N A N A N A N A
O N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
N A N A N A N A N A
N A IOO
N A 100
N A 100
N A 2 50
N A 100
N A 100
N A 2 50
N A 12 2
N A 2 50
N A 100
N A 100


D I G I T A L C A M E R A S , A D V A N C E D 4 3
Quick
Guide
DIGITAL CAMERAS, ADVANCED
Consumers are placing increasing demands on digitai
cameras, and manufacturers are meeting these needs
by adding more capabilities.
Shopping tip
SLRs have the
most features,
but they're aiso
the heaviest,
most expensive
cameras.
Scan thi5 or see how, page 11
What to iook for
Wide-angle capability, with
some models able to go as
wide as 24 mm
Extended zoom ranges from
5x to 42x
An SLR or SLR-like model
with interchangeable lenses
for the most versatility
Swiveling display for taking
hard-to-reach shots
A viewfinder is a plus,
though not a necessity
ConsumerReports.org/cameras
What to skip
An extended warranty,
because digital cameras have
been among the most reliable
products overall in our sub-
scriber surveys
What you'ii pay
For advanced point-and-
shoots, expect to spend $350
to $600. For SLR-like cam-
eras, expect to spend $450
to $1,200. For SLRs, expect to
spend $500 to $2,000.
B rands modei P rice O v eraii score Test resuits
0 100
p I F I G I V G i E
A ADVANCED PO INT AND-SHOOT
B 1 Canon PowerShotGl2 $450
P anasonic Lumix
DMC-FZ150
F uj ifilm FinePixX - Sl
F uj ifiim FinePix XIO
F uj ifiim FinePix
H S3 0EX R
10 15 e e O e 0 2s-mmm
12 20 e o e e 25-6OOinm
12 35 e o 24-624mm
12 14 O O 28-112mm
16 26 O O O O 24-720mm
Ratings Key Excellent Very good O Good 0 Fai r Poor
Q CR B est B uy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Recommended These are high- performing models that stand out.

C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
B r a n d s m o d e l P r i c e I O v e r a l l s c o r e I T e s t r e s u i t s
S ,
.a 3 75 o
o . .^ = .c;
. ^ o S i o
is .g a y
0 too
P I F I G U G l E
A ADVANCED P O I NT -AND-SHO O T continued
6 Ca n o n P ow e r S h ot
G I X
7 Fu j i f i i m Fi n e P i x X l O O 1.200
8 L e i c a D -Lux 5
9 P a n a s o n i c Lu m ix
D M C -tX5
1 0 Sa m s u n g T i i O O
1 1 R ic o h G R D ig ita l I V
1 2 O i ym p u s X Z -1
13 F u j i f i i m Fin e P ix HS I O
1 4 P a n a s o n i c L u m ix
O M C -FZIO O
15 F u j i f i l m Fin e P ix
HS2DEXR
300
14 20 O , O 28-112mm
12 17 O 35mm
10 10 O O O N A 24 - 9 0m m
10 10 O O O N A 24 - 9 0m m
10 13 O O N A 24 -7 2n im
10 8 O O N A 28 m m
10 10 O O O N A 28 - U 2m n i
10 28 O O O 24-720mm
14 20 O O O 25 - 6 00m m
16 28 O 6 O O O 24-720m m
B SLR
0 1 Ca n o n E O S 6 0D 1,050
0 2 O i ym p u s E-5 1,600
0 3 Ni l ( O n D70 0 0 1,100
0 4 Ca n o n E O S R ebel T 3i 750
0 5 Ca n o n E O S 7D D ig ita l 1,850
0 6 Sony O 5tR -A58O L 9 00
Q 7 Ca n o n E O S R e b e l T3 5 00
Q 8 Ca n o n E O S R e b e iT 2 i 6 5 0
B 9 Ni i ( O n D31 0 0 5 5 0
0 1 0 P e n t a x K-5 1,350
Q 1 1 Ni i ( o n D51 0 0 7 00
Q 12 P e n t a x K-r 6 5 0
Q 1 3 So n y DSLR-A560L 6 5 0
Q 1 4 Ni i ( o n D50 0 0 6 5 0
15 P e n t a x K-x 7 7 0
1 6 SonyDSLR-A38OL 8 00
18 - 5 5 m m a .6 )
14 -5 4 m m (2.0)
18 -lO 5 m m (1.5 )
18-55mm (1.6)
18 -I 35 m m (1.6)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55m m (1.6)
18-55m m (1.6)
18-55m ni (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55m m (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)
18-55mm (1.5)

D I G I T A L C A M E R A S , A D V A N C E D 45
Brand S model Pnce Overall score Test results
o 100
p I F I G I V G l E
roJ2o
B SLR continued
17 N ikon D3000
18 Olympus E-620
19 S igma SD15
C SLR -LIKE
10 30 O e NA e O e 18-55mm(1.5)
1228 o NA e o . 14-42mm (2.0)
14 42O O NA O O 18-50mm (1.7)
S onyS L T -A 55V L
S ony SLT-A33L
Panasonic L umix
DM C -G2K
Panasonic L umix
DM C -GH 2
Olympus 0M -D E -M 5
N ikon 1 V I
SonySLT-A65VK
8 SonyNEX-7K
16 27 18-55mm (1.5)
14 27 e 18-55mm (1.5)
12 22 14-42mm(2.0)
16 23 o 14-42mm(2.0)
16 25 o 12-5Omm(2.O)
10 19 NA O lC-30nim (2.7)
24 31 O 18-55mma.5)
24 20 18-55mm (1.5)
Overall score is based mainl y on image qual ity, the p resence of useful features, battery l ife, and
weight. Megapixels is the sensor's p ixel count, in mil l ions. Weight (oz.) is with battery and memory
card. Image quality combines several tests, incl uding regul arp hotos, l ow-l ight p hotos, and fl ash
p hotos as wel l as resol ution, macro, veil ing gl are, vignetting, and col orand geometric distortion
tests. Flash photos tests the qual ity of the buil t-in fl ash's outp ut and evenness of il l umination.
Video quality mostl y refl ects footage shot in regul arand low l ight, with audio qual ity and macro
(cl ose-up ) cap abil ity al so considered. Ease of use is oureval uation of the camera's control s,
manual , resp onse time, and focusing. LCD quality is a judgment of images viewed undervarious
conditions. Viewfinder is oureval uation of its qual ity, incl uding accuracy in disp l aying the framing
of the image that wil l be recorded. Test lens is the kit l ens tested. To cal cul ate its 35-mm-equival ent
focal range, mul tip l y the minimum and maximum shown, resp ectivel y, by the magnification factor,
if shown (in p arentheses). Price is ap p roximate retail .

46
C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 t 3
I Brand S model Price Overall score Test results
0 10 0
P I F I G I V G i E
C SLR-LIKE continued
0
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
SonySLT-A77V
Panasonic Lumi x
D M C -G 3 K
Samsung N X2 0 0
Panasonic Lumi x
D M C -G F2 K
SonyNEX-3K
Sony N E X-5K
Panasonic Lumi x
D M C -G XlX
Panasonic Lumi x
D M C -G F3 K
Oiympus P E N Li t e
E -P L3
Olympus P E N E -P 3
S onyS LT -A57K
Nii(on 1 Jl
SonyNEX-C3K
Panasonic Lumi x
D M C -G F3 X
Oiympus P E N E -P L2
Sony N E X-5N K
Samsung N XlO O
Pentax Q
Olympus P E N E-PLl
Pentax K-0 1
Fuj i fi l m X-P rol
2 4 3 6 O
1 6 2 0
2 0 1 9 e
1 2 1 8
1 4 1 9
1 4 1 9
1 6 1 6 O
1 2 1 6
1 2 1 7
1 2 1 9
1 6 3 1 O
1 0 1 5 O
1 6 1 9
1 2 1 3
1 2 1 8
1 6 1 8
1 4 1 7 NA
1 2 U O
1 2 1 8 O
1 6 2 8 O O
1 6 2 4 O NA

O

O
O

O

O

O
O
9
O O
O
O O
0 O
O N A
N A
N A
N A
N A
N A
N A
N A

O N A
N A
N A
O N A
N A
O N A
O N A
9 N A
O N A

18-55mm (1.5)
14-42nini (2.0)
18-S5mm (1.5)
14-42mm (2.0)
18-55mm(1.5).
18-55mm (1.5)
14-42mm(2.0)
l4-42mm (2.0)
14-42mm (2.0)
14-42mm (2.0)
18-55mm (1.5)
10-30nim (2.7)
l8-55mm(1.5)
14-42nim (2.0)
14-42mm(2.0)
18-55mm (1.5)
2O-5Omii (1.5)
5-l5rnm (5.5)
14-42mni(2.0)
18-55mm (1.5)
35mm (1.5)
Ratings Key E xcel l ent V erygood O G ood Fa i r P o o r
D C R Best Buy T hese models offer t he best combi nat i on of performance and pri ce. All are recommended.
0 Recommended T hese are hi gh-performi ng models t hat st and out .


D I G I T A L C A M E R A S , B A S I C 47
Quick
G uide
D I G I T A L C A M E R A S , B A S I C
M ost of the models we tested offer G ood or Very
G ood overall performance and image quality. M ost
get 200 to 350 shots per battery charge and have
a 2y2-inch display.
What to look for
A wide-angle end of the
zoom range as low as 28 or
24mm, for more panoramic
landscapes or group portraits
An LCD that can swivel for
hard..to-reach shots
A touch screen for easy inter-
action with menus
An optical or electronic
viewfinder, which can help
you compose when bright
light washes out your LCD
A dedicated video button,
which lets you quickly record
B rand & model
video when you're shooting
still images
What to skip
Buying a camera solely
based on its megapixel count,
since higher resolution doesn't
necessarily produce better
photographs
What you'll pay
For basic point-and-shoots,
expect to spend $80 to $500.
ConsumerReports,org/canieras
S hopping tip
Look for a lens
with a lower
"widest angle"
number to
capture more
of your subject
within the frame.
P rice O verall score T est results
Q. m o m ^ 1X1
E
A C O M P A C T M O D E L S
_E
a
0 100
p I F I G I V G l E
0 1 Nikon Coolpix P300
0 2 Nikon Coolpix P310
0 3 C anon PowerShot ELPH 510HS
0 4 Nikon Coolpix S8 2 00
B 5 Nikon Coolpix 5 8 100
0 6 P anasonic Lumix DMC-TS4
B 7 C anon PowerShot SX130 IS
8 L eica V -Lux 2 0
9 C anon PowerShot SX 2 30 HS
10 P anasonic Lumix DUC-TS3
1 2. 7 e e e O e 24 240
16 7 e e o o o 24 230
12 7 e o e o e 28 170
16 8 e e o o o 25 250
12 7 e o e o o 30 210
12 7 e o o e o 28 310
12 u e e e o o 28 130
12 8 e e o o o 25 300
12 8 o o e o o 28 210
12 7 o e e o o 28 310

B rand &model P nce O veraii score T est results
B a:
E
S
1 F
1 0 0
I G I V G l E
. a S - S o 7 5 . Z ' S E 2
C 1 . . W = 3 J I : = 3 o = ' ' ' S
I fI lllsfi
^ ^ " s
A COMPACT MODELS continued
11 CanonP owerS hot D IO
12 CanonP werS hotS X210 IS
13 CanonP owerS hot S X150 IS
14 Fujifiim FineP ix F80E XR
15 Sony C yber-shot D S C -HX7V
16 Oiympus T ough T G -820
17 Pentax O ptioWG -2
18 Pentax O ptio WG -2 GPS
19 Pentax O ptio I-IO
20 Oiympus T ough T G -620
21 CanonP owerS hot A1300
22 Fujifiim FineP ix R eai 30 W3
23 Pentax O ptioR ZIO
24 Fujifiim FineP ix XP IO O
25 Fujifilm FineP ix XP 150
26 Fujifiim FineP ix XP 50
27 CanonP owerS hot A800
2 8 CanonP owerS hot A495
29 Oiympus T G -810
30 Oiympus S tylus T ough-8010
3 1 Kodai(E asyS hareC 142
32 nii(onC oolpix S 30
33 Kodai(E asyS hareC 195
34 K odak E asyS hare S port C 123
12 8
14 8 o
14 11
12 7
16 7 O
7 O
7 O
8 O
6 O
6 O
7
9
12
16
16
12
12
16
10
14
14
14
14
10
10
14
14
10
10
14
12
O
0 0 0
O O O
O O O
0000
00
0000
0000
0000
0000
0000
0000
6 O
7 O
7 O
6 O
7 O
7 O
8 O
8 0
6 O
8 O
7 0
7 0
0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
O 0 0
O O 0
O 0 O
0
35 220
28 260
28 1 1 0
27 230
25 30 0
28 NA
28 260
28 260
28 250
28 NA
28 220
35 150
28 260
28 300
28 300
28 220
37 300
37 150
28 NA
28 NA
34 200
29 240
33 180
35 250
B SUBCOMPACT MODELS
0 1 Nikon C oolpix SlOO
0 2 Canon P owerS hot ELPH 310 HS
0 3 Canon P owerS hot S9S
1 6 5 O OO28 1 50
12 5 e OO 28 21 0
1 0 7 e O 28 20 0
Ratings Key E xcellent Very good O G ood 0 Fair P oor
D CR Best Buy T hese models offer'the best combination ofperformance and price. All arerecommended.
bd Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

Brands model Price Overall score Testresuits
-5 7 .S- o . S .S- -g
. s S75o 7575E
CL 4 .- =. = = ^ ^ " - '
ro .d c r Cl. O" jjj O" OJ
5? .2? eu -C o il Q"b
S
I F
100
G I V G l E
B SUBCOMPACT MODELScontinued
0 4 N i k o n CoolPixAWlOO
0 5 Canon PowerShot ELPH110 HS
[71 6 Canon PowerSbot SD4000 IS
ELPH
0 7 Pa n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-3D1
0 8 Pa n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-SZl
0 9 N i k o n Cooipix S 8000
0 10 Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS
0 11 Panasonic Lumix 0MC-FH8
0 12 N i k o n Cooipix S1200pj
13 Canon PowerShot ELPH 500 HS
1 4 SonyCvber-shotDSC-TX9
15 SonyCyber-shotDSC-WXlO
1 6 Canon PowerShot ELPH 320 HS
17 N i k o n Cooipix S6300
1 8 Canon PowerShot SD140013 ELPH
19 Canon PowerShot SlOO
20 Pa n a s o n i c Lumix DUC-FH27
21 Canon PowerShot SD4500 IS
ELPH
22 P a n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-FX90
23 P a n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-FP3
24 P a n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-TSIO
25 Pa n a s o n i c Lumix DMC-FX78
26 Panasoni c Lumix DMC-FH5
3 0 N i k o n Cooipix S80
3 1 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TXIOOV
3 2 Sony Cyber-shot OSC-TX55
3 3 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX50
16
16
10
12
16
14
12
16
14
12
12
16
16
16
14
12
16
10
12
14
14
12
16
12
10
10
14
16
16
16
7 o o
5 o
6
7 O e
5 o
6 e
5
4 o
7 o o
7 o
5 o
6
5
6
5
7
6
e
o
o
o
o
7
5 o
5 o o
6 o
5 o a
4 o o
6 o o
6 o o o

4 o
4 o
o
o
o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o
o o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
28 250
24 170
28 250
25 200
25 250
30 210
24 220
24 260
28 220
24 180
25 230
24 3 60
24 170
25 230
28 230
24 200
28 250
36 150
24 200
35 3 00
35 3 00
24 200
28 260
28 230
28 190
28 190
35 150
25 220
26 250
25 240

50
Brand & model
Price Overaii score Test results
S S
a
P I F
1 0 0
G I V G l E
B SUBCOMPACT M O D E L S c o n t i n u e d
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
Canon P owerS hot A4000 IS
Canon P owerS hot A2400 IS
Panasonic Lumix D M C -FH2
5ony C yber-shot D S C -WX5
Samsung D V300F
Panasonic Lumix D M C -T S 20
Nikon C oolpix S 5100
Nikon C oolpix S U O O pj
Ni ko n C oolpix S 4300
Canon P owerS hot A33O O IS
Fu j i f i l m FineP ixT 400
S a m su n g WB 210
S a m su n g U V800
Sony C yber-shot D S C -T X7
Fu j i f i l m Fin eP ixZ900E XR
S a m su n g S T 95
C a n o n P owerS hot A23O O
Sony C yber-shot D S C -H55
S a m su n g P L90 . ^^_
S a m su n g P L20
Samsung TL350 flBB
S a m su n g P L120
S a m su n g S T 200F
Pa n a so n i c Lumix D M C -S l
O l ym pu s VR -340
Pa n a so n i c Lumix D M C -FP l
Pe n t a x O ptio WG -l
$170
140
90
250
170
150
155
150
150
160
160
180
280
235
200
150
230
100
160
120
100
100
[ 240
115
200
85
^ 130
120
220
16
16
14
12
16
16
12
14
16
16
16
14
16
10
16
16
16
16
14
16
12
14
10
14
16
12
16
12
14
5 O O
5 O O
4 e O
5 O
5 O
5 O O
5 O
6 O
5
5 e
6 O
7 O
5 O
5 O O
5 O
5
6 O
4 O O
7 O
O

O
O o
4 o
6 O O
4 o
6 O
5 O O
6 O O
O O O
O O O
o o
o o o
o o o
Q o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o o o
o o o
o
o o
o o
o o
o o o
o o o
o
o o o
o
o o o
28 175
28 190
28 270
24 230
25 N A
25 250
28 200
28 220
26 180
28 230
28 160
24 N A
26 N A
25 230
28 220
2 6 NA
2 5 2 50
2 8 210
2 5 310
26 210
28 N A
27 N A
24 N A
26 N A
2 7 NA
28 240
24 N A
35 300
28 260
Ra t i n gs Key E xcellen t Verygood O G ood Fa i r P oor
Q CR B e st Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Re c o m m e n d e d T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

Brand & model Pnce Overali score Test resuits
P I F
B SUBCOMPACT MODELS continued
p
i
x
e
l
100
V G l E
14
10
16
14
16
14
14
16
14
12
16
12
16
12
14
14
14
16
14
10
12
14
14
16
14
12
14
16
16
14
14
14
S
.=
D O
i
6
5
5
5
5
4
5
6
6
6
5
7
4
5
4
5
5
6
6
6
6
5
7
5
4
4
4
4
7
4
5
6
na
=3
C T
^
p
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
a
o
o
0
-2
J C =
P
O
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
o
o
r a
z s
O"
o
d
e
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
f

U
S
tu
iS
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
l
u
a
l
i
t
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
O)
a.
ro
l
e
s
t
s
28
25
35
28
25
28
28
28
27
28
25
37
25
28
26
26
26
28
34
35
35
28
37
26
26
27
26
25
25
28
35
28
1
S
260
250
240
NA
180
250
280
220
NA
200
250
240
NA
210
250
NA
NA
190
230
230
170
160
220
NA
NA
NA
NA
220
290
180
NA
200
63 Pentax Optio WG -l GPS
64 Sony C yber-shot D SC -TX5
65 Panasonic L umix D M C -FP 7
66 Olympus S tylus 7040
67 Fujif ilm FineP ix 1Z25O
68 Panasonic L umix D UC -S 3
69 Canon P owerS hot A 22OO
70 Canon P owerS hot A 810
71 Samsung P L 210
72 Nikon C ooiplx S 70
73 Sony C yber-shot D S C -T X20
74 Nikon C oolpix L 22 ; .
75 Samsung ST66 "^BS
76 Pentax Optio H90
77 Sony C yber-sbot OS C -W610
78 Olympus S tylus 5010
79 Samsung S HIOO
80 Canon P owerS hot A 3400 IS
81 Sony C yber-sbot D S C -W370
82 Canon P owerS hot A 3000 IS
83 Fujif ilm FineP ix Z800E XR .
84 G E E 1486T W _
85 Nikon C oolpix L 24
86 Samsung P L 170
87 Samsung S T 90
88 Olympus V G -110
89 Oiympus V G -160
90 Sony C yber-shot D S C -W570
91 S onyC vber-S hotD S C -H70
92 Pentax Optio S I
93 Samsung S T 80
94 Kodak E asyS hare M 580

B rand & model P rice lO verall score I T est results
"S ' - ' ' - S S ' S - S ' E
0 100
. P I F I G I V G l E
' 95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
U 8
119
120
121
122
123
R atings
D CR
Fuj i f i i m FineP ix T 300
S ony C yber-sbot DSC-W53O
N ik on C oolpix 54000
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix Z700E XR
P entax O ptio R SlO O O
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix JZ500
S amsung E S 80
S ony C yber-S bot DSC-TXIO
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix JX500
S amsung S T 65
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix JX25O
C anon P owerS hot A1200
O ly mp us T ough T G -320
S ony C yber-shot D S C -W690
N ik on C oolpix 53100
O ly mp us S tylus T ough-6020
S ony C yber-shot 0S C -W650
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix JX300
S ony C yber-shot OSC-TUO
S ony C yber-sbot DSC-W510
Fuj i f i i m FineP ix Z70
G E J125O
GE E 1410S W
Kodak E asyS hare T ouch M 577
Kodak E asyS hare M 575
G E J1470S
O iy mp us TG-31
Kodak E asyS hare M 53O
Fuj i f i l m FineP ix XP 30
Key E xcellent eV ery good
$150 UM
120 ESHl
100 E^BB
130 EnB
85 E^H
200 E a ^
300 E^H
100 EZH
100 EIBB
130 EIl ^l
80 EI HI
130 Ean
140 ESIB
180 E^^l
120 E3B
100 EEBB
200 BBB
90 UM
80 E!BB
no E3H
150 E9B
120 EEHI
150 EliBi
100 E3B
140 E^B
80 ESi
150 EIBi
O G ood Fair P oor
14
14
12
12
14
14
12
16
14
14
14
12
14
16
14
14
16
14
16
12
12
12
14
14
14
14
14
12
14
6
4
5
6
5
6
5
5
4
4
5
7
5
5
4
6
4
5
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
6
O
O
O
o
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price
bd Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.
o
o
a
o
a
a
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
a
a
o
o
o
a
o
o
o
a
o
a
e
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
28
26
27
35
28
28
27
25
26
27
28
28
28
25
26
28
25
28
25
26
36
35
28
28
28
33
28
36
28
All are recommendet
180
250
190
170
210
230
NA
250
170
NA
180
200
NA
220
220
NA
220
180
230
220
165
190
150
200
220
300
NA
200
200
).

B rand S modei Price Overall score T est results
E
^ 7 o E
o = > '
0 10 0
P i F I G I V G l E
124 G E G 5WP $160
125 Oiympus S tylus T ough-30 0 0 20 0
126 G E E 1450 W 90
127 G E A 1456W 80
128 Kodak E asyS hare M ini M 20 0 70
129 S ony C yber-shot D S C -S 210 0 80
130 Fuj i f i i m FinePix XPIO 160
131 Fuj i f i l m FinePix Z90 10 0
132 Olympus TlOO 110
133 R icoilPX 180
134 Kodak E asyS hare T ouch M 5370 140 WM
135 Kodak E asyS hareJS 9^ 90 B B
C SUPERZOOiUI MODELS
12
12
14
14
10
12
12
14
12
16
16
14
5 O
6
5 O
0 0
0
0 0
0
0 0
0 0
O 0
O 0
0 0
6 O 0
O O
O 0
O
0
0 0
0 0
0
38 180
28 NA
28 220
28 120
29 20 0
35 170
36 165
28 220
36 NA
28 30 0
28 20 0
35 195
Q 1 Ni k on C oolpix S 910 0
2 Ni k on C oolpix L 120
3 Oi ympus S Z-31M R HS
4 Fu j i f i i m FinePix F550 E XR
5 Panasoni c L umix 0 M C -ZS 20
6 C anon PowerS hot S X240 HS
8 S ony C yber-shot 0 S C 'HX9V
10 Panasoni c L umix D M C -FZ47
U Ni k on C ooipix L UO
12 Panasoni c L umix D M C -ZS 15
13 Nikon C oolpix PlOO
14 Fu j i f i i m FinePix F770 E XR
15 S amsung WB 850 F
16 S ony C yber-shot D S C -HX20 V
17 Ol ympus S Z-30 I1/IR
12 8
14 17
16 9
16 8
14 7
12 8
12 8
16 9
12 23
12 18
12 18
12 7
10 18
16 8
16 9
18 9
16 8

O
O
O^
O
O
O

O
O
O
O O

O O
O O
O
O
O O
O
O
o
o

o
o o

o o
o
o
o
o o
o o
o o
25 270
25 330
25 NA
24 30 0
24 260
25 230
25 230
24 30 0
24 380
25 40 0
28 270
24 260
26 NA
25 30 0
23 20 0
25 320
25 NA

Br and & modei Price Over al l score T e s t r e s u i t s
^ "m ^
O D x J QJ rO i_j C =
r o ^ -C 3 LLJ _ J fT 3 ~
E " - > i i
0
P I F I G I V G l E
C SUPERZOOM MODELS continued
Q 18 Panasonic Lumix 0M C -ZS 8
0 19 Leica V -Lux 3 0
B 20 Panasonic Lumix O M C -ZS IO
0 21 Canon P owerS hot S X30 I S
2 2 F u j i f i i m Finepix F600E XR
2 3 Oiympus S P -62 0 U Z
2 4 Sony C yber-shot D S C -HXI O V
25 Sony C yber-shot D S C -HX200V
2 6 Sony C yber-shot D S C -HXI O O V
2 7 F u j i f i l m FineP ix F660E XR
2 8 Ni k on C ooipix P 510
2 9 F u j i f i l m FineP ix S 42 0 0
3 0 F u j i f i i m FineP ix S L3 0 0
3 1 K o d a k E a s y S ha r e M a x Z 9 9 0
32 Oiympus S Z-10
33 Nikon C ooipix S 9 3 0 0
34 Samsung W B700
35 Fuj i f i l m FineP ix S 450 0
3 6 Samsung WB 150F
37 Nikon C ooipix P 50 0
3 8 Oiympus S P -800U Z
3 9 Fuj i f i i m FineP ix S 2950
4 0 Fuj i f i i m FineP ix F300E XR
4 1 Oiympus S P -810U Z
4 2 Nikon C ooipix L810
43 GEX5
4 4 Pentax O ptio R Z18
4 5 Fuj i f i l m FineP ix S 40 0 0
4 6 Pentax O ptio V S 20
4 7 Samsung WB 75O
4 8 Fuj i f i i m FineP ix S 2 80 0 HD
4 9 G E X50 0
14 7
14 8
14 8
14 23
16 8
16 17
18 8
18 22
16 21
16 8
16 21
14 21
14 20
12 22
14 8
16 8
14 8
14 21
14 7
12 19
14 16
14 17
12 8
14 16
16 17
14 17
16 7
14 21
16 9
13 8
14 17
16 17
O O O
O O O
O O O
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o
o o o
o o e o
o o o
o o
o o'
o o o
a o o o
o o o
a a o o
a a o
a o o o o
o a o o o

a o
o o
o o
o o
a a o
a a o
e e 9 9
o o o o
a a o
a a o o
o o o
o a o

2 4 3 40
2 4 N A
2 4 2 60
2 4 3 7 0
2 4 3 0 0
25 N A
2 4 3 4 0
27 450
27 N A
24 3 0 0
2 4 2 40
2 4 3 0 0
2 4 3 0 0
28 N A
28 N A
25 2 0 0
2 4 N A
2 4 3 0 0
2 4 N A
23 N A
28 N A
28 3 0 0
2 4 2 50
2 4 N A
23 3 0 0
27 3 0 0
25 2 40
24 3 0 0
28 2 0 0
2 4 N A
28 3 0 0
27 3 0 0

Overall score is based mainly on mage quality, ease of use, and versatility, plus LCD, flash,
and video quality. Megapixels is the number of pixels, in millions, on the sensor. Weight (oz.)
is with battery, memory card, and strap. Image guality combines several tests, including regular
photos, low-light photos, and flash photos as well as color tests, among others. Flash photos
tests the guality of the built-in flash's light outp'ut and evenness of illumination. Video guality
mostly reflects footage shot in regular and low light, with audio quality and macro (close-up)
capability also considered. Ease of use is our evaluation of the camera's controls, manual,
response time, and focusing. LCD quality is a judgment of images viewed under various lighting
conditions. For widest angle (mm), the lower the number, the broader the vista the camera
can capture. Battery life (shots) is as the manufacturer states. Price is approximate retail.
DIGITAL CAiVIERAS
Panasonic
Canon ^ ^ | E !
Samsung I B B Q
Nikon ^ ^ ^ B
Fujifilm | | m^ H |
Kodak ba ggi
Olympus ^ ^ I ^ ^ M
Pentax
Casi o E
Sony
Canon
Nikon
4
4
5
0% 10% 15%
I POINT-AND-SHOOTS
SLRs
Most cameras are very reliable, and few
differences exist among brands. That's what
we found when we asked more than 146,000
readers who bought a digital camera between
2007 and 2011 about their experiences. The
graph shows the percentage of, models for
each brand that were repaired or had a serious
problem. Differences of fewer than 3 points
aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted the
data to eliminate differences linked solely to
the age of the camera. We lacked sufficient
data to include Pentax and Olympus SLR cam-
eras, but they do not appear to have reliability
problems. Models within a brand can vary, and
design or manufacture changes might affect
future reliability. Still, choosing a brand with
a good repair history can improve your odds
of getting a reliable model.
Source; Annual Product Reliability Survey,


56
Quick
G uide
D I S HWAS HE R S
Y ou don't have to spend top dollar for great clean-
ing or endure longer cycles to get an energy-
saving dishwasher that's easy on your wallet.
S hopping tip
The three basic
cycles-light,
normal, and
heavy-should be
enough for most
chores, even for
baked-on food.
B rand 8 model
What to look for
Adjustable racks and other
loading aids for flexibility
A soil sensor to adjust the
cycle's time and water use,
improving efficiency
Rinse/hold cycle, to prevent
soil from setting while you
wait for a full load
What to sitip
Drawer models, which are
expensive and tend to use
more energy and water than
regular models
If noise is one of your con-
cerns, look for a model with
a manual-clean filter
What you'ii pay
You can pay $1,500 or more
for a dishwasher with hidden
controls, interactive digital
displays, and special grime-
fighting cycles. But when it
comes to clean dishes, spar-
kling performance starts at
about $550.
ConsumerReports.org/dishwashers
P r ic e O veraii sc or e T est r e su its
fiimiiar modeis, in small
tested model.
I I I 3 I I g
^ 5 QD ^ O S aJ
LJJ '.^3 rd
aj
11
1 1
0 100
P I F I G I V G l
A C O N V E N T I O N AL D I S HWAS HE R
g 1 B oscii Ascenta SHX3AR7[51
U C Ascenta S HX 3 AR 5 I I LC . Ascenta
S HE 3AR 71 lue, Ascenta S HE 3AB F11
U C (Lowe's)
0 2 B osch SHX98M0191UC
[ 7 ] 3 B O S C il 800 Series SHE68R5121
U C 80 0 S eries S HV 68R 5I 3 1 U C , 80 0
S eries S HX68R 511U C
4 16 5team LDF7932[ST1
[ 7 ] 5 M ieie Futura Oimension
G 5 5 7 5 S C S F Futura D imension P lus
G 57O 5[ 1, Futura D imension G 55D 51 1 ,
Futura D imension G S 57S S C V , Futura
D imension P lus G 5775S C 11
1,550
1,000
1,950
95 All
115 Some
115 Some
130 Some
150 . All

D I S H W A S H E R S
Brand & model Price Overaii score Test results- Features
t y p e , are comparable t o
tested m odel.
OO d J OJ CIJ
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p I F i G I V Gl E
E .=
A CONV ENTIONAL DISHWASHER c o n t i n ue d
1,800
n^ 6 KitchenAid KIIOE5OCX[SS]
' ' KU 0 E4 8 rX(l,KU DE2 0 1 XIl,KU DE2 0 FXn , $ 1 , 350
KU 0 E4 0 FX1 1
p ] 7 Bosch 8 0 0 Plus Serles
SHX9ER5151UC
8 0 0 Plus Series SHE9ER5I5IU C,
8 0 0 Plus Se rie s SHV9ER5I31UC
p ] 8 Bosch Evo lutio n 50 0
SHE55M1[21UC
9 LG L0F69201WW]
0 10 Kenmore Pro HE 1317[3I
0 11 Kenmore 1 32 8 [3]i30 4 [ 1,132711
0 12 Bosch 50 0 Series SHX55R5[5]
U C 50 0 Series SHV55R5B1UC,
50 0 Series SHE5SR5nuC
[ 71 13 Therm adorOWH0 65lJFP
' O H0 64 0 1 FM, OWH0 64 0 i FP, OWHO-
6S01FP, a HD651 JFM. 0 AHO650 1 FM
[ 1 14 KitchenAid KU 0E70FX[SSI
KU DE60 FXI1 , KU 0 E60 HX[l
15 Bosch SHE6AP0 I2 1 U CC]
SHE4 AP0 [ l ue (Lowe's)
16 KitchenAid KU0S30SX[SS]
17 Bosch 30 0 Series
SHX33RL15]UC 300 series
SHX43R51 l u e . 30 0 Series SHX43RL151
ue . 30 0 Series SHE43RSI l u e , 30 0
Series SHX33RF[ l u e (Lo we 's ) . 30 0
Serles SHE4 3RFI l u e (Lo we 's ) . 30 0
Series SHE4 3RLI l ue
18 Kenmore Elite 1 4 0 4 [3] El
El i t e 139711
19 M ieie Futura Crystal
G51 O55C Fut ur a e r y s t a l G5175Se
20 Kenmore Elite 139612]
El i t e 1 394 1 1
Discontinued
O a 125
a
120 All
a a 110
a a a 125 All
a 145 Some
o a 120 All
a a
. Al l
2 ,2 0 0
1,600
o a 115 All
a o a 135
a o a 115 Some
a o uo
Al l
1,000
1,530
1,000
a a 135 . Ail
a O a 145
a o 135 . AH
Ratings Key Exc e l l e n t a ve r y go o d OGo o d Fa i r Po o r
D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and p ric e . All are recommended.
0 Recommended Ttiese are h igh -p e rfo rm in g models th a t stand o ut .

Brand & model
S
s i m i i a r models, in small
t y p e . 3K comparahle t o
tested m o d e l.
Price Overaii score Test resuits
S!
e
r
g
y
u
g
O
z
eu
s
e
o
f
u
m
LU
^ ^ O ai - ^
!
m
e
(
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s
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g
f
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t
-
s
t
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e
i

t
c
o
n
t
n
a
r
e

s
i
c
s "
ai qj
100
F I G I V G l E
C O N V E N T iO N AL D I S HWAS HE R c o n t i n ue d
2 1 Kenmore F lite 1392[2]
E l i t e 13931 i
22 B o s c i i As c e n t a S HE 6AP l [ 2] U C
23 LG LO F75511S T ] LD F75611S T 1
24 B o s c h I n t e gr a 800 P l us
S HX58E 2l5]U C 800 P lus series
S HX8E R 5I l ue , 800 P l us S e rie s
S HE 8E R 5I l ue , 800 P lus S eries
S HV 7E R 5[ l ue , 800 P lus S e rie s
S HE 7E R 5I l u e . 800 P lus S e rie s
S HX7E R 5I l ue
25 LG L0F 80721S T ] LD r8S 74[S Tl
26 S a m s un g 0M T 800R H[ W]
27 G E G D WT 668V 1S S ]
G D Wn 68V [ S S l , G 0WT 368V I S S ],
G D WT 308V [ | . 60WT 608V [ l .
G D Wr 7O 8V ( l
28 G E P r o fi l e P 0WT 580V (S S I
M o n o gr a m 2B D 89 00V 11. P r o fi l e
P ,D WT 500V [ 1, P r o fi l e P 0WT 480V I S S 1.
C afe e a WT 9 80V | S S l , M o n o gr a m
Z B D 69 00V I 1. M o n o gra m Z B 06920V [S S I .
M o n o gra m 2B D 792O V I S S ]. M o n o gra m
Z B D 8920V I S S 1
2 9 K i t c i i e n Ai d KU 0S 30F X[S S ]
KU D S 30a | 1. KU D eiO I X[ 1. KU D C I O F XI 1,
KU D S 30I XI 1
30 Mi e i e F ut ur a C lassic G 4205S C
31 G E P r o fi l e P 0WT 200V [ WW]
P r o fi l e P 0WT 180V I S S 1, P r o fi l e
P D WT I O O V I I . P r o fi i e P D WT 28O V [S S 1.
e a fe e D WT 280V ( s s | . P r o fi l e
P D WT 380V I S S 1. P r o fi i e P D WT 300V I 1
32 As i (O D 589 4XXL[ HS l
056S 4XXLI HS 1
33 As ko 05634XXL[HSl
D 5434XXU 1
34 W i i i r i p o o i G old
WD T 770P AY [M ]
35 G E G O WFIO O V IWW] G O WF M V I 1.
G D WT 166V1S S I, G HD T 108V [ | (Ho m e
D e p o t ) , G HD T 168V I S S 1 (Ho m e D e p o t )
36 Ma y t a g M D B 4709AW[W]
900
1,500
1,450 B l
OO1 3 5
105
144 . Ail
a 125 . Ail
e e e e 144 . AU
e o 120 Ail
e e o e 135 Ali
e
Ai l
O a 115 Ail
o 145
O a 140 Ail
130 A H
O 150 S ome
O 115 Ail
a O O 110
a o 125

Brand & model
: Similar models, in si nal l
' t ype, are comparable to
t est ed model .
Price Overall score Test resui t s Features
Si 3!
I
l 1 ^
at qj
0 10 0
P I F I G I V Gl E
CONVENTIONAL DISHWASHER continued
37 Frigidaire Gallery
FGH0 2465N[F]
P rof essional FP HD 248 5N[ri
38 Jenn-Air Trif ecta
ID B8 70 0 AW[P l
FGBD 2431K[W]
4 0 Frigidaire Gallery
FGBD 2432K W] Gallery
BBBD 2432KI1 ( Best Bu y) . Gallery
L GeD 2432Kl l ( L ow e's) . Gai i ery
D GBD 2432Kn
4 1 Mayt ag iV I0 B8 959SA[S]
4 2 Scholtes L FD S3X160 HZ
4 3 Frigidaire Gallery
FGBD 2445N1F]
4 4 Kenmore 132613] 1325(1,132911
4 6 SmegSTA861 4XU
4 7 Mayt ag MD B47O9P A[M1
M0 B6 7 6 9 P A[ l
4 8 WiiiripoolGold
W D F5 30 P A Y [ W ] GO I ( 1W D T 7 10 P A Y [ 1
4 9 GE Monogram ZBD 990 0 R[ll]
5 0 Samsung OW7933LRA1SR1
5 1 LG L D F9932IST]
52 Jenn-Air Trif ecta
J0 B8 20 0 AW[S]
53 WiiiripoolGold
WD F730PAY1M1
5 4 Frigidaire Gaiiery
FGHO2433K1F1
5 5 Samsung D MT30 0 RFIW]
5 6 Frigidaire P rof essional
L P HD 2491KIFJ
1.000
600
450
e O
e e
o o
6 130
O 170
o 155
Some
Ail
e e o e 145
e
e
e
e

o
o
O

O

O

O
O
O O
112
105
120
130
112
120
O 104
O 105
O 180
151
140
O 170
115
135
170
180
Ail
Ali
Ail
Some

Brand $ model
s i mi l a r mo d e l s , in siTOll
i\'pe, are comparable to
tested model .
S S i
Oi . S
s ; eu
re Cl.
S =
0 100
P I F I G I V G l E
C ON V E N TI ON A L D I S H W A S H E R con tin ued
57 E lectrolux Wave-T ouch t, .,^^
E WD W65O 5G [WS 1 ' ' ' ' ' ^""
58 Ken more 139112] 131390(1 560
5 9 Jen n -A ir JD B 3200AW1W1 1,100
6 0 G E G LD 28O O V [V I/W1
G LD 4 64 4 V [S Al.G LD 2850V [C 51, 3 0 0
G LD 4 604 V ] . G LD 4664V I S S 1
6 1 Mayt ag M D B 4 4 09P AI W] 380
6 2 G E G LD 57 66V [ S S 1G LO 57 O 8V I I ,
G LD 5604V I1, G LD 57G 6V I1, G LD 5606V [ 1,
G tO 5768V [S S l, G LO 5666V [S S 1, 5 2 0
G LO 5664V [S S 1. G lD 5808V [ |.
G tO 5868V [S S ]
6 3 E lectrolux 10 E ID W5905J[S J 900
6 4 Fagor LFA-086XL 1,300
65 E lectrolux I con , . .
E D W7505HP [S ] ' ' ^"^
6 6 Biomberg 0WT 57500[S S ] 1,000
67 Fri gi d ai re G allery
FG B D 2435N [W] ^"^
6 8 Frigid aire FFB D 2409L1S ] 380
6 9 i k e a N u t i d 650
7 0 G E G LD 6904R [WW] 500
7 1 AskoD 5233XXU HS ] 1,300
72 HaierD WL3225S D [S S ) . o n
73 G E G LD 4408R [WW] 360
74 HaierD WL7075M C [S S l 7^0
O A 1 4 0 3 5 M C 1 ' "-'
75 V i ki n g P rofessional
V D B 45O E [S S 1 1,800
O esigner S eries D FB 450E
E l D iscontinued
135
O 115
O 125
O 100
O 113
O O 140
A l l
O 90
O 120
125
O 125
e O O 135
O O 125
O 125
115
180
O O 120
O 135
O O O 120
A l l
A l l
A l l
A l l
All
O O 170
A l l
A l l
R a t i n g s Key E xcel i ent V ery good O G ood F a i r P o o r
D C R Best Buy T hese modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
l i l J R ecommen d ed T hese are hig h-performing models that stand out.

Brand S model
similar models, in small
type, are cofnparable to,
tested model.
Price Overaii score Test resuits Features
2 S
m O-
S ^ a
< u .a ai
5 ^ 1
0 100
P I F I G I V Gl E
C ON V EN TION AL DISHWASHER continued
76 BiombergOWT55100[SSl $850
77 WiiiripoolGold
WD T 9 1 O S A Y [ M 1 GO I ( 1 WD T - 750
79OS AV | l,GoldV (Df75OS AYII
78 BfombergDWT24100[S S ] 600
79 WiliripOOi WDF310P AA[W] i r ^
WDF3iOP L A[l, / DF31OP C AIl
80 Amana A0B1400PYIS] 380
o o
o
O O
e 125
125
a no
9 115
o 115
Ail
AH
Overall score is mostly washing performance and inclu des energy and water use (not shown),
noise, cycle tinne, and ease of u se. Displayed scores are rou nded; models are listed by precise
overall score. Washing is normal-cycle resu lts with very dirty fu ll load. Energy use is energy
and water use for normal cycle. N oise covers listener ju dgments and sou nd-level measu rements.
Ease of use inclu des convenience factors and loading. C ycle time (rou nded to the nearest
5 minu tes) is for normal cycle with very dirty fu ll load; inclu des temperatu re-boost option and,
if available, heated dry. Under brand & model, bracketed letters or nu mbers mean color code.

62
W h i r l p o o l
B oseh
K e n m o r e ( w i t h
p u l l o u t d r a w e r )
K e n m o r e
M i e l e
K i t e h e n A i d
l e n n - A i r
G E
Asko
f r i g i d a i r e
Fisher S P aykel (with
puilout drawer)
A m a n a
M a y t a g
LG
0% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Frigidaire, Fisher S P ayke!, Amana, M aytag,
and LG were among the most r e p a i r - p r o n e
brands; Amana and M aytag repair records
were a f f e ct e d by major recalis in 2010.
T hat's what we f o u n d when we asked more
t h a n 82 ,0 0 0 readers who bought a dish-
washer between 2 0 0 7 and 2011 a bo u t t h e i r
experiences. T he graph shows t h e percent-
age of models f o r each brand t h a t were
repaired or had a serious p r o bl e m . D i f f e r -
ences of fewer t h a n 5 points a r e n 't mean-
i n g f u l , and we've adjusted data t o e l i m i n a t e
differences linked solely t o age and usage.
M odels w i t h i n a brand may vary, and chang-
es in design or m a n u f a ct u r e may a f f e ct f u -
t u r e r e l i a bi l i t y . S t i l l , choosing a brand w i t h a
good repair h i s t o r y can improve your odds
of g e t t i n g a reliable m o d e l .
S ource: Annual P roduct R eliability S urvey,


D R Y E R S 63
Quick
Guide
DRYERS
iviost dryers scored at least Very Good for drying
performance. While the gas dryers in our Ratings
are similar to the electric models ve test, we've
found that gas and eiectric dryers perform simiiariy.
What to look for
A moisture sensor, to cut
down on energy costs and
avoid overdrying clothes
An extended-tumble set-
ting without heat, to prevent
wrinkles when you don't
remove clothes immediately
What to skip
Extra large, super, and super-
plus dryer capacity, because
the differences aren't meaii'-
ingful for everyday use
Specialty cycles such as
"speed dry," which usually
can be replicated with stan-
dard settings
What you'll pay
Gas dryers cost about $80 to
$150 more than comparable
electric models, but the likely
savings in fuel costs should
more than make up the dif-
ference in the long run.
ConsumerReports.org/dryers
Shopping tip
Many models
have a warning
light that teils
you it's time to
clean the filter.
I Scan this or see how, page 11
Brand & Model
g - Simiiar modeis, in smali type.
'io S ,ire coniparable to tested modei.
Price Overaii score Test results Features
g I o ^ E .o
^ : -i ^ ob g-
oj .S 2 ^
QJ iJ > - b= E
I F I G IVGl E
A ELECTRIC DRYERS
1 I G DL EX 3 4 7 0 IW1
2 Samsung 0 V5 4 5 1 A EIW]
3 IG0LEX38851W1DLEX3875I1
4 LG OLEX517O[W1
5 Samsung DV5 4 7 1 A E[ W]
6 L GDL EX 5 1 O1 [ W1 DL E5 OO1 [ 1
7 LG DL EX 3 3 60 tWl
8 LG DLEX255O[W]
a

64
I Brand S Model Price Overall score Testresuits Features
-S
viniilar models, in small type.
aie comparable to tested modei. ro n3 ^
5 5 "
1 i
2 S .
DO o
P I F I G I V G l E
A ELECTRIC DRYERS continued
0 10
0 11
Q 12
0
0 14
Kenmore 680012]
Samsung D V 52O AE [P ]
LG D LE 2240[WI
LG O LE 225O [W1
K e nm ore Eiite 692712]
LG 0LE 2650[W]
B GAS DRYERS
0 1 LG DLG X34711W]
0 2 Samsung 0V 5451AG [W]
0 3 LG D LG X3886[W]D LG X3876[1
0 4 LG D LG X517HW]
0 S Samsung D V 547I AG [W]
0 6 LG D LG X5O O 21W]D iG 5O O 2ll
0 7 LG D LG X3361[W]
0 8 LG D LG X255U W]
Q 9 Kenmore 780012]
0 10 Samsung D V 52O AG IP ]
B 11 LG D LG 224U W]
Q 12 LG D LG 2251IW]
0 13 Kenmore E lite 7927[2]
0 14 LG 0LG X26511W]

Ratings Key E xcellent V erygood O G ood Fair P oor
H CR Best Buy T hese modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
U u Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

D R Y E R S 65
DRYERS
LG
Sa m s u n g
W h i r l p o o l
K e n m o re
M a y t a g
Bosch
r i g i d a i r e
GE
F i s h e r s
P aykei
LG
W h i r l p o o l
GE
M a y t a g
K e n m o r e
F r i g i d a i r e
S
J E
W S E
: 8
6
' 7
7
7
1
8
EE
F is h e r & P a y k e l was t h e m o s t r e p a i r -p r o n e
br a n d of e l e c t r i c c l o t h e s d r y e r s . Th a t 's
wh a t we fo u n d wh e n we a s k e d o ve r 75,000
r e a d e r s wh o bo u g h t a d r y e r be t we e n 2007
a n d 2011 a bo u t t h e i r e xp e r i e n c e s . Th e
g r a p h s h o ws t h e p e r c e n t a g e of br a n d s t h a t
n e e d e d a r e p a i r o r h a d a s e r i o u s p r o bl e m .
Di ffe r e n c e s o f less t h a n 3 p o i n t s a r e n 't
m e a n i n g fu l , a n d we 've a d ju s t e d t h e d a t a
t o e l i m i n a t e d i ffe r e n c e s l i n k e d s o l e l y t o
age a n d use o f t h e d r y e r . M o d e ls wi t h i n
a br a n d m a y va r y , a n d d e s i g n o r m a n u fa c -
t u r e c h a n g e s m a y a ffe c t fu t u r e r e l i a bi l i t y .
St i l l , c h o o s i n g a br a n d wi t h a g o o d r e p a i r
h i s t o r y ca n i m p r o ve y o u r o d d s o f g e t t i n g
a r e l i a bl e m o d e l .
Source: Annual Product Reiiability Survey,
5% 10% 15% 2 0% 2 5% 30%
I ELECTRI C
GAS
Overall score is ba s e d p r i m a r i l y o n d r y i n g p e r fo r r n a n c e , d r u m vo l u m e , a n d n o is e . Th e d i s p l a y e d
s c o r e is o u t o f a t o t a i o f 100 p o i n t s . Dryinq performance is m e a s u r e d fo r m u l t i p l e fa br i c s a n d
lo a d s ize s . Capacity r e fe r s t o t h e d r u m vo l u m e of m o d e ls we t e s t e d , wh i c h va r i e d fr o m a bo u t
6 t o 8 c u . ft . Convenience ta k e s i n t o a c c o u n t c o n t r o l s a n d e r g o n o m i c s , s u c h as ease o f l o a d i n g
a n d u n l o a d i n g , s e r vi c i n g t h e l i n t fi l t e r , wh e t h e r t h e d o o r c o u i d c l e a r a t a l l ba s k e t , a n d wh e t h e r
t h e m a c h i n e has a r a is e d e d g e t o c o n t a i n s p i l l s . Noise r e fl e c t s p a n e l i s t s ' ju d g m e n t s . Un d e r Fea-
t u r e s , a stainless-steel drum is l i k e l y t o r e s i s t d a m a g e be t t e r t h a n p l a s t i c a n d p a i n t e d m e t a l
d r u m s . A porcelain top r e s i s t s s c r a t c h i n g be t t e r t h a n a p a i n t e d o n e bu t g e n e r a l l y a d d s t o a
d r y e r 's c o s t . Drying rack a t t a c h e s i n s i d e t h e d r u m t o ke e p i t e m s s u c h as s n e a k e rs o r s we a t e r s
fr o m t u m bl i n g . Custom programs a llo ws y o u t o save y o u r fa vo r i t e s e t t i n g s . Ge n e r a lly , a wa t e r
h o o k -u p is r e qu i r e d wi t h t h e steam option fe a t u r e . I n t h i s c y c l e , a s m a l l a m o u n t o f wa t e r is
s p r a y e d i n t o t h e d r u m wh i l e t u m bl i n g wi t h h e a t . I t h e lp s t o r e d u c e wr i n k l e s a n d o d o r s , bu t i t is
i n t e n d e d o n l y fo r a fe w g a r m e n t s a t a t i m e . Price is a p p r o xi m a t e r e t a i l fo r e l e c t r i c d r y e r s .


Quick
Guide
E-BOOK READERS
Light weight, long battery life, and crisp type make e-book
readers the best device for reading e-books.
What to iooi( for
A 6-inch screen, for the best
balance of screen size and
portability for most people
Touch capability to help
you easily select content and
turn the pages
What to si<ip
3G access to the Internet;
while that offers the most
flexibility for obtaining new
content, models with Wi-Fi-
Brand & model
only access suit most users
and generally cost less
Color capability. For the
most part, you're better off
buying a tablet to get this
What you'ii pay
Prices typically range from
$140 to $400, though some
models cost $100 or so.
ConsumerReports.org/ebooks
Price Overali score Testresults
= s ffl
Shopping tip
S ome e-readers
allowyou to
borrow e-books
frompublic
libraries.
S can this or see how. paqe11
0 1 0 0
P I F I G I V G l E
A 5-iNCH OR SMALLER DISPLAY
1 SonyR eader P ocket E dition
P R S -3 50 5C
2 Aiuratei( LI B R E eB ook
R eader P ro
3 EctacojetBookmini 1 2 0
B 6-TO 7-INCH DISPLAY
9 O
e
9 9
e
o e
2 weeks
2 4 hrs. continuous/
3 0 daysstandby
O 9 90 hours
1 Barnes &Nobie N ook
S impie T ouch with G lowLight
2 Barnes & Noble N ook
S impie T ouch R eader
3 Amazon Kindle Keyboard 3 G 1 90
4 Amazon Kindie Keyboard 3 G
with S pecial O ffers
5 Barnes SNobie N ook C olor 1 70
Amazon Kindle Keyboard
60 days/3 0 with
G lowLight
60 days
60 days
e 60 days
U pto 8 hours
60 days

E - B O O K R E A D E R S 67
Brand & model Price O verall score Test results
S S I
S.
0
p 1 F I G I V G l E
B 6- TO 7 -IN C H DISPLAY c o n t i n u e d
$70
n 7 A mazon Kin d l e Wi t h
Sp ecial Offe rs
Q 8 A mazon Kin d l e WIt ho u f
Sp ecial Offe rs
B 9 Kobo eReader Touch Ed i t i o n 100
[ ] 10 A mazon Kin d l e Touch 3G
'' Wi t h Sp ecial Offe rs
[ ] 11 A mazon Kin d l e Touch 3G
Wi t ho u t Sp ecial Offe rs 13
Q 12 A mazon Kin d l e Touch
Wi t h Sp ecial Offe rs E I
[ 7 | 13 A mazon Ki n d l e Touch
Wi t ho u t Sp ecial Offe rs E l
0 14 Kobo V ox eReader E l
0 15 Sony Reader Wi-Fi (PRS-Tl )
16 BeBook Neo
17 Bookeen Cybook Orizo n
18 A luratek LIBRE Touch
(AEBK08FB)
19 Pandigital Novel
(PR007T10WWH7)
20 Pandigital Novel
(PRD07T20WBL1)
21 A luratek LIBRE Col or eBook
Reader(AEBK07FS)
22 Kobo Wire l e ss eReader
C 8- IN C H OR LARGER DISPLAY
30 days
30 days
30 days
60 days
60 days
60 days
60 days
7 ho u rs
> 30 days
a 4,000 p g . fu rn s
a 21 days
a 8-10 hours
6hr s
6hr s
6 ho u rs
10 days
1 A mazon Kindl e OX (3rd Gen) 380
2 EctacojetBook Col or 500
O a O a 2-3 weeks
O O a O a 10,000 p g. turns
El Di sc o n t i n u e d
Overall score is based mostl y on te st resul ts. Readabillty re fl e c ts t e xt in various l i g fi t i n g c o n d itio n s.
Versatility signifies convenience. Responsiveness re fl e c ts sp eed t o t u rn o n , resume fro m sl eep , op en
an e-book, and tran sfe r an e-book fro m a comp uter via USB. Page turn measures how guickl y an
e-reader can t u rn t o t he next p age of an e-book. Navigation incl udes the abil ity t o ro t at e t he screen,
bookmark a p age, and search fo r an e-book t hro u g h an onl ine bookstore. File support scores comp at-
ibil ity wi t h typ ical e-book and fi l e fo rmats. Claimed battery life is as stated by the manufacturer. Touch
screen disp l ays resp ond t o l ig ht c o n tac t wi t h a styl u s, finger, or either. Price Is ap p ro ximate re t ai l .


GAS GRILLS
Quick
Guide
The best grills can turn your backyard or deci< into an
outdoor i<itchen. Our tests show that you don't haye to
spend a fortune for eyen heating, sturdy construction,
and a raft of work-saying conyenlences.
What to look for
Burners made of high-
quality stainless steel, cast iron,
or cast brass, which typi-
cally carry a 10-year or longer
warranty
Stainless-steel and cast-
iron grates for sturdiness and
rust-resistance (you'll need to
oil uncoated cast grates)
A battery-powered elec-
tronic igniter, usually easier
and more reliable than push-
button or rotary starters
Side burners to handle the
veggies while the burgers
cook; some can sear meat
What to skip
Buying by Btu, because
more Btu/hr. doesn't guaran-
tee faster preheating or better
searing and cooking
What you'll pay
Figure on $300 to $500 for
a grill that can handle most
of your cooking needs; some
include stainless trim at that
^rice. Several midsized grills
that cost less than $500 out-
cooked models that cost hun-
dreds of dollars more.
ConsumerReports.org/grls
Shopping tip
T he more stable
tine grill, the
better. When
shopping, gently
push the grili
from several
angles to see
if it tips.
Brand & model
Simiiar madsls, in small
tested model.
A LARGE miODELS
Prrce Overaii score Test resuits Features
^
tiD O J i/i c t/i tn
.E -S i S -S
= D O t=i b =
F I G I V G I E
cu i_ a; cj oi ra
! s; t; S V
oj cu Q. a => t n ^
I"! 1 11
M 1
Q 1 Huntington P atriot
6581 84
[ 7 ] 2 Jenn-Air 72 0 -0 70 9
(S am's C lub)
0 . 3 Weber S ummit E -670
Q 4 Master Forge 3 2 1 8LT N
[I tem #6554] (Lowe's)
Q 5 Kenmore 1 61 3 61 61 57.1 61 56
O
e e o
e e e '
e e e e *
e e a o

G A S G R I L L S
Brand & model Pnce Overall score Testresui ts Features
.s
Simiiar modeis, in small
S t ype, are comr ar abl e to
tested model.
A LA RGE MODELS continued
a -i =
J w s; r j Sj
3-.S w I
j aj o. f" o
-;r ro
O 100
P I F 1 G I V G I E
6 B i u e E m b e r B E6 5 07 8 -5 8 4
(Home O epot)
7 KitchenA id KFR5361TS5Q
KFRU361V SS
8 Brinitmann 810-1575-W
(Waimart) 810-1575-0
9 Brinkmann 810 2575-F
(Waimart)
B MEDiUM-SIZE MODELS
O

o
o
[71 1 Vermont Castings Signa-
t ur e Series VCS300SSP
Signature Series VCS322SSP
g 2 Char-Broil Red 463250511
(Home O epot) El Gourmet IRU- 400
Inf rared 463250512 (Home oepot)
Q 3 Kenmore 16142 350
0 4 Weber Genesis E-330
[ 7 ] S Cbar-Broii Red 463250811
(Home O epot) El Gourmet TRU-
inf rared 463251012 (Home O epot)
[ 7 ] 6 Weber Genesis S-330
' ' Genesis 5310
Q 7 Brinkmann 810-2545-W
(Waimart)
[ 7 ] 8 Biue Ember BE50070-584
(Home Depot)
Q 9 A ussie V antage Series
6 7 C 3
[ 7 ] 10 Kenmore 03982838
(Kmart) 03982844 (Kmart)
0 11 Jenn-A ir 72O -O 336C(BJs)
g 12 char-Broil Classic
463211512 (Home O epot)
[ 7 ] 13 Brinkmann Zone 5-i n-l
810-2390-S (Home O epot)
[ 7 1 14 Weber Summit S-470
Summit E-470
[ 7 ] IS Jenn-A ir 720-0720
(Costco)
B Discontinued

6

9
O
O
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

Brand & modei
; g type, are comparable to
1 tested model.
Price Overaii score Testresuits Features
e
m
p
e
r
a
t
e
r
f
o
r
m
a
e
s
s
p
.

e
y
e
n
n
e
c
t

c
o
o
k
n
e
e
aj
1
B
s
t
e
e
l

g
r
a
r
o
n
i
t
e
s
m
-
t
l
y
s
t
a
i
n
l
i
g
-
w
a
r
r
a
e
r
s
b
u
r
n
n
e
r
S
i
d
e

b
u
r
0 100
P I F I G I V G l E '
C PORTABLE OR SMALL MODELS
[7] 1 Napoieon T errace
S E 325P K
Q 2 Char-Broii T R U -lnfrared
P rofessional 340 IR
463269011
Q 3 Char-Broii Red Patio
463250211 (Home D epot) 0
G ourmet I R U - lnf rared 463250212
(Home D epot)
D D iscontinued
e o o
Ratings Key E xcellent yei y good O G ood Fai r P oor
Q CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. Ali are recommended.
[^ Recommended T hese are high-performing modeis that stand out.
Overall score is based on perf ormance, convenience, and features. Lovi temperature
performance combines ttie evenness of tieating over the grill's surface at the low setting
and the model's ability to cook chick en and fish on the grill at that setting without burning
the f ood. Hlqh temp, evenness evaluates the evenness of heating over the griil's surface
at the high setting. Indirect cooking indicates how well the griii slow cook s foods when
oniy some of the burners are on and f ood isn't directiy over flames. Convenience evaluates
construction and materiais, ease of use, accessory burners, and propensity f or f lare-up.


H O M E T H E A T E R 71
Qujck
Guide
HOME THEATER
With their relatively simple set-up and all-
inclusive designs, home-theater-in-a-box
(HTIB) systems make it easy to enjoy better
sound with your TV or while listening to music.
Shopping tip
A 2.1 system
with two front
speakers and a
subwoofer might
be enough to
enhance your
TV's sound.
What to look for
Enough inputs and outputs
to match your gear
A 5.1-speaker setup if you
want surround sound
A sound bar if you want
a compact, easy upgrade to
your TV sound
A system with a Blu-ray
player if you don't have one
3D capability if you have
a 3D TV or plan to buy one
What to skip
A system that includes a
disc player if you have one
What you'ii pay
Home theater prices vary
widely, from about $250 for
sound bars to $170 for basic
DVD units, and $500 for
7.1-channel models with a
Blu-ray player.
ConsumerReports.org/theater
Brands model Price Overallscore Testresults
-
A SOUND BARS
O" er ^ er Q. er
Si:E
0 10 0
p I F I G I VG l E
E E
1 Samsung HT-0 550 0 NA O O 5.1 5.1
I I
G eu
D
1
2
3
B
VZOVHT510
Vizio VHT215
VZOVHT210
$280 EB U HI
300 E3 B H
165 ^ ^ H
SYSTEiUS WITH A BLU-RAY PUYER
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
9
9
5.1
2.1
2.1
3.1
1.1
1.1

Brand S model Price Overallscore Testresults
c-3 '
^ ^ti I
o 100
P i F i G l V G i E
C S Y S T E M S W I T H O U T A V I D E O P L A Y E R
1 Bose Lifestyle T20 $1,800
2 Denon
O H T- 13 12B A
3 Yamaha
Y HT -497B L
4 Yamaha yHT -595
5 Yamaha Y HT -395
5.1
Ratings Key E xcel l ent averygo o d O G o o d Fair P o o r
H CR Best Buy T hese mo dels o ffer the best co mbinatio n o f perfo rmahce and price. Ail are reco mmended.
0 Recommended T hese are high-perfo rming mo dels that stand o ut.
Overall score is based mainl y o n so und qual ify and picture qual ity fo r mo del s with video
piayers; ease o f use and versatil ity are aiso facto red in. T he displ ayed sco re is o ut o f a to tai o f
-100 po ints. Sound quality represents to nal accuracy and abil ity to repro duce fine so nic detail .
HD picture quality eval uates cl arity and co l o r accuracy o f a higfi-definitio n pro gressive-scan
(1080p) signal , such as that fro m a B lu-ray player. Al l signals were ro uted thro ugh an HD M I
co nnectio n. Upconverted film picture quality indicates the detaii, co l o r accuracy, and freedo m
fro m mo tio n artifacts o f images fro m fil m-based co ntent o n standard D VD s. T he o utput signal
is 5et to upco nvert the standard-definitio n co ntent to 1080p (quasi-HD ) reso l utio n via an
HD M I co nnectio n to an HD T V. 4 80i film picture quality indicates fhe sharpness, detail , co l o r
accuracy, and degree o f mo tio n artifacts o f images o n regul ar T Vs when the unit piays fil m-
based standard D VD s at standard definitio n reso l utio n. Ease o f use refers to setup and use o f
co ntro l s. Versatility is based o n useful features. Number of channels refers to audio signai .
channel s suppl ied by the system. Number of speakers suppl ied are tho se that co me with the
system. Price is appro ximate retaii.


L A W N M O W E R S 73
Quick
Guide
LAWN MOWERS
Tiie best seif-propeiied gas mowers we tested
come from Honda and Toro. But we found some
big differences in value and performance for
the tOO-pius othier mowers we tested this year.
Shopping tip
Decide whether
you want to mulch,
bag, or discharge
clipping s-and look
for top scores in
that mode.
What to iooit for
An electric push-type mower
(corcied or cordless) for small,
level lawns
A gas-powered mower for
larger lawns and long or thick
grass and weeds
Side-discharge capability for
when grass is too tall to mulch
or bag effectively
Rear-wheel drive for slopes
A blade-brake clutch, which
stops only the blade when you
release the handlebar lever
A washout port that accepts
a hose for easy cleaning
What to skip
A larger engine, which
doesn't necessarily mean
higher-quality mowing
What you'ii pay
Figure on $300 to $600 for
top-scoring gas self-propelled
mowers, $400 for battery-
powered models, and $170 to
$260 for a capable push gas
or corded-electric mower.
ConsumerReports.org/mowers
B
OU CLO DO
Arands model Pfjce lOveraiiscore Testresuifs Features
S imiiar mod e ls,
in small type, are
romparableto
tested model.
S ' i ' 1 -^ S
S
0
P I F 1 G I V Gl E
A GAS MULTIPLE SPEEDS
0 1
0 2
0 3
Q 4
B 5
Q 6
R 7
Honda HRX217VKA
Toro 2038120382
Honda HRR216VYA
Honda HRR216VKA
Toro Recycler 20333
Recycler 2 0334
Toro Recycler
20332
C raftsman 37108
V a r .
V a r .
e e e var.
e e e e var.
e e e e var.
e e o Var.
e e Var.
R e a r 21
R e a r 21
R e a r 21
R e a r 21
R e a r 2 2
R e a r 2 2
R e a r 21
190
159
160
160
190
190
175

Brands modei Price Overaii score Testresuits Features
g Smi l:
1 i I
'S
a>
d
in
-E
0 10 0
P I F I G I V GI E
A GAS MULTIPLE SPEEDS continued
W 8
9
10
11
12
13
14
S
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
2S
26
27
28
29
30
31
Craft sman 3 70 44
TrOY-BiitTB-330XP
12AKC39
Troy-BiitTB-350XP
12AKD39
Craft sman 37435
37436
Craftsman 37095
Lawn-Boy 10607
Husqvarna 38045
Husqvarna 37697
Snapper NXT22875E
Brute BTXPV22700E
Craftsman 37092
3 70 93
Hu sqvarn a XT 721F
XT 721FE
Troy-Biltl2AKC39B
Husqvarna HU700F
Husqvarna 38096
Husqvarna 37913
Troy-Biitl2AK039B
Husqvarna HU775L
Troy-Biitl2AVB290
T ro y-Bilt T B230
12AVB25U
Husqvarna HD700L
HusqvarnaHU700L
Snapper 37129
Snapper SPV21675E
$350
360
380
300
500
300
320
300
450
350
380
330
340
330
350
360
360
360
330
^nn
J U U
370
360
370
400
e e e O a
e o a o a
Var. Front 22 190
var . R ear 21 175
a O a O e Var. Rear 21
e e o
o e o
o o o
o e e
o a e
e o e
o o e
o a o
a o o
a o o
o a o
o a o
o a o
e o o
o a o
e o o
e o o
o a o
o a o
a o a
o o o
e o
e e
o a
a a
e o
e e
a e
o a
a a
a e
o a
a a
a a
o o
a o
o e
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 20
Var. Front 22
Var. Front 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Front 21
Var. Rear 21
Var. Front 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 21
Var. Rear 22
Var. Front 21
Var. Front 21
Var. Rear 22
Var. Rear 22
Var. Front 22
4 Rear 21
175
190
190
149
149
149
190 -
190
190
173
175
160
149
149
175
175
161
190
161
161
190
190
R at ings Key E xcellent aver ygood O G ood Fair P o o r
Q C R B est B uy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
[ ^ R ecor nmended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

L A V \ / N M O W E R S
Brands model Price Overall score Testresuits Features
-g Similar modeis,
S ill small type, are
comparable to
tested model.
DO DO 0 DO QJ
C C C i/l
i 'I 1 o
'50
0 10 0
P I F I G I V Gl E
A GAS MULTIPLE SPEEDS continued
32 S napper
SPV 22675HW
SPV 227OHW
33 S napper
SPV 22725HW
34 S napper5PXV 22725
35 Brute BTX-
PV 226750HW
B GAS SINGLE SPEED
O O O e O Van Front 22
O O O O O
O O O O
O O O O O
V ar. Front 22
V ar. Rear 22
V ar. Front 22
190
190
190
190
1 Toro 20 370
2
3
4
5
Toro 20371
V ard M an 12A-18M7
Cub Cadet 12A-18MC
12A-18M7
Cub Cadet 12A-E18U
12A-E18JA
6 Craftsman 37043
37041
7 Lawn-Boy 10606
8 Lawn-BOY 10605
10604
9 Craftsman 37040
10 Troy-BiltTB-210
12A-A255
11 Craftsman 37091
12 Brut e BTPD22625
e e O
e e o
e o e e
e e e o
o e e e
e e o
e o o o
e o o o
e o NA o
e o o
o e o
NA o
Front 22
Front 22
Rear 19
Rear 19
Rear 19
Front 22
Rear 20
Rear 20
Front 22
Front 21
Rear 22
F'ront 22
149
149
173
173
173
190
149
149
140
190
190
190
C ELECTRIC-BATTERY SELF-PROPELLED
[71 1 Black & Deci<er
5PCM1936
2 W orx W6789
e O e e e
o o e e
V ar. Rear 19 NA
V ar. Rear 19 NA
36
volts
36
volts
D PROPANE SELF-PROPELLED
1 Lei)rLM1395P 350
E WIDE DECK MULTIPLE SPEEDS
O O 1 Rear 20 139
1 ToroTimeMaster
20199 TimeMaster 20200
1,0 0 0 O e e e var. Rear 30 190

B rand & model
iype, are comparable to
lestetl model.
P ric e O v eraii sc ore T est resu it s I F eat u res
i
L L J
ll
F GAS PUS H
1 ^ 1 1
''
0 2
Q ^
B 4
0 5
0 6
0 1
0 8
B 9
10
0 11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
2 0
2 1
C ub C adet U A-18M C
U A-1 8M 9.1 1 A-1 8M 9
Husqvarna 6021P
552 1 P .7O 2 1 P
T r oy- B i i t B l l O
11A-A23N
Murray 11A-A23K
Yard Maciiines 11AB 16M
Lawn-Boy 1 0 60 3
Craftsman 3 70 1 0
Craftsman 37037
Yard Maciiines 40 7896
Yard Man 11A-A24T
1 1 S -B 2 M
Troy-BiitllA -B29Q
Craftsman 3 70 3 0
Yard Maciiines l l A B 13L
Murray 11A-B 24Z
Yard Maciiines 1 1 AA44E
Yard Maciiines 11A414E
1 1 A-A1 8M
BoiensllA A 40J
Murray M 2 2 450
Murray M 225O O
Weed Eater 961120115
961 1 2 0 1 1 6
Murray M 2O 3O O
4"?/in
^W
200
200
195
. 2 0 0
240
200
250
180
200
250
200
200
208
150
1 0 A
i oU
150
150
170
140
130
O
O
O
o
o
o
NA
o
NA
9
9
NA
NA
O
O
O
O
O
NA
O
O
O
o
o
o
o
NA
9
N A
NA
N A
NA
NA
O
O
O
NA
O
O
O
N A
O
NA
N A
O
O
NA
O
O
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
' O
o
9
9
9
9
9
19
21
21
21
21
20
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
22
22
20
20
173
149
140
140
190
149
140
190
158
190
161
140
140
190
158
158
148
148
158
148
148
R atings Key E xcellent Verygood O G ood Fair P oor
B C R B est B uy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 R ecommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

L A W N M O y V E R S 77
Brifd s model
si mi l ar model s, in small
icsted motlel.
Pnce Overallscore . Testresults Features
GO GO cu
fil
-5 s S
m 3
G ELECTRIC-BATTERY PUSH
1
2
3
4
S
6
7
8
9
10
U
12
13
14
15
16
17
Blacks Decker CM1936
CM1936Z r2
Black S Decker
CMM1200
Toro 20360
Black S Decker CM1836
Craftsman 37048
CCSOOB AT
WorxWG788
WorxWG783
Remington 18A-212B
Homelite UT 13126
Worx WG 780
Eartiiwise 60120
Neuton CE 6.4
Black S Decker MM875
Biack S Decker M^418OO
Remington 18A-212A
Homelite UT 13124
Earthwise 50120
<tr\
/inn
4UU
420
350
j / J
400
200
320
300
430
320
470
240
200
210
200
160
a O O O a
a o o
a NA
o o o
o o o
o o
NA
o o
o o
o o
o
NA
e a o
o o o
o o
o
o
o a
o a
o a
e o
a e
o e
o e
o e
o a
o a
e
a
e
a
e
19 3 6 v o l t s
19 24 volts
20 36 volts
18 36 volts
19 48 volts
19 36 volts
14 24 volts
19 24 volts
20 36 volts
19 24 volts
20 24 volts
19 36 volts
19 12 amps
18 12 amps
19 12 amps
20 12 amps
20 12 amps
Overall score is based mainly on cutting performance, handling, and ease of use. T he displayed
score is out of a total of 100 points. Mulching is hov* completely the mower distributed the clip- .
pings over the lawn's surface. Bagging is how many clippings the bag held before it filled or the
chute clogged. Side discharging is how evenly clippings were dispersed from the side-discharge
chute. Handling includes ease of using drive controls, pushing, pulling, making U-turhs, and ma-
neuvering in tight spots. Ease of use is ease of starting, using blade-stopping controls, changing
speeds, and adjusting cut height. For gas-powered mowers, engine size is in cubic centimeters
(cc); electric models are rated in volts (v) for cordless or amperes (a) for corded. Price is approxi-
mate retail for mowers and attachments.

M ost & Least R eliable
S E LF-P R O P E LLE D iViO WE R S
Y a rd M a n /
Yard M achin es
H o n d a
C r a f t s m a n
T o r o
L a w n - B o y
T r o y - B i l t
H u s q v a r n a
J o h n D e e re
1 0 % 1 5% 2 0 % 2 5% 30 %
P U S H
T roy-B ilt LgJ gu
Honda 1 1 ^
Lawn-B oy ! ]
Craftsman ^ g ^ m
Yard Man/ L H I L ^
T Y P E iVI O WE R S
J
0 % 5% 1 0 % 1 5% 2 0 % 2 5% 30 %
J o h n D e e re , H u s q v a r n a , a n d T r o y - B i l t w e r e
t h e m o s t r e pa i r - pr o n e br a n d s a m o n g s e lf-
pr o pe l l e d m o w e r s . T h a t 's w h a t we f o u n d
w h e n we asked r e a d e r s w h o bo u gh t 9,008
pu sh a n d 31,371 s e l f - pr o pe l l e d m o w e r s f r o m
2007 t h r o u gh t h e f i r s t h a lf of 2011 a bo u t
t h e i r e xpe r i e n c e s . The gr a ph show s t h e
pe r c e n t a ge of m o d e ls f r o m e a ch br a n d t h a t
w e r e r e pa i r e d o r h a d a s e r i o u s pr o bl e m .
D if f e r e n c e s of f e w e r t h a n 4 po i n t s a r e n 't
m e a n i n gf u l , a n d d a t a a re a d ju s t e d t o e l i m i -
n a t e d i f f e r e n c e s l i n ke d t o m o w e r age a n d
u se . M o d e ls w i t h i n a br a n d m ay v a r y
a n d d e s ign a n d m a n u f a c t u r i n g c h a n ge s
m ay a f f e c t f u t u r e r e l i a bi l i t y . St i l l , c h o o s in g a
bra n d w i t h a go o d re pa ir h i s t o r y can im pr o v e
y o u r o d d s o f ge t t i n g a r e l i a bl e m o d e l .


L A W N T R A C T O R S 79
Quick
Guide
LAWN TRACTORS
Self-propelled mowers are fine for most lawns, but
unless you love tiie exercise, you'll probably prefer
a tractor for lawns iialf an acre or larger. Our tests
found winners that blend performance and value.
What to iook for
A high-back seat, for added
comfort and support
Variable drive speeds you
control with a foot pedal
A washout port that accepts
a hose for cleaning beneath
Electric power takeoff to
engage and disengage the
blades without a lever
What to skip
Zero-turn-radius riders if
you have steep slopes, where
they can be hard to control
Fancy features like power-
assist steering, which can eas-
ily add thousands of dollars to
the price (weVe found tractors
easy enough to steer without
power assist)
What you'll pay
Figure on $1,500 to $1,800 for
most tractors; $3,500-plus for
tight-turning models; $2,500
plus for zero-turn-radius rid-
ers, which turn on a dime.
For more buying advice, go to Con-
sumerReporU.org/tractors
Shopping tip
Often, paying
a little more
buys a lot more
machine.
Scan this or see how. paqe 11
Brand & modei Price Overaii score Test resuits
similar models, in sinili lype,
aie romp.iial)lc to tested model:
A LAWN TRACTORS
DJD 0.0 CiD DO
l i
Si -3
0 100
P I F 1 G i V Gi E
[*d 1 Snapper NXT2346
0 2 Joiin Deere X310
0 3 Joiin Deere X304
n 4 John Deere OHO
" 0130.0120
Q 5 Husqvarna YTH21K46
23
18.5
17
19.5
21
Ratings K ey Excellent averygood OGood Fair P oor
D CR Best Buy These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
Lid Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

B rands model
S imilar models, in smi\\ cvp?.
P ri c e O v e r a l l score T e s t r e s u i t s
D D D D D JS D O QJ
0 100
P I F I G I V G i E
A LAWN TRACTORS cont i nu ed
'E b
6 Jobn Deere X300
7 C raftsman 28856
8 S napper LT 12S mm
9 C raftsman 28885
10 S na ppe r S P X2 2 4 6
B LAWN TRACTORS W I DE DECK
17
24
23
2 1
22
1 Jobn De e r e 0140 D 160.0150 2,000
2 C r a ft s ma n 2 8861 2,800
3 C raftsman 2 8858, 2,000
C ZTR
22
26
26
H i Craftsman 25001
0 2 Toro T imecutter S 54235
74 6 2 7 S S 4235 74624
0 3 Husqarna R Z4623
0 4 Snapper150Z
0 5 Jobn Deere Z225
24
2 0
2 3
2 0
18.5
Overall score is based mainly on cu t t i ng performance, handling, and ease of use. T he displayed
score is ou t of a t ot al of 100 points. Side discharging is how evenly clippings were dispersed from
t he side-discharge chu t e. Mulching I s how evenly clippings were cu t and dist ribu t ed ont o t he
lawn. Bagging is a measu rement of t he capacity of t he grass bag, det ermined when t he bag was
fu ll or when t he chu t e clogged and clippings weren't being collect ed. Handling inclu des clu t ching
or drive engagement, braking, st eering, t u rn radiu s, and st abilit y. Ease of use includes leg room,
seat and st eering-wheel comfort , ease of blade/brake engagement, cu t -height adju st ment , bag
removal, and cu t t ing-mode changes. Deck size (in.) is t he manu fact u rer's claimed cu t t i ng wi dt h,
or swatch, in inches. Engine power (hp) is t he manu fact u rer's claimed horsepower. Price is
approximat e ret ai i .

L A W N T R A C T O R S 81
Most & Least Reiiabie
LAWN TRACTORS
John Deere
Craftsman
Husqvarna
Kubota
Troy-Bilt
Cub Cadet
0 % 5% 10 % 15% 2 0 % 25% 30 %
ZERO-TURN-RADIUS RiDERS
0 % 5% 10 % 15% 2 0 % 25% 30 %
Troy-Bilt was among t he most repair-prone
brands among lawn t r act or s. Cub Cadet
among both t r act or s and zero-turn-radius
riding mowers. That's what we found when
we asked readers who bought 17,701 lawn
t r act or s and 2,223 zero-turn-radius riders
f r om 2007 t hr ough t he f i r st half of 2011 about
t hei r experiences. The graph shows t he per-
centage of models f r om each brand t h a t were
repaired or had a serious problem. Differ-
ences of fewer t han 6 points aren't meaning-
f u l , and data are adjusted t o eliminate di f f er -
ences linked to mower age and use. Models
wi t hi n a brand may vary and design and man-
uf act ur i ng changes may affect f ut ur e rei i abi l -
ity. St i l l , choosing a brand wi t h a good repair
history can improve your odds of get t i ng a
reliable model.


MICROWAVES
Quick
Guide
Most models did well with basic tasks like defrosting
meats, reheating leftovers, and making popcorn.
Some offer convection, speed-cook, and a vast
menu of programs for preparing main meais.
What to look for
A sensor, which helps pre-
vent over- or undercooking
by measuring emitted steam
to gauge when food is done
Convection, speed-cook,
and grilling features if you
want to use your microwave
as a second ovenand are
willing to pay more
What to skip
A raft of prepregrammed
shortcut keys if you're mostly
defrosting and popping corn
What you'll pay
Countertop models cost the
least (about $80 to $300) and
are best for kitchens with
lots of counter space. Mid-
sized and large models add
capacity and features, with
midsized models selling the
most overall. Over-the-range
microwaves ($300 to $900)
save space but don't vent
as well as well as a capable
range hood.
ConsumerReports,org/microwaves
Shopping tip
Some brands
overstate usable
space, so be sure
to bring along
a large platter
v^hen you shop,
to see if it fits.
Brands model I Price I Overall score I Test results
SifAiiar models,
in snidll rype.
arecoinpaialile
lo tested motlel.
. s >- "
0 IOO
P I F I G I V GI E
.S !
A MIDSIZED COUNTERTOP MODELS
1 Kenmore 6633[9]
2 Kenmore 6325[2]
69121)
3 Kenmore 6622 [Item
#1345111] (Kmart) 105
523784U (Kmarl)
B LARGE COUNTERTOP MODELS
0.8 1.2 1200
0.9 1.2 1200
0.6 1.1 1100
1 Whiripooi
MT41555P I81
2 GE P rofile
JES22515J[55L
0.9 1.5 1200
e 1-5 2.2 1200

M I C R O W A V E S
Brand S modei Pnce Overaii score Test resuits
E
Similar modeis,
insiralltvpe.
are coinparable
to tesEd model.
g o
g -o
at 2
s, s.
S! 1= s -
.'S 5 i
. P. S E
g iS
0 10 0
p I F I G I V G l E
3 . 1
B LARGE COUNTERTOP iUlODELS continued
Whirip ool G old
6T4175SPIB1
Panasonic I nverter
NNT945IS1F
Kenmore Elite
791519]
GE Profile
PEB2060DM1BB1
150
270
C OVER-THE RANGE MODELS
[ ] 1 Kenmore Elite
8852[2]
0 2 LG LMHM2017I5W1
[ 71 3 Kenmore Elite
8601(3]
[ 7] 4 Whirip ooi
G H72O8XR10]
M S Panasonic G enius
Prestige NN-5D297[SR]
p ] 6 Kenmore Elite
8600[31
[ ] 7 GE Profile Advantiiim
P5A1201R[5S] Profiie
Advantiiim PSA1200R[ 1
H 8 Kenmore 850419]
630
950
260
Rati ngs Key Excellent V ery good OG ood Fa i r Poor
D CR Best Buy These modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. Aii are recommended.
l ^ Re c o m m e n d e d These are high-performing models that stand out.

Overall score is based mainly on evenness of heating, ease of use, and auto-defrosting abil-
ity. T he displayed score is out of a totai of 1 0 0 points. Heating evenness refiects how evenly
a model reheated a dish of cold mashed potatoes. Auto defrost is based on how well the
automatic-defrost program defrosted 1 pound of frozen ground chuck. Ease of use includes
how easy it is to set the microwave without referring to the instructions. MIcrowaving noise
reflects how quiet the oven is while microwaving on high. Usable capacity (cu.ft.) is the
usable space based on our measurements, and excludes the corner spaces for models with
rotating turntables. N ote that most over-the-range models allow you to turn the rotation off
to fit large dishes (a few countertop models also offer that feature). With the rotation off.
measured capacity approximates claimed. However, food may reguire extra tending and stir-
ring. Price is approximate retail.
MiCROWAVES
0 % 5% 1 5 % 2 0 % 2 5 % 30 %
S ource; Annual P roduct R eliability S urvey,
We found no meaningful differences among the
brands for which we had enough data to include
in our chart. Although we lacked sufficient data
to include KitchenAid, data we have indicates it
has been among the more repair-prone brands.
T hat's what we found when we asked more than
1 4,0 0 0 readers who bought an over-the-range
microwave oven between 2 0 0 7 and 2 0 1 1 . T he
graph shows the percentage of brands that
needed repair or had a serious problem. We've
adjusted the data to eliminate differences linked
solely to product age. M odels within a brand may
vary, and design or manufacture changes may
affect future reliability. S till, choosing a brand
with a good repair history can improve your


P A I N T S , E X T E R I O R 85
Quick
Guide
PAINTS, EXTERIOR
Paints that lasted longest in our tests also cost the
most. The good news: Several stood up nearly as well
for as little as one-third the price. A few even meet
regional California limits for harmful VOCs.
S hopping Wt
Take a trip to
your local Home
Depot or Lowe's
for store-brand
paints that offer
performance
and value.
What to iook for
Flat and satin finishes for
siding. Flat hides flaws while
satin adds a touch of gloss
Shinier semi-gloss for doors,
windows, trim, and shutters
for visual contrast
Mildew resistance for shady
spots; fade resistance for sun-
ny ones; dirt resistance for
urban areas
What to skip
Economy grades of paints,
which don't weather as well
as top-of-the-line products
from the same brand . Many
top paints are low-priced
Buying strictly tjy brand,
since manufacturers often
reformulate paints to comply
with tougher regulations
What you'll pay
The best values range from
about $20 to $30 per gallon;
buying 5-gallon containers
can save you even more.
ConsumerReports,org/pamt
Brand & model Price Overall score Testresuits Features
100
F 1 G I V G l E
i
c
e

a
f
t
e
3

y
e
a
r
)
p
e
a
r
a
n
c
e

a
f
t
e
6

y
e
a
r
j
p
e
a
r
a
n
i
c
e

a
f
t
e
9
v
e
a
r
j
p
e
a
r
a
n
I
A FLAT May hide minor surface imperfections.
[ 7 ] 1 California Paints Fres-Coat
V elvet Flat
[ 7 ] 2 Sherwin-Wiliiams
Duration Flat
Q 3 GliddenSpredFlat
Q 4 Glidden Premium Flat
(Home Depot)
Q S Behr Premium Plus Flat
(Home Depot)
Q 6 Valspar Ultra Premium Flat
(Lowe's)
100
92
100
100
100
100

86
C O N S U M E R R E P O F T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Brand & model Price Overaii score Test resuits Features
E
0 100
p I F I G I V G l E
2
3
ca .
A FLA T continued
' -2S
[ 7 | 7 Vaispar O uraM ax f l at
(Lowe'5)
8 Siierwin-Williams
^R esilience F lat
e e
B SA TIN A dds slight gloss to fi ni sh.
100
48
p ] 1 Siierwin-Wiliiams
D uration S atin
p ] 2 Pratt & L ambert Accolade
E ggshell
Q 3 Glidden P remium S atin
(Home D ep ot)
Q 4 Glidden S pred S atin
5 Vaispar D uraM ax S atin
(Lowe's)
6 Sears WeatherB eater
U l tra S atin
7 Siierwin-Wiiiiams
. R esilience S atin
8 Vaispar U l tra P remium
e e
28
j a t i n [Lowe's) "_ i
e
e
o
o
C SEMI-GL OSS Use mainly for t r i m, windows, and doors.
107
162
50
50
150
53
48
150
[ 7 ] 1 5iierwin-Williams
D uration G loss
Q 2 Beiir P remium P lus S emi-
G loss E namel (Home O epot)
Q 3 Glidden S p red S emi-G loss
4 Glidden P remium
S emi-G loss (Home D ep ot)
5 Vaispar U l tra P remium
: E i ni i .: S emi-G loss (Lowe's)
28
29

O
41
150
50
50
150
Ratings Key E xcel l ent V ery good O G ood F ai r P oor
D CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best connbination of p erformance and p rice. Al l are recommended.
0 Recommended T hese are high-p erforming models that stand out.

P A I N T S , E X T E R I O R 87
Overall score is a weighted average of each year's appearance for up to 3 years of testing.
Appearance after 3 years summarizes performance after 1 year of our accelerated weathering
(i.e., equivalent to 3 years on a vertical wall). Testing stops when appearance falls to Fair or Poor,
at which time the product must be reapplied. Appearance after 6 years summarizes perfor-
mance after 2 years of our accelerated weathering (i.e., equivalent to 6 years on a vertical wall).
Testing stops when appearance falls to Fair or Poor, at which time the product must be reapplied.
Appearance after 9 years summarizes performance after 3 years of our accelerated weathering
(i.e., equivalent to 9 years on a vertical wall). Testing stops after 3 years, regardless of whether
appearance falls to Fair or Poor. Products that at this point still rate at least Good for appear-
ance are considered superior products. VOCs (grams/liter) indicates the level of volatile organic
compounds as stated on the can. Price is approximate retail per gallon.


8B C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Quick
Guide
PAINTS, INTERIOR
No one paint can do it all-we found winners for each gloss
ievel, with one-coat hiding ability, smoothness, suitability
for sunny spaces, and even low VOC ieveis.
What to look for
Flat paint for a formal liv-
ing room, dining room, or
other space that doesn't see
heavy use, because it isn't the
most stain resistant
Eggshell or satin for family
rooms, kitchens, bathrooms,
kids' rooms, hallways, and
the like
Semi-gloss for windowsills,
trim, and other woodwork to
add contrast (while typically
stain resistant, many semi-
gloss paints will dull when
cleaned)
What to skip
Bright greens and yellows
for sun-drenched rooms,
because these colors tend to
fade a lot; whites and browns
are better choices
What you'll pay
About $19 to $66 per gallon.
Each gallon covers about 400
square feet of smooth wall;
rougher surfaces require a
bit more.
Shopping tip
For the best
coverage, we
recommend
using two coats,
even with a top-
i scoring paint.
ConsumerReports.org/paint I Scan this or see how. page 11
Brand & modei Price Overall score Test resuits
I
A SATIN & EGGSHELL
_ CO
s -s
1 0 0
F I G I VGI E
I
1 Benjamin Moore Aura Satin
2 Beiir Premium Plus Ultra
Satin Enamei (Home Depot)
3 Kilz Casuai Coiors Satin
4 Giidden Premium Satin
(Home Depot)
5 Behr Premium Plus Satin
Enamel (Home Oepot)
6 Benjamin Moore Regal
Seiect Eggsheli
7 Ace Royal Interiors Satin
8 Vaispar * Satin (Lowe's)
i

1
a i
1
1
1 a
1 a
1
^ o
1
1 o
a
o
o
a a
o

5 0
5 0
5 0
SO
5 0
5 0
5 0
O

P A I N T S , I N T E R I O R
Brand S model Price Overaii score Testresuits
S .B re
0
3
a j
DJD
l i
'^
+0 i
s
t
R
e
s
g
-o
ai
E
C
l
a
i
'
l
i
t
e
LA
re
.5
P I F I G I V Gi E
B SEiUII-GLOSS
[ 7 ] 1 Beiir Pre mium Plus Ult ra
Se mi-Gio55 (Home De pot)
[ 2 ] 2 Benjamin Moore Aura
Se mi-Glos5
Q l 3 Ace R oyal I n t e r ior s
Se mi-Gioss
Q 4 Giidden Brilliance
Se mi-Gioss (Walmart)
p ] 5 Beiir Pre mium Plus Se mi-
Gloss Ename l (Home De pot)
Q 6 Giidden Pre mium
Se mi-Gloss (Home De pot)
Q 7 B e t t e r Homes and Gardens
Se mi-Gloss (Waimart )
[ 2 ] 8 Benjamin Moore Natura
Se mi-Gloss
Q 9 Oiympic One Se mi-Gl05s
(Lowe 's)
C FLAT&iUATTE
O
50
50
50
0
50
50
0
0
SO
[ 7 ] 1 Beiir Pre mium Pius Uit ra
Flat (Home De pot)
[ 7 1 2 Benjamin Moore Aura
Matte
Q 3 Beiir Pre mium Plus Flat
Ename l (Home De pot)
p i 4 Benjamin Moore Natura
Flat
Q 5 Giidden Pre mium Flat
(Home De pot)
[ 7 ] 6 V aispar Signature C olors
Matte ( Low r t )
Ra t i n gs Key E xc e lle n t Ve r y g ood O G ood F air P oor
B CR B e s t Buy The se mode ls offe r the be st combination of pe rformance and price . All are re comme nde d.
0 Re c o m m e n d e d The se are high-pe rforming mode ls that stand out .

Overall score is mainly hiding, surface smoothness, and resistance to staining, scrubbing, gloss
change, sticking, mildew, and fading. Volatile organic compounds aren't scored. M ost results
reflect white, pastel, and medium-tint bases. Hiding is coverage of contrasting color with one
and two coats (with one-coat coverage weighted most heavily). Stains is resistance to greasy
stains. Gloss change is appearance after cleaning. Scrubbing is ability to resist abrasive cleaner.
Smoothness is the absence of roller marks when dry. Resists mildew is the ability to inhibit
mildew growth. Resists sticking indicates lack of tackiness when dry. Resists fading measures
lightening under U V light. Claimed VOCs (grams/liter) Is the maximum grams per liter for
untinted base, as claimed. Price is approximate retail.


P R I N T E R S , A L L - I N - O N E 91
Quick
Guide
PRINTERS, ALL-IN-ONE
if ail you do is print, you can save money and space by
purchasing a dedicated printer. But if you want to copy or
scan, or even fax, it's worth investigating an all-in-one.
What to iook for
If you don't need to print in
color or scan color photos, an
all-in-one laser for superior
quality, faster print speed,
and a lower cost per page
An all-in-one inkjet, if you
want color printing and a
model that excels at printing
your photos
A built-in duplexer to print
on both sides of the page
What to skip
High ink- or toner-cartridge
costs, which can make a
bargain-priced printer a bad
deal in the long run
An inkjet with a single color
cartridge, because separate
color cartridges may be more
economical, depending on
your photos
What you'ii pay
All-in-ones are actually getting
less expensive and more ver-
satile. Inkjets cost $60 and up.
ConsumerReports.org/printers
Shopping tip
If you're printing
photos, a memory
card reader
or PictBridge
compatibility can
be helpful.
Scan this or see how, page It
Brands model Price Overaii score Test resuits
o. o
o 100
p I F I G I V C l E
O o
I s
o Q.
O
S
A BLACK AND WHITE LASER K/IODELS
1 Samsung
SC X-3405FW
2 Canon imageC LASS
MF5950dw
3 Dell 2355dn
4 Brother M FC -7360N
s HP LaserJet Pro
MI212nf
6 Brother
MFC -7460DN
7 HP LaserJet Pro
Ml2l7nfw

Brand S model Price Over al l scor e Test r esul t s
fi3 '.S
cr 3
O
0 100
p I F I G I V G l E -
A BLACK AND WHITE LASER MODELS continued
8 Brother D C P -70 60 D $1 60
9 Brother
M FC -7860 D W
10 Canon imageC LAS S
M F3 0 1 0
U OK MB4 6 0
12 Panasonic
KX-M B 20 3 O
13 Panasonic
KX-M B 20 0 0
B COLOR LASER MODELS
E , W
E
E
E
D el l 21 55cn
Br ot her
M FC -9970 C D W
HP LaserJet P ro
C M 1 41 5fnw
Dell 1 3 55cn
Dell I 3 55cnw
HP LaserJet P ro
M 275nw
C INKJET MODELS
1 Canon P ixma
M G 8220
2 Lexmark
O fficeE dge P ro 4 0 0 0
3 Canon P ixma
M G 61 20
4 Lexmark P ro 9J5
5 HP P hotoS mart 751 0
6 HP O fficeJet P ro
8 6 0 0 Plus
1 1 . 4
5.9
1 1 . 2
1 2 . 4
9.2
5.3
e
o
o

o

E , W
E , W
, W
E , W
W
E , W
Rat i ngs Key E x cel l ent V er y g ood O G ood Fa i r P oor
Q CR Best Buy T hese model s offer the best combination of p erformance and p rice. Al l are recommended.
E Re c o mme n d e d T hese are high-p erforming model s that stand out.

P R I N T E R S , A L L - I N - O N E 93
Brand S model Pnce Overall score Test resuits
m ro ra '>
= = = S
a
"g
1 0 0
F I G I V C I E -
C II!K JE T M OD E L S continued
0 7 BrotiierMFC-J825DW $100
fTI 8 Brother
MFC-J69100W
0 9 L exmarif Pro 715
0 10 HP PhotoSmart 6510
r 7 | 11 C anon Pixma
MG6220
0 12 Brother
MFC-J5910DW
0 13 HP PhotoSmart 5510
0 14 Canon Pixma
MX892
0 15 C anon Pixma MX512
16 L exmari< Genesis
S815
17 E pson Artisan 725
18 HP OfficeJet 6600
19 Brother MFC-J6250W
20 HP OfficeJet Pro
8600
21 HP OfficeJet 7500A
22 C anon Pixma
MX882
23 HP PhotoSmart 5515
24 E pson Workforce
PrWP-4540
25 E pson
Wori<force 845
26 L exmari(
Interpret S405
27 E pson
Workforce 635
28 L exmari(
Intuition S505
29 K odait HERO 9.1
30 E pson Artisan 837
O O a O
o a o
a a a o
o e e e e e
eee
o a o a o
E,W
E.W
E,W
W
E,W
E.W
W
E,W
E,W
W
E,W
W
W
E.W
E,W
E,W
W
E,W
E,W
W
E,W
W
E,W
E,W

Brand S modei Price Overaii score Testresuits
P I F
100 _2
G I VG I E -
vO CD
t:r t r t x - +^ ^
I I I I '^
ii^lKJET MODELS continued
31 Kodak
E S P O ffice 2170
32 Canon P ixma
M X432
33 Canon P ixma
M G 532O
34 Kodak HE R O 7.1
3 5 Epson Artisan'730 100
36 Kodak HE R O 5.1 1 3 0
37 Epson Workforce
WF-7510
3 8 DeiiV725W
39 Epson Artisan 835
40 Lexmark
I nteract S 605
41 HP O fficeJet 6700
P remium
42 Kodak O FFI C E
HE R O 6.1
4 3 Canon P ixma
M X420
44 Canon P ixma
M G 4120
45 Canon P ixma
M G 3120
46 Canon P ixma M X372
47 Canon P ixma
M P 280
48 Canon P ixma
M P 495
49 Canon P ixma
M G 2120
50 HP E nvy U O
Ratings Key E xcellent Verygood O G ood Fai r 9POOI
D C R Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

P R I N T E R S , A L L - I N - O N E
95
Brand S model Pnce Overall score Testresuits
0 100 J
P I F I G I V G l E -
C INKJET MODELS continued
51 Brother
IV IFC -J 6 5 10D W
5 2 Brother IV IFC -J 430W
53 Epson
W or kf or ce 435
54 Kodak HERO 3.1
55 Epson Styl us NX430
5 6 HP D eskjet 3 05 0
57 Brother MFC -J 220
5 8 Epson Styl us NX420
7 .9
7 . 3
1 C . 6
8 . 6
1 0 . 5
1 2 . 6
1 1 .1
1 2
o o o a

a e
e e
e a
a a
9 a
a o
O
6 9
o a
9 a
a a
a a
a o
a a
a a
o a
o a
o
e e
o a

e m
o
NA W
E,W
W
w
w
. w
w
Overall score is based on speed and qual ity of print, scan, and copy functions, pl us ease of use.
The displ ayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Ink and paper/month is estimated cost (in
dol l ars) for ink and photo paper in a month of typical use, based on our tests and how our readers
tol d us they print. For inkjets: 23 text pages, 9 graphics pages, 2.4 l arge photos, 3.6 smal l photos,
and 3.5 photos on pl ain paper. For l asers: 6 2 text pages, 24 graphics pages, 1.7 l arge photos, 1.9
smal l photos, and 2.3 photos on pl ain paper. P hotos cost the most, text documents the l east, so
your resul ts may vary from these figures, but they are useful for comparing model s. Photo
quality refl ects a photo's appearance. The 4 x6 photo time score refl ects how quickl y the model
can print one 4x6 photo on photo-qual ity paper. One minute or l ess is excel l ent; 1 to 2 minutes is
very good; 2 to 4 minutes is good; 4 to 6 minutes is fair; and l onger than 6 minutes is poor. The
8x10 photo time score refl ects how quickl y the model can print one 8x10 photo on photo-qual ity
paper. Two minutes or l ess is excel l ent; 2 to 4 minutes is very good; 4 to 6 minutes is good; 6 to 8
minutes is fair; and l onger than 8 minutes is poor. Text quality assesses cl arity and crispness of
bl ack text. Text speed score refl ects how quickl y the model can print text on five pages of pl ain, ,
l etter-sized pages. Thirty seconds or l ess is excel l ent; 31 to 6 0 seconds is very good; 61 t o 90 sec-
onds is good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and l onger than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics quality as-
sesses the appearance of col or graphics produced by the printer. Bl ack and white l asers were iudged
on bl ack and white graphics. Scan quality is for col or photos, graphics, and text scanned at each
model 's defaul t settings. Copy quality is for graphics and text. Power savinq indicates how wel l
the printer conserves power between uses. For networking, E indicates the model can network
using wired Ethernet; W indicates wirel ess capabil ity. Price is approximate retail .


Quick
G uide
PRINTERS, REGULAR
Ini^jet and laser printers have become more
affordable and increasingly full featured.
S hopping tip
A printer with
an E nergy
S tar label will
consume very
little power when
not printing.
S can this or see how, page 1 1
What to iooit for
A iaser printer, if you want
fast, low-cost, top-quality
black-and-white text
An inkjet, if you want the
most versatile printer. You
can print color photos and
graphics, as well as text
Features such as a memory-
card reader, PictBridge sup-
port, or a wireless interface,
if you want to print photos
without a computer
What to skip
Color laser printers, which
are more costly than their
monochrome counterparts
and unsuited for photos
Snapshot printers, most
of which didn't provide the
photo quality of the best reg-
ular Inkjets in our tests
What you'll pay
Color inkjets can cost as lit-
tle as $50, and monochrome
laser printers less than $80.
For rnore buying advice, go to
ConsumerReports.org/printers
: E e :^ s s .E
O J .-t
o o
x: sz
CL C L
r: <
QJ o)
5
a t;
y s s
0 1 0 0
p I F I G I V G l E
A BLACK AND WHITE LASER MODELS
HP taseijet P ro
P lO dn
HP Laserjet P ro
P U 0 2 W
Samsung
M t-2 955D W
Brotiier
HL-53 70 D W
Lexmark E 2 60 dn
HP Laserjet
P 2 O 55dn
Brother
HL-2 2 70 D W
150
NA E
NA W
E,W
NA E.W
NA E
NA E
E,W

P R I N T E R S , R E G U L A R 97
HE
3 g
re
Q- o- ^ " ^ IP
s ' 5 ~ g
*2 ? S
100
P I F I G IVGI E -
A BLACK AND WHITE LASER MODELS continued
8 Samsung
ML-2165W
9 DelllBOn
10 0KIB411dn
11 Samsung
ML-3712DW
12 Dell235Odn
B COLOR LASER MODELS
5.6
5.5
3.1
2.3
3.5
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
O
O
O
O

a
a
a
NA
NA
NA
W
E
E
E,W
E
1 Dell 1250c
2 Lexmark C540n
3 HP Laserjet Pro
CPlO25nw
4 Brother
HL-4570CDW
5 Brother
HL-3040CN
6 OKI C330dn
7 Konica Minolta
Magicolor 1600W
8 Brother
HL-3075CW
9 Samsung
CLP-325W
C INKJET MODELS
250
200
13.3 a NA a a a
7 o NA o
11.3 o m ^ ^ e ^ e
6
10.5 NA a o
10.5 NA a o
8.5 o NA a o
9.3 # a a
11.1 a
3
Z]
Z]
El
Zl
1
2
3
4
5
Epson Workforce
ProWP-4010
Epson Stylus
R2000
HP OfficeJet 6100
HP OfficeJet 6000
Wireless
Canon Pixma
Pro9OOO Mark II
7.7 a a
10.7 m m e e e e
6.2 a a a e
11.8
a o
E
E,W
E,W
E,W
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair Poor
Lid Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

Brands modei Price Overall score Test resuits
E ra
^ s s s -a
^ O CL Q. J
r = s
, O
S 'S S
I F I G I V G l E -
C INKJET MODELS conti nued
6 Canon P ixma
X6520
7 HP O fficeJet P ro
8100
8 Canon P ixma
P 4920
9 Canon P ixma
P 2702
10 Epson Artisan 50
U HP D eskjet 3000
12 HP O fficeJet 100
M obil e
13 Epson Artisan 1430
14 Epson
WorkForce 30
15 Epson
Worl (force 60
16 Epson S tyl us
P fioto R 2880
120
600
11.7 e ^ ^ e e
5 O a a
11.8 a o
10.7 e e e e e
13.4 o o o
12.9 a o o a
11.2 a o o
11.1 o o a o
11.8 o o o a
8.6 o o o o
9.7 o
o
o
a

a
a
a
E,W
w
i '
E .W '
i
' j 'ri
-3 r
Overall score is based mainl y on speed and text/photo gual ity. T he displ ayed score is out of a
total of 100 points. Ink and paper/month is estimated cost (in dol l ars) for ink and photo paper
in a month of typical use. For inkjets: 23 text pages, 9 graphics pages, 2.4 l arge photos, 3.5 smal l
photos, and 3.5 photos on pl ain paper. For l asers: 62 text pages, 24 graphics pages, 1.7 l arge
photos, 1.9 smal l photos, and 2.3 photos on pl ain paper. Photo quality refl ects a photo's appear-
ance. T he 4x6 photo time score refl ects how quickl y the model can print one 4x6 photo on
photo-qual ity paper. O ne minute or l ess is excel l ent; 1 to 2 minutes is very good; 2 t o 4 minutes
is good; 4 to 6 minutes is fair; and l onger than 6 minutes is poor. T he 8x10 photo time score
refl ects how guickl y the model can print one 8x10 photo on photo-guaiity paper. T wo minutes or
l ess is excel l ent; 2 to 4 minutes is very good; 4 to 6 minutes is good; 6 to 8 minutes is fair; and
l onger than 8 minutes is poor. Text quality assesses cl arity and crispness of bl ack text. Text
speed score refl ects how quickl y the model can print text on five pages of pl ain, l etter-sized
pages. T hirty seconds or l ess is excel l ent; 31 to 60 seconds is very good; 61 to 90 seconds is
good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and l onger than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics quality assesses
the appearance of col or graphics produced by the pri nt er-or bl ack and white graphics for bl ack
and white l asers. Power saving indicates how wel l the printer conserves power between uses.
For networking, E indicates the model can network using wired E thernet; W indicates wirel ess
capabil ity. Price is approximate retail .


R A N G E S 99
Quick
Guide
RANGES
You'll find a smorgasbord of choices that outcook pro-style
ranges. Still want to go pro? We've got several money-
saving options.
What to iook for
On electric and gas ranges,
at least one high-heat element
or burner to heat large quan-
tities of food quickly
Dual ovens if you want to
cook two meals at once
Induction, which uses a
magnetic field to heat more
quickly and efficiently. Prices
are dropping, though you'll
need magnetic cookware
At least five oven-rack posi-
tions for flexibility
What to skip
Dual-fuel models, which
blend a gas cooktop with
an electric oven but haven't
performed better overall in
our tests
What you'ii pay
About $400 to $600 for coil;
$700 to $1,700 for smoothtop;
$1,700 to $2,700 for induc-
tion; $600 to $2,000 for gas;
$3,000-plus for pro-style.
ConsumerReports,org/ranges
Shopping tip
! Many midpriced
; models include a
' convection oven,
which can reduce
cooking time,
especially for
large roasts.
Brands modei Price Overall score Testresuits
g g" " .$ ' Elements
QJ O iO
0 10 0
P I F I G I V Gl E
A 30 -liV CH SMOOTHTOP MODELS
Kenmore 92163
GECafe
CS980 SNSS1
GE PB920 ST5S
Kenmore 9280 3
Mavtag
MET8885X1S]
6 Eiectroiux
EW30 EF65G[W]
7 GEJB650 0 TWW
8 IGLDE30 15ST
9 LG LRE3O125T

B ra n d S m o d el Price O v e r a l l score T e s t r e s u i t s
s
E
o
0 100
I 4
p I F I G I VG l E
A 30-INCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS continued
10 LG LS E 3O 925T
11 Samsung
FE -R 300S B
,12 G E JS P 42D N [WW]
13 G E 1S P 46D N [WW]
14 LG LR E 30453IS B J
15 Kitc he n Aid
Architect S eries I I
KE R S 507XS S
16 El e c t r o l u x
E W3O E S 65G [W1
17 Ma yt a g
M E R 8770W[W]
18 Whi r i po o l
WFE 371LVB
19 I G LR E 30955[S T ]
20 Ke n m o re 98053
21 Fr i gi d a i r e P rofes-
sional FP E F3081M F
22 Fr i gi d a i r e G allery
FG E F3031K1W]
2 G E JB 850D T WW
24 Ke n m o re 92603
25 Fr i gi d a i r e G allery
FG E F3O 32M F
26 Sa m s u n g
FE 710D R S
27 G E P B 975S T S S
28 Kit c he n Aid
Architect S eries
KE R S 807S 1S S ]
29 Whi r l po o l
G G E 388LX[Q1
3 0 Je n n -Air
JE R 8885R A[S 1

a
o
a

a
a a

a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
o
a
o
o
a
a
a
o
o
a
o
a
o
a
o
a
o
o
a
o
a
a
o
o
o
o
o
a
a
a
o
a
o
2
2
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
2
0
0
2
2
0
0
1
0
0
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
0
2
2
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
1
0
2
2
Ra t i n gs Key E xcellent Verygood O G ood Fai r P oor
D CR B e s t B u y T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
l ^ Re c o m m e n d e d T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

R A N G E S 101
Brand model Pnce Overallscore Testresults
^ DJO OD >- OD
J O E E ~ E
l l f l l
\ ^ " - ' LJ IJ
1 0 0
I F I G IV Gl
Elements
I I - S e "
A 30-INCH SMOOTHTOP MODELS continued
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
Samsung
FT0 353IWUX
Maytag
MER7765W1 W1
LGLDE30 1 7ST
Whirlpool
GFE461 LV [Q1
Whirlpool Gold
GY399LXU1 0 1
Samsung
FTQ387LWGX
Frigidaire
FGEF3O4DK[W1
Whiripool
WFE72OHOAS
KitchenAid
KER52O6XWH
GE PB9755M1 S51
Whirlpool
WFE51O5OAW
Maytag
MER8674AS
Whirlpool
WFE361 LV [Q1
Frigidaire
FGEF30 6TM
Amana
AER583OV AB
Kenmore 91 31 2
Maytag
MER8880 A5
850
450
1.300
B 30 -INCH COIL MODELS
O
O O
o
o
o o
o e
o
o
o o
oo

o o
a

o o o NA
o o
2 o 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
1 2 1
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
2 O 2
1 1 2
1 2 1
GE1 BP35SM[S51
Hotpoint
R B 7 5 7 D P I W H ]
Amana
AER5523XAW
Whiripool
RF263LXTQ1
400

B rands model Price I Overall score Testresults
. $ = Elements . = ^ ~ '^M
I I lll
O 100
S
p I F I G I V G l E
B 30-INCH COIL MODELS continued
S s
5 Kenmore 90313
6 Kenmore 90112
7 W h irlp ool
WFC 34050AW
C 30-INCH INDUCTION MODELS
O 2 0 2
O O O O N A 2 0 2
a a a a 2 0 2
1 G E P rofile
P HB 9255P [551
2 Kenmore E lite
97203
3 Samsung
FT 0307N WG X
4 Electrolux
E W30I 565JS
5 Maytag
M I R 8890AS
2,400
2.500
1,800
3,200
- 1,800
D 30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS
1 G E P rofile
P G B 9105E M I S S 1
2 LG LR G 3O 97[S T 1
3 LG LR G 309515T 1
4 Frigidaire G allery
FG G F3O 32M W
5 KitchenAid
KO R 55O 5X1S S 1
(dual-fuel)
6 LG LR G 3091S W
7 Electrolux
E W30G F65G IW1
8 Maytag
M G R 8772W[W1
9 G E JG B 523S E T S S
10 Frigidaire G allery
FG G F3O 31K[Wj
a O a O 1 2 2
a a O 2 2 1
a a o -2 2 1
o o 2 2 1
2,000
Ratings Key E xcellent V ery good O G ood Fair P oor
Q C R Best Btiy T hese models offer the best corhbination of p erformance and p rice. All are recommended.
blJ R ecommended T hese are high-p erforming models that stand out.

R A N G E S 103
Brands modei Pnce Overaii score Test resuits
g .& g Elements .g 5 fc .= 5 .sd
=? S- 5^ tt o .g .E
0 100
p I F I G I V G i E
D 30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS continued
U Maytag
MGR7665W1B1
12 Wh i ri p ooi Gold
GW399LXU101
13 Fri gi dai re
FGF368G[Sj
1 4 Samsung
FX710BGS
15 GEJGB600SETSS
16 Fri gi dai re
FGF382HIS1
17 GECafe
CGS980SEM1SS]
18 Mayt ag
MGR76611WW]
19 GE Cafe
C2S98OSEM[SS1
( du a l-fu el)
2 0 GE1GB870SETSS
2 1 GECafe
CGS985SETSS
22 Jenn-Air
J0S8860BOIP1
( du a l-fu el)
23 GEJGBP28OEMIBB1
2 4 Fri gi dai re Galler y
FGGF3054K[Wj
25 Amana
AGR6011V DS
2 6 GEJGB800SEPSS
2 7 GEJGB296SETSS
2 8 Eiectroiux
EW3OGS65G[W1
2 9 Kenmore 72703
3 0 KitchenAid
KGRS206XWH
3 1 GE JGB281SERSS
32 GE PGS975SEM1SS] 2.100
33 Kenmore 78013 1,800

Brand S model Price Overaii score Testresuits
0 100
p I FI G i V G l E -.,
30-INCH GAS AND DUAL-FUEL MODELS continued
op 3 g
1 S
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
Jenn-Air
JG R 889O AD [P I
I G LO G 3O 155T
G E C afe
C G S 990 S E T 5S
Whirlpool
G G G 3 88tX[0 ]
Whirlpool
WFG 51 0 S 0 AS
Kenmore 72 3 1 3
Whirlpool
WFG 52O S O AS
Kenmore 72 90 3
Kenmore 72 50 3
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
Frigidaire P rofes
si onal FP G 3 0 81 KF
G E C afe
C 2 59855E T S S
Dual-fuel
Hotpoint
R G B 790 0 E R WW
Whiripooi
WFG 3 61 Ly[Q]
Maytag
M G R 8880 AS
Maytag
M G R 8674AS
Kenmore 70 60 2
Maytag
M G T 8885X[S 1
Kenmore 70 50 2
KitciienAid
Archi tect S eries
KG R 580 75[55]
700
1.000
2 .70 0
1.700
oeooe
o e o o
eo
o oo
OO e e
e o e e e
o o e e
e o e o e
ooe ee
o o e e e 2 2 1
e oe 2 2 1
2 2 0
0 2 1
2 2 1
1 2 1
1 2 1
2 2 1
2 1 1
2 2 1
o e o e
o ee e o
00 e e
o o e e
e e e o NA
o e o
o e e o NA
o e e o o
1 2 1
1 2 1
2 2 1
2 2 1
1 3 1
1 2 2
1 3 0
2 0 2
E 30-INCH PROFESSIONAL MODELS: GAS AND DUAL-FUEL
KitchenAid KD R S -
40 7V 5S (dual -fuei )
WOlfOF304
Puai-fuel
5,200
e eo O e
oeeeo
3 o l
3 i o

R A N G E S
Brand&model Pnce Overallscore Testresuits
a g . $ Elements
^^11 I I I I I
S- 3 m
100
F I G IV Gl E
E 30-INCH PROFESSIONAL MODELS: GAS AND DUAL-FUEL continued
GE Monogram
ZGP304NRSS
Kenmore Pro
7952[3! (dual-fuel)
$ 5 , 0 0 0
3 , 4 0 0
J Thermador Profes- r ^nn
sional PG304B1S] ^' ""^
6 Jenn-Air ,
1GRP430WP ''''""
7 DCSRGU-305 3,70 0
8 DCS RGTC3O5SS
9 Dacor Epicure
ER30GSCH
10 Viking VDSC530[SS!
(dual-fuel)
U Dacor Epicure
ER30D (dual-fuel)
12 Viking
VGSC5304BSS
13 WolfR304
14 Fisher & Paykel
0 R30 SN0 GXI
15 American Range
ARR304
16 Blue Star
RNB304BSS
17 Bertazzoni A30
4GGV XE
4 , 7 0 0 EMM
3,60 0 EH
5,30 0 BH
5, 0 0 0 EM
4,000 EQB
3, 70 0 Eau
3, 60 0 M
3,7 0 0 im
2 ,4 0 0 EM
F 36 - INCH PROFESSIONAL MODELS
I O a O O 1 3 0
I a a a 1 3 I
I a o o 4 0 0
o o a 3 0 1
O O a O N A 5 0 0
5 0 0
OOOON A 3 1 0
o a o a a o 4 o o
o o o o 3 1 0
a a 4 0 0
a o o a N A 4 0 0
a a N A i 4 0
a o a N A 3 1 0
a a a NA 3 o
o o NA 1 1 2
GAS AND DUAL-FUEL
KitchenAid
KDRU763V1SS1
(dual-fuel)
GE Monogram
ZDP364NDP1SS1
(dual-fuel)
Thermador Pro
Grand PG366B[S1
V iking VGSC536-4G 7,200
Kenmore Pro
7962131 (dual-fuel)
6, 0 0 0
7,500
6, 0 0 0 '
3 0 1
o a o a a 4 o o
a o a o 6 o o
a a a o 4 o o

Overall score reflects cooktop performance, oven capacity, baking, broiling, and oven cleaning.
T he displayed score is out of a total of 100 points. Cooktop high is how quickly the highest-
powered element heated water to near-boii. Cooktop low is how well the lowest-powered
element melted and held chocolate without scorching and how well the most powerful element,
set on low, held tomato sauce below a boil. Bakinq reflects even browning of cakes and cookies
I n multi-rack baking tests. Broilinq is even browning of a pan of burgers and high-heat searing.
Oven capacity is our evaluation of usable space. Oven cleaning is the self-cleaning cycle's effec-
tiveness after the oven is coated with a mixture of eggs, cheese, pie filling, and other ingredients.
Price Is approximate retail.
GAS/DUAL-FUEL RANGES
H otpoint
G E
F rigidaire
K enmore
W hirlpool
M a y t a g
K itchenA id
G E
0%
H otpoint
G E
W hirlpool
F rigidaire
K enmore
M aytag
K itchenA id
J enn-A ir
30%
ELECTRIC RANGES
5% 10% 20% 25% 30%
Hotpoint and G eneral E lectric were among the
least repair-prone electric-range brands; Kitchen-
Aid ahd Jenn-Air were the most repair-prohe.
KitchenAid was also the most repair-prone for
gas ranges. We lacked enough data to include
Kenmore dual-fuei and Jenn-Air gas and dual-fuel
ranges; data we have indicate Kenmore dual-fuel
models have been reliable and Jenn-Air gas and
dual-fuel repair-prone. T hat's what we found
when we asked over 76,0 0 0 readers who bought
an electric range between 2 0 0 5 and 2011, or a gas
or dual-fuel range between 2 0 0 5 and the first half
of 2011, about their experiences. T he graphs show
the percentage of models for each brand that
were repaired or had a serious problem. D iffer-
ences ofless thah 3 points aren't meaningful, and
data are adjusted to eliminate differences linked
solely to age. M odels within a brand may vary,
and changes in design or manufacture may
affect future reliability. S till, choosing a brand with
a good repair history cah improve your odds of
getting a reliable model.


R E F R I G E R A T O R S 107
Quick
Guide
REFRIGERATORS
Sluggish sales have manufacturers working harder for your business,
with temperature-controlled drawers, internal water dispensers, and
other once-premium features on more and more mainstream models.
Shopping tip
Energy Star
refrigerators
must be at least
20 percent more
efficient than
the minimum
reguired by
federal standards.
Brand & model
What to look for
Print-resistant stainless steel
or faux-stainless finishes for
busy kitchens (also consider
classic white or black)
Temperature-controlled
drawers to keep meat, fish,
cold cuts, and other foods at
lower temperatures
Split shelves to make space
for taller items as needed
Adjustable door bins and
shelves, to make the most of
available storage space
What to skip
Automatic icemakers. Sure,
they're convenientand an
integral part of through-the-
door dispensers. But that
luxury comes at a cost: Our
annual reliability surveys
have long shown that refrig-
erators with icemakers tend
to be more repair-prone
What you'll pay
Capable top-freezer fridges
start at well under $1,000.
Figure on $1,000 to $2,200
for most bottom-freezer and
side-by-side models, $2,500
to $3,500 for cabinet-depth.
ConsumerReports.org/refrigerators
: Similar models, in small type,
: are comparable to tested model.
A TOP FREEZERS
QJ + ^ -
0 IOO
P I F I G I V G l E
s
o
go
.SP -a o.
.O O O
1 GE P rofile PTS22LHS[WW1
P rofile P T S22SH 5tl
$1,4 00
0 2 Kenmore 793012] 1,100
0 3 Whirlpool WRT771REY[W1 1,100
Q 4 Frigidaire Gallery FGUI2149L1P1 850
5 GEGT H 18KBX[ W W H 3GT H I 8I BX[ 1 1,000
0 6 LG LTC2235OISS] 1,000
Q 7 Frigidaire Gallery fGHT2l44K[F] ,
" Gallery FGHT2134KI1. Gallery FGHT2146KI1 ^"
D D iscontinued
i
' <
e i
e
<
e (
e
9 o
i
i
i o
i o
i o
i o
o
o
o
o
e
e
64
56
54
47
60
55
57
17.1
15.1
17.8
16.4
15.3
173
16.7
68
68
66
70
67
68
70
33
33
33
30
30
33
30
32
33
34
32
32
33
33

B rand S model
g -g simiiar modeis, in small type,
S S are comparable to lesled model.
A TOP FREEZERS continued
P rice O veraii score T est resuits
0
p 1 F 1 G
100
I VG l E -.
m
p
e
r
f
o
r
i
1 Q
SS
5 fe S S
ilt
.a .s .2
8
9
10.
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Frigidaire LFHT 2117L[W)
( Low e' s) FFHT 2117LIW, FFHT 2126U 1,
FFHT 2116LI 1
M ayt ag M lT XE G M Y I W]
Fri gi dai re G allery FG HT 1844K[FJ
G allery FC HT 1S 46K11, G ailery FG HT 1834K[ 1
Kenmore 7215[216215[]
Frigidaire LFHT 1817LIW]
( Low e' s) FFHT 1826LI 1. FFHT 1817LI 1.
FFHT I 816Lll,FFHT 1814m
LG LT C 19340[S W]
Amana A9R Xf4G FY [S I
Frigidaire P rofessional
FP LI I 1888L1F1 G aiiery FG U I 1849L[1
HaierP R T S 2lS AC ( WI
Amana A2R XN M FW[WJ
Kenmare7888[2] 6888(1
lkeaE nergisl<B 18W
Whi rl pool W2R XN M M W[Q]
G E G T H17JB X[WW]
Whi ri pooi WR T 579S M ylM l
WR T 3L9S Z Y I 1 ( Low e' s). WR T 359S Fy[ 1
G E G T H18XC T I WW1
Whi ri pooi WR T 779R WY [M ]
Hot poi nt HT H18G B C [WW]
Fri gi dai re FR T 18L4J[W1 ( Low e' s)
FFT R I 817L[l,FnR 1814L( l
Hotpoint HT S 18G C S IWW]
Whiripool WR T 138T FY [W]
Whirlpool W8R XE G M W(QJ
$ 700
770
750
940
600
700
950
O J U
550
850
545
500
810
550
1,050
550
1,000
700
520
550
680
720
a
55 17.1 69 30 34
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
a
'
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
a
a
a
o
o
o 59
O 55
O 63
O 47
55
O 62
O 52
O 60
O 72
O 63
O O 52
O 65
a 41
O 55
O O 46
O 49
O 39
68
62
51
58
16.7
14.7
176
15.4
15.2
15.3
14
15.3
17.8
15.5
13.7
17.1
13
15.2
14
15.5
14.5
15.4
13.7
15.1
13.7
66
67
66
66
65
66
67
67
67
65
69
67
65
66
68
66
68
66
68
67
69
33
30
33
30
30
30
30
32
33
30
28
33
28
30
28
30
28
30
28
30
28
31
32
32
32
33
33
31
32
31
32
32
33
30
33
31
34
31
32
30
32
30
Ratings Key E xcellent Very good O G ood Fair P oor
Q CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. Aii are recommended.
Ld Recommended T hese are high-performing modeis that stand out.

Brand & model Price Overall score Testresuits
i Similar models, in small type,
' ,!:,: comparable to tested model.
O ^ OJ
I
0 100
P I F i G I V Gl E
.
e?
a .a .2 .s
33 >< t<
A TOP FREEZERS continued
30 Hotpoint HTH17CBC1WW] $ 550
l Whirlpool WRT771RWY[W1 940
32 GE GTH20JBB[V I/W| 810
33 Frigidaire FFTR2126L1W1 720
34 Wiiiripooi WRT311SFY[W] 720
35 Maytag M9BXXGMY[W1 800
36 Estate T8TXNGFVK1Q1 rj^
T8TXNWrW|].T8RXNGFWll ' "
37 Maytag M1BXXGMY[M] 950
38 Maytag M8RXEGMX[W] 700
39 Amana A8RXNGMW[E] 650 E 9 i
40 GEGTH21KCX[ WW1GTH21KBX( | 900 JM
B CONV ENTIONAL BOTTOM-FREEZER MODELS
e o 50
o 42
o o 85
O O 83
O 45
e O 57
O 52
O O 66
e O 54
o 55
13.2 65
17.8 66
14.1 67
171 69
16.9 67
15.8 66
13.4 68
17.7 66
13.6 68
13.4 69
16.6 67'
2 8 30
33 34
30 33
30 34
33 33
30 34
2 8 30
30 33
6 8 31
2 8 31
33 31
Whirlpool Goid GB2FHDXW(01
Amana ABB2221WE[W]
2 2 2 [ |
Maytag MBF2258XEW]
MBL2258XE11. MBR2258XEI1
Maytag MBF1958XE[W]
LGLDC227201SW1
Amana ABB1921WE(W]
Whirlpool EB9SHKXV Q]
Kenmore 7620121
Kenmore 7809( 21
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 GEGBSCOHBXIWW]
GBSCOHCX[ ] , GOSCOKCX[ ] . GDSLOKCX[ 1
U Fisher S Payicei RF17SWCRUX1
Rri75WDRXl. RF175WDUX1. Rri75WCRXl
12 HaierHBQ181AD[W]
13 BlombergBRFBl450
El Discontinued
@
O
O
e O
e e
o e
e o
e o
o o
e o
e

e
52
56
52
50
61
O 69
56
O 68
O 64
59
O 65
98
79
15.4 70
16.4 70
15.4 70
12.8 67
15.8 69
13.2 68
13.6 67
15.4 69
13.3 68
14.7 68
12.4 69
14.9 66
11.1 76
33 31
33 3 2
33 31
3 0 31
3 3 3 3
3 0 31
3 0 31
33 3 2
3 0 3 2
3 0 3 3
3 3 2 8
3 0 3 2
2 8 2 5

B r a n d S m o d e l P r i c e O v e r a l l s c o r e T e s t r e s u i t s
S
S
; S i m i l a r m o d e l s , i n s m a l l t y p e .
: a r e c o m p a r a b l e t o t e s t e d m o d e l .
0 10 0
P I F I G I V G l E
C FR E N C H-D O O R B O T T O M -FR E E ZE R M O D E LS
[ ^ 1 L G L FX289911ST]
Q 2 K e n m o r e 7160 13]
Q 3 W h i r l p o o l Go ld GX5FHTXV[Q]
Go l d GX 5 FH D X V | l
[ 7 } 4 S a m s u n g RFG298HDIR5]
(L o w e 's )
Q 5 L G L FC257761SW]
0 6 K e n m o r e E l i t e 71O 6[2]
7 GE A d o r a DFS59VKB[S5] ( H o m e
D e p o t ) A d o r a 0 FSF9 V K B I1 ( H o m e D e p o t )
0 8 L G L FX 2 8 9 7 9 [5 T ]
0 9 L G L FX31925[5T] , . .
0 1 0 K e n m o r e E l i t e 71O3I2]
Q U S a m s u n g RF266AE[W P ]
R F2 6 3 A E I1
B 12 K e n m o r e 720 112]
0 13 L GL FC25765IST]
0 14 L G L FX2897815W]
0 15 L GL FX 25991IST ]
0 16 K e n m o r e E lit e 720 513]
0 17 L G L FX259761SW]
0 18 A m a n a AFI2538AE1W]
19 K e n m o r e E l i t e 7 2 0 6 3 ]
2 0 Fr i g i d a i r e Ga lle r y FGHB2878L 1P ]
Ga l l e r y FGH B 2 8 6 9 L I1, P r o f e s s i o na l
FP H B 2 8 9 9 1I I . Ga l l e r y FGH B 2 8 44L 1 ] ,
Ga l l e r y FGH B 2 8 46 L I1
21 S a m s u n g R F4267H A[W P ]
22 Fr i g i d a i r e Ga lle ry FGHN2844L IP ]
P r o f e s s i o na l FP H N 2 8 9 9 1 I I
23 L GL FX219761ST]
2 4 K e n m o r e 720 313]
16.1 70 33 34
19 7 0 36 34
13.5 7 0 36 28
16.6 6 9 36 32

: Simiiar mo de l s , in small type.
: are comparable to tested model.
QJ --
E
0 100
P I F i G I V Gl E
^ 3
gs '" M. .2 .0 2
I s s ffi s
C FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOM-FREEZER MODELS continued
FGUB2642t[P]
26 Frigidaire Professional
FPHG2399M1F]
27 Amana AFD2535DE[W]
28 Whirlpool Gold GZ25FSRXY[yl
29 5amsungRF267AE[WP]
30 Samsung RF4287HA[RS]
31 LGLFX25974[5T]
32 Kenmore 72OO[2]
33 Samsung RF217AC[WP]
34 Jenn-Air 1FC229OV [EP1
35 MaYtagMFI2670XE[M]
36 Electrolux EI23BC56[IW]
E W 23B C 7 1 I I ]
38 Whirlpool Gold GI6F0RXXI01
Gold GI65 DRXX[ 1 ( Low e' s)
39 Maytag MFX2571XE[W1
40 KitchenAid KFIS27CX[WH]
41 KitchenAid KFXS25RV [MS1
42 GEGF556KKy[S5lGFSF6KKV Il
43 Maytag MFF2258V E1W]
44 GE Protile PFSF5NFY1WW1 Q
P rofile P FSF5 NFZ11. P rofile P FSS5 NFZ( ]
45 LGLMX25988SW]
Discontinued

a
O

a
o
o
a
a o
o
o
e
a
a
o
o
a o
e a
o
O 60
O 54
60
O 56
O 75
O 88
O 75
O 61
68
O 57
O 67
O 72
O 83
O 70
O M
O 66
O 60
O 78
63
O 68
a 82
17.7 7 0
15.5 7 0
17.5 7 0
1 7 69
1 6. 4 7 0
18.2 7 0
16.2 69
14.6 7 0
14.9 7 0
13.6 7 2
15.5 7 0
1 4 . 8 7 0
16.7 7 0
15.5 7 0
16.2 7 0
15.1 7 0
16.2 7 0
16.4 7 1
14.5 7 1
15.7 7 1
15.4 7 0
3 6 3 3
3 6 2 9
3 6 3 2
3 6 3 4
3 6 3 4
3 6 3 4
3 6 3 3
3 3 3 2
3 2 3 0
3 6 2 8
3 6 3 3
3 6 2 9
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 3 3 2
3 6 3 3
3 3 3 4
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fair P oor
E Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.

m
o "
m
e
n
d
a
t
i
R
a
R
e
c
o
m
c
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
B rand & model 1
si mi l ar models, in sfnall type,
P rice 1 O verall score 1 Test results
O J O J
m
p
e
r
a
t
i
i
r
f
o
r
m
a
n
0 100 "^
P 1 F 1G l V G l
FRENCH-DOOR BOTTOM-FREEZER MODELS continued
Whi ri pooi G old G I6FAR XXIQ]
M ayt ag M FI 2665XE I W]
E i ec troi ux E I27B S 26JIW]
Ki tc henAi d KB FS 22E WIWH]
S amsung R F197AC [WP ]
B osch B 26FT 70S N 1S ]
Whi ri pooi G old G lO FS AXvm
GE P rofile P FS S 5R KZ[5S ]
P rofiie P FS F5R KZ[ 1. C afe C FS P 5R KB IS S 1
Fri gi dai re G allery FG U N 2642U P 1
G E G FS F2HC y[WWlG FS S 2HC V |)
Maytag M FI 2269V E [W]
Whi rl pool G old G X2FH0XV [QJ
G old G X2S HD XV I 1 ( L ow e' s)
E iectroiux E I27B 316J[W]
LG I M X28988[5T ]
DCS RF195AUUX1R F195AD U XI
Kenmore 713013]
HaierHB 21FC 45N 5
V ii( ing00FF1360[S S lI 3
P rofessionaiV C FFB 6D ll
Fri gi dai re P rofessional
FP HF2399M [F]
S amsung R FG 237AA[WP ]
R FG 238AA( r( L ow e' s)
G E P rofile PGSS5RKZ1SS]
Fisher &P ayi( eiR F20lAD U X
GE P rofile P FC S IR KZIS S ]
P rofile P FC FI R KZI I
GE P rofile PFSF6PKX1WW]
GE P rofile PGCS1RKZ[S5]
$1.900
1,650
2,200
1,600
1,250
2.550
2,650
2.600
1,500
1,200
1,800
1,300
2,100
3,000
3,000
1,700
1,900
3.700
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D I D i sc ont i nued

B r a n d s m o d e l P ric e l O v e r a i i s c o r e I Test r e s u i t s
- s i m i i a r m o d e l s , i n s m a l l t y p e ,
S. a re cuiTiparable t o te s te r ! m o d e l .
D SIDE BY SIDE MODELS
Q> QJ > - QJ QJ ^ - " ^ QJ '
^3 # I - ^ 1 ' JCI C
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F I G I V Gl E
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Q 1 Sa m s u n g RS265TD1WP]
RS26 37 D I1. RS26 7 TD [ 1
0 2 K i t c h e n A i d KSF26C6X[YY]
M 3 Bosch Linea 8 0 0 B22CS80SN(S]
' ' B22CS5OSN[1
0 4 OCSRX215PJX1
0 5 K e n m o r e Elite 5118(3]
Q 6 Ma y t a g MSD2559XE(W]
B ^ F r i g i d a i r e Ga lle ry FGUS2676LIP]
Ga i i e r y FGUS2635LI ] , Ga i i e r y FGUS2632LI ).
Ga i i e r y FGIJS2637L ] . Ga i i e r y FGU S26 4 7 111.
Ga i i e r y FGU S26 4 5 L I1. Ga i i e r y FGU S26 4 2L I1
8 GEGSH 22JFX [ W W ] GSH 22JSX [ 1
9 GE Ca fe CSHS6UGZ(SS]
10 F is h e r f i P a y k e i R X 2l 60 r a V 2
RX216CT4 )(V 2
U Ei e c t r o i u x EI26SS30J(W]
12 K i t c h e n A i d K SC24 C8 E[ y Y ]
K S0 24 C8 EI1
13 Sa m s u n g RSG30 9 AA[ RS]
RSG3O7 AA| T
14 V i k i n g P ro fe s s io n a l
VCSF136O(SS]
15 GE P r o f i l e PS0F5YGX[WW]
16 K e n m o r e Elite 4 10013]
17 lk e a N U TID S25 W IO5 H H EX W (S]
18 GE P r o f i l e PSHF6PGZ[WW]
1 9 GEGSH F9 N GY ( W W ]
D SH F9 N Gy | 1. D SH S9N Gy[ 1. GSH S9 N Gy l 1
20 W h i r i p o o i Gold GSS26C4XX(W]
6 l d 6 SS26 C5 X X l l l L -)
73 18.1 70 36 34
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a a a 75 14.6 69 3 6 28
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a 72 21.2 69 3 6 3 5
a a a o 67 15.9 7 0 3 6 3 3
R a t i n g s Key Exc e l l e n t a V e r y g o o d OGo o d Fa i r P o o r
D CR B e s t B u y Tiie s e m odels o ffe r t h e best c o m b in a tio n of p e rfo rm a n ce and p r i c e . Ail are re co m m e n d e d .
l i d R e c o m m e n d e d These are h i g i i -p e r fo r m i n g m odeis t h a t s t a n d o u t .

B rand & model
I S imilar models, in smali type,
'ra S are comparabie to tested model.
Price Overall score Testresuits
I F I G I V G l E
s s s I s
1^ 3 S S
D SIDE BY SIDE MODELS continued
2 1 W h i ri p ooi G old G S 530C 6E Y I Y ]
2 2 K e n m o r e 5 1 O 1 [ 2 ] ID 5IO2II
2 3 W h i ri p ooi G old G S F26C 4E X[W]
2 4 F ri g i dai re FFU S 26l3t[ P )
25 J enn- Air 1CB2585WES
2 6 H otp oi n t HS H25G FB [WW1
2 7 F rig idaire G allery FG H52367K[P ]
G allery rG HS2342L[ 1. G allery FG HS2334K I ] .
G allery rG HS2365K | 1. G allery rG HS2344K | 1.
G allery FG HS2369 K 11. G allery FG HS2355K [ 1
2 8 Eiectroiux E I 26S 555G [W]
2 9 G E G S HF6P G Y [WWlG S HS 6P G yll
3 0 J enn- Air JC O 2595WE [S ]
31 G E G S H F6 N G B [ W W ] G S H S 6 N G B | S S 1
3 2 K enmore E iite 51O 8[ 2] D
Elite 5 10 7 ( 1
3 3 H otp oi n t HS S 25G FT [WWJ
3 4 May tag M S D 2578V E I W]
MSD2 5 7 4V E( 1. MSD2 5 7 6 V E[ ]
3 5 LG LSC279 3515T1
3 6 A mana A5D 2524V E [W1
37 I G LS C 23924[S W]
3 8 W h irlp ool WS F26C 2E X1W]
3 9 W h i rl p ool E D 5KV E XV IQ]
4 0 A mana AS D 2522WR [W]
4 1 G E P rof ile P S HF9P G Z[WW]
4 2 G E G 5C S 3KG Y IS S 1
4 3 LG LS C 2497U 5T ]
4 4 5 amsung R S 261M D [WP ]
45 Wh irip ooi E D 5D HE XWIQI
ED5LDEX Wn ( Low e' s)
ID D iscontinued
1.250
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a a O 79 16.3 70 3 6 3 3
a a O O 79 18.8 6 9 3 6 3 3
a a o o 3 5 17.9 70 3 6 3 3
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a a O O 74 16.8 6 9 3 6 3 3
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14.7 73
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17.6. 6 9
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14.9 6 7
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15.6 70
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12.9 70
14.8 70
18.2 70
15.2 70
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 2 8
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 3
3 6 3 2
3 6 3 2
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Brand S model Pnce Overallscore Testresuits
l
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ai
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D
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
Similar modeis, in small type,
0
P 1 F
SIDE BY SIDE MODELS conti nued
Whiripool W5R25O2RY1W]
Whiripooi WSF26D4EX[W]
Electrolux EW265570l[W]
EW26SS65GI1
Kenmore Elite 5114[3]
Kenmore Cold Spot 511012]
frigidaire Gallery FGHS2669K1F1
Gallery FGHS2665K[ 1, Gallery FGHS2667K[ 1.
Gal l ery FGHS2679K[1
Whi r l pool Gold GSC25C4EY[Y]
Electrolux EW23CS65G[W]
Samsung RSG257AAIWP]
$1,000 E S H
1,200 W^
2,000 E S ^
2,100 E S B
1,000 B ^ H
1,500 B ^
2,100 E ^
2,400 E ^
2,000 O B
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Ratings Key Excellent Very good OGood Fai r P oor
Q CR Best Buy These modeis offer tiie best oombination of performance and price. Aii are recommended.
Ld Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Overall score is based primarily on temperature perf ormance and energy ef f iciency. N oise
and ease of use are also considered. Temperature performance denotes perf ormance at
dif f erent room temperatures, including high heat, and how unif ormly each maintained
37F in th e ref rigerator and 0 F in the freezer. Energy efficiency is energy consumption
as observed in th e energy test we perf orm in-house at th e af orementioned temperatures of
37F in th e ref rigerator and 0 F in the f reezer and measured cubic f eet. Noise is with com-
pressors running. Ease of use assesses f eatures and design including layout, controls, and
ligh ting. Energy cost/yr. ($) is th e estimated cost in dollars, based on the current year's
average national electricity rate. Your cost will vary depending on the rate f or eiectricity in
your area. Total usable capacity (cu.ft.) is our measurement of total usable interior space.
Exterior height, width, and depth are with out handle, rounded up to the nearest inch
{37-inch-wide f reestanding models f i t in 36-inch openings). Under brand & model, brack eted
letters or numbers are color codes. Price is approximate retai i .

M ost & Least R eiiabie
T O P -FR E E ZE R S
W h i r l p o o l
F r i g i d a i r e
K e n m o r e
GE
F r i g i d a i r e
W h i r l p o o l
GE
K e n m o r e
5% 10% 15% 2 0 % 25% 3 0 %
ICEMAKER
NOICEMAKER
B O T T O iVI -FR E E ZE R S
W h i r l p o o l
KitchenAid
Fewer ^ ^ More
repairs ^ ' repairs
^ttE 1
H^nn
Kenmore J S
Samsung B I B I
LG E E S Q]
''ÎIIIE
Kenmore
Amana
GE
g
12
16
0 % 5%
1 5 % 2 0 % 25 % 30 %
I I C E M AKE R
N O I C E M AKE R
Whirlpool was among th e more reliable
brands of bottom-freezers wi th icemakers.
GE was among the more repair-prone
brands of top-freezers and bottom-freezers
wi th icemakers, while LG has been among
th e more repair-prone brands of side-by-
sides wi th icemakers. That's what we found
when we asked nearly 61,000 readers who
bought a r e fr i g e r a to r between 2007 and
2011. The graphs show th e percentage of
brands th a t needed a repair or had a se r i -
ous p r o bl e m . Differences of less th a n 5
points a r e n 't m e a n i n g ful , and we've adjust-
ed the data to e l i m i n a te differences linked
solely to the age of th e r e fr i g e r a to r . All re-
fr i g e r a to r s in th e graphs are free-standing
models. Models wi th i n a brand may vary,
and design or manufacture changes may af-
fect futur e r el i abi l i ty. Sti l l , choosing a brand
wi th a good repair h i sto r y can improve your
odds of g e tti n g a reliable modei.
S I D E -B Y -S I D E S
5 % 1 0% 1 5 % 2 0 % 25 % 30 %


S M A R T P H O N E S
Quick
Guide
SMART PHONES
Smart phones are getting smarter every day. They're not only great
for texting, e-mail, anci social networking, but they can also play
music, shoot photos and video, and direct you via GPS navigation.
Shopping tip
Make sure
you can read
the phone's
display In
bright sunlight,
especially for
texting and Web
surfing.
What to looK for
The phone's operating sys-
tem, which dictates its fea-
tures and capabilities
How many apps are avail-
able and what they cost
The keyboardphones with
virtual keyboards tend to be
less bulky than models with
physical keyboards, but it's
easier to type on a physical
keyboard without looking
What to skip
Phone insurance and ex-
tended warranties, which are
not worth it when you factor
in the extra expense, high
dductibles, and low chance
of using them
What you'ii pay
Phone prices with a two-year
contract, including rebates,
range from about $50 to $300.
Smart phones purchased un-
locked without a contract can
cost significantly more, start-
ing at $500.
ConsumerReports.org/ceirphones
Brand & model Price Overallscore Testresults
: Srmi l ar model s,
i in sm al l t ype,
are com parabl e
to t ei U ' d m odel .
0 IOO
P I F I G I V GI E
"^^ "^ 'r^ ' ;
.SS s .E S
A AT& T SMART PHONES
IITI 1 Samsung Galaxy S III
(16GB) (AT&T)
0 2 HTCOneX 200
0 3 Samsung Galaxy S II
Skyrocket
p ] 4 Samsung Galaxy
Note
0 5 LG Nitro HD
0 6 HTC V ivid
0 7 Samsung Galaxy S II
(ATST)
O e 4.8 And.
e e 4.7 And.
o 4.5 And.
O 9 5.3 And.
Q 4.5 And.
O O 4.5 And.
O 4.3 And.

B r a n d S m o d e l P r i c e O v e r a i i s c o r e T e s t r e s u l t s
Similar models,
in small type.
IK coniparable
I n issted model.
" s i" :s 'S S & &
p I F I G I V G l E
A AT&T SMART PHONES continued
[^ 10
0 11
0 12
0 13
0 14
0 15
16
0 17
18
19
Mo t o r o i a A trix 2 4G
Ap p i e P h one 4 S
(16G B ) AT S T
iP ilone 4S (6 4 G B ) AT S T .
iP ilone4 S ( 3 2 G B ) A T 8 T
S a m s u n g G alax y
E x h ilarate
No i t i a L umia 9 0 0
HTC T itan I I
S o n y X peria ion
S a m s u n g Focus 2
S a m s u n g R ug by
S mart
Ap p l e iP h one 4
(8G B ) AT &T
B l a c k B e r r y T orch
9 8 1 0
Ap p i e iP h one 3G S
(8G B )
P a n t e c h C rossov er
100
100
0
^ Q^ e o e e e o a 4.3 And.
a a o a o a a 3.5os
o a o o a 4 And.
a o a o O O 4 . 3 WP
a a o a o o o o 4 . 7wp
a a o a o a o a 4.6 And.
a a a o a o a 4 wp
a a o a o o a 3.7 And.
a o o a o o a 3.5os
a a o a o o o a 3 . 2 BB
a o a o a o o a 3.5os
a a o o o o a me 3 And.
B S P RINT NEXTEL SMART PHONES
[ 7{ 1 S a m s u n g G alax y S I I I
(16G B ) ( S print)
G alaiy s I I I ( 3 2 G B ) ( S print)
0 2 HT C E V 0 4G LT E
0 3 S amsungG alaxyS I l
E pie 4G T ouch
0 4 LG V iper
0 5 Samsung E pie 4G
0 6 Apple iP hone 4S
(16G B ) S priiit
iP iione4 S (32G B ) S print.
iP iione4 S (6 4 G B ) S print
7 Ap p l e iP h one 4
(8G B ) S print
o o a o a 4.8 And.
o a o o a 4.7 And.
a o a o a o a 4.5 And.
a o o a 4 And.
o a o o 4 And.
a o o a o a a 3.5 os
a o o a o o a 3.5 os
Ra t i n g s Ke y E x cellent av eryg ood O G ood F air P oor
Q C R B e s t B u y T iiese modeis offer th e best combination of performance and price. A il are recommended.
bd Re c o m m e n d e d T hese are h ig h -performing modeis tiiat stand out.

S M A R T P H O N E S
B r a n d s m o d e l P ric e O v e r a l l score T e s t r e s u i t s
5 i m i l a r m o d e l s .
i n s m a l l l y p e ,
a r e c o m p a r a b l e
t o t e s t e d m o d e ! .
D
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B SP RINT NEXTEL SMART PHONES c o n t i n u e d
8 Samsung Co n que r
4G
9 B l a c k B e r r y To rc h
9 8 5 0
1 0 LG Op t i m us El i t e
U Z TEFu r v
12 Mo t o r o l a XPRT
U HTC Ar r i v e
14 Samsung Re p le n is h
C T-MOBILE SMART PHONES
e
e o o e o
e o o e o
e o e o o o
e o e o e o
e o o o e o
e o e o e
e o o o o
o
o
o
o
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e 3.5 An d .
e 3.7 BB
3.5 An d .
e 3.5 An d .
o 3.1 An d .
o 3.6 WP
2.8 An d .
1 Sa m s u n g G a i a xv S I I I
( I 6G B ) ( T-Mo b i i e )
G a la xy s I I I (32G B) ( T-Mo b i l c )
2 HTC One S
3 S a m s u n g G a l a x v S l l
(T-Mo b iie )
4 Samsung G a ia xv S
B !a ze 4G
5 HTC Am a ze 4G
6 T -Mo b ile Side i<ick 4G
7 T -Mo b ile m vTo uc h
4G
8 HTC m vTo uch 4G
Slid e
9 B l a c k B e r r y B o ld
9 9 0 0 4G
1 0 HTC Radar 4G
11 T -Mo b ile Pr i s m
12 B l a c k B e r r y B o l d
9 78 0
20
110
O
e O e O e O
e e o o
D VERIZON SMART PHONES
1 Mo t o r o l a Dr o i d Razr , 0
Maxx ^"^
2 Sam su n g G a i a xy S ! l !
(32GB) (V e r i zo n ) 250
G a l a xy s m (16G B) ( V e r i z o n )
3 Mo t o r o l a Dr o i d Razr 200
e o e 4.3 And.
e o e 4.8 And.
e o e 4.3 And.

B r a n d s m o d e l P r i c e O v e r a i i score T e s t r e s u i t s
I sim ilar models,
I i nsni al l i ype, .
are comparable
to tested model.
tu DO DO
tv ro
QJ *il t .
i C T i i .2 .a
m w
S
g.
P I F I G I V Gl
D VE R I ZO N S M AR T P HO N E S cont i nued
4 L G S pectrum
5 M o t o r o l a Oroid 4
6 S am sung Galaxy
Nexus
7 S am sung
S tratosph ere
8 LG L ucid
9 S a m s u n g Droi d
Charge
1 0 Appl e iPtione 4S
(16G8) Verizon
Phone 4S (64 GB) Ver i zon,
Phone 4 5 (3GB) Veri zon
U Apple IPhone 4
(8GB) Verizon
12 C asio G'zOne
Commando
13 B l a c k B e r r y B o i d
9 9 30
1 4 S ony Ericsson
Xperi a Play
15 HT C Troph y
G uide t o t he R atings
O verall score is based mainly on test results. E ase of use indicates how easy it is to access
features and modes, such as ph oning, messaging. Web browsing, th e camera, etc. M essaqinq
assesses keyboard ergonomics, e-mail readability, attach ment capabilities, and tex t-messaging
features. Web browsinq assesses browser capabilities. D isplay qu a l i t y represents overall picture
quality, contrast in normal and brigh t ligh ting, and color accuracy. Voice qu ality incorporates
listening and talking in noisy and quiet settings using live phone calls. P honinq considers th e step-
saving functions for making and receiving calls, speed dialing, and more. B a t t e r y life was tested
under strong and weak cell network signals, and considers tasks th at involve voice, data, standby,
and oth er factors. C amera: I maqe qu a l i t y evaluates resolution, dynamic range, coior accuracy,
and yisual noise. C annera: Video qu a lity judges recorded video images sh ot at th e highest quality
setting available. P o r t a bi l i t y represents advantages and disadvantages based on dimensions and
weigh t. D isplay diaqonal size (in .) is to th e nearest tenth of an inch . Under operatinq s y s te m , A
is for Android; B, BlackBerry; i, iOS; W, Windows Phone; wOS, web OS. P rice is approx imate retai l .


S P A C E H E A T E R S 121
Quick
Guide
SPACE HEATERS
E l ect r ic h ea t er s t i i a t quickl y and s a f el y h ea t a r o o m - o r j us t
y o u- s t a r t a t wel l under $ 4 0 . S o me ev en imit a t e a f ir ep l a ce,
f ait e f l a mes and a l l .
Shopping tip
Don' t expect any
space heat er
t o save e n e r g y
unl ess y o u t u r n
d o w n t h e heat
in t he rest of t he
house.
Wh a t t o look f o r
A fan to help diffuse the
heat; some have multiple
speeds and oscillate tor added
comfort and convenience
Safety features like a
sensor that shuts the heat-
er off if it overheats and a
switch that shuts it off if the
unit tips over
A thermostat to help keep
temperatures at their desired
settings
Remote control is an added
nicety, as is a timer that shuts
the heater off so you don't
have to
Wh a t t o skip
Larger console heaters if
you're looking to save. Despite
their furniture styling (and
those fake flames), none of
these pricier models matched
the best compact heaters in
our tests
Propane or other fueled
heaters for indoor use. These
pose fume and fire risk and
must be used in a well-vented
area away from fabrics and
other combustible materials
Wh a t y o u' l l pay
Figure on roughly $40 to
$150 for smaller room heaters
and $75 to $400 for console
models.
ConsumerReports.org/heaters
B r a n ds model Price Weigiit O verallscore Test results-
( lb .) .
-i .! S 1
o 100
p I F 1 G I V Gl E
A SMALL ROOM HEATERS These compact el ectric models have a fan for fast er heat ing.
0 1 Dyson AM04 $400
Q 2 Holmes HFH436 i 40
0 3 Usk0 6462 65
0 4 V ornado Control 150
D 5 BianaireBCH9212 55
O
O O
o
e
o a

Brand S model Price Weight Overallscore Testresults
(Ib.)
re
o 1 0 0
p I F I G i V G I E
A SMALL R OOM HEATERS c on t m u e d
6 A mbiaA CH -120
7 H oneywell
H Z-860
8 Whirlpool
WHTR360K
9 Stadler Form Anna
10 PelonisH FN
11 Sunbeam SQH310
$60
70
70
85
85
50
O O O
O O a
o o o
o o

o a o
B LARGE ROOM HEATERS S ome of th e s e e l e c t r i c m odels a r e s t y l e d li k e f u r n i t u r e ; m os t have f a n s .
230
1 Duraflame
10HM 4126-0107
H eat Surge HT -XL 40 0
Soleus Ai r
HM 2 -1 5R -3 2
E denpure G E N 4
L askO760 0 0 0
OeLonghi
T R 00715T
E c o-He a te r N A40 0 S
80
397
90
75
95
DON' T BU Y: SAFETY R ISK T he O p t i m u s H-5210 is t h e on l y e l e c t r i c sp ace h e a t e r t h a t g ot h ot
e n ou g h t o p ose a f i r e r i s k ; ts ov e r h e a t s e n s or d i d n ot s h u t i t of f i n t i m e t o p r e v e n t ou r t e s t c l ot h
f r om i g n i t i n g . O p t i m u s c la i m s t o have macte a s a f e t y f i x on 2012 m od e l s ; h e a t e r s we b ou g h t i n
e a r l y s u m m e r 2012 v i e r e 2011 m od e l s , a n d t h e r e is no w a y t o t e l l t h e m od e l y e a r f r om t h e h ox .
optimus H 5210
25
i I ncludes a g r ou n d -f a u l t c i r c u i t i n t e r r u p t e r p l u g f or shock p r ot e c t i on a r ou n d w a te r . A Lacks a f a n . 3 N ot a p p l i c a b l e ;
m od e l is w a l l -m ou n t e d .
Overall score is t h e w e i g f i t e d a v e r a g e of r oom and s p ot f i e a t i n g , h ot -s u r f a c e and f i r e s a f e t y , ease
of u se , a n d n oi s e . Room heating is t f i e a b i i i t y t o h e a t a 2 0 0 -s qu a r e -f oot r oom i n 15 m i n u t e s . Spot
heating is t h e a b i l i t y t o h e a t a p e r s on s i t t i n g i n i t s p a t h i n 15 m i n u t e s , u s i n g a t e s t d u m m y w i t h
s e n s or s . H ot surface g a u g e s t h e ri s k of a f i r s t -d e g r e e b u r n f r om t ou c h i n g a m od e l 's h e a t -e x h a u s t
a r e a . Fire safety is t h e p ot e n t i a l f or i g n i t i n g f a b r i c s , s u c h as d r a p e s or c l ot h i n g . Ease of use
i n c l u d e s e a se of c a r r y i n g a n d u s i n g c on t r oi s . Noise is i ou d n e s s b a s e d on t h e h e a t e r 's h i g h e s t
s e t t i n g , u s i n g a s ou n d m e t e r . Price is a p p r ox i m a t e r e t a i l .


TVs 123
Quick
Guide
TVs
Both LCD and piasma TVs offer slim designs and can iiave
excellent HD picture quality. Many new modeis can
dispiay 3D images as weil as HD and stream video from
Internet services sucii as Netfiix. Some even have Wi-Fi.
Shopping tip
More new LCD
sets have LED
backlights.
They use less
energy than other
LCD TVs and
plasmas but don't
necessarily have
a better picture.
I What to look for
] An LCD set if you have a
I very bright room or want a
wider choice of screen sizes
A plasma TV if you want
the wiciest viewing angle and
no issue with motion blur
A set with 3D to keep your
viewing options open
What to skip
Pricey HDMI cables; those
costing a few dollars are fine
An extended warranty;
major-brand LCD and plasma
sets have been very reliable
Internet connectivity if
your Blu-ray player, game
system, or set-top box has it
What you'ii pay
40- to 42-inch sets start at
about $400, 47- to 50-inch,
sets at about $600, and
60-inch sets at about $1,500.
3D and Internet features
might add a few hundred
dollars to the price.
ConstimerReports.org/tvs
Brand & model Price Overall score Test results
cu 5 J - OJ
Si Si ^r
OJ o ^ "O
E
0 100
P I F I G I V Gl E
A 27-INCH AND SiUALLER iUIODELS
DC
1 Dynex DX-24LD23OA12 $200
2 Piliiips 26PFL4907 300
3 Tosiliba24L4200U 250
B 32-INCH MODELS
LCD
LCD
LCD
24
26
24
5 NA
5 NA
5 NA
N
M
N
O
e
o
e
e
o
e
o
o
8
6
6
1 Samsung UN32EH4000
J Samsung UN32EH5000
LCD 32 , NA
LCD 32 @ NA
M O
M O

Brands model P rice O verall score T estresuits
s.
-
QJ
ro ra ' ftJ ,,_ QJ
I i II- S I
'" E
ro n
p I F
100
i G I V G l E
S - - Q
I I I
I ^
B 32-INCH MODELS continued
O J
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
U
12
13
14
S
C
21 1
Z] 2
21 3
2j 4
21 5
Z] 6
21 7
3 8
E] 9
9 10
I G 32L53500
P anasonic Viera
T C -L32X5
JVC 1LC 32B C 3002
Vizio E 322AR
Toshiba 32C 11O U
insignia N 5-32L240A13
Sony B ravia
KD L-32B X33O
V iewS onic VT 3205LE D
Toshiba32C 120U
RCA 32LB 45R Q
LG 37C S 560
TClLE 39FHD F3300
WestinghouseV R 3730
400
Ann
320
300
350
260
J J U
460
240
240
450
380
300
40-TO 46-INCH MODELS
LG 42LM 6200
Samsung U N 46E S 6500
Samsung U N 40E S 6580
S amsung LN 40D 630
S ony B ravia
KD L-46HX750
Samsung U N 46E H5300
LG 42P M 4700
S amsung P N 43E 450
SamsungU N 40E H6000
LG 42P A4500
850
1.100
1.000
680
1 Ann
L,H\JV
850
650
400
700
480
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
LC D
32 e N A N O
32 e N A W g
32 e N A W O
32 e N A N o
32 f N A M
32 e N A N O
32 e N A N
32 e N A N
32 e N A N
32 e N A M
37 e N A w o e
39 e N A N o
37 o N A M o o
8
7
19
13
13

18
15
10
10
19
21
13
e e 14
LCD 42 W O 6 12
LC D 46 O M e 20
LC D 40 O M
LC D 40 NA M O
LC D 46 O M O
LC D 46 N A M
P lasma 4 2 o u o
P lasma 43 N A U O
LCD 40 N A M O
P lasma 42 NA U
19
24
19
16
32
26
15
30
Ratings Key E xcellent Verygood O G ood Fair #P oor
Q CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of p erformance and p rice. All are recommended.
0 Recommended T hese are high-p erforming modeis that stand out.

Brand S model Pnce Overallscore Testresuits
>- Si 5.
ro .Lzi cj
2 5
QJ >."
.y <=^ -^ .9 9^
P I F
C 40- TO 46-INCH MODELS continued
100
G I V G I E
11
12
13
14
I S
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
Samsung UN46EH50 0 0
Sony Bravia
KDL-40 EX640
Sony Bravia
KDL-46EX640
Sanyo 0 P 46861
Panasonic Viera
TC-L42E5O
Vizio E3D420VX
VZOE422VLE
Sanyo 0 P 42851
Sony Bravia
KDL-40 BX450
Toshiba 40 E220 U
Insignia NS-40 L240 A1 3
RCA 42P A30 R0
Sanyo DP 42841
Toshiba 40 L520 0 U
Haler L42B1180
Philips 46P FL570 6
RCA 46LA45RQ
Magnavox
j40MF401B/F7
D 47-TO 5MNCH MODELS
LCD 46
LCD 40
LCD 46
LCD 46
LCD 42
LCD 42
LCD 42
LCD 42
LCD 4 0
LCD 4 0
LCD 4 0
P lasma 42
LCD 42
LCD 40
LCD 42
LCD 46
LCD 46
LCD 4 0
NA M
NA M
NA M
NA M
a NA W
a O W
a NA w
a o w
NA M
a NA M
a NA M
a NA U
a NA M
a NA M
o NA M
a NA N
O NA M
O NA M
O
O e
o a
o
a
o a
o o
o e
o a
o e
o
o e
a
o o
a
a
o
11
e a 17
a a 20
o o 20
a 14
o 31
a a 28
e o 22
e 25
17
23
27
O 23
12
a 29
38
O a 39
o o 26
Samsung P N51E6500
Panasonic Viera
TC-P 50ST50
Samsung P N51E550
LG 47LM860 0
LG47LM760 0
Samsung P N51E490
Panasonic Viera
TC-L47ET5
Plasma 5 1 a u a a 44
Plasma 5 0 a u o a 46
Plasma 5 1 a U O a 46
LCD 47 a w o a a 14
LCD 47 O W O a a 13
Plasma 5 i a a u o 2 8
LCD 47 a w o a 15

Brand & model Price Overall score Test results
~ ro
ra a:
ro .[:d
-
O" o -o
P I F
100
G I VG l E
D 47-TO 51-INCH MODELS continued
0 8 LG 47LM 6200
Q 9 Panasonic Viera
T C -P 5O XT 5O
Q 10 LG 50P A6500
B 11 SamsungP N 5tE 530
0 12 Panasonic viera
T C -L47D T 50
Q 13 LG 5O P A55O O
0 14 LG 47L55700
Q 15 Panasonic Viera
T C -P 5O U 5O
16 Toshiba 47L6200U
17 Panasonic Viera
T C -L47E 5
18 Sanyo FVM 5082
E 52- TO S9- I NCH MODELS
LC D 47 e e W O e e 14
P las ma 50 e O u o e O 39
P lasma 50 N A U e 45
P lasma 51 N A U o 43
LC D 47 e w o e 17
P lasma 50 N A U O 46
LC D 47 N A W O 16
P lasma 50 N A U O 43
LC D 47 O W O O 16
LCD 47 a N A W O 17
LC D 50 N A M O O 32
1 Panasonic Viera
T C -P 55VT 5O
2 Panasonic Viera
T C -P 555T 50
3 Sony B ravia
XB R -55HX929
4 SamsungU N 55E 58000 2,300
5 I G 55LM 6200
6 Sony B ravia
KD L-55HX850
7 Samsung U N 55E S 65O O 1,600
1,700
2.500
2.800
8 LG 55LM 6700
9 SamsungP N 59D 8000
10 VzloXVT 3D 580C M
P lasma 55
P lasma 55
LC D 55
U O
N O O
LC D 55 M
LC D 55 W O 15
LC D 55 M O 16
LC D 55 N 24
LC D 55 W O 15
P lasma 59 U O 76
LC D 58 O N 26
Ratings Key E xcellent Verygood O G ood Fair P oor
D CR Best Buy T hese models offer the best combination of performance and price. All arerecommended.
W Recommended T heseare high-performing models that stand out.

Br and & mode l Pnce Overallscore Testresults
^ s.
. ~ o- E OO
Lrt Oj o C
5 3 S I
P I F
100
G I V G I E
E 52- TO S9-INCH MODELS conti nued
Q 14
0 15
16
17
18
19
Panasonic Viera
TC-L55ET5
Samsung UN55EH60 0 0
Sony Bravia
K0L-55EX640
Vi zi o E552VLE
LG55G2
Sony Bravia
KOL-55BX52O
DynexDX-55L150All
Phi l i ps 55PFL470 6
Hai er LE55B1381
F 6 0 - I N C H AND LARGER MODELS
LCD 55 O W 24
LCD 55 NA 1^ O O 20
LCD 55 NA M O a 24
LCD 55 NA W O a 35
LCD 55 W O 21
LCD 55 a NA W O 38
LCD . 55 NA W O 35
LCD 55 e NA N a 29
LCD 55 O NA IW 27
B
SamsungPN6OE8OOO
Samsung PN60 E550
Panasonic V i era
TC-P60 G T50
Panasonic Viera
TC-P605T50
LG60PZ950
Samsung UN6 0 D6 4 0 0
Samsung PN64E550
5
6
7
8 LG 60 PM670 0
9 Sony Bravi a
KD L-60 EX72O
1 0 LG 6 0 PM9 7 0 0
1 1 LG 60 PA650 0
12 Sbarp Aquos
LC-60 LE745U
13 Sbar p Aquos
LC-60 LE847U
14 Sbarp Aquos
LC-60 LE845U
15 Sbarp Aquos
LC-70 LE640 U
Plasma 60 U 5 2
Plasma 60 U 3 9
Plasma 60 U O a 69
Plasma 6 0 a u O a 53
Plasma 60 U o 7 4
LCD 60 M o 20
Plasma 6 4 a L i a 8 5
Plasma 6 0 a L l O a a 63
LCD 60 N o O 29
Plasma 60 U O 6 6
Plasma 60 NA U o 64
LCD 60 N o a 15
LCD 60 a N O a 20
LCD 60 a N O a a a 20
LCD 70 a NA N o a a a w

Overall score is based mainly on test results. Display type indicates the type of technology used
(LC D or plasma). Screen size (in.) is the size of the television's screen, measured diagonally in
inches. HD picture quality assesses detail, color accuracy, and contrast, using signals from a
B lu-ray player, cable box, and professional broadcast eguipment and meters. All signals are routed
through an HD M I input. 3D performance evaluates the T V's ability to reproduce realistic 3D im-
ages. Viewinq anqle evaiuates picture guality at various horizontal and vertical viewing angles:
W=wide. M =moderate, N =narrow, and U =unlimited. Sound quality is measured from the set's
built-in speakers using computer driven test eguipment. with additionai subjective testing by a
iistening panel. Remote ease of use assesses the usabiiity of the T V's remote control, considering
button layout, labeling, and practical features. On-screen menu ease of use considers the menu's
interaction with the remote, menu layout, and practicai features. Versatility indicates features that
increase a T V's utility or capabilities, including 3D capability, access to I nternet and Web browsing,
number of HD and U S B inputs, support for various media, and other useful features. Enerqy cost/
yr. ($) Is the estimated cost per year in dollars, calculated for 5 hours per day turned on and 19
hours in the off mode. Y our usage and local rates will affect your costs. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least Reiiabie
FLAT-PANEL TVS
P anasonic
m
Sanyo b| |
Sharp ^
Insignia B ^ K!
Sylvania I ^ K !
Toshiba p ^ ^ l
Samsung ^ ^ H
Magnavox I I I ^HQ
Philips H i l l
Westinghouse I B I ^ ^ B
Polaroid I HHEHHOi
M itsubishi B ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ l
P anasonic
S amsung
LG
E
0% 10% 20%
I LC D
P LAS M A
E very .year, we gather repair experiences
from thousands of readers who own T Vs to
determine which brands haye been more-or
less-reliable. O ur latest survey, which covers
209,000 LC D and plasma T Vs bought be-
tween 2007 and 2011, shows that only 4 per-
cent of T Vs, on average, were repaired or had
a serious problem during the first three to
four years of use. M ost major brands of LC D s
were generally reliable, including (in alpha-
betical order) I nsignia, JVC , LG , M agnavox,
P anasonic, P hilips, S amsung, S anyo, S harp,
S ony, S ylvania, T oshiba, Vizio, and Westing-
house. M itsubishi and P olaroid have been
among the more repair-prone brands of LC D
T V. D ifferences of less than 4 points are not
meaningful. I n the plasma category, LG , P ana-
sonic, and S amsung were generally reliable.
Keep in mind that our data are historical and
can't predict future reliability. S till, we think
that picking a brand of T V that has been more
reliable in the past decreases the likelihood of
your having repair trouble in the future.


V A C U U M C L E A N E R S 129
Quick
Guide
VACUUM CLEANERS
Carpets top the list of critical vacuuming chores, an area where
upright models have traditionally excelled. But the best canisters
we tested come close and can make other cleaning easier,
especially on stairs.
Shopping tip
Some vacuums
are easier than
others to push,
puii, and carry.
Check weights
and our handiing
scores-and see
which ones feei
best at the store.
Brand & model
What to look for
Easy pushing, pulling, lift-
ing, and carrying; be sure
you try before you buy
An upright, if carpet deep-
cleaning is important
t A canister for cleaning
drapes, upholstery, on stairs,
and under furniture, since
you move mostly the hose
and wand instead of the
entire machine
What to skip
Splurging on extra cleaning
tools, when the basic tools that
come standard should suffice
for most cleaning jobs
Bagless models if you have
asthma or allergies, because
emptying their bin is typi-
cally a dusty, messy chore
What you'll pay
I Capable bagless uprights
' start at about $50; figure on
$200-plus for most canisters
and bagged uprights.
ConsumerReports.org/vacuums
P rice O veraii score Weight T estresuits
(Ib.).
simnarmodeis, nsfii.all type. D
comparabie to tested model.
Il I lili
P i F
100
G I VGI E
A BAGGED UPRIGH T S These tend to be best for carpets.
Hoover WindTunnei Anniversary
Edition U6485-90D TurboPower
WindTunnei Anniversary Edition I JH50000 i l '
Hiele S 7210 Twist
K irbySentria i
M iele S 726D Cat & Dog
K enmore I ntuition 31100
K enmore Progressive 31069
Hoover WindTunnei iMax UH30600
21 o '
22
23
22
21
19
17
1

1
i
i
5 i
=1 9
5 i
1 O 1
1 O 1
5 O i
^9
l O
1 0
l O
l O

Brand & model
Si m i l a r m o d e l s , in
comparable to tested i
Price Overallscore Weigbt Testresuits
0 100
P I f I G I V G l E ,
A BAGGED UPRIGHTS continued
7\ 8
V\ 9
3 10
3 11
3 12
3 13
7| 15
71 16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
2S
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Hoover P latinum B agged
U H30010C 0M 2 3
Kenmore I ntuition 31200
Kenmore I ntuition 31810
M iele S 75 80 B olero Swing
M iele S 72 80 Jazz salsa
Eurek a B oss S mart Vac 4870 [ 1
Sebo Felix P remium
Hoover WindT unnel T S eries Pe
U H3O 310
Hoover WindT unnel T -S eries
U H3 0 3 0 0 T -S eries
Panasonic M C -U G 471 2
Eurek a A irspeed AB S AS 1050A
( W almart) 2
Riccar S upraliteR S L 4
simplicity Freedom F36O O 2 4
Hiccar B rilliance P remium
simplicity S ynchrony P remium
Oreck Forever S eries E dge 12
Oreck M agnesium f <
Oreck Forever S eries P ilot 2 4
Lindbaus D iamante 380
Dirt Devil Feath erlite B agged
M 085590 2
Sebo automatic X5 zi
Oreck G raph ite 12; ki
Oreck XL E lement P rofessional
S eries i A
Aerus Fresh E ra 2 4
Hoy ai E minence M R Y 9750
C irrus P erformance P et C R 99
Koblenz U 610 sm
13
21
21
22
22
2 0
16
17
16
17
18
9
2 0
16
9
12
19
14
19
11
10
11
2 0
22
19
NA
ê e
a o
a o
a o
e^ e
erne
o
o
N A

a
a N A
a NA
o
O o
o
o NA
o NA
o a NA
o o
o a
o NA
o
o o
a o
a o
o
o a
o a
o a
a
a
o a
o a
o a
a
00
o aoa
o a
o a
a
o
d

B r a n d & m o d e l
I -g ilar models, in
'ro S /iirable to tested model.
P r i c e O v e r a l l s c o r e W e ig h t T e s t r e s u l t s
( l b . )
S -s .s =
1 0 0
I F I G I V Gl E
I
B
B BAGI ESS UPRIGHTS These trade a bag for a bin but can be messier to empty.
1 LG K ompressor LUV 35OP
2 H o o v e r w indTunnel T-Series Rew ind
Bag less U H 70 t 20 UH70 U0 121
3 LG K ompressor Total C are L UV 4 0 0 T
4 D y s o n 0 C 28 Animal
5 K e n m o r e I ntuition 3 t 0 4 0
6 Eu r e k a Airspeed ASIOOOA
ASlO O lAGok USW O J A ( Targ et) 12
7 H o o v e r Platinum Bag less UH70 0 1 5
8 LG K ompressor LUV 20 0 R
9 B i s s e l i C leanV iew Helix D elux e 7tV 9
71 V 9 -2 ( L ow e's) 2
10 Sh a r k N av ig ator L itt Aw ay NV 352
N V 351 ( W almart) . N V 350
U P a n a s o n i c MC-UL81 5
12 Sh a r k N av ig ator Professional L ift
Aw av N V 3 5 6 E
13 H o o v e r W indTunnel Pet Rew ind
UH7O21O
14 H o o v e r W indTunnelT-Series Purely
C lean UH70 20 2
15 B is s e n M omentum 8 2G7t .: .
16 H o o v e r W indTunnel Rew ind Plus
UH70 20 5
17 P a n a s o n i c M C -UL 9 t5
100
18 P a n a s o n i c M C-UL81 0 m
19 Sh a r k N av ig ator NV 22L " " ^ " " ^
2 0 H o o v e r W indTunnel M ax UH70 6 0 0
2 1 El e c t r o l u x N imble EL 8 6 0 2I ]
ELS6 0 5 ( I ( L ow e's)
2 2 B i s s e i i Pet Hair Eraser 8 7B4
S7B4 -2 ( L ow e's) , 8 7B4 -3 (Best Buy) 'j
2 3 P a n a s o n i c J etForceM C -UL 4 27
2 4 D y s o n DC41 Animal
2 5 Eu r e k a W hirlw ind* Pet Lover 32761 1 w
18
18
22
21
23
18
22
23
16
14
18
16
19
19
18
19
21
17
16
20
19
21
16
17
20
O O
O
O O O
O
o o o
o
o o o

o
o o
o o o
o o
o o o
o o o
o o
o o o o
o o o o
O O O
o o
e o o
o o o o
o o o o
o o o
o o
o o o
Ra t i n g s K e y Ex cellent V eryg ood O Good Fa i r Poor

Q CR B e s t B u y Trese models offer the best combination of performance and price. Alt are recommended.
E Re c o m m e n d e d These are hig h-performing modeis that stand out.

B r a n d & m o d e l P r i c e O v e r a l l s c o r e W eig b t T e s t r e s u l t s
( I b . )
c o m p a r a b l e t o t e s t e d m o d e l .
-5 .1 :
m o
ca o
O 100
P I F I G i V GI E
B B AG LE S S U P R I G HT S c o n t i n u e d
26 B is s e n P o w e rC le a n 16N5-9
27 B is s e n H e a lt h y H om e 16N5-F
28 E u r e k a S u c t io n S e a l Pet AS1104A
29 E u r e k a A i r s p e e d Z u u m AS5203A
3 0 LG K o m p r e s s o r LuV250C
31 Ho o v e r W in d T u n n e l Pet C yclonic
U H 7 0 0 8 5
32 B is s e n T o t a l F l o o r s Pet 61C5W
33 B is s e n L i f t -O f f M u l t i -C y c l o n i c Pet
8 9 Q 9 8 9 Q 9 -4 ( K o h l ' s ) . 8 9 Q 9 -6 (B e d B a t h s
B e y o n d ) . 18Z6 ( T a r g e t )
i 4 E i e c t r o i u x V e r s a t i l i t y EL8505 i m m
35 Ho o v e r W in d T u n n e l A i r U H 7 0 4 0 0
36 B is s e n P r o L i t e M u l t i C y c lo n ic 17G5
17 G 5 -2( L0e 's )
37 D y s o n DC40 M u l t i F l o o r
38 D y s o n DC24 B a l l M u l t i f l o o r
39 S b a r k N a v i g a t o r L i g h t NVIOO
4 0 Ho o v e r W in d T u n n e l Pet R e w in d P iu s
U H 7 0 0 8 6
4 1 E u r e k a En d e a v o r NLS 54 0 0 A
22
22
21
14
17
23
19
2 2
2 4
13
17
15
12
12
2 3
16
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O

OO
OO
O O
O
O O
O O
O
O O
O O
O O
O O

O
O Oj
o
t ' S e l f -p r o p e l l e d , s Lacks b r u s h o n /o f f . ^ Comes w i t h a m i n i c a n i s t e r . '< D o e s n 't accept to o ls .

B r a n d s model Price Overaii score Test resuits
do .b; DO ^
0 100
P I F I G IVGl E ~^,jtlLi
C BAGGED CANISTER
1
2
3
4
S
6
7
8
9
10
U
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
Kenmore Int ui t i on
28014
Kenmore Progressive
21714
M i ei e S 5281 Callisto
E iectroiux Oxygen
EL 6 9 881]
Kenmore Progressive
21614
Kenmore Progressive
21514
Hoover WindTunnel
S3670
E iectroiux UitraOne
EL 7070A
E iectroiux Ultra-
Si lenc er D eep Clean
EL 706 011 UltraSilencer
0eepCleanEl7061[l (Lowe's)
Panasoni c MC-CG902
i U i el e S 2181 Ti t a n
Panasoni c MC-CG983
Panasoni c MC-CG917
Riccar Immaculate
Pr emi er Gusto
E iectroiux JetMaxx
Green EL404011
M ieie S 2121 Olympus
M i el e S 2121 Delphi
E iectroiux
UltraSilencer EL6986A
M i el e S 6270 Topaz
Aerus Lux Legacy
Metropolitan Profes-
si onals A D M -4PN H SF
500
a 1
a 1
a 1
1
a 1
a i
a 1
0 i
1
1 a
1
1 a
1 a
1 o
a
1
a
o
a
o
o
o
o
a
o
o
o
o
o
a o

o
a

a a
o
a a
a o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
a
a
a
o
a
a
o
a
a
o 1
a 1
o 1
o 1
1
o 1
a 1
a 1
1
a 1
o i
1
1 o
9 o
1 o
^ o
1 o
1 o
1 o
1 o
1
1 o
1 o
1
o
NA
NA
26
24
22
2 3
2 3
2 4
25
23
NA
23
17
24
24
27
19
13
16
17
17
21
22

134 C O N S U M E R F E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Brand & model I Price I Overall score I Test results
I .| I 1
^ 1
SS -
o o
o o
.2 . S <
P I F
1 0 0
G I V G l E ^ ^ U . ^
C BAGGED CANISTER continued
22 Aerus Lux G uardian
U itra
23 Sebo Air B eit C 3 .I
24 Sebo Air B eit K3
Volcano
25 Miele S 62 90 Jasper 52 0
D BAGLESS CANISTER
O O O
o o
o o
o
e O
21
2 5
21
15
1 LG Kompressor
LC V90 0 B
2 Hoover P latinum S 3 865 40 0
3 Rainbow e-series E 2
4 Dyson D C 3 9 Animai
5 Hoover E iite C yclonic
S 3 82 5
6 Eiectroiux U ltraActive
D eepC lean E L43 0 0 A
7 Hoover M ulti-C ycionic
S H40 60
8 Hoover Zen Whisper
S iH40 0 80 _
9 Dirt Devil Vision
M O 82 75O
10 Dyson O C 2 6 C ity
M uiti floor

O O
O O
O
o o o
o
o o o o

o o
2 7
3 3
1 7
2 4
2 2
1 7
2 0
2 3
1 2

Overall score is mainly cleaning, airflow, handling, noise, and emissions; scores for previously
tested models may have changed. Carpet is ability to lift embedded talc and sand from medium
pile. Bare floors is vacuuming sand without dispersing. Tool airflow is through hose with
increasing amounts of dust-simulating wood flour. Noise reflects decibel-meter results; for Poor
scores we recommend hearing protection. Emissions is release of small particles with motor
on. Handling is ease of pushing, pulling, and carrying. Pet hair uses long cat fur on medium-
pile carpet. Weight is vacuum and onboard tools. Price Is approximate retail.
VACUUMS
0%
Ramtjow
E
Dyson !
Miele j ^ ^ ^ ^
Kenmore | HHB| | E1
Hoover i H^ ^ t a HH WB
Electrolux J H H B ^ H H H I K I
Kirby
Dirt Deyil
Bissen
Kenmore
Eureka
Dyson
Hoover
1
oreck [ a M^ l B^
ElectroiuxB||^ ti: 10
Panasoni c ^ I n
Simplicity m i ^ l l l i
Riccar
Kirby was among the least repair-prone-
brands for upright vacuums. For canisters.
Rainbow was among the least repair-prone
brands, while Hoover and Electrolux were
the most repair-prone. That's what we found
when we asked more than 100,000 readers
who bought a vacuum between 2008
through the first half of 2012 about their ex-
periences. The graphs below show the per-
centage of models for each brand that were
repaired or had a serious problem. Differ-
ences of fewer than 4points aren't mean-
ingful, and we've adjusted the data to elimi-
nate differences linked solely to age and
usage. Models within a brand may vary, and
changes in design or manufacture may af-
fect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand
that has a good repair history can improve
your odds of getting a reliable model.
5% 10% 15% 20%
I CANISTERS
UPRIGHTS


136
Quick
Guide
WALL OVENS
Flexibility is tiie biggest reason to ciioose a cooktop
or viiall oven instead of a range. A vâll oven can also
eliminate the bending required to cook in a range
oven-but installation adds to the price.
S can this or see how. paqe 11
go to ConsumerReports.
org/ovens
Brand & modei
What to iook for
Control lockout, if the con-
trol panel will be within a
young child's reach
Smooth cover or floor over
the bottom baking element,
which can help with easier
cleanup of spills
Five or more oven rack
positions, for more flexibil-
ity in arranging racks and
bakeware
What to skip
A small oven window,
which won't give a full view
to the interior
Menu databases and other
perks if you want to save
What you'll pay
You can get an electric cook-
top and wall oven for as little
as $1,300 or so, though ca-
pable ranges cost far less.
P rice O verall score Test results
S i mi l ar mod e l s , nsiiidll type,
are tomparat le to tested mocie. .
1 T iiermadorM E 301E [ 5 1
2 W hi rl pool WO551EC0AS
3 B osch H BL54[50JU C
4 V ii ing P rofessional
V E 5O 13O B 5]
5 E iectroluxlconE 30E W 7 5 E 15 5 1
I con E3 0 EW7 5 G[ SSI
6 LG LWS3O81[ST1
7 GE P rofile PT925DN1BB]
8 GE P rofile PT9165R5S
9 G E JT P 70S M [S 51
10 K enmore P ro 4 1003
U GECafCT9185TS 5
12 Frigidaire P rofessional
FPEW3O85KF
1 3 Wolf E -S eries 5 O 3O -2F/5
L-Series S0 3 0 U/S. I Series 5 O3 OF/S.
E-Series5 O3 O2U/s
o o 30
O O 30

W A L L O V E N S
i
Brand 8 model
5 i m i l a r m o d e ;
are coniparabit u/ ciitu <'KI-A\.
Price overallscore Testresults
r)p &D DO
3 o
o 100
P I F I G I V Gl E
14 Frigidaire FGEW3O65K[F1 $1,500
15 GE1TP3ODP[BB1 1.200
16 Kenmore 48839 1,000
17 KitcbenAid KEBS107S[SS! 2,000
18 Kenmore Elite 48093 2,300
19 GE Monogram ZETISMSS
Monogram ZET1PM[SS1. Monogram 3, 400
ZETIR MSS
o o

o o o
O O O
O O O
O
30
30
30
30
30
30
Ratings Key Excellent Verygood OGood Fai r Poor
Q CR Best Buy These models offer the best combinatioh of performance and price. All are recommended.
0 Recommended These are high-performing models that stand out.
Overall score reflects oven capacity and baking, broiling, and self-cleaning ability. Oven capac-
ity nneasures usable space. Baking reflects whether cakes and cookies baked on two racks were
evenly browned. Broiling is based on even browning of a pan of burgers, and high-heat searing
ability. Oven cleaning gauges the self-cleaning cycle's effectiveness. Price is approximate retail.
Most & Least R eliable
ELECTR IC WALL OVENS
Source: Annual Product R eliability Survey,
Consumer R eports National R esearch Center.
No one electric wall oven brand stood out as the
nncst or least reliable in 2012. Although we
lacked sufficient historical data for all years to
include Jenn-Air in the graph, our data indicate
that it has been a repair-prone brand. That's
what we found when we asked mere than
13,000 readers who bought an electric wall
oven between 2007 and 2012 about their expe-
riences. The graph shows the percentage of
models from a brand that needed a repair or
had a serious problem. Differences of less than
3 points aren't meaningful, and we've adjusted
the data to eliminate differences linked solely to
the age of the ovens. Models within a brand may
vary, and design or manufacture changes may
affect future reliability. Still, choosing a brand
with a good repair history can improve your


138 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U i D E 2 0 1 3
Qujck
G ui de
WAS HE R S
Improvements inciude mid-wasii soaking and more
aggressive agitation. You'll also find more programmable
wash menus and even built-in USB ports that allow for
future software upgrades.
S hoppi ng ti p
Washers must
now use 11
percent less
energy and 20
percent less
water to qualify
for an Energy
Star seal.
What to look for
A porcelain top or lid, which
resists scratching better than
paitited metal
A stainless-steel or porce-
lain tub, which won't rust
An extra rinse cycle, if you
or others in your home are
sensitive to detergent residue
Dial controls, generally eas-
ier to use than some touch-
pad or digital controls
What to skip
Customized programs,
because basic cycles and set-
tings can handle most wash-
ing needs
Steam settingsthe steam
models we've tested cleaned
well even when we didn't use
the steam option
What you'ii pay
Capable machines that com-
bine performance and value
start at well under $1,000.
ConsumerReports.org/washers
Brands modei Price Overall score Test results
S i mi lar models, in smrtll
tested model.
& er s-
.2 g d ra 3 s
S .g . 's; 5
^ ^ D aS s
s. a s
.S o .Sd
O
P I F I G I V G l E
A FR O N T LO AD I N G
Q 1 LGWM3470HIW1A
[ 7 { 2 Whiripooi Duet
WFW94HEX1W]
Duet AFW95HEXI I. Duet
WrW97HEXII
0 3 Kenmore Eiite4l47[21 1.100
0 4 Kenmore 4137(2] 1.050
0 5 Samsung WF501AN1W] 1.100
[ ] 6 S amsung WF511AB[W1 1,300

W A S H E R S
Brand & model
lype. are comparable to
tested model.
i 1
Su ^
c:
QJ
S
o
o
b
r
a
t
i
B
(
m
i
E
i
CU
LU
t
e
e
i
t
i
c
o
n
t
Q
E
0 100
p 1 F ! G I V G l E
A FR ON T L OA D IN G continued
7 LG WM2650H1W1A
8 Samsung WF461AB W1
( L o w e ' s ) WF431AB IW1
9 LGWM2250C[W]
10 Maytag Maxima
MHW6000X[W]
Maxi ma MHW7000X[1
11 F rigidaire Af f i n i t y
FAFS4073N[W]
Af f i n i t y FArS4174N[WI
12 Eiectroiux IQ Touch
EIFtW50LllWl
13 Maytag Maxi ma
MHW9000Y[W]
14 Samsung WF52OAB (P]
15 Kenmore Ei i te 4413[2]
Eli te 415311
Samsung WF331ANIW]
LGWM3875H[W1CA
Miele W4842 W48o;
22
23
24
25
26
LGWM3150H[W]C
Whirlpool Duet Steam
WFW9750W[W]
LGWM3885H[W]CA
Eiectroiux
EWFLS70J[IW]
GEWCVH6800J[WW]
Maytag Performan ce
Series MHWE950W[W]
Maytag 5000 Series
MHWE550WIW1
5 0 0 0 Series MHWE450W( I
850
85
65
90
O 85
100
95
95
65
O 90
O O 75
O 70
65
O 65
Rat i n gs Key Excei i en t Verygood OGood F a i r P o o r
Q CR Best Buy Tfiese models offer the best combi n ati on of performan ce and pri ce. All are recommen ded.
0 R ecommended These are hi gh-performi n g models that stan d out.

B ra
S a:
f =
O J
E
Brand & model

;:i,'li ino'i^ls, in small
lested model.
Price Overallscore Testresuits
a & &
M M es u
I
P I F I G I V G l E
< 3
A FRONT LOADING continued
1,000
1,400
27 Samsung WF33O AN [W]
W F H O A N I W J ( L o w e ' s )
28 Wiiirlpool D uet S team
WFW9550W1W1
29 Frigidaire Affinity
FAFW3921N [W1
30 G E P rofile
P FWS 4600LWW]
P rofile P FWS 4605U I
31 Maytag 2000 S eries
M HWE 200XW]
32 G E G FWH2400L1WW]
G FWS 35O 5Ll|.G rWS 350O Lll,
G FWH2405L1 !
33 Maytag P erformance
S eries 2000
M HWE 251Y 1G 1 (Lowe's)
P erformance S eries 2000
M HWE iO lV I l
34 Amana N FW7300W[WJ 650
35 Amana N FW7600X[W]
36 Electrolux IQ S team
E IFLS 55I[IW1
37 G E WB V H53O O KIWW1
FAFS 4474L[W]
FAFS 4473U W]
40 I G WM 2550H[W]C A
41 ASkO WL6532XXU W]
42 Samsung WF231AN [W]
4 3 Haier HWF5000A[W]
44 Dae w oo D WD WD 33WS
45 IGW M214OC[W J
46 Daewoo
D WD WD 3011WW

o

o

85
100
65
75
60
75
80 *
O 90 . ;
O 55 . *

W A S H E R S
141
Brand S model Price Overallscore Testresults
lype. are comparable to
tested model.
s- . i
re
ai
^ f. s
S S S
^ T i
s E
0 IOO
p I F I G I V Gl E
A FRONT LOADING continued
47 IGWM224OC[W1
48 LGWM3360 H1W1CA
WM235 OHIW1C
49 Samsung WF22OAN[W]
WF210 ANIW1
50 F rigidaire
FRFW370 0 t[W]
51 Whiripool Duet
WFW935 1Y[W]
5 2 F rigid aire Af f init y
FAF5 4272LIW]
53 F rigidaire Affinity
FAFW38Olt[W]
54 Speed Queen AFB5 0 R
ArN5 0 R
55 GEGFWNUOOtlWW]
B TOP LOADING
O
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
e

e 90
o 85
95
o 40
e 85
o 50
e 50
60
70

LG WT480 1CIW1
Samsung WA5 45 1ANIW]
May tag Bravos Xt
MV WB75 0 Y[W]
LG WT5 17OH[W1
May tag Bravos Xt
MV WB95 Oy(W)
Whirlpool V antage
WTW7990 X1G1
Ken more 28OO[2] 260011
Whirlpool Cabrio
WTW5 70 0 XIW1 Cabrio
WTW5600X1V]. Cabrio
wrw5 640 xil (Lowe's)
800 45
R atin gs Key Ex cellent V ery g ood OGood Fai r Poor
Q CR B est B uy These models of f er the best combination of perf ormance and price. All are recommended.
0 R ec o mmen d ed These are high- perf orming models that stand out.

Brand & model
si mi l ar models, in smail
tested model.
B T O P LO AD I I \I G continued
Price Overallscore Testresults
^_i i_j i_j +' i/n i_o
I I I 1 I 1
fe it it 3 =
bo aj .iS
O 100
p i F I G I V G l E
.2 .E S 3 S a
-= tu Sf ai '-' S -
^ [= aj VI r-: lq
.E o ^
re i e JI3
9
10
U
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
22
1.050
Kenmore E lite 290012]
Whirlpool C abrio
WT W55O O X[W]
C abrio WT W5550XI W
Kenmore E lite 2947[2] 1.310
LG Waveforce
WT 5O O 1C [W1
Samsung WA5471AB 1W1 l.lO O
G E P rofi l e Harmony
P T WN 8O 5O M [WW1
P rofile Harmony P T WN 8O 55M [ 1
Whirlpool C abrio
WT W82O O Y [W1
C abrio WT W824O V [l( Low e's) ,
C abrio W7W8800Y ( 1. C abrio
WT W86 00V 1 i
Whirlpool C abrio
WT W76 00X[W]
C abrio WT W7800XI 1
Maytag B ravos X
M V WX500XI W1
B ravos X M V WX6 00X1W1.
B ravos XM V WX700XI W1.
B ravos X M V WX55O X(W1
LG WT 5101H[V ]
Kenmore 213O [2]
G E P rofile
WP R E 8150K[WT ]
G E G T WN 3000M [WS ]
G E P rofile
P T WN 6 250M [WT l
G T WN 5O 50M [].P T WN 6 O 50M [i.
G R WN 5150M [l,G LWN 5O 5O M | l
( Low e's)
1,100
700
O e
o o

o e
o
o e
23 Kenmore E lite 2927[21 1,100
e e e
o e
o
o
e O
e e e
o o e o
e o e o o
o o e e o o
o o e o e
e e e
60
45
55
60
65
65
70
45
6 0
45
50
40
50
6 5

Ratings Key E xcellent V erygood O G ood Fai r P o o r
D CR Best Buy T hese modeis offer the best combination of performance and price. AM are recommended.
0 Recommended T hese are high-performing models that stand out.

W A S H E R S 143
Brands model Price Overaii score Test resuits
Similar models, in 5m<ill
type, arexomparable fo
tested niodel.
0
i
n
c
r
m
:
r
f
o
tu
DC
f
i
c
i
E
'S
d
f
i
C
' o)
OJ
I
C
i
t
l
e
s
o
i
s
t
i
O
l
' =
t
cu
E
gj
s
t
a
n
e
i
3
t
e
e
l
s
-
s
a
i
n
l
c
o
n
e
m
p
.
o
1
a i
P I f I G IVGl E
B TOP LOADING c ontinued
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
J D
?1
38
39
40
41
42
43
A&
45
GEGTWP2000M1WW]
GTWP2OO5M1CCI.
GLWP2000M1WW1 (Lowe's)
M ay tag Centennial
MVWC400X 1W1
A mana NTW45O1X [Q 1
F isiier & Pay i< el Aq ua-
smart WL42T26 DW1
Aq i asmar l WL42T26 KW1
Haier Enc ore
RWT350AtWlRWTi50A||
Wiiiripooi
WTW4850X [Q ]
GE GTWN4450M[W51
GTWN4250MI1
M ay tag Centennial
MVWC200X IW]
Kenmore 211O[2J
Staber HX W2304
Hotpoint
HTWPIOOOMIWWI
GE GTWN4000M[WS]
Whiripooi
WTW4800X [ Q ]
F isiier & Pay i< ei Eco-
SmartWA42T26 GWl
Roper RTW4440X10]
Estate ETW4400X I0]
Speed Q ueen AWN542
M ay tag Centennial
MVWCBOOV[W]
A mana NTW480ax[ Q ]
Kenmore 212512]
Whiripooi
WTW49 5OX [ W1
GEGTWPlOOGMiWW]
GHWPIOOOMIWWI
(Home Deool)
I 400
800
480
500
570
O O O O
O e O
O O O
o
o o o o o
o o o
o o o o
o o o e e o
o o o
40
50
55
50
6 0
6 0
50
55
50
O O O 5 5
O O a O O 45'
430
O O O O
O O O O
0 0 0
O O O
O O O
O O O O O
o a o a 4 0 ' '
O O O 7 5
a e o 4 o
o a o o 3 5
45
55
50
4 0 ;
40
35

Overall score is based mainly on washing ability, capacity, efficiency, and noise. Washing per-
formance reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric using the most aggressive
normal cycle. Enerqy efficiency is based on the ehergy needed to heat the water using a warm
wash and cold rinse. Water efficiency is based on total water used for multiple loads. For top-
loaders, capacity is based on how well the washer agitates increasingly large loads. For front-
loaders, the score is based on our judgment of the maximum-sized load that the washer holds.
M odels that earned lower scores for gentleness are more likely to treat your clothes roughly,
causing wear and tear. Noise reflects panelists' judgments during the till, agitate, and spin
cycles. Vibration reflects usage on a suspended woodeh floor. Cycle time (min.) is rounded to
the nearest 5 minutes. Price is approximate retail.
WASHERS
LG
S amsung
Kenmore
Whirlpool
M aytag
Frigidaire
GE
R oper
M aytag
Vihirlpool
Kenmore
GE
Fisher &
P avkel
mm
mS ma
1 1
1 1
10
1 1
n 1 I
1 5
B
5 % 10% 15 % 2 0% 2 5 % 30%
i FR O N T -LO AD I N G
T O P -LO AO I N G
R oper was the most reliable top-loader
brand while Fisher & P aykel was the most
repair-prone. LG and S amsung were the
most reliable tor front-loaders, G E the
most repair-prone. T hat's what we found
when we asked oyer 88,0 0 0 readers who
bought a clothes washer between 2 0 0 7
and 2 0 1 1 about their experiences. T he graph
shows the percentage of models for each
brand that were repaired or had a serious
problem. D ifferences of less than 3 points
aren't meaningful, and we'ye adjusted data
to eliminate differences linked solely to a
washer's usage ahd age. M odels within a
brand may yary, and changes ih design or
manufacture may affect future reliability.
S till, choosing a brand with a good repair
history can improve your odds of getting a
reliable model.
S ource: Annual P roduct R eliability S urvey.
C onsumer R eports N ationai R esearch C enter.


RATING THE 2012-2013 MODELS
I
ncluded here are Ratings on nearly 300
vehicles that CR has recently tested.
Within each category, they are ranked
by their overall road-test score.
To earn our Recommendation
( 0 ) vehicles must perform well in our
road tests; have average or better reliabil-
ity; and perform adequately if included
in safety tests conducted by the I nsur-
ance I nstitute for Highway Safety and the
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin-
istration (NHTSA).
The NHTSA has mandated that elec-
tronic stability control
(ESC), a proven life-sav-
ing feature, be included
as standard equipment
on all light vehicles
starting with the 2012
Scan this or see how.
Mak es model
model year.
Survey results include predicted reli-
ability, our forecast of how well a new car
is likely to hold up, based on data from
our 2011 Annual Auto Survey. Owner
satisfaction also comes from our annual
survey; it is based on a question where we
ask subscribers if they would definitely
buy or lease their vehicle again.
Owner cost is a Rating of the five-year
projected cost to own a vehicle, includ-
ing depreciation, fuel, interest, insurance,
maintenance/repair, and sales tax.
Fuel economy is the overall mileage a
vehicle achieved in our real-world tests,
based on results from several tests, and
reflects a realistic mix of city, country-
road, and highway driving.
An asterisk (*) means the powertrain
has changed since the last test.
For more Buying Advice, go to
www.ConsumerReports.org/cars
Ov erall Survey
road-test score results
S S s
^1 1
0 100 "
p I F I G I V G l E
HATC HB AC K S: FUEL EF F IC IENT
V ol k swag en Gol f T D I (MT) $24,764
Toy ota P riu s Four 26,750
Nissan Leaf 5L i 35,430
Lexus CT 200h P r e m i u m 32,012
C hevrolet Volt 43,700
Hond a Insi g ht E X 21,790
Toy ota P riu s C Two 20, 8 5 0
NA
O
n e w
NA
NA
38
44
106 S i
40
9 9 2 / 3 2 8
38
43
m Limited-range electric car. M iles-p er-gallon equivalent (M P G e). 3 M iles p er gallon while running on gas engine.
Ratings
Key
O
Recommend ed

A U T O R A T I N G S 147
M a i ( e 8 m o d e l Ov e ra ll Survey
r o a d - t e s t score results
Owner Fuel
cost economy
0 100
P I F I G I V G l E
H A T C H B A C K S : S U B C O M P A C T
Ho n d a F i t (base)
Kia Rio EX
M a z d a 2 Touring
Scion xD
To y o t a Va r i s LE
Scion iQ
S m a r t F o r Tw o Passion
new new
NA NA
O
new
O NA
HATCHBACKS: SUBCOM P ACT Eq u i p p e d w i t h m a n u a l tF a n s m is s io n
Honda Fit Sport
Hyundai Accent SE
Ford Fiesta SES
Mazda2 Sport
Scion xD
Ch e v r o l e t Sonic tTZ(1.4T)
HATCHBACKS/ W AGONS: SM ALL
$16,730
16,695
17,795
14,770
15,820
19,870
30
29
30
29
32
34
39
33
32
32
33
34
30
L d Volkswagen Golf (2.5) $20,565
0 Subaru Im p r e za Sport Premium 22,345
0 M azda3 s Touring 22,795
F o rd Focus SEL 22,185
0 Su zu k i SX4 T echnol og y (AWD) 20,379
0 Toyota Matrix s (2.4L) . 2 1 , 5 1 5
0 Kia Forte EX 19,340
0 Toyota M a t r i x (base, 1.8L) Z0,445
0 Scion xB 18,360
0 Kia Soul Pl us 19,270
Nis s a n Cube 1.8S 16,790
M i n i Cooper Cl u bm an 2 4 ,700
W AGONS
0 Mazda5 Grand Touring $24,670
0 V o l k s w a g e n J e t t a S p o r t w a g e n T DI ( M T ) 27,204
O
O a
2 4
2 6
25
2 8
2 4
2 7
2 6
2 9
23
2 6
2 8
2 9
23
3 6

M ake & model O veraii S urvey
road-test score results
" S 2
H I G
re oro
^ 1
100
F I G IV Gl E
WAG O iVS continued
T oyota P ri usV Three $ 2 8 , 2 1 7
S ubaru O utbaci( 2.5 Limited 30 , 0 99
VolksvKagen Jet t a Sportwagen SE (2.5) 24.324
T oyota Venza (V 6, AWD) 34, 2 0 9
Volvo XC 70 42 , 560
Honda C rosstour EX-L (V6, AWO ) 34,7 30
S E D AN S : S U B C O M P AC T
41
24
23
20
18
20
Ki aR i oE X
Hyundai Accent G LS
C hevrolet S onic LT(L8 )
F ord F iesta SE
N issan versa S V
S E D AN S : S I U I ALL
$17,275
1 6, 0 50
17,290
1 6, 595
15,490
new new
new new
new new
9
new 9
30
31
28
33
32
[ ^ S ubaru I mpreza Premium
[ ^ Hyundai E l antra GLS
0 M azda3 i Touring (Skyactiv)
F ord Focus S E SFE
C hevrolet C ruze E co
F ord Focus S E
[ ^ T oyota C orolia LE
0 Kia F orte EX
0 T oyota C orolla (base, MT)
C hevrolet cruze 1LT(1.4T)
C hevrolet C ruze LS (1.8)
Volkswagen Jet t a TDI
Honda C ivic Hybrid
Honda C ivic EX
Honda C ivic LX
M itsubislii Lancer ES
Honda C ivic HF
Voikswagen Jet t a S E (2.5)
$21.345
18,445
20,145
21,650
21,775
2 0 ,2 8 0
18,404
19,040
16,49
20,530
18,375
25,100
2 4 , 8 0 0
21,275
19,405
17,515
20,225
2 0 , 3 0 0
O o
2 7
2 9
32
31
2 7
2 8
32
2 8
32
2 6
2 6
3 4
4 0
2 9
3 0
2 5
33
2 5

M a k e S niodel Pnce as O v e r a i i Survey
t e s t e d r o a d - t e s t s core re s u its
- a >-
cu ^
|
: a
0 10 0
p I F I G I V G l E
Owner Fuel
cos t economy
3 't
O ^
S E D A N S : F A M I L Y E N T R Y - L E V E L
0 Hyundai Sonata G LS (2.4)
0 Toyota Camry LE (4-cyl .)
0 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium
Suzuki Kizas iii SE
0 Kia O p t i m a LX (2.4)
Voiks wagen Pas s at SE (2.5)
0 Mazda6 i S port (4-cyl .)
D o d g e A v e n g e r SX T ( 4- c y l . )
C A R S : FA M I L Y
$ 2 1 , 8 0 0
2 3 .8 3 0
2 3 ,8 3 0
22.489
21.885
25.595
22,035
2 2 , 2 90
a
27
27
25
25
25
25
2 4
21
0 T o y o t a C a m r y H y b r i d XL E $29.052
Toyota Camry XL E (V 6) 32,603
0 H y u n d a i Sonata L im ite d (2.0T) 28,090
0 Subaru Legacy 3.6R L i m i te d 30,094
0 Kia O p t i m a SX (2.0T) 29.050
Voiks wagen Pas s at S EL Premium (V 6) 33,720
0 iUazda s G rand Touring (V 6) 30,790
V o i k s w a g e n P a s s a t TDI S E 2 8 , 6 6 5
C i i e v r o i e t M a l i b u Eco 28,285
H y u n d a i S o n a t a H y b r i d 26.695
C iie v ro ie t I m p a l a LT 28,995
Chrys ler 2 0 0 L i m i te d (V 6) 27,825
S E D A N S : C O M P A C T S P O R T S
38
26
25
22
24
23
2 0
37
2 9
33
22
2 1
I n f i n i t i G 3 7 J ou r n e y $ 3 Z 2 2 5
B M W 3 2 8 43.195
M e r c e d e s - B e n z C 2 S 0 4 0 , 7 0 5
Lexus IS 2 5 0 33,734
V o l k s w a g e n CC S por t (2.0T) 3 2 . 8 0 0
V o l v o S 60 T5 35.100
A u d i A 4 P r e m i u m Q u a ttr o 35,895
21
2 8
2 4
2 4
2 6
2 3
25

Ma k e s model Overall Survey
road-t est score resul t s
Owner Fuel
cost I economy
1
Q i
E
o
i l S B
0 1 0 0
P I F I G I V G l E
S E D AN S : C O M P AC T U P S C ALE
L i l AcuraTSX(4-cyl.)
Buick Regal C XL (turbo)
0 Acura I LX {2.0L)
Buick Verano Leather (2.4)
S E D AN S : U P S C ALE
O e e
o NA o
new
new new o
25
23
28
24
0 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 $39.850
C hrysler 300 Limited (V6) 38.335
0 Nissan Maxi ma 3.5 SV 33,700
0 Lexus HS 25Oh Premium 38,939
0 AcuraTL(base) 36.465
Hyundai Azera 37.185
Buick Lacrosse (Leather, eAssist) 34,935
Dodge C harger SXT Pius (V6) 34,510
Buick Lacrosse Touring (V6) 37,555
Ford Taurus Limited (3.5, V6) 37,885
S E D AN S : LU XU R Y
2 2
2 2
2 2
3 1
2 4
2 3
2 6
2 2
2 0
2 1
Audi A6 3.0 Premium Pius Quattro $56.295
I n f i n i t i M37 53,825
Mercedes-Benz E35O BiueTec 57525
Hyundai Genesis 4.6* 43.800
Mercedes-Benz E3S0 57,965
C adillac C TS Premium (3.6) 50,995
Lexus GS 350 58,858
I n f i n i t i M3Sh 58.655
C hrysler 300 C 44.730
BMW 535i 58.375
Jaguar XF (base)* 54,075
Volvo SSO 3.2 45.305
Lincoln MKS (base, 3.7) 50,070
9
9
2 2
2 1
2 6
2 0
2 1
1 9
2 1
2 5
1 8
2 3
2 0
2 0
2 0

Ma k e S model Over al l Survey
r oa d- t e s t score resul ts
Owner Fuel
cost economy
0
P I F I G I V G l E
SEDANS: ULTRA-LUXURY
Lexus LS 4 6 0L
Audi A8 L*
Mercedes-Benz S55O*
Porsche Pa na me r a 5
Jaguar XJL*
Hyundai Equus Si gnat ur e*
BMW7 5OL *
Fisker Ka r ma Eco Spor t m
SPORTS CARS: HIGH-END
$76,572
91.275
90, 200
105.110
81,575
58, 900
97,525
107,850
21
21
20
19
19
18
0 Chevroiet Corvette Z06(MT)
Jaguar XK C o n v e r t i b l e ' 85,635
NA
NA
9
9
O
Volkswagen GTI (4-door)
Subaru Imp r e z a WRX
MazdaSpeed3 Spor t
Scion FR-S
Subaru BRZ P remi um
I' timited-range el ectric car. i
$27,504
26,088
24,090
25,025
27,117
Mil es-per-gal l on equival ent (MP Ge).
19
19
SPORTS CARS: HIGH-PERFORMANCE Equipped wi t h manual t r ansmi ssi on
BMW13S $37.650
Su b a r u l mp r e z a WRXSTi 37,640
Mi t subi shi Lancer Evol ut i on GSR 38,078
Ford Must ang GT P r emi um (V 8) 36,310
Ford Must ang P r emi um (V 6) 28,880
Chevrolet Cmaro 2SS (V8) 35,425
Hyundai Genesis Coupe -, ^.,r
Grand Touring (V 6)* '
Dodge Challenger R/T (V 8) 35,015
Chevrol et c ma r o 2LT(V 6) 28.195
SP ORTS CARS: SP ORTY Equipped wi t h manual t r ansmi ssi on
23
21
21
22
24
18
23
19
21
O 27
O O 24
NA NA 26
new 30
new 30
Miles per gal l on whil e running on gas engine.

M a k e S m o d e l P r i c e a s O v e r a l l S u r v e y
t e s t e d r o a d - t e s t s c o r e r e s u l t s
O w n e r F u e l
c o s t e c o n o m y
<ij .-t; s ; o
o 100
p I F I G I V G l E
S P O R T S CARS: SPORTY c o n t i n u e d
a
a
a
a
0 M i n i C o o p e r ( b a s e) $ 2 1 , 7 0 0
0 K i a F o r t e K oup SX 2 0 , 2 4 0
V o i k s w a g e n J e t t a G L I A u t o b a b n 2 6 , 8 3 5
0 V o l v o C 30 T5 1 . 0 2 5 , 7 9 5
M i n i C o o p e r S 2 6 , 4 0 0
M i t s u b i s h i L a n c e r R a l l i a r t ( AT) 2 8 , 3 4 4
H y u n d a i V e l o s t e r 2 0 , 3 4 0
0 H o n d a C i v i c Si 2 3 ,1 7 5
S c i o n t e 1 9 ,1 6 5
F i a t 50 0 S p o r t 1 8 , 6 0 0
V o l k s w a g e n B e e t l e 2 .5 L 2 0 , 8 3 5
F i a t 50 0 C Pop 2 1 , 0 0 0
H o n d a C R - Z EX 2 1 ,5 1 0
S P O R T S CARS: 2 -SE AT & CONVE RTI BL E S E quip p ed wi t h ma nua l tr a ns mis s ion
0 M a z d a M X - 5M i a t a G r a nd Tour i ng $ 3 1 ,1 5 0
N i s s a n 37 O Z Tour i ng 3 8 , 5 6 5
M e r c e d e s - B e n z S L K 25O 4 8 , 0 4 5
A u d i T T P r e mi u m Pl us (D SG ) 4 5 , 3 0 0
0 M i n i C o o p e r C onv er t i b l e S 3 2 , 8 5 0
BM W Z4s 0r i ve 28i 55,225 NA
a
C O N V E R T I B L E S : 4 - S E A T
33
27
2 7
25
3 0
2 0
31
2 9
2 8
33
2 6
3 4
35
2 8
23
2 6
25
3 0
2 8
V o l k s w a g e n E o s L ux $ 3 5 , 8 2 9
0 I n fi n i t i G (base) 4 8 , 7 1 5
0 L e x u s I S 2 5 0 4 4 , 4 0 0
0 B M W328 4 9 , 5 2 5
0 F o r d M u s t a n g G T Pr e mi u m ( \ / 8 ) 4 3 , 8 8 0
0 A u d i A 5 Pr emi um Pl us ( 2 . 0 T) * 4 9 , 3 0 0
0 V o l v o C 7 O T 5 4 3 , 8 8 0 '
C h e v r o l e t C m a r o 2 SS( V8 ) 4 3 , 5 1 0
O
O
O
o
o
a
N A
O
O
O
O
O
25
2 0
23
21
23
22
21
17
R a t i n qs B etter <
K e y a O
- > - Worse
0 R ecommended

A U T O R A T I N G S
153
M a k e & m o d e l O v e r a l l S u r v e y
r o a d - t e s t s c o r e r e s u l t s
O w n e r Fuel
cost economy
o 100
p I F I G I V G l E
M i N I V A N S
H onda Odyssey EX-L $36,830
Nissan Quest SL 39,040
T o y o ta S ienna XLE(FWO) 35,810
Toyota S ienna XLE (AWO) 38,201
C b ry s ie r Tow n & C ountry T o u r in g L 37,505
D o d g e G r a n d C a r a v a n R /T 37,295
S U V s : C O M P A C T S P O R T Y
NA
O
9
9
9
O
e
9
9
19
19
2 0
19
17
17
BMW X3 x D riv e 2 8 i (2.0T) $44,595
0 Acura R0X(V 6) 36,605
0 Infiniti EX lourney* 39,425
0 A u d i Q5 P re m iu m Plus (2.0T) 41,075
0 V o l k s w a g e n T i g u a n 5EL 3 7 ,0 2 0
C a d illa c SRX Luxury 43,085
0 V olvo X C 60T 6 4 2 , 2 4 5
0 M e r c e d e s - B e n z G L K 3 S 0* 4 1 , 7 6 0
L a n d R o v e r R a n g e R o v e r Ev o q u e P u r e 4 5 , 7 4 5
L a n d R o v e r LR2 SE 3 6 , 4 5 0
SUV s: SMALL
new
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
O
new new
NA NA
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
23
22
18
21
21
18
17
18
21
18
0 S u b a ru F o re s te r 2.5XT P rem ium
0 Toyota RAV 4 L i m i t e d (V6)
0 Toyota RAV 4 (base, 4 - c yl. )
0 S u b a ru F o re s te r 2.5X P rem ium
Ford Escap e T i t a n i u m (2.0T)
0 H o n d a CR-V EX
Ford Escap e SE a . 6T )
M a z d a CX-5 T o u r in g
0 M i t s u b i s h i O u t l a n d e r SE (4 -c yl.)
0 Nissan Rogue SV
K ia S p o r ta g e SX (2.0T)
0 M i t s u b i s h i O u t l a n d e r G T (V 6)
3 0 ,3 2 8
2 5 , 4 0 5
25.720
3 6 , 6 0 0
26,455
2 8 , 0 4 0
27,125
2 5 ,3 0 5
2 5 , 8 5 0
3 1 , 4 4 0
30,615
O
O
O
o
2 0
22
23
22
22
23
23
25
22
22
21
19

M ake S modei
"S
O verall S urvey
road-test score resuits
o 10 0
p I F I G I V G l E
O wner Fuel
cost economy
0 2
S U V s: S M ALL cont i nued
JE
1
0 Kia S p ortage LX . $24.400
0 Hyundai T ucson G LS 24.090
0 M ini C oop er C ountryman S 32.500
M itsubishi O utiander S port S E 23.995
0 N issan Juke S V 23,300
S uzuki G rand V i t ar a Premium (4-cvl.) 22.563
Jeep P atri ot Latitude 24,440
Jeep C omp ass Latitude 24.985
Jeep Liberty S port 26,060
S U V s : M I D S I Z E D
O
O
N A
O
N A
O
N A
O
e
o
N A
N A
O
N A
O
N A
e
o
22
22
26
23
24
19
21
22
16
0 T oyota Highlander Hybrid Limited $47.255
KiaS orentoE X(V 6) 32.390
0 T oyota Highiander Limited (V6) 38,578
0 N issan M urano S L 36.330
0 M azda C X-9 G rand Touring 38.615
0 Kia S orentoLX (4-cvl.) 26,455
0 Honda P ilot EX-L 36.980
0 Jeep G rand C herokee Laredo (V6) 39,010
0 S ubaru T ribeca Limited 34,270
0 C iievroiet E quinox 2LT (V6) 31,780
G M C T errain S LT1(V6) 30,985
Ford E dge S EL (FWD, 2.0 EcoBoost) 36,910
0 C hevroiet E quinox LT (4-cyl.) 26,350
G M C T errain S LEl (4-cvi.) 26,745
FordE xp iorerXLT (V 6) 39,275
Ford E dge S EL (3.5) 37,625
D odge Journey Crew (V6) 36,975
N issan Xterra S 28,000
T oyota 4R unnerS R 5(V 6) 37,425
T oyota FJ C ruiser 30,881
j eep Wrangier Unlimited S abara 36,340
o
o
o
o
o
e
o
o
NA
O
O
new new
O O
O O
O
O
o o
o
o a
o a
o
e
a
o
9
O
O
o
o
a
a
o
o
Q
o
Q
O
O
27
20
18
19
16
20
18
18
16
18
18
21
21
21
18
18
16
17
18
17
17

A U T O R A T I N G S
155
Ma k e & model Over al l Survey
r oad- t est score r esul t s
Owner Fuel
cost economy
"g .s o.
o 100
p I F I G i V G l f
SUVS: LUXURY
0 Lexus RX450h $53.576
0 Acura MDX 46.715
Volkswagen Touareg TDI Sp ort 49,505
0 Lexus RX 350 47,381
infiniti JX 51,920
Buick Enclave CXL 43,260
Porsche Cayenne (base, V 6) 63,805
Mercedes-Benz ML3S0 56,960
Land Rover LR4 54,010
0 Infiniti FX (V6)* . 51,635
Toyota Land Cruiser 67,707
BMW XS35 Pr emi um 62,675
0 Jeep Grand Cherokee Li mi ted (V 8) 42,765
0 Lexus GX 460 58.428
Audi Q7 Pr emi um Pl us ( V 6) * 54,225
0 infiniti QX 56 63,395
0 Lincoln Navigator Ul ti mate 59,015
Lincoln MKX (3.7) 50.235
Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE* 61,900
Cadillac Escalade (base) 64.905
Volvo XC90 3.2 49.850
S UVS : LARGE
26
18
24
21
18
15
19
18
15
18
14
18
14
17
17
15
13
18
14
13
17
Chevrolet Traverse LT $39.920
GMCAcadiaSLT2 39,630
Ford Flex SEL 38,460
Dodge Durango Crew (\I8) 47,375
Toyota Sequoia Li mi t ed (5.7) 54.005
Chevrol et Subur ban LT3 (5.3) 51,940
GMCyukonXLSLT3( 5. 3) 52,285
Dodge Durango Crew (V 6) 43,785
O
O
NA
O
NA
9
9
9
16
16
18
14
15
14
14
17

Make & model Overal l Survey
road-t est score r esul t s
Owner Fuel
cost economy
0 10 0
P I F I G I V G l E
O
v
e
r
S U V s: LAR G E continued
Ford Expedi t i on EL Eddie Bauer $48,730
Nissan Ar mada Platinum 55,400
Chevrol et TahoeLTZ (5.3) 57,435
GMC Yukon 5LT2 (5.3) 56,625
Chevrol et Tahoe Hybrid 55,585
G M C Y ukon Hybrid 56,045
P I C KU P S : C O M P AC T
O
O
o
o
N A
N A
O
O
NA
NA
13
13
14
14
19
19
[ ^ Honda Ri dgei i ne RTS $30,825
0 Nissan Fr ont i er SV (V 6) 30,110
Toyota Tacoma(V 6) 33,119
Chevrol et Colorado LS Z71 (5-cyl.)* 29,315
GMC Canyon SLEZ71(5-cvl.)* 30,080
P I C KU P S : FU LL-S I ZE D
O
O
o
o
o
NA
O
O
o
o
15
15
17
16
16
Chevrol et Avalanche LT (5.3L V 8) $47,435
Chevroi et Si l verado 1500 LT (5.3L V 8) 37,235
GMC Si er r a 1500 5LT(5.3LV 8) 39,115
Toyota Tundr a SR5(5.7LV 8) 34,738
FordF-lSOXLT(5.0LV 8) 39,355
Ford F-150 XLT (3.5L EcoBoost V 6) 40,410
Dodge Ram 1500 SLT(5.7LV 8) 39,140
Nissan Ti t an SV (5.6L V 8) 36,905
P I C KU P S : HE AV Y D U T Y D IE S E L
9
9
O
O
9
O
O
NA
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
14
14
14
15
15
15
14
14
Chevrol et Si l ver ado 2500 LTZ
(6.6L, V 8)
GMC Si erra 2500 (6.6L,V 8)
Ford F-250 Lariat (6.7L,V 8)
Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie
(6.7L, inline 6)*
$55,755
55,755
54,765
53,290
O
14
14
16
13


T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 157
REVIEWS OF THE 2012-2013 MODELS
T
his rundown of all the
major 2012-13 models can
start you on your search for
a new car, minivan, SUV, or
pickup. You'll find a sum-
mary of each model, often based on
recent road tests that are applicable to
this year's models.
Most models include C O N SUME R
R E P O R TS' predicted reliability rating,
an indication of how problematic we
expect a model to be. It is based on our
2011 Annual Auto Survey, where we
asked owners about any serious prob-
lems they've had with their vehicles
in the previous 12 months. These data
allow us to predict how well new cars
are likely to hold up.
R ecommended models ( 0 ) must
perform well in our road tests; have
average or better reliability; and
perform adequately if included in
safety tests conducted by the Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety and the
National Highway Traffic Safety Admin-
istration (NHTSA).
The NHTSA has mandated that
electronic stability control (ESC),
a proven life-saving feature, be in-
cluded as standard equipment on all
light vehicles starting with the 2012
model year.
Entries include, where available, the
date of the last road test for that model
published in CONSUMER REP ORTS mag-
azine. These road-test reports are also
available to subscribers of our website,
at ConsumerReports.org.
Acura ILX
Predicted
reliability
Description/with last road-test date

Based on the Honda Civic, the ILX has more luxurious teatures.
Three engines are available: a 2.0-liter, a 1.5-liter hybrid, and
a sporty 2.4-liter. Transmission choices are six-speed manual or
5-speed automatic, and a CVT with the hyrid. Nov. 2012
[ 1 Acura MDX The MDX has a refined and powerful 300-hp V5. It is more age and
' ' guieter than its predecessor. The third-row seat folds easiiy into the
floor and is a better fit for kids than adults. The dashboard is a sea
of tiny, similar-looking buttons. Crash-test resuits are impressive.
Juh. 2010
[ ] Acura RDX ^^^ redesigned RDX is much improved. The smooth V6 managed a
'' respectable 22 mpg overall. Handling is sound if not especiaiiy ag-
ile, and the ride is a little stiff. The cabin is a bit plain, but the con-
trois are simple to use. Reliability should be very good. Sep. 2012
Acura RLX The redesigned RL promises the comfort and luxury of a large
sedan in a mid-sized package. It will be available with front or all-
wheel drive. The AWD Hybrid will get a \/6 matched with a seven-
speed automated manual. The FWD version will have 310 hp. -
Ratlnqs
Key
O
Worsi
0 Recommended

P redicted
reliability D escription/with last road-test date
[ ] Acura TL ' " ^ ^ ^ ''''-'^ ^'''^'^ powertrain returned a good 2 3 mpg overall. Handling
' ' is taut and the ride compliant, but ttie vague steering lacks feedback.
R oad noise stands out in ttie othervwise quiet interior. T tie rear seat
is tigtit and buttons litter the dash. AWD is available. Nov. 2011
0
Acura TSX O ^'^^ ^ ^ ^ sporty sedan has a smooth four-cylinder that got 2 5 mpg
overall. T he slick transmission and agile handling make it enjoyable,
but the steering is vague. T he front seats are supportive, but rear
seat room is tight. A vagon and a V6 are available. Jun. 2009
[ ] Audi A3 O ^ ^ '^ sporty four-door hatchback uses a guick turbocharged 2 .0 -"
' ' liter, four-cylinder engine, and the optional S -tronic transmission
works vi/ell. AWD is also available, as is FWD diesel. A redesigned
sedan debuts in 2 0 1 3 . -
[ ] Audi A4
^' y^' supple and controlled ride, vith agile han-
dling. T he responsive four-cylinder turbo engine is mated to a
smooth eight-speed automatic. AWD is optional. T he interior has
excellent fit and finish, but the rear seat is tight. An Allroad wagon
and high-performance S 4 are available. Jul. 2011
[ ] Audi A5 O ^^^ ^ ^ ^ ^ * ^ coupe and convertible are powered by a four-cylinder
' ' turbocharged engine. Handling is agile. T he cabin is quiet and nice-
ly furnished, but the rear seats are snug for two adults. T he S 5
uses a 3 .0 -liter supercharged V6. May 2010
Audi A6 ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ * ^ "^^5 2 .0 -liter, turbo four-cylinder on FWD versions, and a
strong 3 .0 -liter supercharged V6 with AWD . I t got 2 2 mpg overall.
T he eight-speed automatic is smooth, an'd the car rides comfort-
ably, with agile and secure handling. T he interior is quiet and
luxurious. Jan. 2012 ' ,
Audi A8 ^ ^ T ^8 ^ ^ " ^ "5es the strong 3 .0 -liter surpercharged V6 and slick
eight-speed automatic as the base powertrain. I t handles crisply
for a large sedan. T he ride is firm, but supple. T he interior is luxuri-
ous, but the controls are overly complicated. Dec. 2011
Audi 03 ^ ^ T *is 0 3 compact S U V will slot below the 0 5 in price and size.
P oviiertrains will I nclude the 2 0 0 -hp, 2 .0 -liter turbocharged four-
cylinder and a four-cylinder turbodiesel in both front- and all-
wheel-drive versions. A six-speed autofnated manual is standard. -
[] Audi 05 O S tylish and sporty, the 0 5 is fun to drive. I t rides well and has a
' ' comfortable, quiet, and well-finished cabin. R ear-seat and cargo
space are fairly modest. T he 2 1 1 -hp, turbocharged four-cylinder
returned a commendable 2 1 mpg overall. T he 3 .0 -liter supercharged
V6 is optional. A diesel arrives for the 2 0 1 3 model year. Sep. 2012
Audi 07 Audi's luxury S U V shares components with the P orsche C ayenne
and Volkswagen T ouareg but offers a tight third-row seat. A 3 .0 -liter
supercharged V6 and 3 .0 -liter V6 turbodiesel are the only engines
offered. Handling is fairly nimble but the 0 7 doesn't shine at its
limits. Jun. 2010
AudITT
T he T T is fun to drive with nimble handling, but the ride can
be stiff. I ts punchy 2 .0 -llter, turbocharged four;-cylinder returned
a respectable 2 5 mpg overall. T he cloth convertible top can be
operated while the car is moving, but it limits side and rear visi-
bility. AWD is available. I nterior quality is impeccable. Mar. 2013

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 159
Predicted
reliability Description/with last road-test date
BMW 1
BMW 3
^^ ^^'^ small two-door coupe or convertible has a base 3.0-liter six-
cylinder. A turbocharged six-cylinder is optional. It is spectacular to
drive with excellent steering. Although snug, the interior features
high levels ot fit and finish. A sportier 135is is new. Oct. 2008
^^ The excellent redesigned 3 Series sedan has impressive handling,
ride comfort, quietness, and interior quality. The base four-cylinder
turbo performs well and averaged 28 mpg overall. A 3.0-liter six-
cylinder turbo is also available. Coupe, convertible, wagon, and V8-
powered M3 versions still use the old body style. Aug. 2012
Q The 5 Series is refined and relatively fuel efficient. Our tested turbo
six-cylinder had strong acceleration and the eight-speed automatic
is slick. The ride is impressive, but understeer and the slow and
vague steering makes handling disappointing. Interior fit and finish
is excellent. All-wheel drive is available. Nov. 2010
BMW 6 ^^ The 6 Series is available as a two-door coupe and convertible or
Series ^5 a four-door "coupe." This grand tourer is much sportier to drive
than its predecessor. Power comes from a 3.0-liter turbocharged
six or a 4.4-liter V8. The eight-speed automatic is very slick. -
Qlyiyy 7 Q The 7 Series is not t he sport y l uxury liner it once was. Handl i ng
Series '^'^'^^ agility. The ride is steady and supple but stiffer than some
competitors. The turbo V8 is smooth, refined, and punchy. Many
controls are complex and frustrating to use. The roomy, quiet cabin
Is impeccably finished and seat comfort is tops. Dec. 2011
BMW XI ^^ The XI five-seat compact SUV arrives this fall and slots below the X3
in price and size. Powertrains include the 300-hp, 3.0-liter turbo six-
cylinder and a 240-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder in both rear- and
all-wheel-drive versions. An eight-speed automatic is standard. -
BMW X3 NR The X3 boasts a well-finished, quiet, and comfortable cabin. The
taut ride is supple and well controlled. Handling is almost sports-
sedan like. Our tested 240-hp, turbo four-cylinder got a very good
23 mpg overall. A 300-hp, 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder is optional.
Both use a smooth eight-speed automatic. Sep. 2012
BMW X5 The X5 has a stiff and choppy ride, particularly at low speeds.
Handling is capable and secure. Both gas engines deliver ample
acceleration. The transmission is quick to respond, but the compli-
cated shifter is frustrating. The interior is impeccably trimmed. The
diesel version got 22 mpg overall, but lacks refinement. Jun. 2012
BMW X6 ^^ Based on the X5, the coupe-like X6 seats only four passengers.
Most versions are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter turbo six-
cylinder, but a 4.4-liter V8 is also offered. AWO is standard. A high-
performance M version and a hybrid are available. -
BMW Z4 ^^ The sleek Z4's base 240-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder got 28 mpg
in our tests with the somewhat notchy six-speed manual. While the
car is quick and secure, its neatly finished cabin is snug and the
steering lacks feedback. The power retractable hardtop works well.
Turbo six-cylinders are optional, as is a seven-speed automatic.
Mar. 2013
Ratings
Key
a o
Recommended

P redicted
reliabilltv D escription/with last road-test date
Buick 9 T his large car-based S U V has-three rows of seats and can seat
Enciave . îght adults. I t uses G M 's smooth 3.6-liter V5 and six-speed auto-
matic. We found the ride comfortable and quiet. Handling is agile
and secure. T he third-row seat is roomy enough for adults and
fit and finish is excellent. Jui. 2009
Buick N f T he B uick's new compact luxury S U V will be powered by a 140-hp,
Encore 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with six-speed automatic.
S afety features include AB S with cornering control. O ptions include
forward collision and lane departure warnings, front and rear park
assist, and rear backup camera. -
Buick O T he Lacrosse's powerful and refined 2B 0-hp, 3.6-liter V6 got 20
Lacrosse "^PQ ' " our tests. T he mild-hybrid "eAssist" four-cylinder returned.
an impressive 26 mpg. R ear seat room and interior fit and finish
are impressive, and AWD is available. T he ride is steady ahd supple
and handling is responsive. However, visibility is not a strong suit.
C rash test results are impressive. Oct. 2012
Buick Reqal 9 T he R egal's 2.4-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic return
23 mpg overall. T he punchy 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder is stronger
and gets the same mileage. Handling is agile and the car steers welL
T he ride is supple and controlled and wind noise is well suppressed.
T he interior is nicely furnished but the rear is tight. Jul. 2011
Buick N R T he entry-level Verano's 2.4-liter four-cylinder returned an unim-
Verano pressive 24 mpg overall. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
arrives for 2013. T he ride is comfortable, but handling isn't sporty.
T he interior is quiet, but cramped, and the front seats lack adjust-
able lumbar and only have manual recline. Nov. 2012
Cadillac ^^ T he AT S compact sedan will offer three engines: a 2.5-liter four
ATS cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and a new 270-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged
four-cylinder. T ransmission choices are six-speed manual or
automatic. -
[ ] Cadillac
'' CTS
O
rivals the best sports sedans. S teering is direct and
precise, and the ride is firm yet supple. T he quiet interior is well-
finished but the rear seats are snug. T he standard 3.6-liter V6
is smooth and refined. T he cabin is quiet and the front seats are
comfortable, but the rear is snug. Wagon and coupe versions and
the 556-hp C T S -V are available. Feb. 2010
Cadillac T he luxurious E scalade uses a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine.
Escalade Acceleration is strong, even when towing, but fuel economy is just
13 mpg. T he plush interior is quiet and the ride is comfortable, but
handling is clumsy and braking distances are long. E xtended-length,
crew-cab pickup, and hybrid versiohs are offered. Nov. 2006
Cadiliac 9 T he SRX has agile and sporty handling, but the ride is too firm
SRX af lo speeds. T he 308-hp, 3.6-liter V6 got 18 mpg overall in our
tests, but acceleration isn't lively at alL T he six-speed automatic
shifts smoothly. T he interior is well finished and the front seats
are supportive, but the rear seat is snug. T he controls are straight-
forward, but have many similar looking buttons. Sep. 2012
Ratings
Key
O
> Worse
e
I Recommended

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 161
Predicted
reliability
NR
D escription/witii last road- test date
Cadillac '^^^ ''"'^^ ^'^^ 'i'Qe sedan will feature the new CUE infotainment sys-
XjS tem. Power comes from a 3 0 0 - hp, 3 .5- liter V6 coupled to a six-
speed automatic. It is offered in front- or all-wheel drive. S tandard
features include a magnetic ride- cohtrol rear air suspension.
A number of advanced safety features are also available. -
[ [ Chevrolet
Avalanche
[ I Chevrolet
Cmaro
Q The Avalanche full- sized crew-cab pickup has a unified bed and
cab, allowing for a partition that can be folded down to extend the
cargo bed into the cab. The ride is comfortable and quiet. The
thirsty 5.3 - liter V8 provides decent acceleration. There is a very
large rear blind zone. 2012 is the last year for the truck. Sep. 2011
Q The Camaro's base 3 .6- liter V6 is powerful, and our tested 6.2-lit8r,
V8-powered SS was very quick. H andling is capable, but so-so
steering and the car's size and weight hurt its agility. Braking per-
. formance is excellent and the ride is taut and controlled. The styl-
ing impacts practicality and visibility and some controls are hard
to decipher. A convertible is available. Oct. 2009
Chevrolet O ^^^ Colorado's five- cylinder engine is unrefined and has worse
Colorado fuel-economy than competing V6s. H andling is sound but unexcep-
tional. The ride is unsettled, and the body constantly quivers. The
MHS side-crash result is poor despite standard curtain airbags.
O verall, it trails the competition. Jul. 2005
0
Chevrolet O ^^^ Corvette delivers impressive performance. The ride is comfort-
Corvette ^ ' ' l ^ ' 3 "' ' handling is capable but less agile than other sports cars.
The interior is roomy for a sports car The sportier Z0 6 has a 7.0-liter,
50 5- hp V8 and much better handling. A supercharged ZRl with
63 8 hp is available and delivers super car performance. Oct. 2006
Chevrolet
Cruze
Q Chevrolet's small sedan feels solid and substantial, with a firm but
controlled ride. Both the base 1.8-liter four-cylinder and the refined,
up-level turbocharged 1.4-liter returhed an unimpressive 2 6 mpg; the
Eco trim gets just one mpg more. The automatic now has smoother
shifts. The well-finished cabih is cramped in the rear. May 2011
0
Chevrolet O ^^^ Equinox has a controlled ride, with responsive and secure han-
Equinox ^""9- ^^^ optional V6 gets 18 mpg; the raspy 2.4-liter four-cylinder
returned 21 mpg overall. The transmission is reluctant to downshift.
The well-finished interior is easy to access, but wide roof pillars block
the rear view. The roomy rear seat is comfortable. Nov. 2009
Chevrolet O ^^^ dated and unimpressive Impala sedan is replaced for 2013 with
a model based on the much better Buick LaCrosse. The outgoing
car has easy to use controls and a large trunk, but offers little else.
Even a low price doesn't make the car a value. Feb. 2012
Chevrolet ^^ ^^^ redesighed M alibu feels refined, with a cushy ride and a well-
f^glllm finished interior. But the back seat is cramped and the handling is
soggy. The Eco mild- hybrid returned a good 3 0 mpg overall, but
competitor hybrids better that for not much more money. Normally
aspirated and turbocharged engines go on sale later. Aug. 2012
Chevrolet 9 ^^^ Chevrolet Silverado is a well-rounded pickup with optional full-
Silverado ^"^^ ^^'^ and a generous payload capacity. Ride quality is decent
1500 and handling is secure. The six-speed automatic improved fuel econ-
omy and acceleration. Reliability has been average. May 2009

P redicted
Chevrolet ^^ T he S onic has a standard 1 .8-liter four-cylinder; a quicker and
-Sonic slightly more fuel-efficient 1 .4-liter turbo is avaiiabie. Handling is
fairly nimble and the ride is civilized for this class. T he sedan has
a huge trunk; the hatchback is more versatile. B oth have a quiet
cabin, but the rear seats are cramped. May 2012
Chevrolet N R T he S park hatchback will have a 1 .2 -liter four-cylinder and a five-
Spari speed manual or four-speed automatic. C argo space is enhanced
by the 60 /40 -split rear seats and a variety of interior storage
_^ I compartments. -
[ ] Chevrolet O ^'^^ S uburban can tow a heavy trailer and swallow more cargo
Suburban " i ^ " " lost minivans. T here is room for up to nine people, but
typical versions seat seven. T he third-row seat sits too low and
is uncomfortable. T he standard 5.3 -liter V8 is just adequate
and returned 1 4 mpg overaii. Feb. 2011
Chevrolet O ^^^ T ahoe's ride is supple, but handling and braking are so-so.
Tahoe T railer-towing capability is impressive. T here.is iittie cargo space
behind the very cramped third-row seat, which does not fold into
the floor. We got 1 4 mpg in our tests with the 5.3 -liter V8. T he
^ six-speed automatic slightly improved fuel economy. Feb. 2011
r Tl Chevrolet O C hevrolet's version of G M 's large, car-based S U Vs can seat seven
Traverse ' ^' ^ eight people comfortably. Handling is responsive, the ride is
comfortable, and the weli-finished interior is quiet. T he 3 .6-iiter V6
engine returned 1 6 mpg overall, but the six-speed automatic some-
times hesitates to downshift when needed. Jul. 2009
[ ] Chevrolet O verall the Volt is guick, quiet, and responsive. I t typically runs for
' Volt about 3 5 miles on an electric charge. O nce the lithium-ion battery
is depleted, the 1 .4-liter engine turns on to extend the driving
range. As a four-seater, practicality is compromised. R echarge
times are about 5 hours with a 2 2 0 -volt supply and twice that with
1 1 0 volts, taking in almost 1 3 kilowatt-hours on a charge. Oct. 2011
Chrysler T he 2 0 0 is uncompetitive among family sedans. T he ride is compli-
200 3 " t and the optionai V6 is strong and smooth, while the noisy four-
cylinder is unrefined. B oth get 2 1 mpg overall. T he six-speed auto-
matic doesn't shift smoothly or quickly, the soft suspension allows
frequent body motions, and handling is underwhelming even at
moderate speeds. Aug. 2011
Chrysler N A T he extensively freshened 3 0 0 is very coriipetitive. T he new 3 .6-
300 litsr V6 is smooth and powerful, and its slick eight-speed automat-
ic helped it achieve 2 2 mpg overall. T he 3 0 0 C 's strong V8 returned
just 1 8 mpg. R ide and handling are competent and the interior is
luxurious and refined. Oct. 2012
Chrysler T he T own & C ountry falls short of the best minivans. I t has a very
Town & comfortable and settled ride, and passengers will find a quiet, well-
Country equipped, and versatile cabin. B ut fuel economy is unimpressive
and the transmission shifts siowly. Handling is sound in everyday
driving but sloppy when pushed to the limits. Aug. 2011
Dodge
Avenger
N A T he Avenger is uncompetitive among family sedans. T he ride is
compliant and the optionai V6 is strong and smooth, while the
noisy four-cylinder is unrefined. B oth get 2 1 mpg overall. T he six-
speed automatic doesn't shift smoothly or quickly, the soft suspen-
sion allows frequent body motions, and handling is underwhelming
even at moderate speeds. Aug. 2011

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 163
Predicted
[ ] Dodge The Challenger is a fairly comfortable and effortless cruiser. Recent
Challenger tweaks have made it more responsive in corners, and the steering
is sharper. It is very quitk in a straight line. Good coritrols, decent
interior quality, and the ability to seat five are pluses. Aug. 2012
Dodge ^^ The Dodge Charger now handles responsively and has a steady.
Charger comfortable ride. The spacious cabin has well- fitting, good- quality
materials and the optional touch screen is easy to use. The refined
V6 performs well; a juicier 3 70 - hp Hemi V8 is optional. Visibility
also improved but is still not great. Oct. 2012 '__
Dodge Dart ^^ The new D art sedan offers a choice of three four- cylinder engines;
a 2 .4-liter, a 2 .0 -liter, and a turbocharged 1.4-liter. T ransmission
choices include an automated manual with the turbo. The car feels
solid, and ride and handling are compliant. - ^
[ ] Dodge The Durango boasts a spacious, quiet, comfortable cabin with
Durango ^ usable third- row seat. Cargo and trailer- towing capacities are
generous. The muscular V8 gets just 14 mpg. The V6 is smooth,
refined, and more economical but feels a bit sluggish. H andling
is relatively responsive and ultimately secure. Aug. 2011 .
Dodge The Grand Caravan falls short of the best minivans. It does have a
Grand ^^''V comfortable and settled ride, and passengers will find a quiet.
Caravan well- equipped, and versatile cabin. But fuel economy is unimpres-
sive and the transmission shifts slowly. H andling is sound in every-
day driving but sloppy when pushed to the lirnits. Aug. 2011
Dodge 9 Dodge's midsized SUV seats five, with an optional, but tiny, third
Journey ''ow. The 3 .6- liter V6 got only 16 mpg in our testing, and the noisy
2 .4- liter engine is only available on FWD versions. Despite the new
engine and interior appointments, the Journey is still mediocre. It
rides well and is quiet, but it lacks agility. Aug. 2011
Dodge Ram 9 The Ram's coil- spring rear suspension delivers a very good ride
1500 'cir a big pickup truck. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 has plenty of power.
H andling is secure. The cabin is quiet. Interior quality and comfort
are good, with a roomy rear seat in the crew cab. Curtain air bags
are standard. May 2009
Flat 500 NR The Fiat 50 0 is a tiny, fun- to- drive hatchback. The 1.4-liter four-
cylinder is sufficient to hustle this lightweight car. The five- speed
manual and clutch are smooth and precise. H andling is very agile
and secure, but not to the level of a M ini Cooper. With supportive
leather seats, automatic climate control, and an onboard com-
' puter, it doesn't feel like a cheap car. Oct. 2011
Fisker ^^ The Fisker Karma is a luxury four- seat plug- in hybrid. Although it's
Karma large"car, the cabin is snug. The car is electrically driven and has
a 2 60 - hp turbo engine from GM that extends the 3 8- mile electric-
only range for an additional 2 50 miles. The engine acts as a gener-
ator to power the electric drive once the 2 0 kWh lithium- ion bat-
tery is depleted. Nov. 2012
Ford C-MAX
The C-MAX Energi will be the first plug- in hybrid from Ford, which
claims it can charge overnight using a 120-volt outlet and will have
an overall range of more than 50 0 miles. The non- plug- in version
C-Max will be capable of speeds greater than 47 mph on electric
power, according to Ford. -

P redicted
Ford Edge T he M yFord T ouch controls in the E dge are distracting. T he touch-
sensitive buttons give no tactile feedback, and the busy touch
screen requines too much attention. T he 3.5-liter V6 engine and
six-speed automatic returned 18 mpg in our tests. B ut the power-
train lacks refinement, and the transmission isn't the smoothest.
T he ride is a bit jittery and road noise is pronounced. Feb. 2011
Ford Escape '*'" T he redesigned 2013 E scape is more refined and solid than its pre-
decessor. E ngine choices include a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder, a
2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a carryoyer 2.5-liter four-
cylinder. T here won't be a hybrid or V6 offered. Auto parking and
blind-spot sensors are available, as well as an upgraded S ync with
the M yFord T ouch infotainment system. I t also has a new 4WD sys-
tem for improved handling on and off-road. Nov. 2012
[] Ford O
Expedition
T he E xpedition has a good interior and an independent suspen-
sion, allowing the comfortable third-row seat to fold into the floor.
T he noisy V8 felt sluggish and returned 13 mpg overall; Handling is
responsive for such a large S U V, and towing capacity is generous.
A u g. 2007
Pord Q T he E xplorer has a roomy and versatile interior, with usable third-
Explorer ' ' ^ ^^3t. Handling is secure but not particularly agile. T he ride is
absorbent. T he 3.5-liter V6 is punchy but a bit rough when revved.
A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cyiinder is available with FWD . T he
interior is well-finished but the optional M yFord T ouch control
interface is complicated and distracting. Ju n. 2011
[ I Ford F-150 O
T he F-150's 5.0-liter V8 and turbo V6 make the truck quick, and
both returned 15 mpg overall. T he crew-cab version is very roomy,
but step-in is high. Handling is clumsy but secure enough. T he
ride is now more tolerable than before. Sep. 2011
Ford Fiesta T he Fiesta subcompact drives nicely, with agile handling and a
supple, controlled ride. Wind, road, and engine noise are well sup-
pressed. I nterior fit and finish are impressive, with soft-touch dash
materials and Ford's S ync multimedia system. However, the rear
seat is extremely cramped. Jan. 2011
[ 1 Ford Flex O
T he Flex combines S U V-like versatility with car-like driving dynam-
ics. T he 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic get 17 mpg overall.
T he optional turbo V6 is quick and doesn't hurt fuel economy. T he
Flex's vast interior is very roomy. I t rides comfortably and quietly,
and has very good fit and finish. Handling isn't particularly agile,
but it is responsive and secure. Nov. 2012
Ford Focu s l^s Focus is sporty and fun to drive. Low noise levels and a solid
interior make it feel substantial. We got 28 mpg overall in S E and
S E L trims, and 31 mpg overall in the S FE . T he P owerS hift auto-
matic stumbles at parking lot speeds. T he rear seat is tight and
the radio controls are confusing. Sep. 2011
Ford Fu sion
Ford's family-sedan Is redesigned for 2013. P owertrain choices
include a 1.6- and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders, both mated
to a six-speed automatic. T here will also be a hybrid and a plug-in
EV hybrid. E arly impressions are that it is quiet, roomy, and agile. -
Ratlnqs Better <
Key O
- > - Worse
Recommended

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 1 65
Predicted
[] Ford O
M ustang
The Mustang's four-seat coupe or convertible has a refined and
punchy 3.7-liter V6 that gets 24 mpg overall, while the powerful
5.0-liter VB is a scorcher. The six-speed manual is crisp. The ride is
a bit jiggly, but not punishing. Handling is nimble, braking is good,
and the Mustang steers well. Nov. 2 0 1 0
Ford T aurus O ^^^ fs^Qe, quiet, and pleasant Taurus has good ride and handling,
but a wide turning circle. The responsive 3.5-liter V6 has more pow-
er and fuel economy of 21 mpg overall. The interior has plush mate-
rials but this large car is small inside. AWD is optional. O ct. 2 0 1 2
GMC Acadia 9 GMC's large, car-based SUV can seat seven or eight people com-
fortably. Handling is responsive, the ride is comfortable, and the
well-finished interior is quiet. The 3.6-liter V6 engine returned
16 mpg overall, but the six-speed automatic sometimes hesitates
to downshift when needed. Jul. 2 0 0 9
QMC O ^^^ Canyon's five-cylinder engine is unrefined and has worse fuel-
Canyon economy than competing V6s. The ride is unsettled, and the body
cohstantly quivers. Overall, it trails the competitioh. The IIHS side-
crash result is poor. Jui. 2 0 0 5
GMC S ierra 9 The Chevrolet Silverado is a well-rounded pickup with optional
1 50 0 full-time 4WD and a generous payload capacity. Ride quality
is decent and handling is secure. The new six-speed automatic
slightly improves fuel economy and acceleration. M ay 2 0 0 9
GMC O The Terrain has a controlled ride, with responsive and secure han-
T errain dling. The optional V6 gets IB mpg; the raspy 2.4-liter four-cylinder
got 21 mpg overall. The interior is well finished and cabin access
is easy, but wide roof pillars block the rear view. The rear seat is
I roomy and comfortable. Nov. 2 0 0 9
GMC Yukon O ^^^ Yukon has better hahdiing, braking, ride, and interior materials
than its predecessor. 4WD models have a selectable full-time sys-
tem that can remain engaged indefinitely. A hybrid version gets
19 mpg, a big Improvement. Feb. 2 0 1 1
GMC Yukon O
XL
H onda
This longer version of the Yukon has more agile handling and bet-
ter steering and brakes than past versions. Interior quality is very
good. It can seat up to nine with cargo space left over and tow
a heavy trailer. Feb. 2 0 1 1
The 2013 Accord will get a bit smaller and more efficient. Engine
choice will be a revised 2.4-liter four-cylihder and a 3.5-liter V6. The
V6 will come with a six-speed automatic; the four-cylinder will have
a CVT. A plug-in hybrid, with 10- to 15-mile EV range, is expected. -
H onda Civic Honda's small car gets impressive fuel economy, ranging from
30 mpg for the LX trim to 40 for.the hybrid. But the Civic's cheap
interior, choppy ride, constant road noise, and lackluster handling
are big negatives. Reliability is likely to be above average, but
most versions score too low to recommend. Jul. 2 0 1 2
[ I Honda
Crosstour
This raised wagon has a high seating position, spacious cabin,
comfy seats, and smooth 3.5-liter V6. When pushed hard the
Crosstour feels bulky and handles clumsily. The styling blocks the
view to the rear, and also diminishes cargo volume. A surprisingly
wide turning circle makes parking a bit of a chore. S ep. 2 0 1 0

P redicted
[ ] Honda a ^^^ redesigned C R -V is a little roomier and quieter T he 1 85-hp
' ' CR-V four-cylinder gets 2 3 mpg overall, and is paired with a five-speed
automatic. A new one-touch mechanism that folds the rear seat
is handy. A rear backup camera is standard. Jun. 2012
Honda CR-Z T he C R -Z hybrid uses a 1 2 2 -hp, 1 .5-liter four-cylinder. T he electric
power is used to enhance performance. We got 3 5 mpg overall in
' our tests, not terribly impressive. Handling isn't very sporty and
the ride is jumpy. R ear visibility is compromised. Jan. 2011
[ ] Honda Fit T his small four-door hatchback offers easy access and very good
' ' visibility, and has an amazing amount of interior room. While not
overly powerful, the Fit feels responsive, with a smooth and willing
engine, and agile handling. T he ride is a bit choppy. Mar. 2009
Honda a T he I nsight uses Honda's mild hybrid system, and got 3 8 mpg over-
Insight 3 ll. I t is less roomy than a T oyota P rius and rear-seat access is awk-
ward. T he ride is stiff and choppy and road noise is pronounced.
Handling lacks agility and can be tricky at the limits. Aug. 2009
Honda 9 T he O dyssey's handling is responsive, but steering lacks precision.
Odyssey T ire grip is unimpressive and limits the van's performance in
emergency situations. S ome road noise is evident. T he nicely
finished interior has a flat-folding third-row seat. Mar. 2011
[71 Honda Pilot
T he second generation P ilot offers seating for eight. T he powertrain
is smooth and ride and handling sound. However, acceleration, brak-
ing, and interior fit and finish aren't very impressive. R oad noise is
very pronounced. C rash-test results are impressive. Sep. 2012
Honda T his crew-cab pickup has a supple and steady ride and agile han-
RIdgeline dling. I ts 5-foot-long composite cargo bed features an all-weather,
lockable trunk. T he 3 .5-liter, V6 engine is quiet, smooth, and
responsive. Jul. 2005
Hyundai ^^ Hyundai's entry-level sedan and hatchback use a 1 3 8-hp, 1 .6-liter
Accent ' ' u' ' cylinder, mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic
transmission. T he new Accent is longer and wider than the car it
replaces. S tandard safety gear I ncludes six airbags and active front
head restraints. May 2012 ;
Hyundai
^^ T he redesigned Azera has a quiet and spacious cabin. I ts smooth
3 .3 -liter V6 and six-speed automatic provide strong performance
and an impressive 2 3 mpg overall. B ut the ride is too stiff, handling
lacks agility, and the heavy steering feels artificial. Oct. 2012
[ ] Hyundai O T he E lantra's 1 .8-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic returned
Elantra a very good 2 9 mpg overall. We found the ride to be compliant and
handling to be responsive and secure, but road noise is pronounced.
T he interior is nice and has decent rear-seat room. May 2011
Hyundai
N A Hyundai's flagship has a comfortable ride, but motions can be busy
and handling is less than agile. T he powertrain is smooth and refined.
T he interior is spacious and well finished. B ut the Hyundai doesn't
quite measure up to the established luxury brands. Dec. 2011
[ ] Hyundai O ^^^ G enesis is very impressive. T he refined V6 delivers quick
Genesis acceleration and gets 2 2 mpg overall with the new 8-speed auto-
matic, and makes the optional V8 unnecessary. Handling is respon-
sive and secure, but the ride is still unrefined. T he roomy interior
is very quiet and well finished with a large rear seat. Nov. 2011

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 167
Predicted
reiiabiiity Description/with last road- test date
[ ] Hyundai O " ^ ^ ^ Genesis coupe has capable and nimble handling, and the
Genesis 3 .8- iiter V6 is powerful. The 2 .0 - liter turbocharged engine is some-
Coupe what noisy. But the car is let down by an imprecise manual trans-
mission that requires extra attention to extract smooth shifts and
the ride is very stiff and can be unsettled. O ct. 2009
Hyundai ' ^ ^ The redesighed Hyundai Santa Fe will come in two sizes. The five-
S anta Fe passenger Sport is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter,
turbocharged four-cyiinder. The seven-passenger version offers
a 2 90 -hp 3.3-liter V6. A 6-speed automatic is standard. -
[ ] Hyundai O The Sonata has a comfortable ride, responsive hahdiing, and a well-
Sonata finished cabin. The four-cylinder and six-speed automatic returned
27 mpg in our tests. The quicker and stronger turbo got 25 mpg
overall, but has a firmer ride. Road noise is evident in both and styl-
ing impedes rear-seat access. A hybrid is also available. Aug. 2010
[ ] Hyundai O ^ ^ ^ Tucson handles securely and responsively, but the ride is stiff
Tucson 3 "' ' '''* "'56 is pronounced. Its smooth 2.4-liter, four- cyiinder
returns 22 mpg, and the six-speed automatic is responsive. The
interior is spacious but the low rear seat lacks thigh support, and
the styling robs cargo space and blocks the rear view. Jul. 2010
Hyundai ^ ^ This sporty three- door hatchback has a rear door on the right side.
Veloster The 1.6-liter, four- cyiinder is mated to either a manual transmission
or a six-speed automated manuai. The interior, has a funky, high-
^ tech look. A turbocharged version is available. Jul. 2012
[ ] Infiniti EX Essentiaiiy a G wagon, the EX has agile handling and a steady ride.
'' The rear is very snug and the cargo area is tiny. Styling compro-
mises rear visibiiity, but the interior is nicely finished and the con-
trols are logical enough. A seven-speed automatic is new. Crash-
test resuits are impressive. Sep. 2008
[ ] Infiniti FX ^ ^ The FX has responsive handiing. The 3 .5- iiter V6 provides plenty
' ' of power and 18 mpg overall. The ride is quite stiff. Well-finished
and fairly roomy, the stylish cabin is quiet. Outward visibiiity suffers
from the styling. Cargo capacity is modest. Jul. 2009
[1 Infiniti G The G is quick, sporty, and pleasant. Handling is age and predict-
' ' ' able, with a taut yet compliant ride. The interior has high- quality
materiais ahd easy-to-use controls. But the cabin is a bit snug and
the trunk is small. AWD is optional on the coupe and sedan, not
the convertible. Jn. 2009
infiniti JX ^ ^ The seven-passenger JX three- row SUV uses a 3 .5-liter V6 mated
to a CVT. Froht- and all-wheel drive are available. The cabin is
roomy and weil finished, but the third- row seat is snug. Handling
isn't as responsive as other Infinitis. Nov. 2012
[ ] infiniti M O ^'^^ ^ ^ 3.7-liter V6 and seven-speed automatic make it quick,
' ' and fuel economy is decent. Handling is fairly agile and the ride is
sporty, but relatively compliant. The new car is quiet, although
' engine noise comes through under hard acceieration. Nov. 2010
Infiniti OX
The OX is a piush fuil- sized SUV with a quiet cabin and very strong
performance, but gobbles premium fuel. Handling is a low point.
It feels cumbersome in everyday driving and disconcerting when
pushed to its limits. Electronic safety aids include lane- departure
an'd blind-spot warning systems. Feb. 2011

P redicted
Jaguar XF T he XF has agile handling, responsive steering, and a comfortable
ride. Acceleration is effortless. T he snug interior is nicely trimmed,
but the coupe-like styling cuts into rear-seat room and access. M any
controls, like the confounding touch screen, are overcomplicated.
Feb. 2009
Jaguar XJ T he XJ is a capable, luxurious sports sedan. I ts 5.0 -liter V8 makes
it very quick, but the car also handles with grace and delivers a
supple and steady ride. T he trunk is quite small for a large sedan.
T he touch screen for the climate, audio, and navigation systems
- is rather complex and responds slowly. Dec. 2011
Jaguar XK N A T he XK has a powerful V8 and smooth six-speed automatic. Handling
is athletic and capable. T he ride is very supple and controlled. T he
soft-top convertible roof is well-insulated. T he control touch screen
washes out in sunlight and operates very slowly. Oct. 2006
Jeep N A T he C ompass comes up short. Handling is not agile at its limits.
Compass ' ' " ' "^^ low-speed ride is composed. T he gutteral-sounding 2 .4-
liter four-cylinder got just 2 2 mpg overall. T he front seats are
uncomfortable and the cabin is cramped. T he controls are straight-
forward. R ear visibility is poor. Aug. 2011
Jeep Grand O T be G rand C herokee has a supple ride and responsive handling.
Cherokee T he smooth 3 .6-liter V6 is refined but needs revs to move this
heavy S U V. T he stronger 5.7-liter V8 gets only 1 4 mpg. O ff-road
ability is good. T he cabin is well-trimmed, but the touch screen
radio is awkward to use. A 6.4-liter V8 is in the S R T 8. Dec. 2010
Jeep
Q T he Liberty has clumsy handling but overall is secure. T he noisy
3 .7-liter V6 feels lethargic and returned just 1 6 mpg overall in our
tests. We found the cabin rather narrow and access awkward.
T he Liberty is suitable for off-road duty. Aug. 2008
Jeep o T his small S U V has a compliant ride and mostly simple controls.
Patriot but handling lacks agility and the coarse 2 .4-liter four-cylinder gets
just 2 1 mpg overall. T he spongy front seats offer little lateral sup-
port. T he narrow cabin, wide center console, and small windows
give the car a closed-in feeling. Aug. 2011 .
Jeep
Wrangler
Q T he Wrangler may be as good as it's ever been but is seriously
outdated. T he 3 .6-liter V6 and five-speed automatic deliver more
power and refinement, and better fuel economy. I I HS side-crash-
test results without the optional side airbags are poor. Mar. 2012
[ ] Kla Forte O T he Forte is competitive but lacks refinement. Handling is respon-
' ' sive but the ride is stiff. T he base 2 .0 -liter four-cylinder delivers
just average acceleration, lacks reserve power, and gets quite loud
under acceleration. T he sporty coupe version, the Koup, handles
deftly and is quicker than the sedan. Sep. 2011
[ ] Kla Optima T he O ptima handles very securely, and its standard 2 .4-liter four-
' ' cylinder performs welL T op trims get a powerful turbocharged
four-cylinder. A hybrid is also available. T he front seats are com-
fortable and the interior is refined. T he styling detracts from rear
visibility and cabin access, and the rear seat is a bit low. Jun. 2011
Kla Rio
T he R io's 1 .6-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic returned
2 9 mpg in the hatchback and 3 0 mpg overall in the sedan. A six-
speed manual is available. T he ride is stiff, but on par for the class,
and the car feels more solid than its competitors. May 2012
I

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 169
Predicted
[ 1 Kia Sorento O ^^^ Sorento's tiny third-row seat extends seating to seven. The
' ' ride is stiff, particularly in the EX V6 model, but handling is respon-
siye and secure. The optional 3.5-liter V6 delivers good power and
acceptable fuel economy. The seats are comfortable and the high
seating position giyes a good view out. Sep. 2012
[ ] Kia Soul O ^*^^ Soul's six-speed automatic helped it return 26 mpg. The car
' ' packs a lot of room and equipment into a small, inexpensive pack-
age. It has very easy access, abundant headroom, and a surprising-
ly spacious rear seat. But braking distances are long. Jun. 2012
r ^ Kia The Sportage has nimble handling and its 2.4-liter four-cylinder
Sportage 9' 22 mpg oyerall; the turbo 2.0-liter got 21 mpg, but that trim
has a stiffer ride. The styling robs cargo space and hurts visibility.
The cabin is basic, but nicely fitted. Mar. 2011
Land Rover ^^ The LR2 provides good off-road ability. The ride is firm but steady
LP2 and the car benefits from good steering. In our accident avoidance
test, the LR2 disconcertingly lifted two wheels at its hahdiing limits.
The controls are confusing. Sep. 2008
Land Rover ^^ The LR4 is roomy and quiet, with a luxurious ihterior. The bump in
LP4 engine size and power made it quicker, yet more fuel efficient. The
LR4 retains its traditional off-road ability and is able to traverse
rough terrain easily. Handling is not a strong suit but is ultimately
secure. Controls can be confusing. Jun. 2010
Land Rover
Land Rover
Pange
Pover
Evogue
The Range Rover delivers smooth, strong acceleration and a very '
comfortable ride, but isn't agile. It features a height-adjustable air
suspension and luxury amenities. The seats are very comfortable,
and the wood and leather interior is upscale. -
The Evoque's 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and a six-speed automat-
ic returned 21 mpg overall. Acceleration and braking are commend-
^ ' ' l ^ ' ' "J' handling becomes disconcerting at the limits. The ride is
choppy. The styling hurts Interior room and visibility. Mar. 2012
Land Rover ^^ The Sport is biased toward on-road handling, but isn't as agile as
Pange some competitors. The ride is quite stiff. The V8 does the job, but'
Rover Sport works hard. Off-road capability is impressive. Visibility is yery good,
and the rear seat is accommodating. The interior is luxurious, but
the controls are frustrating. Dec. 2008
[ I Lexus CT
200h
The CT gets an impressiye 40 mpg overall, but acceleration is
leisurely and the engine works hard to keep up. The ride is stiff,
and the snug cabin can get noisy. Handling is capable but the
steering is vague on-center. The back seat and cargo area are
snug. The interior falls short of being luxurious. Oct. 2011
Lexus ES '^'^ 2013 the ES line gets a hybrid, using the same powertrain as in
the Camry Hybrid. The ES 350 continues with the 3.5-liter V6 and
a six-speed automatic. The interior is luxurious, but the controls
have gotten complex. -
Lexus GS ^^ The redesigned GS has a 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic.
AWD is optional. Interior space is improved, and features a mouse-
like controller to work the nayigation system. The new car is a bit
sportier to drive than the old car. A hybrid arrives later. Dec. 2012
Ratings Better -<
Key O
> Worse

ID
!ecommended

P redicted
[ ] Lexus GX
T he G X 460 is very quiet, quick, good for towing, and capable off-
road. Handling is ungainly and clumsy but ultimately secure. T h
slick 4.6-liter VB gets 1 7 mpg overall, the ride is comfortable, and
the cabin is plush. T he third-row seat is tiny. Jun. 2010
Lexus IS Lexus's small sedan has secure handling but the steering lacks
feedback and the ride is jittery. T he 2 .5-liter V6 gets 2 4 mpg over-
all. A strong 3 .5-liter V6 is optional. AWD is available. T he cabih is
tight, and the rear seat is extremely cramped. T he hard-top con-
. vertible has a very small trunk. May 2006
[ ] Lexus LS
T he luxurious LS has a comfortable and serene ride. T he spacious
cabin is exceptionally quiet, and controls are user-friendly. Handling
has been I mproved, but the LS is not engaging to drive. T he power-
train is smooth and responsive. A hybrid is available. Nov. 2007
Lexus LX T his luxury S U V is plush, quiet, and upscale. T he LX's 5.7 -liter VB
is strong, but we got only 1 4 mpg overall in the similar T oyota Land
C ruiser. T he ride is comfortable ahd the T oyota was very impres-
sive off-road. T he power-folding third-row seat folds up to ttie
sides of the interior, limiting cargo space. -
\y\ Lexus RX
T he R X rides comfortably and has a well-finished and comfortable
interior. Handling is lackluster and the steering gives little feed-
back. E mergency handling is ultimately secure. T he 3 .5-liter V6
provides strong acceleration and an impressive 2 1 mpg overall. T he
R X 450 h hybrid got an impressive 2 6 mpg overall. Jul. 2009
Lincoln O B ased on the Ford T aurus, this sedan has a strong, but unrefined
MKS 3 .7 -liter V6. T op-level models use a direct-I njection, turbocharged V6.
Front- and all-wheel drive are available. T he ride is comfortable but
not always settled. Handling is secure but lacks agility. Dec. 2012
Lincoln 9 T he Lincoln version of the Ford Flex has a roomy interior and many
MKT luxury amenities, but visibility is compromised. T he base engine is a
3 .7 -liter V6, while the uplevel one is a turbo V6. T he ride is comfort-
able but stiffer than that of the Flex, and handling lacks agility. T he
M KT is cumbersome at its cornering limits. -
Lincoln
Q T his upscale version of the Ford E dge uses th same unrefined
3 .5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic. Fuel economy is unimpres-
sive. T he ride is reasonably comfortable but hahdiing lacks agility.
I nterior materials are disappointing and many buttons are difficult
to read at night. I I HS crash-test results are impressive. Feb. 2011
Lincoln ^^ Lincoln's upscale family-sedan is redesigned for 2 0 1 3 . P owertrain
MKZ choices include a 1 .6- and 2 .0 -liter turbo four-cylinders, and a six-
speed automatic. T here will also be a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid.
E arly impressions are that it I s quiet, roomy, and agile. -
Lincoln O ' T tie N avigator comes in standard and long versions, the latter
Navigator ^^ inches longer for increased cargo space. T he VB is sluggish and
thirsty. T he third-row seat is power operated, folds flat into the
floor, and is as comfortable as the second-row seats. Jul. 2007
Lotus Evora ^^ T he E vora four-seat coupe is designed for everyday use. P ower
comes from a midmounted T oyota-sourced 3 .5-liter y6 that drives
the rear wheels. Hahdiing is outstanding, but shift quality Is so-so. -

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 171
Predicted
reliability
NR
D escription/with last road- test date
M azda CX-5 i^^* In o"'' 'ssts the sporty CX-5 delivered an impressive 25 mpg over-
all with the six-speed automatic. But the engine feels underpow-
ered and needs revving to keep up with traffic. The cabin is roomy
and the controls are simple to use. Jun. 2 0 1 2
[ I Mazda CX-9
The CX-9 has a small but easy to access third-row seat. The 3.7-liter
V6 is smooth ahd refined. Handling is taut and agile, and the ride is
firm and steady yet comfortable. Braking performance is better in
the Grand Touring model. The optional blind-spot detection system
works well. Nov. 2 0 0 8
[ ] Mazda The Miata's 2.0-liter four-cylinder and six-speed manual are a joy
MX-5 Miata ' " ^ ^ ^ - ^ six-speed automatic is optional. The manual top is a
breeze tojower; a power hard top is available. Handling is super
agile, and steering is quick and precise. The ride is reasonably com-
fortable but the car is noisy. Interior space is cramped. May 2 0 1 0
M azda2 1^* The Mazda2 subcompact is a five-door hatchback with a 100-hp,
1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission is
standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Handling is quite
nimble, and the ride is tolerable, but the cabin is noisy. Rear-seat
room is relatively good. Jan. 2011
[ ] Mazda3 The Mazda3 uses a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine and a punchy
' ' 2.5-liter Handling is precise and the firm ride is comfortable. Road
noise is pronounced. Interior quality is very good, but rear-seat
room is rather tight. The sporty turbocharged Mazdaspeed3 is very
quick but has a harsh ride ahd is noisy. May 2 0 1 2
[ ] Mazda5 The Mazda5 microvan got a freshening for 2012, with a new 2.5-
' ' liter four-cylinder engine replacing the old 2.3-liter. But even with
a bigger engine, the four-cylinder can be overtaxed on hills or
with a full load. And higher noise-levels can make it feel less sub-
stantial than some larger alternatives. D ec. 2011
r7] M azda6 a The Mazda6 gets a significant redesign this fall. The old car was
' ' nimble, with nice steering and a supple and controlled ride, but
a lot of road noise. Interior fit and finish was impressive. Jan. 2 0 0 9
M ercedes-
Benz
Mercedes' small sedan is solid, agile, and comfortable. The front
seats are excellent; the rear is tight. The punchy turbocharged
four-cylinder in the C250 is very smooth ahd returned 24 mpg
overall. Other engines include stronger V6s and a 450-hp V8.
AWD is available only with the 3.0-liter V6. Aug. 2 0 1 2
M ercedes- NR The CLS is a four-door sedan with a swoopy roof and seating for
Benz CLS i^st four passengers. Rear-seat room is tight, and the angle of the
roof limits head room. The sedan is luxurious and comfortable,
with strohg performance and agile handling. -
[ ] M ercedes- O The capable, refined E-Class performs well in both gasoline and
' ' Benz diesel versions. In tests we got 21 mpg overall with the gas engine,
E-Class 3"d 26 with the diesel. We prefer the Luxury trim to the harsher-
riding Sport package. The cabin is very comfortable, plush, and
quiet, but the rear Is cramped for three adults. D ec. 2 0 1 2
M ercedes-
Benz GL-'
Class
The redesigned GL offers a 4.6-liter turbo V8 and a V6 turbodie-
sel. Its Crosswind Stabilization system is to help with wind buffet-
'"9- The outgoing model had relatively responsive hahdiing, quiet
interior, and comfortable ride. -

P redicted
Mercedes-
Benz GLK-
Ciass
T he G LK's smooth 3 .5-liter V6 delivers quick acceleration and
1 8 mpg overall. T he low-speed ride is a bit unsettled. Handling is
nimble, but the G LK doesn't shine at its limits. T he front seats
are firm and well shaped. Leg room in the rear is stihgy, and the
wide door sills impede access. Sep. 2009
Mercedes- ^^ T he M -C iass luxury S U V got 1 8 mpg overall in our tests with the
Ben2 3 0 2 -hp, 3 .5-liter V6. A 3 .0 -liter V6 diesel is also available. Handling
M-Class 'S responsive, but the steering is vague. T he ride is supple, but firm.
I nside is a luxurious, guiet cabin with excellent seats. Jun. 2012
Mercedes-
Q M ercedes-B enz's flagship sedah is roomy, quiet, and luxurious. T he
S 550 is powerful and athletic, with agile handling and a very com-
fortable ride that is among the best we've ever tested. T he new
car also adds a control system that is frustratihg to use at first.
A hybrid version is also available. Nov. 2007
Mercedes- ^^ T he new S L uses a 4.6-liter, 42 9-hp V8 and looks a lot like the old
Benz SL '^'^ '"^' 'S slightly longer and wider, and made almost entirely of aiu-
minum. I t's full of new high-tech features and safety equipment. -
Mercedes- ^^ T he S LK is a fun-to-drive two-seater with a retractable hard top.
Benz SLK T he S LK2 5O has an energetic four-cylinder and a six-speed manu-
al that returned 2 6 mpg overall in our tests. A 3 0 2 -hp V6 and sev-
en-speed automatic are available. T he ride is firm but civilized,
and the cabin is well finished if a bit narrow. Mar. 2013
Mini Cooper O ^^^''^ handling and precise steering make the M ini fuh to drive, but
the ride is choppy. T he base engine has adequate response, but the
turbo in the C ooper S is quicker. R ear seat room is tight and the
controls are convoluted. C onvertible, roadster, and coupe versions
are available. Fuel economy ranges from 2 9 to 3 3 mpg. Sep. 2008
Mini Cooper
Countryman
Q T he four-door C ountryman is bigger and wider than other M inis but
still a small car. T he quirky interior has well shaped and comfortable
seats. T he quick steering and fantastic agility make it fun to drive.
B ut the controls are frustratihg and the ride is choppy. P ower
comes from a 1 .6-liter four-cylinder. T he S offers AW D . Jan. 2012
Mitsubishi I i ^" T he ' i ' electric car uses a 1 6 kwh lithium-ion battery. I t takes six
hours to charge O h a 2 40 -volt charger, or 2 2 hours on a standard
1 1 0 -volt one. R ange is about 80 -85 miles, according to M itsubishi.
T he motor puts out 66 hp. -
Mitsubishi N A W e fouhd the Lancer agile in our testing, with a decent ride. I ts
Lancer engine tends to moan a bit at high revs, but has good acceleration.
T he C VT transmission works very well. T he ihterior is drab and
cheap-feeling, but the controls are straightforward. Oct. 2007
Mitsubishi T he O utlander's smooth 3 .0 -liter V6 provides a lot of punch and
Outlander returns 1 9 mpg overall, and the four-cylinder gets 2 2 mpg. Han-
dlihg is fairiy agile and secure at its iimits. due in part to the E S C .
T he ride is fairly stiff. I nterior fit and finish is a bit disappointing.
T he top-level V6 offers a third-row seat. Aug. 2008
Mitsubishi
Outlander
Sport
T his chopped version of the O utlander S U V is not fun to drive. I t
has reduced rear-seat and cargo space, handles less nimbly than
i's sibling, and acceleration is adequate at best. AW D bumps the
price up where it competes with better S U Vs. Mar. 2011

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S
173
Predicted
reliability
NR
Description/with last road-test date
Nissan '^*^ The redesigned Altima sedan comes with a choice of two engines;
Aitlma ^ revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 hp and the existing
3.5-liter V6, both matched with CVT. A new infotainment system .
as well as advanced safety features are offered. -
Nissan O The Armada seats eight, and uses a smooth but noisy 5.6-liter, V8
Armada î^" ^ ^ 5'''^'* five-speed automatic that makes the big SUV quick.
Handling is relatively responsive, but the ride is guite stiff. Interior
quality is so-so. Jun. 2012
Nissan This small car has a surprisingly roomy interior. It's powered by a
Cube 1.8-liter four-cylinder mated to either a CVT or a six-speed manual.
Handling is rather clumsy and the steering is vague. Wind and road
noise are pronounced. Standard safety features include side and
curtain air bags. Nov. 2 0 0 9
0
Nissan O ^ found the Frontier quick and nimble, with a stiff but tolerable
Frontier ' i ' ' ^. The powerful 4.0-liter V6 revs smoothly. Base models use
a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Rear-seat room is tight in the crew cab.
A longer bed is a new option. Jul. 2 0 0 5
[ ] Nissan O The Juke hatchback has a raised ride height and optional AWD.
' ' Juke Power comes from a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder. A six-speed man-
ual is available on FWD models; AWD versions use a CVT. The '
cabin is snug and cargo space quite limited. Mar. 2011
Nissan Leaf
The Leaf five-seat, electric-powered hatchback takes six hours
to charge on a 240-volt outlet, and 16 on 120. It is quick at low
speeds, quiet, and rides comfortably. We got 3.16 miles per kWh,
which equals 106 mpg. Nov. 2011
[ ] Nissan O The Maxima has a smooth, powerful 3.5-liter V6 mated to a CVT
Maxima Acceleration is very quick. The steering is overly light at low speeds
and firms up rather abruptly, which takes away from handling. The
ride is comfortable enough and the cabin is quiet. Feb. 2 0 0 9
[ ] Nissan The Murano has a nice, quiet interior and a comfortable ride. The
Murano 3.5-liter V6 is powerful and delivers a respectable 19 mpg overall.
The CVT is one of the best on the market. Handling remains
responsive and secure. The interior is functional, but limited rear
visibility is a drawback. Sep. 2 0 0 8
Nissan ^R The seven-passenger Pathfinder three-row SUV goes on sale this
Pathfinder fâ" " vi'b a 3.5-liter V6 mated to a CVT. Front- and all-wheel drive
are available. In our test of the similar Infiniti JX we found the
cabin roomy and well finished, but the third-row seat is snug and
handling wasn't that responsive. -
Nissan ^^ The Quest uses a 3.5-liter V6 and a CVT. It is quite luxurious, with
Quest a plush and quiet interior and a smooth compliant ride. Just don't
expect sporty handling to go with its smooth and powerful drive-
train. The top-line LE version coins wjth a blind-spot warning sys-
tem and a power-folding third-row seat. Dec. 2011
f ^l Nissan The small Rogue is compact, pleasant, and competitive in the small
Rogue SUV class. The 2.5-liter engine gets a bit raspy at high revs. Expect
22 mpg overall. The ride is supple and handling is fairly nimble and
secure. Curtain air bags are standard. Aug. 2 0 0 8
Ratings
Key
Recommended

P redicted
Nissan ^^ * redesigned S entra with a 1 .8-liter, four-cylinder engine is coming
Sentra s"- T he outgoing S entra is one of the better small sedans, with
a roomy rear seat, a civilized ride, and sound handling. -
{71 Nissan
Titan
T he T itan is powerful and has a comfortable ride. I t's relatiyely
agile and the cabin is large. T he engine is strong but loud. T he
cargo bed is smaller than competing trucks, and the payload
capacity, once meager, has been increased. May 2012
Nissan ^^ T he subcompact Versa sedan is disappointing. T he interior is bla-
Versa tantly cheap and the engine drones as it accelerates. Handling is
secure, but lacks agility. Fuel economy is a commendable 3 2 mpg
overall. May 2012
Nissan T he Xterra has good off-road capability and is relatively civilized.
Xterra T he 4.0 -liter V6 delivers quick acceleration but just 17 mpg. T he
4WD system is still part-time. T he interior looks rugged and is well-
assembled. Head-protection air bags are standard. Aug. 2005
Nissan Z T he Z has a wonderfully strong and smooth V6. T he six-speed
manual is a bit notchy. T he interior is well finished and upscale.
R oad and tire noise are constant and the two-seater cabin is
cramped. A convertible version is available. Oct. 2009
Porsche 911 ^R T he redesigned base 9 1 1 uses a 3 .4-liter six-cylinder, while the
C arrera S gets a 40 0 -hp, 3 .8-liter, both matched to the first seven-
speed manual. C hanges to help fuel efficiency include automatic
engine start-stop, electronic power steering, and a coasting feature.
A seven-speed automated manual is available. -
Porsche ^^ P orsche's entry-level roadster is all new for 2 0 1 3 , with a longer
Boxster wheelbase and a wider track. I t gains more horsepower in both
the base 2 .7 -liter six-cylinder and the 3 .4-liter S . Handling is super
agile and the car is fun to drive. T he top can be operated at
speeds up to 45 mph. -
Porsche T he midsized C ayenne is a very sporty, agile S U V. E ngine choices
Cayenne ' include a V6, V8, turbo V8, and a hybrid. All use a supersmooth
eight-speed automatic. T he ride is supple and steady, but stiff at
low speeds. T he front and rear seats are comfortable. I nterior fit
and finish is impeccable, but the controls are confusing. Feb. 2011
Porsche ^'^ T he C ayman uses a 2 .9 -liter, 2 65-hp flat-six engine. T he higher-
Cayman performance C ayman S has 3 2 0 hp. T he fixed-roof coupe seats
two passengers and uses a hatchback design with increased rear
storage. A redesign based on the new B oxster is imminent.-
Porsche ^^ P orsche's four-door luxury car delivers strong performance with
Panamera ' ' ' ^ ' ' ' ^^'- Handling is agile and the ride is ciyilized. O ur tested
P anamera S , with a 40 0 -hp V8, got 2 0 mpg overall. T urbo V8s,
a V6, and a hybrid are available. T he interior is beautiful, but con-
trois can be intimidating and access is tight. Nov. 2012
[ ] Scion FR-S
Scion iO
Jointly developed with S ubaru, the FR -S is a rear-drive coupe with
a 2 0 0 -hp, 2 .0 -liter four-cylinder. Handling is super responsive and
the ride is stiff, but livable. T he cabin is noisy and the rear seat is
yery tight. Oct. 2012
T he tiny iO four-seat hatchback is one of the lowest-scoring cars
we've tested in years. S low, noisy, and uncomfortable, the iO 's few
pluses include reasonable nimbleness, ease of parking, and a very
good 3 4-mpg overall fuel economy. S eyeral similarly priced com-
petitors are just as economical and much better cars. Aug. 2012

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 175
Predicted
reliability D escription/with last road- test date
Scion tC ^^ The tC's 2 .5-liter engine provides good acceleration and got a very
good 2 8 mpg overall with the six-speed mahual. An automatic
is available. It Is fairly nimble and pleasing to drive and the cabin is
quite spacious. But the ride is jittery, interior fit and finish is unim-
pressive, and rear visibility is difficult. May 2011
[ ] Scion xB The xB's 2.4-liter, four- cylinder delivers good performance but just
' ' 23 mpg overall. The ride 5 compliant, and handling is responsive.
The radio controls are a bit confusing. The rear seat and cargo
area are enormous. Low windows and thick roof pillars hurt visibil-
ity. Curtain air bags are standard. Oct. 2007
[ 1 Scion xD The small xD is nimble, but has a jittery, unsettled ride. The l.B-liter,
' ' four- cylinder delivers only adequate performance, but a miserly
2 9 mpg overall with the automatic and 3 4 with the manual. The
cabin is noisy and the driving position is awkward, particularly for
taller drivers. The rear is roomy for two adults. Jun. 2008
Smart O ^^'^ " " ^ two-seater features a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine that
ForTV/o does a decent job putting along with traffic. We measured 39 mpg
overall. The ride is harsh and handling clumsy, and the automated
manual transmission causes the car to pause and heave. Curtain
air bags are standard. Cabin access is easy. Nov. 2008
[ ] Subaru Jointly developed with Toyota, the rear- drive BRZ uses a 2 0 0 - hp,
' ' BR2 2 .0 - liter four- cylinder teamed with a choice of six-speed manual
or automatic transmissions. The ride is stiff, but livable, and the
handling is very agile. Oct. 2012
[ ] Subaru The Forester handles well, is spacious, and has straightforward
Forester controls. The 2 .5- liter four- cylinder does little for acceleration or
fuel economy. The optional turbocharged engine is stronger but
shaves off about 2 mpg. The four-speed automatic is dated. The
front seats in the base model lack lumbar support. Mar. 2011
0
Subaru The Impreza is tops amon^ small cars. The four- cylinder engine
Impreza ahd CVT returned 27 mpg overall with the sedan; the hatchback
got 2 6 mpg. AWD is standard. Engine and road noise are pro-
nounced, but the cabin is roomy and controls simple. May 2012
[ ] Subaru O ^^^ '^^^ sedan and hatchback use a powerful turbo engine and
impreza ^^^ suspension is well- tuned. It is refined and roomy, but still
WRX/STi sporty. The STi is more powerful and sportier, but its rough edges
have been somewhat smoothed. Oct. 2009
[ ] Subaru The Legacy is roomy and has a hice interior. The four- cylinder is
Legacy "oisv and a bit sluggish, but gets a good 25 mpg overall. The six-
cylinder is guieter and quicker, but less fuel efficient. The ride is
impressive and the cabin is quiet. Handling is responsive, but the
ESC kicks in late. Dec. 2009
Subaru
Outback
The Outback is a raised, rugged-looking wagon. The cabin is quiet
and the rear-seat and cargo space are generous. Handling is respon-
sive but sloppy at its limits. Acceleration is adequate with the noisy
four-cylinder, but fuel economy is good. The optional six-cylinder
is quieter and quicker but not as fuel efficient. Nov. 2009

P redicted
0
Subaru O ^^^ T ribeca has an impressive ride and handling balanpe. T he six-
jrlbeca cylinder and automatic make a decent powertrain. R ide and hah-
diing are very good. B ut the cabin is cramped. I t's a long reach to
the navigation system's touch screen. T he styling of the dashboard
makes some cohtrols difficult to see. Jan. 2008
Subaru XV ^^ T he XV replaces the I mpreza O utback. T he four-cylinder is mated
Crosstrek ' 3 continuously variable automatic or five-speed manual trans-
mission. AWD is standard. Aside from more ground clearance, the
XV is essentially the same as the I mpreza hatchback. -
Suzuki
Suzuki
[] Suzuki SX4 a
Model S
T he G rand Vitara's 2 .4-liter four-cylinder was noisy and sluggish
and yielded just 1 9 mpg overall. Handling is reluctant but ultimately
secure. T he ride Is stiff and jittery. S ide and curtain air bags are
standard. May 2009
T he Kizashi is a sound and capable car that is among the smaller
family sedans, and as a result it has a snug cabin and tight rear
seat. A 2 .4-liter four-cylinder is standard and comes with a six-
speed mahual transmission, while a C VT is optional. All-wheel drive
is available. Aug. 2010
T his small car has a 2 .0 -liter four-cylinder engine. We got 2 4 mpg
overall in the AWD hatchback and 2 6 in our FWD sedan. C urtain air
bags and AB S are standard. Access and visibility are excellent, but
ride and noise are so-so. Mar. 2010
T he all-electric M odel S offers three battery pack choices with
ranges of 1 60 ,2 3 0 , or 3 0 0 miles per charge. T his low-slung hatch-
back design offers an optional third-row seat. -
Toyota T he 4R unner is good for towing and off-roading, but is not the
4Runner ^^^^ family vehicle. T he rough-sounding 4.0 -liter V6 is powerful
and relatively fuel-efficient. T he ride is unsettled and handling is
mediocre at best. T he 4WD system is a rudimentary part-time
system, eltcept in Limited trim. Dec. 2010
Toyota
^^ T he redesigned Avalon will continue with a standard V6, but get
" ^" ^ stylish inside and out. I ts roomy and plush interior retains
the spacious rear seat of earlier models. S afety features include
a blind spot monitoring system with cross-traffic detection and
a pre-collision system. -
[ ] Toyota T he C amry is refined, comfortable, and roomy. Handling is respon-
Camry ^'^^ ^nd the interior materials are good. Fuel economy for all
engines is impressive: the four-cylinder got 2 7 mpg and the hybrid
got 3 8 mpg overall. T he touch-screen radio controls are overly
complicated. Feb. 2012
[ I Toyota
Corolla
T he rather bland C orolla is a good small sedan. We got a very
impressive 3 2 mpg overall in our test of the 1 .8-liter, among the
best for a current non-hybrid or diesel four-door sedan. C urtain
air bags are standard. Jul. 2008
Toyota FJ O
T he FJ is superb off road but not the best everyday vehicle. Visi-
''''''Y '^ difficult and the rear doors are awkward to use. T he V6 is
smooth, but fuel economy is 17 mpg. C rash-test results are excel-
lent, but the FJ scores too low to be recommended. Jan. 2007

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 177
Predicted
[ ] Toyota The Highlahder has a cushy ride ahd a comfortable cabin. The 3.5-
Highlander liter V6 deiivers 18 mpg overall. A 2.7-liter four-cylinder is available.
The hybrid got ah impressive 27 mpg overall. Handling is not par-
ticularly agile and the steering feels vague. The controls are easy
to use and the interior has very good fit and finish. Jan. 200B
Toyota
Land
Cruiser
[ ] Toyota
Seguoia
NA The Land Cruiser has a powerful 5.7-liter V8. It is guick, quiet,
comfortable, and refined, but not agile. It rides very comfortably
and the interior is roomy and weii finished. Off-road performance
is terrific. Dec. 2008
[ ] Toyota The Matrix has easy cabin access, a roomy rear seat, and good
Matrix cargo versatility. Both available four-cylinder engines provide
impressive fuel economy. Engine and road noise levels are high.
The Matrix isn't engaging to drive, but handling and ride are
competent. The driving position is awkward, and fit and finish is
unimpressive. Jun. 2008 ^ ^
[ ] Toyota The Prius averaged 44 mpg overall in our tests, and can propel
' ' Prius itself on electric power up to 25 mph. The ride is firm yet steady,
and handing is sound and secure although not particularly agile.
The interior is roomy and the driving position has improved, but
some controls take a bit of getting used to. Nov. 2009
Toyota The Prius C is a smaller Prius that got 43 mpg overall in our tests.
Prius C Ifs harsh ride, noisy engine and cabin, and slow acceleration result-
ed in a road test score too iow for us to recommend the car. We
expect reiiabiiity to be very good. JuL 2012
[ ] Toyota This taller Prius has more interior and cargo space but still seats
Prius V five. The V uses the same 1.8-liter engine as the standard Prius,
but some fuel economy is given up due to the extra weight and a
_^ worse aerodynamic shape, resulting in 41 mpg overall. Mar. 2012
[ ] Toyota The RAV4 has a flexibie, weil-designed interior. Handling is agile
RAV4 3nd secure. The rear seat is roomy. A tiny third-row seat is option-
al. The optional 3.5-liter V6 is quick and returns 22 mpg. The four-
cylinder gets 23 mpg overall. Front side- and curtain air bags are
standard. May 2009
O
5' sight-passenger Sequoia has a standard 4.6-liter V8. We
gt 15 mpg overall with the optional 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed
automatic. Selectable full-time 4WD is avaiiabie. The third-row seat
folds flat. The ride is firm, and handling is clumsy but secure. The
interior is very roomy, but the step-in is high. Nov. 2008
[ ] Toyota O The Sienna rides comfortably, but handling is lackluster. The lively
' ' Sienna 3.5-liter V6 returned 20 mpg overall with the six-speed automatic.
The AWD version is a bit quicker and sacrifices just 1 mpg. Interior
fit and finish is mediocre and the cabin is noisy. Sep. 2010 >
Toyota O The Tacoma workhorse compact pickup gets a competitive 17 mpg
Tacoma overaii and handling Js sound. The ride traiis some competitors,
particularly with the stiff TRD suspension, and the driving position
is too low. Payload capacity is small. May 2012
Ratings
Key
Better - < -
O
Worse
I Recommended '

1 7 8 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y I N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
P redicted
reliability D escriptior)/with last road-test date
0
Toyota
jundra
[ ] Toyota
Venza
T he T undra offers three engines and three cab sizes. Handling is
relatively responsive, but the ride with the T R D package is stiff.
T he 5.7-liter V8 is very powerful. T he tailgate is easy to raise and
lower. A 4.6-liter V8 is also available. Sep. 2007
T he Venza fits in between a station wagon and a S U V. Assets
include easy cabin access, a quiet interior, and a roomy rear seat.
T he rear hatch and large cargo floor aid cargo flexibility. T he
refined 3 .5-liter V6 engine provides plenty of power and the
2 .7-liter four-cylinder engine is available. Jun. 2009
Toyota Yarls D espite an excellent fuel economy of 3 2 mpg overall in our tests
' and a relatively roomy rear seat, the Y aris scores too low to
recommend. Handling is ho-hum, the ride is choppy, the seats
are uncomfortable, and the radio is needlessly awkward. C rash-
test results are impressive. May 201 2 __^
Volkswagen ^^ ' T he B eetle Is a little roomier, but not good enouijh to recommend.
Beetle T he ride is just O K and handling can get sloppy at its limits. T he
. five-cylinder engine sounds gruff and only averaged 2 8 mpg
with the six-speed manual. T urbocharged gas and diesel 2 .0 -liter
engines are also available. R ear visibility is limited and the driving
position is compromised. JuL 201 2 ' "
Volkswagen 9
T his four-door coupe is enjoyable to drive, with agile and respon-
sive handling. T he taut ride is compliant and composed. T he 2 .0 -li-
ter turbocharged engine gets 2 4 mpg; a 3 .6-liter V6 and all-wheel-
drive are optional. T he interior is very well-finished, but some
^ controls are awkward to use or hard to read. Nov. 201 2
Volkswagen 9 T he E os Is equipped with a folding hard top. P ower comes from
Eos ' a 2 .0 -liter, turbo four-cylinder that delivers punchy acceleration
and good fuel economy at 2 5 mpg overall. Volkswagen's I mpres-
sive automated manual D S G transmission is smooth and shifts
quickly. I I HS crash-test results are impressive. May 2008
0
Volkswagen
0
Volkswagen O
GTI
\
Volkswagen O
[ ] Volkswagen
Jetta
Sportwagen
T he G olf's 2 .5-liter five-cylinder engine gets a mediocre 2 4 mpg over-
all. T he diesel got an impressive 3 8 mpg in our tests with a manual.
T he steering is responsive and the car feels agile. T he ride is supple
and controlled. I nterior quality is impressive and feels solid. T he front
seats are supportive, but the rear is cramped. Mar. 201 0
T he'G T I is one of the best performing and most practical choices
among sporty cars. I t is agile and quick, with a gutsy turbocharged
2 .0 -liter four-cylinder engine that sounds good, all of which make
it fun to drive but not at the expense of comfort. May 201 0
T he Jetta sedan's handling lacks agility and interior fit and finish
is unimpressive, but the rear seat is roomy. T he base 2 .5-liter five-
cylinder engine gets a so-so 2 5-mpg overall. T he T D I diesel gets an
impressive 3 4 mpg overall but the D S G transmission is sometimes
jerky at low speeds. A turbocharged 2 .0 -liter four-cylinder G Ll
sports version is available. May 201 1 .
T he Jetta wagon continues with the older, bodystyle. I t has-a quiet,
composed ride and responsive handling, t)ut i ti s less agile than the
G olf hatchback, which uses the same platform. Acceleration is a bit
leisurely with the diesel, but with readily available power at low
revs most will find it adequate. Jan. 201 1

T H E 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 3 M O D E L S 179
Predicted
Volkswagen NR The Passat has a roomy cabin, particularly the rear seat. The lack-
Passat luster 2 .5- liter five- cylinder got 25 mpg overall, while the 2 .0 - liter
turbodiesel returned an impressiye 37 mpg. The car is quiet and
rides comfortably, but falls short on cornering grip. Feb. 2012
Volkswagen O ^^^ Tiguan offers a roomy rear seat, and has excellent fit and fin-
-Tlquan ish. Handling is agile and secure. The ride can be stiff with super
low profile tires. The 2.0-liter, turbo four- cylinder is smooth and '
punchy, and it yielded 21 mpg overall in our tests. FWD is standard,
with AWD available. Mar. 2012
Volkswagen NA The Touareg is a quiet and fairly agile SUV with a plush interior.
Touareg The V6 turbodiesel, mated to a smooth eight-speed automatic,
pulls strongly and is relatiyely refined. A hybrid model is new, and
the base engine is 3 .6-liter six-cylinder. It no longer has low-range,
off- road gearing. Jun. 2011 ^ ^
The Volvo C30 is a pleasant two- door hatchback. Power comes
from the turbocharged 2.5-liter, five- cylinder engine that delivers
good performance and 25 mpg overall. The manual transmission
is pleasant. Although the C30 steers nicely, handling isn't particu-
larly sporty. Oct. 2008
The C70 has a power-operated metal folding top that works well.
The car comes only with a turbocharged 2.S-liter, five- cylinder
engine. Handling is sound but unexceptional, and the ride is some-
what stiff. The interior is well finished, and features standard cur-
tain air bags that deploy from the doors. May 2008
The S60's fiye- cylinder engine can sound gruff but provides lively
acceleration and respectable fuel economy. The ride is taut and
steady. The T 6 with AWD is quick, agile, and refined. The interior
is quiet and nicely laid out, and the front seats are comfortable,
although the rear is tight and the trunk is small. Jul. 2011
Volvo S80 O ^'^^ ^ ^ doesn't deliver the level of performance or luxury expect-
ed in this class. Rear seat room is cramped and rear access is com-
promised. Front-wheel-drive S80s get a 3.2-liter six-cylinder, which
delivered 2 0 mpg overall in our testing. A turbocharged six-cylinder
is available on the all-wheel-drive version. Nov. 2007
[ I Volvo C30 O
[ ] Volvo C70
[ I Volvo S60
[71 Volvo XC60 O
[ I Volvo XC70 O
The XC60 is pleasant to drive t)ut not very sporty. The ride is stiff,
but handling is responsiye and secure. Wind and road noise are weli
suppressed. The interior is nicely finished with high-quality materials.
The seats are comfortable but rear legroom is tight. Sep. 2009
The XC70 is an AWD wagon with a raised ride height. The pleasant
3.2-liter six-cylinder and six-speed automatic deliyer adequate per-
formance, but got just 18 mpg. A more powerful, turbocharged
engine is available. The ride is fairly stiff, and handling is secure.
- Inside, the cabin is quiet and nicely trimmed. Sep. 2008
Volvo XC90 This aging design is not very competitive. The 3.2-liter six-cylinder
gets an unimpressive 17 mpg oyerall. The ride is stiff and unsettled,
and handling lacks agility. The interior is flexible, but folding the tiny
third- row seat is a frustrating experience. Jun. 2012


USED CARS: THE MOST RELIABLE
MODELS & THE ONES TO AVOID
BEST OF THE BEST T hese are the top used
sedans, wagons, and S U Vs available in four
different price ranges. E ach performed well
in our testing when they were new and have
been consistently reliable over time. All of
them come with standard E lectronic S tabiiity
C ontroi (E S C ) during the modei years listed.
WORST OF THE WORST T hese models
have had multiple years of much-worse-
than-average reliability among the 2 0 0 2 -2 0 1 1
models. All are listed alphabetically.
Best of the Best
Less than $10,000
>SEDAN
Hyundai Sonata (4-cyi.)
2006
I n our tests, the 2 .4-liter four-
cylinder engine returned a
respectable 2 3 mpg overall.
T he standard safety gear
makes this car a great choice
for teen drivers.
>WAGON
Scion xB 2004-05
T he xB is extremely roomy
and practical. Visibility is
very good, and the nimble
handling makes it a fine
choice on the highway and
in the city. We got 3 0 mpg
overall with an automatic
transmission.
$10,000-$15,000
>SEDAN
infiniti G35 2004-05
T he G 3 5 has a strong V6
engine that got 2 0 mpg
overall in our tests. I t
provides agile handling, and
its E S C keeps it in check
at its limits. T he ride is well
controlled, and the cabin
is quiet.
>WAGON
Pontiac Vibe 2009
A twin of the T oyota M atrix,
this small wagon is an
alternative to a small S U V.
T he optional AWD system
works well, but hurts
acceleration and fuel
economy from the 1 .8-liter
four-cylinder. R eliability has
been excellent.
>suv
Toyota Highlander
2004-05
T his quiet and comfortable
S U V was available in either
FWD or AWD , with four- and
six-cylinder engines. T he V6
got 1 9 mpg overall. T he
interior is roomy, and the
controls are easy to use.
C urtain air bags were
optional.
$15,000-$20,00
>SEDAN
Acura TL 2006-07
T he T L blends comfort,
convenience, and sportiness.
T he firm ride is compliant,
and its powerful V6 returned
2 3 mpg overall. R eliability
has been outstanding.

T H E B E S T & W O R S T U S E D C A R S 181
>WAGON
Mazda5 2010
T his microvan is a compact
wagon that seats six. It
returns a decent 23 mpg
overall, but the engine is
taxed when carrying a full
load. T he flexible interior has
room for four and a large
cargo area, or room for six
with minimal cargo space
when the small third-row
seat is used. Visibility and
cabin access are excellent.
>suv
Toyota RAV4 2008-10
T he R A V4's 2006 redesign
gave it a roomier interior, an
available third-row seat, and
an optional V6 engine. Its
nimble handling, good fuel
economy, and versatile,
easy-to-access cabin helped
make it one of our top-rated
small S U Vs. T he V6 engine
gets a very good 22 mpg
overall, and the four-cylinder
gets 23.
$20,000-$25,000
>SEDAN
Infiniti M35 2006-07
T his generation of the M35
provides a good blend of
sportiness and luxury. Its
strong V6 returned good
overall gas mileage; 1 9 mpg
with rear-wheel drive and
1 8 mpg with the optional
A W D . T he Infiniti has a
comfortable and luxurious
interior, and offers a full
complement of safety gear.
>WAGON
Subaru Outback 2010-11
T he O utback is basically a
wagon version of the Legacy
sedan, but with a raised ride
height for mild off-road use.
H andling is agile and the
ride is comfortable. T he 201 0
redesign brought an improved
and quieter interior. H andling
is responsive in routine
driving. Fuel economy from
the four-cylinder engine and
C VT is quite good.
>suv
Acura MDX 2006
T he MD X Is a well-rounded,
family-friendly S U V with
standard all-wheel drive. It
has a strong and refined V6
powertrain that gets 1 7 mpg
overall, a firm but pleasant
ride, a well-appointed cabin,
comfortable front seats, and
a third-row seat. C urtain air
bags are standard.
Worst of the Worst
A udi 05 (V6)
B MW 535i
B MW X5 (6-cyl.)
C adillac S T S
C hevrolet A veo
C hevroiet B lazer
C hevrolet U plander
C hrysler PT C ruiser
C hrysler T own &C ountry
D odge C aravan
D odge Grand C aravan
D odge Journey
Ford T hunderbird
GMC A cadia
Jaguar S -T ype, XF
Kia S edona
Kia S orento (V6)
Mercedes-B enz GL-C lass
Mini C ooper C lubman S
Mini C ooper H atchback S
Pontiac Montana, Montana
S V6
S aturn O utlook
S aturn R elay
Volkswagen New B eetle
convertible


RELIABLE USED CARS
FOR EVERY BUDGET
A
s owners hold on to their
vehicles longer, fewer late-
model used cars are avail-
able for sale. The result:
a limited supply and higher
prices. But there are still good buys to
be found. To steer you to the best bets,
these lists show the 2002 through 2011
vehicles, in four price categories, that
tested well when they were new and have
had above-average reliability.
Try to buy the newest vehicle that your
budget allows so that you can get the
most up-to-date safety features. To help,
we show the first year each model offered
electronic stability control as a standard
or optional feature. NA means that ESC
wasn't available.
Make & model
S MA L L C A R S
Under $10,000 - $1S,OOO - $20,000 -
$10 ,0 0 0 $15,000 $20 ,0 0 0 $25,000
Ford Focus
Honda C ivic
Honda C ivic Hybrid
Honda Fit
Hyundai Elantra (sedan)
Hyundai Elantra (wagon)
Kia Forte
Mazda3
itiissan S entra
Nissan Versa
Pontiac Vibe
Scion xB
Scion xD
S ubaru Impreza (nonturbo)
S uzuki SX4
Toyota C orolla
Toyota Echo
Toyota Matrix
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen R abbit
'05-07
'02-05
'03-05
-
'05
-
-
'04-05
-
-
'03-06
'04-05
-
'04-05
-
'02-06
'02-03,'05
'03-05
'02-04
-
'08-09
'06-08
'06-07
'07-11
'07-10
'09
-
'06-08
-
'08-09
'07-09
'06, '08
'08-09
'06-07
'08-10
'07-09
-
'06-08
'05-06
-
'07-09
'10
'09-11
'08
-
-
-
'10
'10-11
'10
-
'10
'09-11
'10
'09-11
-
'10
-
'09-10
'07-08
'10-11
-
'02-03,'09
'09
'10 - .
'09
'08
-
-
- - '07
'10
'10
'05
-
'08
'08
'07
'05
-
'05
'09-11 '04
'03
'07
'10
_
'07
'11
'11
all
ali
-
'11
-
'09
ali
'10
'09
-
'10
N A
'10
'10
'10
'09

R E L I A B L E U S E D C A R S F O R E V E R Y B U D G E T 183
Makes model
MIDSIZtP S LARGE SEDANS
Under $10,000- $15,000- $20,000-
$10,000 $15,000 $20,000 $25,000
AcuraRL
Acura TL
Acura TSX
Chevrolet Malibu (4-cyl.)
Ford Fusion (4-cyl.)
Ford Fusion (V6, AWD)
Ford Fusion (V6, FWD)
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford Taurus (FWD)
Honda Accord (4-cyl.)
Honda Accord (V6)
Honda Accord Hybrid
Hyundai Azera
.Hyundai Sonata (4-cyl.)
Hyundai Sonata (V6)
HyundaiXG35O
infinitiG
Infiniti135
Infiniti M
Kia Optima
Lexus ES
Lexus GS
Lexus IS
Lexus LS
Lincoln MKZ (FWD)
Lincoln Town Car
Lincoln Zephyr
Mazda6
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (RWD)
Mercury Milan (4-cyl.)
Mercury Milan (V6, FWD)
Mercury Milan (V6, AWD)
Mercury Milan Hybrid
Mercury Sable
Nissan Altima (4-cyl.)
Nissan Altima (V6)
'02
-
-
-
'06
-
-
'04
'02-04
'02-03
-
-
'06
. '03-05
'04-05
-
'02-04
-
-
-
. '02
-
-
'02
. -
-
-
;o6
-
-
-
, '04
'03-05
'03
'04
'04-05
'04-06
-
'87-08
'08
'06-08
-
7
'05-07
'04-07 \
'05-07
' 07.
'08
'07-08
'04-05
-
-
'08
'02-05
'02-05
'03-05 -
-
-
'04, 'Q 6
'06
'07
-
'07-08
'06-08
'08
-
'06-07
'04-06
'05-06
'06-07
'07-08
. '09
'09
'09-10
-
'09
'10
-
-
-
'09-10
'10
-
'06
-
-
'11
' 06
' -
-
'02-04
'07-08
-
-
'09-10
'03
; '09
' 09-10
-
. -
'09
'09-11
-
'07-08
'08
-
-
'11
'11
'10-11
-
'11
-
-
-
-
'07-08
-
'06-07
-
'07-08
'06
'06-07
'05
'09-10
'09
-
-
-
'11
'11
'10-11
-
-
'09-10
'02
' 08
'09
'09
1 '09
-
'08
-
' -
-
-
. -
-
-
'06
'02
'02
-
, -
-
-
' '05
'09
'09
'09
-
'08
-
'07
all
'04
all
'09
'10
'10
'10
all
'09
'08 '
'06
'06
all
'06
'06
NA
'03
NA
all
'10 '
'07
all
'06
all ,
'09 .
NA '
NA
'09
all
'10
'10
'10
all
'09
'10
'10 ,

M ake & model under $10 ,0 0 0 - $15,0 0 0 - $2 0 ,0 0 0 -
$10 ,0 0 0 $15,0 0 0 !S 2 0 ,0 0 0 $2 5,0 0 0
M I D S I ZE D S LAR G E S E D AN S Continued
N issan Altima Hybrid
S ubaru Legacy (4-cyl.)
S ubaru Legacy (6-cyl.)
T oyota Avalon
T oyota C amry (4-cyl.)
T oyota C amry (V6)
T oyota C amry Hybrid
Volvo S 60
-
1 -
1 -
i '02-04
1 '02-04
! '02-03
f _
-
;
1 '06
1 -
1 '05-06
) '05-07
i '04-06
-
1
1 '07-10
I '07-08
( -
.( '07-08
1 '08-11
1 '07-10
1 '07-10
'07-08
; -
1 '09-11
! '08-09
i '09
, -
1
) .'U
1 -
1
1
1
1
I
i
i
i
-
'07
-
'02
'05
'02
-
'02
all
'09
'08
'09
'10
'10
all
'07
1
1
:
]
1
1
S P O R T S & S P O R T Y C AR S
AcuraR S X
B M WZ4
C hevrolet C orvette
D odge C hallenger
Ford M ustang (V6)
Ford M ustang (V8)
Honda C ivic S i
HondaS 2 0 0 0
Lexus SC
M azda M X-S M iata
M azdaspeed3
M ini C ooper Hatchback
N issan 3 S 0 Z
P orsche B oxster
S ubaru I mpreza WR X/S T i
T oyota C ami'y S olara
T oyota C lica
Volvo C 3 0
; '02-04
-
f _
1 -
( '04
.( '02-04
f -
, -
; -
'02-03
1 -
r
j -
i -
! '03
'02-04
1 '02-03
, -
i '05-06
1 '03
1 -
i
' 1 '06
1 '05
i '06
1 '02-04
1 -
,'04,'06.-07
1 -
1 ' -
; '03-04
I -
! '05
1 '05-07
! -
' -
i
i
j
i
1
1
1
1
i
i
i
i
1
i
-
'05
-
-
'09
'06-07
'07-09
'05-06
'02-03
'08-09
'08
'08,'10
-
'03
-
'08
-
-
1
1
(
1
1-
i
1
1
1
1
1
i
1
1
1
-
'06
.'04
'09
-
'10
-
'07
'04
'10
-
'11
-
'05
- '
-
-
'08-09
t
1
1
\
i
1
1
1
i
i
1
1
i
1
\
i
.-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
'06
-
'02
'03
-
-
'0 4.
-
-
NA
all
all
all
'10
'10
'0 7
'06
all
-
all
'09
'10
all
'08
-
NA
all
M I N I VAN S & WAG O N S

Honda Accord C rosstour
Honda O dyssey
M azdas
S ubaru O utback (4-cyl.)
S ubaru O utback (6-cyl.)
T oyota S ienna (FWD)
T oyota Venza (V6)
Volvo XC 70
1
I '02
1 -
i -
( -
; '02-03
1 -
: -
1 - .
1 '03-04
1 -
1
1 '04-05
' ~
1 '04
1 -
'-
i '10
' '07-08
'06-07
( '06-07
, -
1 -
, '10
1 -
t ~
1 '09-11
i '08
1 '08-09
i '09
1
1
i -
1 -
1 -
1 '07
1 '02
! '02
1 -
1 '02
ail 1
'05 1
'10 1
' 09 1
'0 7 1
'08
ail
'07

R E L I A B L E U S E D C A R S F O R E V E R Y B U D G E T
185
M a k e S m o d e l U n d e r $ 1 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 1 5 , 0 0 0 - $ 2 0 , 0 0 0 -
$ 1 0 , 0 0 0 $ 1 5 , 0 0 0 $ 2 0 , 0 0 0 $ 2 5 , 0 0 0
ESC (' 02- 11)
SMALL SUVs
A c u r a RDX 1
F o r d Escape ( V 6 , AWD) 1
F o r d Escape H y h r i d (AWD) 1
H o n d a CR-V 1
H y u n d a i Tucson
K i a S p o r t a g e
M a z d a T r i h u t e ( V 6 , AWD)
M e r c u r y M a r i n e r ( V 6 , AWD)
M e r c u r y M a r i n e r H y h r i d (AWD)
M i t s u h i s h i O u t l a n d e r
Ni s s a n Rogue
S u h a r u F o r e s t e r (nonturbo)
S u h a r u F o r e s t e r (turbo)
T o y o t a RAV4
MI DSI ZED & U R G E SUVS
A c u r a MDX
F o r d E x p e d i t i o n
H o n d a P i l o t
H y u n d a i S a n t a F e ( V 6 ) -
I n f i n i t i FX
Lexus GX '
Lexus RX
Lexus RX H y h r i d
M a z d a CX- 9
Ni s s a n M u r a n o
Ni s s a n X t e r r a
S u b a r u B 9 T r i h e c a
T o y o t a 4 R u n n e r ( V 6 )
T o y o t a H i g h l a n d e r ( V6)
T o y o t a H i g h l a n d e r H y h r i d
T o y o t a S e q u o i a
PICKUP TRUCKS
F o r d F - l S O ( V 8, 4 W D )
H o n d a R i d g e l i n e
Ni s s a n F r o n t i e r (4WD)
Ni s s a n T i t a n
S u h a r u B a j a
T o y o t a T a c o m a ( V 6 , 4 W D )
T o y o t a T u n d r a ( V 8, 4 W D )
-
04
-
02-03
-
-
-
-
'03
-
.-
' 0 2 - 0 3
-
'05
-
' 0 4- 0 6
' 0 5 ; '07
0 6 - 0 7
0 4- 0 5
05
-
07
05
0 4- 0 7 J
-
-
-
' 0 7 - 0 8
'09
-
-
-
-
' 0 8 - 1 0
' 0 9- 1 0
' 0 6 - 1 0
08-10
-
'02
0 3 - 0 4
-
-
_
-
-
.- .
02-03
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
04
-
03-05
_
-
-
' 0 2 - 0 3
-
-
-
-
\ ^02-04
0 4- 0 5
-
0 2 - 0 4
'05
-
t '06-07
07
03-05
'03
0 4- 0 5
-
-
08
0 6 - 0 7
0 5 - 0 6
I ^06-07
1 ^06
02-03
-
-
-
05
05
0 2 - 0 4
1 -
0 6 - 0 7
-
I -
1 -
; ' 0 6 - 0 8
( ' 0 5 - 0 6
' 0 7 - 0 8
11
'10
09-11
-
"1 1
'11
11
'10
-
11
11
10-11
11
06
-
08
09
0 6 - 0 7
0 4- 0 5
' 0 6 - 0 7
'06
' 0 8 - 1 0
'10
' 0 9- 1 0
-
0 7 - 0 8
'08
07
-
-
i ^08
1 - ^09
1 lO
-
'09
' 0 7 - 0 8
1
1
t
1
i
i
1
I
I
1
I
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
I
1
t
i
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
I
I
1
-
08
-
-
-
08
08
-
-
-
'07
07
-
-
03
05
-
-
-
-
-
-
03
03
-
-
'02
-
-
_
-
'03
'04
_
'04
04
all 1
0 9 1
'09 1
'05 i
all !
0 5 1
0 9 1
09
0 9 1
0 7 1
all 1
'09 1
0 9 1
J 04 J
' 0 3 1
'07 1
'06 1
'07 1
all 1
all 1
all 1
all !
all 1
'09
'06 1
'08 1
all I
'04 t
all
all t
'09
all
-
'10
NA
09
' 0 7

USED CARS TO AVOID
T hese 2 0 0 2 to 2 0 11 models have records of below-average reliability.
T hey are U sted alphabetically by make and model.
Audi A3 '0 6, !!; A4
(4-cyl.) '0 2 -0 5, '0 9; A5/
S 5 '10 ; A6 (3 .0 T ) '10 ; A6
(V6) '0 4; 0 5 (V6) '0 9-11;
0 7 '0 7, '11; S 4 ^11; T T '0 8
BMW 13 5i ^ 0 8; 3 2 5i
(AWD ) '0 2 -0 5; 3 2 5i (R WD )
'0 2 -0 3 , ^ 0 5; 3 3 0 i (R WD )
'0 2 ; 3 3 5i (AWD ) '0 8-0 9;
3 3 5i (R WD ) '0 7-10 ; 5
S eries (6-cyl., nonturbo)
0 3 , '0 6, ^ 0 9, '11; 5 S eries
(V8) '0 2 -0 3 , '0 8, '11; 5
S eries (VI O ) '0 8; 53 5i
'0 8-11; 7 S eries '0 6-0 8;
X5 (6-cyl.) '0 2 -0 5, '0 7-0 9,
11; X5 (V8) '0 8; X5 3 5d
10 ; Z4 ^ 0 4
Buick C entury '0 2 ;
E nclave (AWD ) '0 8-0 9,
11; E nclave (FWD ) '0 8-
0 9;LaC rosse (AWD ) '10 ;
LaC rosse (FWD ) ^ 0 8, '11;
Lucerne, '11; R ainier '0 6;
R egal ^11; R endezvous
'0 2 -0 3 , '0 6; T erraza '0 5
Cadiliac C T S (V6, AWD )
0 8-0 9; C T S (V6, R WD )
0 5, ^ 0 9; C T S C oupe '11;
D eVille ^ 0 2 -0 4; D T S '0 6;
E scalade '0 5, '0 7-0 9;
S eville '0 2 -0 3 ; S R X (V6)
'0 4-0 8, '10 ; S R X (V8)
'0 4; S T S '0 5-0 9
Chevroiet Astro ^ 0 2 -0 3 ,
'0 5; Avalanche '0 4-0 8;
Aveo ^ 0 5, ^ 0 8-0 9; 8lazer
'0 2 -0 4; C maro '11;
C avalier ^ 0 5;. C obalt
0 6-0 8, I O ; C olorado '0 5,
0 7, ^ I I ; C orvette '0 2 , '0 9;
C ruze '11; E quinox
0 5-0 8; E xpress '0 2 ; HHR
0 6-0 8; I mpala '0 2 ,
0 4-0 8, '11; M alibu (4-cyl.)
0 5; M alibu (V6) '0 2 ,
0 7-0 8, ^11; M onte C arlo
'0 2 ; S -10 P ickup '0 2 ;
S ilverado 150 0 (V6,
2 WD ) ^ 0 6-0 7; S ilverado
150 0 (V8, 2 WD ) ^ 0 8-0 9;
S ilverado 150 0 (V8,
4WD ) '0 4-0 6, '0 9, ^11;
S ilverado 2 50 0 0 3 , ^ 0 5,
'11; S ilverado 2 50 0
(turbodiesel) '0 6, ^11;
S uburban ^ 0 4-0 5, ^ 0 7-0 9,
'11; T ahoe '0 7-0 8; T ahoe
Hybrid '0 8; T railB lazer
(6-cyl.) '0 5-0 9;
T railB lazer (V8) '0 4,
'0 6-0 8; T raverse ^ 0 9;
U plander; '0 5-0 8;
Venture '0 2 -0 5
Ciirysier 3 0 0 M '0 4;
C oncorde '0 4; P acifica
'0 4, '0 7-0 8; P T C ruiser
(nonturbo) '0 2 -0 8, '10 ;
P T C ruiser (turbo)
'0 3 -0 6; S ebring
C onvertible '0 4-0 6, '0 8;
S ebring S edan '0 2 -0 5,
'0 7; T own & C ountry
0 2 -0 9, '11; Voyager
0 2 -0 3
Dodqe Avenger ^ 0 8;
C aiiber '0 7; C aravan
0 2 -0 7; C harger ^ 0 7;
D akota (4WD ) '0 2 ,
'0 4-0 8; D urango '0 2 ;
G rand C aravan '0 2 -0 9,
11; I ntrepid '0 2 , ^ 0 4;
Journey '0 9-11; M agnum
0 6; N eon ^ 0 3 ; N itro '0 7;
R am 150 0 (2 WD ) '0 2 ;
R am 150 0 (4WD ) '0 2 -0 3 ,
'0 6,'10 -11; R am 2 50 0 ' 0 3 ;
R am 2 50 0 (turbodiesel)
'0 6-10 ; S tratus S edan
'0 2 -0 5
Ford C rown Victoria '10 ;
E dge '11; E scape (4-cyl.,
AWD ) '0 9; E scape (V6,
AWD ) '0 9-10 ; E scape (V6,
FWD ) '0 9; E xpedition ^ 0 7;
E xplorer (V6, 2 WD ) '0 2 ,
0 4, '0 6-0 7, ^11; E xplorer
(V6, 4WD ) '0 2 -0 4, '0 6,
11; E xplorer (V8) '0 2 -0 4,
'0 6-0 8; E xplorer S port
T rac '0 7; F-2 50 '10 -11;
F-2 50 (turbodiesel)
0 4-0 9; Fiesta '11; Flex
0 9; Flex (E coB oost)
10 -11; Focus '0 2 , '12 ; '
Freestar '0 4-0 5; R anger
(4WD ) '0 8; T aurus (AWD )
0 8, '10 ; T aurus S HO '10 ;
T hunderbird '0 2 -0 3 , '0 5;
T ransit C onnect '10 ;
Windstar '0 2 -0 3
GMC Acadia (AWD )
0 7-0 9; Acadia (FWD )
'0 7-10 ; C anyon ^ 0 5, '0 7,

U S E D C A R S T O A V O I D 187
'11; Envoy (6-cyi.) ' 05-09;
Envoy (V8) ' 04, ' 06-08;
S-15 Sonoma ' 02; Safari
' 02-03, ' 05; Savana ' 02;
Sierra 1 500 (V6, 2WD)
' 06-07; Sierra 1 500 (V8,
2WD) ' 08-09; Sierra
1 500 (V8, 4WD) ' 04-06,
' 09, '11; Sierra 2500 ' 03,
' 05, '11; Sierra 2500
(turbodiesel) ' 06, '11;
Yukon ' 07-08; Yukon
Hybrid ' 08; Yukon XL
' 04-05, ' 07-09, '11
Honda Civic Si '1 0;
Odyssey '11
Hummer H3 ' 06
Hyundai Accent ' 02;
Elantra ' 02; Entourage
' 07-08; Santa Fe (4-cyl.)
'11; Santa Fe (V6) '10-11;
Sonata (4-cyi.) ' 05;
Veracruz ' 08
I nfiniti G Convêrtible '1 0
Jaguar S-Type*'03;X F
' 09-1 0; XJ '11; X-Type ' 02
Jeep Commander ' 06,
' 08; Compass ' 07; G rand
Cherokee (6-cyi., V6)
' 02-06; G rand Cherokee
(V8) ' 02-05, ' 08, '1 0;
Liberty ' 02, ' 06-07, '1 0;
Patriot ' 07-08; Wrangler
(2-door) ' 06, ' 08, '1 0;
Wrangler (4-door) '07-1 0
Kia Forte '11; Optima ' 04;
Sedona '02-1 1 ; Sorento
(V6) ' 03-06, ' 08, '11
Land R over LR3 06
Lexus GS '1 0
Lincoin Aviator ' 03-05;
LS ' 03-04; MKS ' 09; MKT
'1 0; MKX '11; MKZ (FWD)
'11; Navigator ' 03, ' 06
Mazda 626 ' 02; B-Series
(4WD) ' 08; CX-7 ' 07; MPV
' 03; RX-8 ' 04-05; Tribute
(4-cyi., AWD) ' 09; Tribute
(V6, AWD) ' 09-1 0; Tribute
(V6, FWD) ' 09; Mazda5
' 06-07, ' 09
Mercedes-Benz C-Ciass
(AWD) '11; E-Class (AWD)
' 09-1 0; E-Class (RWD)
' 06; G L-Ciass ' 07-09, '11;
M-Class (V6) ' 02, ' 06-07,
' 09; R-Ciass ' 06; S-Class
' 04, ' 06-07, ' 09; SL ' 05
Mercury G rand Marquis
'1 0; Mariner (4-cyi., AWD)
' 09; Mariner (V6, AWD)
' 09-1 0; Mariner (V6,
FWD) ' 09; Monterey
' 04-05; Mountaineer
(V6, 2WD) ' 02, ' 04,
' 06-07; Mountaineer (V6,
4WD) ' 02-04, ' 06;
Mountaineer (V8)
' 02-04,' 06-08; Sable
(AWD) ' 08
Mini Cooper Clubman S
' 08-1 0; Convertibie
' 05-06, ' 09; Hatchback
' 04-06; Hatchback S ' 03,
' 05-09
Nissan 370Z ' 09-1 0;
Armada ' 04; Frontier
(2WD) ' 05; Frontier (4WD)
' 05, '11; Maxima ' 06; Path-
finder ' 05-06, '1 0; Ouest
' 04^08; Titan ' 04-06,
' 08; Xterra.' 05-06
Oidsmobiie Aiero 02;
Siihouette ' 02-04
Pontiac 8onneviiie ' 02,
' 05; G 6 Coupe &
Convertibie ' 06-07; G 6
Sedan ' 06; G 8 ' 09;
G rand Am ' 02-03; G rand
Prix ' 02-03; Montana
' 02-04; Montana SV6
' 05; Soistice ' 07; Sunfire
' 05; Torrent ' 06-08
Porsche 911 ' 06;
Cayenne '11; Cayman ' 07
S aab 9-3 ' 03, '1 0; 9-5
' 02-03, ' 05
S aturn Astra ' 08; Aura
' 07; Outiook ' 07-09;
Relay ' 05-07; Sky ' 07;
Vue (4-cyL) ' 08; Vue (V6)
' 02, ' 07-08
S mart ForTwo ' 08
S ubaru Impreza WRX/
STi ' 08; Legacy (4-cyl.)
' 02; Legacy (turbo)
' 05-06; Outback (turbo)
' 05-06
Toyota Sequoia '11;
Sienna (AWD) ' 07, '11;
Tacoma' (V6)' 1 1
V oikswaqen CC '1 1 ; Eos
' 07-08, '1 0; G Ti (4-cyl.)
' 07, ' 09; Jetta Sedan
(4-cyi.) ' 02, ' 05; Jetta
Sedan (5-cyl.) ' 06; Jetta
Sedan (turbo) ' 02-03;
Jetta Sedan (TDI) ' 02, '11;
New Beetle Convertible
' 04-07; New Beetie
Hatchback ' 02-03, ' 06; .
Passat (4-cyi.) ' 03-07,
'1 0; Passat (TDI) ' 05;
Passat (V6) ' 02-04,
' 06-07; Routa n ' 09-1 0;
Touareg ' 04
V oivo C30 '11; C70 ' 04;
S40 ' 02; V40 ' 02; XC90
(6-cyi.) ' 04-05, '1 0


DETAILED AUTO RELIABILITY
T
he charts on the following pages
give you a model's complete re-
liability picture for both its used
versions (2006 through 2011)
and the new one currently on
sale. These detailed reliability Ratings are
based on our 2011 Annual Car Reliability
Survey, for which we received responses
on 1.3 million vehicles.
The Annual Car Reliability Survey is sent
to subscribers of CONSUMER REPORTS and
ConsumerReports.org. Respondents report-
ed on any serious problems they had with
their vehicles in any of the trouble spots in-
cluded in the following charts, during the
previous 12 months. These were considered
serious because of cost, failure, safety, or
downtime. Because high-mileage vehicles
tend to have more problems than low-
mileage ohes, problem rates are standard-
ized to minimize differences related to mile-
age. The 2011 models were generally less
than six months old at the time of the sur-
vey and had been driven an average of about
3,000 miles. Models with insufficient data
are noted with a column of asterisks (*).
H o w to u s e the charts
MAJOR REDESIGNS
A model year in bo ld iden-
tifies the year the model
was introduced or under-
went a major redesign.
TROUBLE SPOTS
T o assess a used car in
more detaii, look at the
individuai R atings for
each of the 17 trouble spots.
T hey wiii pinpoint a model's
strengths and weaknesses.
R atings are based on the
percentage of survey
respondents who reported
problems for that trouble
spot, compared with the
average of all vehicles for
that year.
M odels that score a
are not necessarily unreli-
able, but they have a higher
problem rate than the
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine lUJo r
Engine Mino r
Engine Co o ling
Trans . Malo r
Trans . Mine r
Drtve Sys te m
Fu e l Sys te m
Ele ctrical
Climate Sys te m
Su s pe ns io n
Brake s
Exhau s t
Bo dyArm
Bo dy Inte grity
Bo dy H ardw are
Po w e r Equ ip.
Au dio Sys te m
USED OUI
VEMH CTS
NEWCU
PREOKTKM
06
1
3
2
1
2
3
5
4
4
5
6
1
3
6
8
7
4
pro ble m Rate s
07
I
2
1
1
2
2
4
3
3
4
5
1
2
(,
7
6
4
08
I
2
1
1
1
2
3
3
2
3
4
<1
2
5
6
6
4
09
1
1
1
,1
1
J
3
2
2
2
3
<1
2
5
5
5
5
10
<1
1
1
4
1
I
1
1
1
1
2
<1
1
3
4
3
4
11
<1
<1
<1
4
^
1
1
I
<1
1
,l
1
2
2
2
3
average model. S imiiarly,
modeis that score a are
not necessarily problem-
free, but they had relatively
few problems compared
with other models.
B ecause problem rates in
some trouble spots are very
iow, we do not assign a or
a unless the model's prob-
lem rate exceeds 3 percent.
I f a problem rate is beiow
2 percent, it will be assigned
a 6; beiow 1 percent, it will
be assigned a .
USED CAR VERDICTS
T o check the overall reli-
abiiity of a used car, look at
the U sed C ar Verdict. T his
R ating shows whether the
modei had more or fewer
problems overail than the
average model of that year.

AUT O R E L I A B I L I T Y 189
The verdict is calculated from
the total number of problems
reported by subscribers in all
trouble spots. Our calculations
give extra Veight to problems
with major engine and trans-
mission systems, the cooling
system, and the driye system
because they cah be serious
ahd expensive to repair.
NEW CAR PREDICTIONS
To determine the New Car
Predictioh, we averaged a
model's Used Car Verdict for
the most recent three years,
provided the vehicle did not
change significantly in that
time ahd wash't redesigned for
2011 or 2012. We have found
that several model years' data
are a better predictor than the
single most recent model year.
One or two years' data may
be used if the model was rede-
signed in 2011 or 2010, or if
there were insufficient data for
more years. Sometimes we in-
clude a prediction for a model
that is new or has been rede-
signed, provided its reliability
history or the manufacturer's
track record has been consis-
tently above average. "NA"
means there were insufficient
data for a prediction.
WHAT THE TROUBLE
SPOTS INCLUDE
Enqine, major: Engine
rebuild or replacement,
cylinder head, head gasket,
turbo or supercharger,
timing chain or timing belt.
Engine, minon Oil leaks, acces-
sory belts and pulleys, engine
mounts, engine knock or ping.
Engine, cooling: Radiator, cool-
ing fan, antifreeze leaks, water
pump, thermostat, overheating.
Transmission, major: Trans-
mission rebuild or replace-
ment, torque converter, pre-
mature clutch replacement.
Transmission, minor: Gear
selector or linkage, coolers and
lines, rough shifting, slipping
transmission, leaks, transmis-
sion computer, transmission
sensor or solenoid, clutch
adjustmeht, hydraulics (clutch
master or slave cylinder).
Drive system: Driveshaft or
axle, CV joint, wheel bearing(s),
differential, transfer case, 4WD/
AWD components, driveline
vibration, electrical failure.
Fuel system: Check engine
light, sensors (includes 02 or
oxygen sensor), emission con-
trol devices (includes EGR),
engine computer, fuel cap, fuel
gauge/sender, fuel injection
system, fuel pump, fuel leaks,
stalling or hesitation.
Electrical: Alternator, starter,
hybrid battery and related sys-
tems, regular battery, battery
cables, engine harness, coil,
ignition switch, electronic igni-
tion, distributor or rotor failure,
spark plugs and wires failure.
Climate system: Blower
(fan) motor, A/C compressor,
condenser, evaporator, heater
system, automatic climate
control, refrigerant leakage.
electrical failure.
Suspension: Shocks or struts,
ball joints, tie rods, wheel
bearings, alignment, steering
linkage (includes rack and
pinion), power steering, wheel
balance, springs or torsion
bars, bushings, electronic or
air suspehsioh.
Brakes: Premature wear,
pulsation or vibration, sgueak-
ing, master cylinder, calipers,
antilock brake system (ABS),
parking brake, brake failure.
Exhaust: Muffler, pipes,
catalytic converter, exhaust
manifold, leaks.
Paint/trim: Paint (fading, chalk-
ing, cracking, peeling), loose
exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Body Integrity: Squeaks or
rattles, seals, and/or weather
stripping, air or water leaks,
loose interior trim and mold-
ings, wind noise.
Body hardware: Windows,
locks and latches, tailgate,
hatch or trunk, doors or
sliding doors, mirrors, seat
controls, safety belts, sunroof,
convertible top, glass defect.
Power eguipment and acces-
sories: Cruise control, clock,
warning lights, body control
module, keyless entry, wiper
motor or washer, tire pressure
monitor, interior or exterior
light, horn, gauges, 12V power
plug, alarm or security system.
Audio system: Audio systems,
entertainment systems, naviga-
tion system, backup camera/
sensors, communication system.

TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E lectrical
C limate S ystem
S uspension
B rakes
E xhaust
P ai ntAri m
B ody I ntegrity
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
U S E D C AR
VE R D IC T S
TROUBLE
SPOTS
0 6'0 7'0 8'0 9'1 0 '1 1
O
e
eobeb
eoee
eoo
eee
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E lectrical
C limate S ystem
S uspension
B rakes
'E xiiaust
P aint/T rim
B ody I ntegrity
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
U S E D C AR
VE R D IC T S
O ee
eeeie
oooe
oooole
oee
' 0 6' 0 7' D 8' 0 9' 1 0 '1 1
e o *
o*
* *
o*
o*
ee*
em*
o
o*
e*
o*
o*
*ee
*e
oe
ee
e
Average O
0 6'0 7'0 8'0 9'1 0 '1 1
oeo
ooo
e
eee
eeeo
eoeee
eeee
eeoee
ee
ee|
B etter than
aver agee
0 6'0 7'0 8'O 9'1 0 '1 1
O

e
e
o
o
eo
o
eo
e
e|
feo
eoeeele
ooeo
o
eeoo
ooepe
Average O
ee
' 0 6' 0 7' 0 8' 0 9' 1 0 '1 1
e*
o
o
e
o
eo
ee
* *
e*
o*
NA
'a6'O 7'O 8'O 9'I O '1 1
ee
e
oolo
ee
e
o
p
O O

o
e
M uch better than
average
0 6'0 7'D 8'O 9't0 '1 1
epeelel
ee
e
e
e
o
oe
e
eep
0 0
Average O
AudiA5/S 5 I I AudiA6(V6) | | Audi Q5 (V6)
0 6' 0 7' 0 8' D 9' t0 '1 1
*
*
*
e
e
e
ee
o
Q
e
ob
Average O
0 6'0 7'0 8U 9'1 D ' I I
eoe*
ooo*

e*
o*
oeo*
a*
oee*
o*
*
ooo*
6 * *
D iscontinued
0 6'0 7'0 8'O 9"1 0 1 1
o
I
M uch worse than
average 4
e
e
e
e
oe
o

AUTO RELIABILITY 191
TROUBLE
SPOTS
BMW325, 328i
(6-cyl., RWD)
oooe
o
eeoeo
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body Integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
ooepieie
Better than
average
06'07'08'09')0 H
ee
b*
00
o
oee
o o
oo
see
{I*
Much worse than
average 0
Buick Enclave
(AWD)
'O6'D7'O8'09'1O '11
eo
p
o
o
e
00
o
oo
o
k
o
O
oo
ooo
0
OOP
|
Worse than
average 9
'06'07'08'09'l0 '11
O*
OO*
ea
o
o
*
*
oo*
o
o*
* *
*o
Average O
Buick LaCrosse
(FWD)
06'07'08'09'1O '11
o
o
lp
o
I
ooo
o
oo
O*
OO
O
O
ooop
Worse than
average

TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuei S ystem
E iectrical
C iimate S ystem
S uspension
B rakes
Exiuust
PaintArim
B ody integrity
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
U S E D C AR
VE R D iC T S
TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
Trans. Major
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E lectrical
C iimate S ystem
S uspension
B raiies
Exhaust
P ai ntAri m
B ody i ntegri ty
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
U S E D C AR
VE R D IC T S
0 6' 0 7' 0 8' 0 9' 1 0 '1 1
e^
epeo
o
e
o
o
eo
O
o
oe
eee
eeo
eoe
ooeoe
ooee
oee
oo
ee
ee
oppp
D iscontinued
C adillac S R X
(V6)
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11
*
*
e
o*
oeo*o
eoe*oe
e*p
OOO*
a *
a |ee*ê
o*a
*
ob*^
o
|*p
Worse than
average
' 0 6' 0 7' 0 8' 0 9' 1 0 1 1
e
Worse tiian
average
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 ' 1 1

ooeo*
e
e
ee
e*
tee*
o
ee
o*
eoe*
oooe *
oo|o*
o
toto
o^*

D iscontinued
e*
C adillac C T S
(V6, R WD )
06'07'08'09'I0 '11
O ole
o
ee
ea
a

oo
o
oo
o
e
olee
ooo
oe|e
ooo
o|bb
o
oe
Average o
C i i evroi et
Avalanciie
0 6 ' D 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 1 1
oo

o
o
kbb
o
eoo
ooe|e
o
o
oo
ee
pppop
o
ppeo
B etter than
aver agee
O
e
' O i ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11
*
*
*
oe
o
eo
o
e*
*
*
eo
o
a
eeelee*
oebb*
*
ee*
eppe*
o*
oo*
eee*
pe|o|o*
D iscontinued
C i i evroi et
Aveo
' 0 6' 0 7' 0 8' 0 9' 1 0 '1 1
0 0
*|bl*
e*
pe*
o*
o
oo*
o
o
op*

e
e*
D iscontinued
' 0 6' 0 7' 0 8' 0 9' 1 0 '1 1
*
*
*
*
*
M ucii worse than
average
a
e
0 0 *
ee*
p*
e
{*
o a a *
0 0 * *
obo**
e**
*

o
Average o
O
O
oe
O O

AUTO RE L I A B I L I T Y 193
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiinq
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t / Tr i m
Body i n t e q r i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 910 ' I t
I
e
oo
I
o
o

opee
oee
oeo
o^
o
o
po
Discontinued
Chevrolet
Colorado
O6 ' D r O8 ' O9' t D ' t l
o
o

e
po
e
o
o
oo
ee
oooop
Average O
Chevrolet
Corvette
06'07'08'0910'tt
o|to
!
Chevrolet
Cruze (1.4T)
o
Ob
eo
ooo
e^
a
o
o
e
o
Average O
Much worse than
average #
Chevrolet
Equinox (V6)
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' D 9 1 O ' I t
elee
o
e

000
o
e
oo
e
OO
o
e
OO
o
ppooo
Average O
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Enqine, minor
Enqine Cooiinq
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t / Tr i m
Body I n t e qr i t y
Body Hardware
Power Eguip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
o
{
op
oel *
*
t opo*
*
*
*
oo*
*
I
00
ppop*
Dispntinued
' 0 6 ' D 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' t O

o op
eee
eee
o
ooo
ooo
eoo
OO
OO
oop
Average O
I Chevrolet Malibu 11 Chevrolet Maiibu I
I Sedan (4-cyl.) M Sedan (V6)
0 6 ' 0 7 ' O B ' 0 9 1 0 ' t t
o
o

ee
eee
o
o
ee
o
OO
ooo
oe
OO
oopo
ooooe
eo
oppop
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 1 l
eee

o
eee
OO
o
bp
o
00
ooo
o

o
oeooe
oppo
Discontinued
Chevrolet
Silverado 1500
(V8 ,4WD )
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11
eoeo
e

e
p
e
o
OO

ooôo
ooo
oo
ooo
Worse than
average

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exiiaust
Pai ntAri m
Body I ntegrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
Chevroiet
Suburban
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' i O 'li
06
o|
oo
88
06
OO|
OO
O8OO
a
ooooo
oo
Average o
D 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 'Ii
O
o
oooo
o
o
oo
ao
o
oa
ooa
OOO
oo
oooooo
o!||opb
Average o
Ciievroiet
TrailBlazer
(6-cyi.)
'O6'OT'08'09'10 '11
|e
o
a aa
O
obo
o
o Pa
e
o
oo
a
oo
pp
Discontinuel
Chevrolet
Traverse (AWD)
'06'07'08'09'iD 'ii
O
Chevrolet yolt
O
a
o

8
o
8OO
ao
00
o
pp
Average o
Much better than
average
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body I ntegrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
Chrysler 300
(V6)
'06'07'08'09'10 11
O
O
O
a*
oo

oo
o*
oo*
OOO*
oop!o*
NA
Chrysler PT
Cruiser
(non-turbo)
'06'07'D8'09'10 'ii
O8*
8 *
O*
b*
*

o*
o*
o*
o*
{
a
O O O *
oo*
oo*
O O O *
aaa*
*
Discontinued
Chrysler
Sebring/200
'06'07'08'09'10 '11
o*
o
oo*
O *
O *
O O *
O
O
O *

O O *
oo*
o^***
*
* * *
* o
Much better than
average
Dodge Caliber Chrysler Town
& Country
'06'07'08'D9'1D H 'O6'D7'O8'D9'1D '11
o
oo
ee
op
ao
ol
ooaa
o
O
pb
oooooo
!
Much worse than
average

O
o
a
meee*
o
o
o*
oppo*
*
*
Better than
average

A U T O R E L I A B I L I T Y 195
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Dodge
Challenger
' D 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9' 10 '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t A r i m
Body i n t e g r i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
e
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
p*
*
Ob*
o
eo*
eo*
*|ep*
Better than
averagee
Dodge Charger
' D 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' D 9 ' 1 D H
e
e
ee
a
o
OO
e*
o*
e*
kpo*
o*
Pleo*
ooo*
o
o| b p*
N A
o*
' 0 6 ' D 7 ' 0 8 ' D 9 ' 1 0
O
oee*
e
o
a|
|
o
|e*
{
a
o*
o
ee
OO*
Discontinued
0 6 ' 0 7 ; 0 8 ' 0 910 11
e
o
o*
o*
al*
o
op*
o*
op**
OO*
o*
OO*
Better than
average e
Dodge Grand
Caravan
'06'07'08'0910
o e
0 0
oo|e
b
aoele
o
pp
o
{o
e
o
ooooo
o|
Much worse than
average
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Dodge Journey
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' D 9' 1D H
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t / Tr i m
Body I nt e gr i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
e
o
olep
o
o
oe
o
o
o
|
Worse than
a v e r a g e
Dodge Ram
1500 (2WD)
Dodge Ram
1500 (4WD)
0 6 ' 0 7 ' D 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11 ' 0 6 ' 0 7 - 0 8 ' D 9 1 0 1 1
e
ee
e
e
oo
ee
e
e
eoo
OO
eoe
oe
a
o
o
epaaa
p
o
a
opppep
Better than
average a
O
ao
o
e
o
e
oaoa
ooo
o
a
eeae
ooo
OO
o
OO
oooa
aaoao
aoo
oooe
opo|
Worse than
average Q
Ford Edge
(AWD)
Ford Escape
(V6, AWD)
'D6'D7'08'D9'ID 11 '06'07'08'D9'1D 11
oee
e
eoeo
ao
oa
oooe
aaooo
aoo
oopo
Much worse than
average 9
o
o
oao|a
eo
oe
OO
OO
o
OO
ao
o
eoe
eoee
a
oe
oeeeee
ooopi
Discontinued
eoo
eaa

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body I ntegrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Ford Escape
Hybrid (AWD)
'06'07'08'09'10 '11
O
OOO
0|
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brai(es
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body i ntegri ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
oo
00
o
*
*
*
*
*
*
poo*
oopo*
Discontinued
Ford F-150
(y8, 4WD)
06'07'08'09'10 '11
0 0
oo
o
o
eo

oo
o
oooo
ooo
oo
o
o
oooooo
Average O
Ford
Expedition
'06'07'08'09'10'1t
o
opo
O
O
O
O

eo
e

oo
00

o
o
o
oo
opop
Average O
Worse than
average
06'07'08'09'I0 11
O
O
O
O
OO
o
oo|o
oeoeo
ooeoe
opp
Worse than
average
'06'07'08'09'10 '11

O
o
o
oe
o b
Average O
O
Ford Explorer
Sport Trac
06'D7'08'09'10 '11

o*
*
*
*o
o*
*
*o
*
p*
*
o*
*
oo*p
*0
p*p
Discontinued
* O
Ford F-150
(y8, 2WD)
06'07'08'09'10 '11
o
o
e
o|
eooop
ooee
o
eeee
opoo
Better than
average e
e
Ford Freestyle,
Taurus X
'06'07'08'Q9'10 '11 '06'07'08'09'10
O
oee:
oo
ee
I
|p{e
eo
Discontinued
O
O
e
o^
o
eoeo
O
!
oo
o
00
ee
opo
O
OO

AUTO R E L I A B I L I T Y 197
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Ford Fusion
(4-cyi.)
' 06' 07' 08' 09' 10' 11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai nt Ari m
Body i ntegri ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
eeole
e
ee
a
o
ee
eeeoe
ee
eeele
eeeeee
o
oo
Better than
average a
Ford Fusion
(V6, FWD)
06' 07' 08' 09' 10 '11
o
ooaaa
ee
eeelee
o
e
oe
aaa
eeo
oeo
e|a
Better than
average
Ford Mustang
(V6)
'O6'D7'O8'O9'1D '11
OOO
a'
ee
oe
e
o
o|e
aoa
oo
ob
a
eo
obee
oo
oeeo
oo
app|epp
Average O
Ford Mustanq
(V8)
' 06' 07' 08' 09' 10 '11
*
*
*
o*
*
*
*
*
e*
o
o

o
o
o
o
o
eo
eo*
o*
e
Average O
Ford Ranger
(4WD)
' 06' D7' 08' 09' 10 '11
* *
ee*
e*
o
*
*
eoo*e*
abb*b*
*
ob
eo*
o*
oo*
* e *
o*
a*
* a *
o*
o*
Discontinued
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Ford Taurus
Sedan (FWD)
' 06' Q7' 08' 09' 10 '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
O
O
oo
op
oo
eo
o
otope
aaoobia
oao
oaaoPie
op|o|epb
Average o
GMC Acadia
(AWD)
' 06' 07' 08' 09' l 0 ' II
oe
o
o
oo
e
oo
e

o
oee
00
ap
o
oe
Worse than
average
GMC Canyon
' 06' 07' 08' 09' 10 '11
e
oee
aa
o
e

a
oa
a
ee
opopp
Average O
GMC Sierra 1500
(V8, 2WD)
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11
Op
O
a
apo

o
oe
oo
eee
oe
ooola
oeooo
ko
e
optopee
ooaoa
op||p|e
Average o
GMC Terrai n
(4-cvl.)
e
OO
OO
oe
oo
Average o

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Enqine, major
Enqine, minor
Enqine Cooiinq
Tr ans. Major
Tr ans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Ei ect r l cal
Cl i mat e System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t A r i m
Body i n t e q r i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Enqine, major
Enqine, minor
Enqine Cooiinq
Tr ans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Ei ect r i cai
Ci i mat e System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t A r i m
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
Honda Accor d
Sedan (4-c y l . )
Honda Accor d
Se d a n (V 6)
0 6' 0 7 ' Oa ' D 9 ' 1 D ' 1 1
eiepeep
a
Better than
average

AUTO REL i ABI L i T Y 199
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
OO
aaaala
Honda insight
'D6'D7'08'D910 'II
Better than
average

OO
o
' D 6 ' D 7 ' D 8 ' D 9 ' 1 D H

a
aoo
o
a
oool
a
p
oo
oo ppp
oob o
a
oalaaao
b b
Worse than
average
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11 ' O 6 ' D 7 ' D 8 ' D 9 ' t D '11
po
a
a
o
eeeeo
e
|||p
8O
Better than
average
o
aoo
a
eeeee
o
ao o
eeeeem
bbbb
o
ap
Better than
average a
pa
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body Integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
Hyundai Azera
'06'07'D8'0910'fi
I *
o
*
*
*
*
labo*
o I I*
OO8*
oap*
*
o|pp*
*
o|ab*
*
o
o*
aao
oa ^ *
I
o
a
a8O*
*
00*
ooa*
880*
b b
10 'II
* *
Hyundai
Elantra Sedan
Hyundai Genesis
Sedan(y6)
Hyundai Santa
Fe (4-cyl.)
'D6'07'08'D9'1D H 'D6'D7'08'091D 'It 'D6'D7'08'09TO 11
o
o
oa
aa
aoa
oa
O
o
OO
oaaa
aaaoao
oaaaao
o
oaao
o
Average O
O
OO
ao
ooa

b |
Average O
O
oa
ee
ee
o
oa
o
o
Average O

2 0 0 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y i N G G U i D E 2 0 1 3
TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngi ne, major
E ngi ne, mi nor
E ngi ne C ooi i ng
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M i nor
D ri ve S ystem
Fuei S ystem
E i ectri cai
C i i mate S ystem
S uspensi on
B rakes
E xhaust
P ai nt/T ri m
B ody i ntegri ty
B ody Hardware
P ower E gui p.
Audi o S ystem
USED CAR
VE R D i aS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngi ne, major
E ngi ne, mi nor
E ngi ne C ooli ng
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M i nor
D ri ve S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E lectri cai
C i i mate S ystem
S uspensi on
B rakes
E xhaust
P ai nt/T ri m
B ody i ntegri ty
B ody Hardware
P ower E qui p.
Audi o S ystem
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
Hyundai S anta
Fe (V6)
*06'07*08'09T 0 '11
oao
a
oaoaa
aoe
aoe
e|a
o
ee
oa
eee
a||
o
o
ee
e
ooe
oooole
e
O O
aa
aaoa
oeoo
oa
Wor$e than
average
ee
a
ee
o
ee
o e blala
oooee
o
oe
eoae:
o
Hyundai
S onata (4-cyi .)
'06'07'08'09'10 t l
a
aa
ao
eoee
a
e
ee
o|e
ae
o
a
bpeoo
oooeo
e|aoao
eepp
Average O
i nf i ni t i G
S edan (AWD )
'D 6'07'08'D 9'1D
o
a O le
e
e
ee
a
e
oee
ea
olepp
o
oala lei o
eee|ep
B etter than
average e
06'07*08*0910 *11
a
a
O O
o
a
a
O O
oe
ee
00
oo
ooo
a
o
ae
e
ao
O O
ooeoa
o|ep|apb
Average O
i nfi ni ti G
S edan (R WD )
' 0 6 ' D 7 * 0 8 ' 0 9 * 1 0
ee
ee
o
o
a
oaa
a
a
oa
oee
aaoee
oeeeeo
o
ep|e
B etter than
avrai
O

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Jeep Grand
Cherokee
(6-cyl., y6)
' 06 ' 07 ' 08 ' 09 10Tt
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t / Tr i m
Body I nt e gr i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
o
I
I
ooeee

O
000
o
o
l

p
o
Average o
Jeep Grand
Cherokee(y8)
'06'07'08'0910 H
O
o
o
oo
o
o
o
oooo^
oppopp
Average O
oo
Jeep Liberty
'06'07'08'0910 '11
*
O
O
o

o
o*
{ *
*
pppo*
*
!*
o*
o*
*
0000*
pppp*
Average o
Jeep Patriot
' 06 ' 07 ' 08 ' 09 ' 1D '11
o
o
p
oo
I

o

o*
ooo*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
o*
*
*
ppo*
Average o
Jeep Wrangler
(4-door)
06 ' D7 ' 08 ' D9 ' 10' 11
o
o

o

^
oe

p
oooo
o
oooo
PPI
Average O
TROUBLE
SPOTS
op|pp|
Better than
average
06 ' 07 ' 08 ' D9 ' 1D' 11
PP
O
^ppp
I
Pll
!
I

o
ppp
Worse than
average
Kia Sorento
(V6)
06 ' 07 ' 08 ' 09 ' t O 11
opo*
*
o*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
o*
I*
o*
ep*
op
Worse than
average
10
O
O
o
ob
Average o

TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
Drive S ystem
Fuei System
Eiectricai
C iimate S ystem
S uspension
B rakes
Exhaust
PaintArim
B ody i ntegri ty
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
USED CAR
VERDICTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
.T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E iectricai
C iimate S ystem
S uspension
Brakes
Exhaust
P ai ntAri m
B ody i ntegri ty
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
USED CAR
VERDICTS
KiaS portage 1 1 Lexus C T 200h
oieiepee
oo
o|eoeb
B etter than
average
oo
eee
M uch better than
average
B etter than
average a
' O 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' I 0 '11
o
oo
o
a*
*
*
e *
a*
oo*

eo
o*
e *
*
o*
e oe ^*
aooo*
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 '11
e*
*
OOO*
e pp*
p*
*
o
ooa*
e e
ko*
e *
M uch better than
average
e*
a*
*
a||*
e
ooe*
ae
*
aeo*|e
*|e
o
oo
oo*o
eb|e*|eb
Better than
average e
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 ' 1 1
e
a
aoo
e e
oae
oo
o o ele lele
eeeeeo
e oe e e o
e ooe oo
ee
S etter than
average a

A U T O R E L i A B i L i T Y 2 0 3
TROUBLE
SPOTS
' 06' 07' 08' 0910 ' It
Engine, major
Enqine, minor
Enqine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body Integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System

ee
ee
e
o
ee
o
OO
I
Better than
average
Lincoin Town
Car
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0
a
e*
6*
aa
o
a*
o
oieoe*
o*
oooo*
o
eooe*
Discontinued
Llncolit MKS
(non-turbo)
to ' tl
*
*
o
*
*
a
a*
a
o
*
p *
Average O
Mazda B-Series
(2WD)
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 ' 1 l
a
O
o
o
a
e
opo
o
ab
o
apo
eo|
a
a
a
Discontinued
Lincoln MKX
(AWD)
06' 07' 08' 0910 11
oa

to
o
ee
toto
op
e
o
o
p
oebbb
o
o
bpppP
Worse than
average
Lincoin MKZ,
Zephyr (FWD)
06'07'08'D9'tD ' tl
a
o
o
p
o
oôa
aaa
a
Opa
ooaoala
e
ooooab
abh|a||
Better than
average
Better than
average
Better than
average
Lincoln
Navi gator
06' 07' 08' D910 ' tl
o
o
top

o*
o*
eoe*

o*
OO*
o*
*
*
a*
*
o*
*
*
o*
Average o
Mazda MX-5
Mi ata
' 06' 07' Da' 0910 '11
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
a
a
e
p o
e
aoa
o *
blee *
a*
Much better than
average
oa*
o*

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t Ar i m
Body I nt egr i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' D 8 ' 0 9 1 0 ' I I
O
eee
a
a
o
a
I
o
aap
oa
o|
eee
Much better than
average
' 0 6 ' D 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 11
a
a
a
o
oa
e
oao
o ob
o
pp
a
ao
o
oao
aao
888l
lb@
Better than
average
' D 6 ' D 7 ' D 8 ' D 9 ' I D 'It
ao
aaa
00
o
oa
a
oao
oao
oo
aopi*
a*
a*
M ercedes-Benz
C-Class (RWD)
' 0 6 ' D 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 '11

O
O
o

aola
o
o
aao
oo
oa
oa
oooo
00^
oo
b ! |
Average O
*
*
*
*
o*
*
*
pl*
k o*
*
okp*
*
P*
o
ooa*
Discontinued
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t Ar i m
Body i nt egr i t y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
M ercedes-Benz
E-Class (RWD)
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' D 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0
O
p
8
a

oa
aaa
O O O
oao
a
o
oo
AverageO
M ercedes-
Benz GL-Class
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' D 8 ' 0 9 1 0 '11
o
o
ao
oo

00^0
O8O

000
aao
!
! !
Worse than
average
M ercedes-
Benz GLK
M ercedes-B enz
M-Class (y6)
a
a
8
a
00
o
ob
Average O
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 '11 ' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' D 8 ' D 9 ' 1 D '11

ee
o
o
oaao
oa
oo
ao

ao
o

a
8
a
ppa
O
a
oppo
N ew
M ercedes-
Benz S-Class
' D 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 D '11
* *

kkb*
o
o
o

!
o

a
ooa
o*
o*
o*
o*
o*
a
a*
ppp
Worse than
average d

A U T O R E L i A B i L l T Y 205
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Tr ans. Major
Tr ans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Ele c t r ic a l
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa in t / Tr im
Body I n t e g r it y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
M e r c u r y Grand
Ma r q u is
'06'D 7'08'09't 0*t1
) *
| e *
) *
) O*
e
I
M e r c u r y
M o u n t a in e e r (V 8)
e o
OO
e ie a
a
a
oe o
o
*
p*
*
*
*
*
e pbbp*
oooo
oo o*
e e *
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Tr a n s . Major
Tr ans. Minor
Drive Syst em
Fuei System
Eie c t r ic a i
Climat e System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa in t / Tr im
Body I n t e g r it y
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
oppp*
Ave rage O
Nissan 350Z,
370Z
06'07'08'D 91D *lt
*
*
o
o
o
a
o
e
e
*
*
*
o*
o| o*
ok
*
*
*
b*
*
opo | *
Much worse than
ave rage
'06'07
e e
* @
e * b
OO*
aoo*
*
o* b
oe e *
o
oaa* a
e oo* b
e
oe
OO
o
p* | e
*
op* a
oe o*
o
| * p
Discontinue d
Nissan Ait im a
(4-c y i. )
0 6 ' D 7 * 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0
O
ee
o
op
eee
oeee
oe
o
eppppp
eao
eopie
e
eaoaala
Be tte r than
ave rage e
Mini Cooper
H a t c h ba c k
'D6'D7'08'09'1D '11
O
oe
ae a
aae | e
o| o
ola
e
OO
o
OO
o
ooe
e o
oppo
00
oe ob
Av e r a g e O
Nissan Ait im a
(V 6)
*06'07'08'09'1011
e e
oe
e e
a
ooe
oe e
e
e
oe oe bl
ooo
e oopb
e oo
aobe | e o
Be tte r than
OO
Mini Cooper
H a t c h ba c k S
O 6 ' D 7 ' D 8 ' D 9 ' 1 O '11
I
ao
oeeel
aooa
ee
o
o
OO
o
op
top
eoo
oo|eo
eo
OO
Worse than
ave rage
06*D7*08'D9'10'11
*
*
e *
*
*
I*
e p*
*
*
*
*
| e *
o*
OO*
o*
*
op*
Be tte r than
ave rage a
a
Mit s u bis h i
Ou t ia n d e r
'06'07'D 8*09*10'11
* a
*
* e
*
* l
*
* | e
*
*
p
* aob
*
* l b
* e e e
* e p
* e
oe oa*
o
*
*
*
*
o*
e *
*
*
*
e *
e *
*
Be tte r than
ave rage e
Nissan
F r o n t ie r (4WD )
*06*07*08'09*10 11
OO
OO
e
I I
o
o o
ooe
e e
ooo
o
appplap
ae e e e
ooppbl
a
Av e r a g e O
e
e

TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E iectricai
C iimate S ystem
S uspension
B rakes
E xhaust
P ai ntAri m
B ody I ntegrity
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip.
Audio S ystem
USED CAR
VE R D IC TS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
E ngine, major
E ngine, minor
E ngine C ooling
T rans. M ajor
T rans. M inor
D rive S ystem
Fuel S ystem
E iectricai
C limate S ystem
S uspension
Brakes
Exhaust
P ai ntAri m
B ody I ntegrity
B ody Hardware
P ower E quip,
Audio S ystem
N issan
P athfi nder
Average O
' 0 6' 0 7' 0 8' D 9' 1 0 '11

o
k

*
*
o*
*
*
*
o*
NA
Nissan Rogue 1 1 Nissan Sentra 1 1 Nissan Titan 1 1 Nissan Versa 1 1 Nissan Xterra
0 6' 0 7' D S ' 0 91 0 '11
O
o
o
o
I i
o

oo
obbo
o
o
ee
B etter than
average
06'07'08'0910 '11
oo
o
ooo
e
oop
ooo
oooo
bkbbk
o
oooop
B etter than
average
0 6'0 7'0 8'0 9'1 0 '11
O '
o
o*
o*
*
e
pp*
*
*

oo*

o*

o
p*
o
ob*
o*
*
o*
*
M uch better than
average
'06'07'08'0910
O
oo
e
o o
o
op
'06'07'08'0910 '11
O
o
oe
o
ob
o
o
opo
o
ooo
ooo
p
B etter than
aven
O

TROUBLE
SPOTS
' D 6 ' D 7' 08 ' 09 1 0 '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pa i n t A r i m
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
eo
oee
ee
ae
oeo
o
ooa
ob
o
o
eeeoo
e
Discontinued
' 06 ' 07' 08 ' 09 ' I D '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Ciimate System
Suspension
Braites
Exhaust
Pa i n t A r i m
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
o
o
ee
00
o
o ele
eo
e
o
OOO
ooe
o
oo
oo
Discontinued
' 06 ' 07' 08 ' 09 1 D '11

*
*
O *
*
*
*
*
o*
o*
Saturn Vue
(V6)
'06'07'08'09'10
a
a
o
oee
oe
aooe
o
ooê
e
oe
oo
eoo
eoo
eo
oa
Discontinued
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' I 0 '11
O'
o
o
o*
* *
* *
* *
* *
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 D ' n
e
o*
eee*
eo
aap*
oe
* *
o
*

ee
OOO**
N A
a*
* *
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 'II
O
O
O
o
Much worse t han
a v e r a g e
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 0 '11
I
e
ee
o
e
ooa
oe
ooep
eeee
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 11
*
*
*
O
ee
oa
o

o
e
*
*
*
o p *
e b *
*
*
o*
Much better than
average
Average O
'06'07'08'09'10 '11
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
ee
e
e
*
*
*
a *
*
*
*
*
> *
Much better than
average

2 0 8 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y i N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
TROUBLE
SPOTS
' 06' 07' 08' 0910
Enqine, major
Enqine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body Integri ty
Body Hardware
Power Eguip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDiCTS
O
*
*
*
o*
o *
a*
o *
Average o
*
*
*
*
*
*
e
Subaru B9
Tribeca, Triheca
06'07'D8'09'10'1t
O
a
o
o
00*
OO*
ao
OO
a
o
oope*
oo*
bb
e*
o|po*
*
*
*
abpp**
Average o
e*
Subaru Forester
(non-turbo)
06'07'08'09'10 11
ola
ee
o
e
oa
eee
ee
b
a
opp o Ola
eee
ee
p|||p
Much better than
averaqe
Subaru Impreza
(non-turbo)
06'07'D8'09'1D'11
a
a
o
ao
a
a
eôoa
a
oaa
oa
abp|a
Better than
average a
a
oa
Subaru Impreza
WRX/STi
06'07'08'09'tD1t
o
O
a
op
o
oao
ee
aao
o
o
OOO
ab ab
a
to
b
ppe
Average O
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Subaru Legacy
(4-cyi.)
06'07'0a'09'1O 'tt
Enqine, major
Enqine, minor
Enqine Cooiinq
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body Integri ty
Body Hardware
Power Eguip.
Audio System
eo
a
o
o
o
able
o
aaoo
oaaoa
abaaap
b
o
e
abaa
a
p
eeeb
ae
p
Better than
average
Subaru Legacy
(6-cyi.
06'07'08'0910 1t
O
ee
a
aop
e|eeb
e
ob oop
aa
ooaaop
eêooe
aaoo
Subaru Outback
(4-cyl.)
Average o
oa||b
Better than
averaqe a
Toyota
4Runner(V6)
'O6'D7'08'D91O 'tt
ao
a
OO
ee
eieee
eee
opoaa
Much better than
average
a
a|
o
o

A U T O R E L i A B i L i T Y 209
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Toyota Avalon
'D6'D7'D8'09'10 11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
PaintArim
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Eguip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
a
eee
ooooo
OOO
oooo
ppoo
AverageO
Toyota Coroila
a
a
eeee
'D6'D7'O8'O9'IO '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
Pia
o
o
ao
o
appaao
eee
eee
eee
b
o
000
Better than
average
Toyota Camry
(4-cyl.)
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 1 D 'li
O
OOO
a
oooa
o
aa
aoa
eeeeeo
eeeee
ee
eee
Better tha_n
averat
Toyota FJ
Cruiser
'06'07'08'D9'1D '11
*P
*
*
*
*
*
*
a *
I*
*
Pl*l
* *
o*
o*
o*
o*
o*
Average O
Toyota Camry
(V6)
' 06' D7' D8' 0910 '11
aoap
a
a
a
ee
e
ao
a
p
aoabla
aooo
oop
aao
00
bbo
|b
N ew
' 0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' l 0 11
Toyota Carary
Hybrid
' 06' 07' D8' 0910 '11
O
a
oaaa
oppp o
a
P
oplaoa
jab
Better than
average 8
ee
' 06' 07' 08' 09' ID '11

a
o
a|a
abb o
o
o
a
p
b
Better than
average
Toyota Camry
Solara
' 06' 07' 08' 09' ID '11
a
a
a
ee
opp
b
a
aap
Discontinued
'06'D7'08'09'1D I t
O
a
Plaal*
aao
a*
*
*
*
opo|a*
oao*
eeee*
bba
oa*
Better than
average a

T R O U B L E
S P O T S
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. M inor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Paint/Trim
Body Integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
' 06' 07*08' 0910 *11
o
O O
ooe
o
o
oe
ee
ee
ee
Much better than
average
T oyota R AV4
(4-cvi.)
' 06' 07' 08' 09' 10 '11
ooe
o
o
o
ooe
feee
eee
b
ea
Much better than
averae
T oyota R AV4
(V6)
' 06' 07' 08' 09' 10 '11
o
e
eoe
ooe
O O
O O
o
ooolaa
e
e
e
ee
ee
ooe
Much better than
average
*06*07'0a'09'10 '11
e
oe
o
e
eee
o
eoo
o|e a
Average O
o
ep
o
e
T oyota S ienna
(AWD )
'06'07'08'09'10 'ti
o
ee
eeee
oo
o
ooaoa
eoe
ooeee
o
eo
e
o
poo
oe
obo|a
Worse than
average
O
T R O U B L E
S P O T S
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
B rakes
E xiiaust
Pai ntAri m
B ody i ntegri ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
T oyota S ienna
(FWD )
* 0 6 * 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 1 0 11
oa
o
o
ooe
OO
o
oooee
opp
OO
a
ee
aaaaoo
A v e r a g e
0 6 ' 0 7 * 0 8 ' 0 9 * 1 0 ' 1 1
ee*
ee*
oo*
eo*
e|*
*
*
ee*
ee*
e*
eo*
a*
a*
eo*
ao*
ae
a
o
a
o
aa* oo
Better than
average a
T oyota T acoma
V6, 4WD )
'06*07*08*09'10'11
e
ob
ooa
ao
eeo
ee
O '
e
eeeele
eeee
eooo:
eeo
b
eeb'
eo|
Average O
T oyota T undra
(V8, 2 WD )
*06'07'08*09'10
o
eee*e
eoo*
o|e*
*
eiee*
eep*
*
oo*e
ee
e
eo
*|ep
*
oe*e
Better than
average e
O
T oyota T undra
0 / 8, 4WD )
* 0 6 ' 0 7 * 0 8 * D 9 * 1 0 '11
OOO
ao
o
a
a
eoe
a
o
eoeeo
o
Better than
avrai
aoao
a

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Toyota Venza
(V6)
' 0 6' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' 10 '11
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAr i m
Body i ntegr i ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuel System
Electrical
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai nt/ Tr i m
Body Integr i ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
O
ol
oe
o
o
Better than
average
Toyota Yaris
Hatchback
'D6'O7'O8'D9'1D '11
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
eo
e
o
oo
*
*
o *
o*
Better than
average
Vol k s wag en CC
'06'07'D8'09'10 '11
Vol k s wag en
Eos
oop
Worse than
average
o
'06'07'08'09
P
p
o

o
10 '11
*
*
*
*
O

p
*
*
*
po*
*
O*
*
o*
bp*
Worse than
average
Voliiswagen I Volkswagen Jettal I Volkswagen M Volkswagen
Goif, Rabbit 11 Sedan (5-cyl.) 11 Jetta Sedan TDI 11 Jetta Wagon TDI
0 6 ' 0 7 ' 0 8 ' 0 9 ' r a '11
*
O
00

ob
e
eoo
o
o
o
Better than
average
'06'D7'08'0910 H '06'07'08'O9'10 H
OO
o
oo
o
o
ooo

ooo|
o
oo
o
opop
Average O

e
e
o

o

oo
o o|
Worse than
average
O
ooe
oo
00
oe
o ob
Average O
Volkswagen
GTI (4-cyl.)
06'07'08'0910 'It
O
o
*|e
*
*eee
*k
*
*
*b
*
*
*peto
*oo
eo
*oo
Average O
Volkswagen
Passat (4-cyl.)
'06'07'08'0910

O

a

oop
ooo
oe
o
O
New

TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooling
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Climate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body i ntegri ty
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
USED CAR
VERDICTS
Volkswagen
Roiitan
10 '11
*
*
*
O l a*
b *
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
P *
! *
M u c h w o r s e t h a n
a v e r a g e
Vol!<swagen
Tiguan
'06'07'08'09'10 I t
o
o
o
a
oea
oo
eoo
oo
OOO
000
Average
I'09'IO '11
*
*
*
*
la*
o
ap*
a
*
*
*
ab *
b *
Average O
*
* *
'06'07'D8'0910 '11
*
*
*
*
*
*
ee* *
oo*

oo*
o*
* e
o
Better than
average a
a
e
06'07'08'09'10 '11
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
O
o
oo*
e*
pe*
ee
oao*
o*
oao*
Discontinued
TROUBLE
SPOTS
Engine, major
Engine, minor
Engine Cooiing
Trans. Major
Trans. Minor
Drive System
Fuei System
Eiectricai
Ciimate System
Suspension
Brakes
Exhaust
Pai ntAri m
Body integrity
Body Hardware
Power Equip.
Audio System
Voivo S80
(6-cyi.)
'06'07'08'0910
O
ala
o
o
oo
Average o
Voivo XC70
(Cross Country)
'06'07'08'09'10
o
eêe
oooe
oo
*
*
ppa*
oeao^*
eeoo*
aaoo*
bb
eooe*
O *
ab*
*
Average O
Voivo XC90
(6-cyi.)
'06'07'08'0910'lt
a
e*b*
1
o

e
* e *
**
0*0*
oe*o*
0*0*
o * ^*
ob**
Worse than
average
* 0 *
* e *
* O *


T i R ES 213
Quick
Guide
TIRES
Tires have a direct impact on your car's handling, braking,
ride, comfort qualities, and fuei economy. More important,
the cornering grip, braking distances, and resistance to
hydroplaning affect your safety on the road.
Shopping tip
Remember that if you
buy your tires online,
you may have to pay
for shipping, and also
pay for mounting and
balancing when the
mail-order tires arrive.
ConsumerReports.org/tires
Types and features
All-seasonThese are the
tires that come standard
on many cars, minivans,
and SUVs.
Best for: Year-round
traction, long tread life,
and a comfortable ride.
But they typically lack the
precise handling and grip
of performance tires.
Speed ratings: None, S
(112 mph), T (118 mph).
Tread-wear warranty:
None or 40,000 to 100,000
miles.
Performance all-season
These come standard on
newer cars.
Best for: Improved han-
dling and grip over all-
season tires on wet and
dry pavement. But they
often have shorter tread
wear than many all-season
tires.
Speed ratings: H (130
mph), V (149 mph).
None or 40,000 to 70,000
miles.
Ultra-high performance
all-seasonFound on
sports cars, sports sedans,
and some lower-priced
sporty models.
Best for: Wet and dry
braking and handling. But
they trade ultimate warm-
weather grip for passable
winter performance.
Speed ratings: Z (more
than 149 mph), W (168 mph),
Y (186 mph).
None or 30,000 to 40,000
miles.
Ultra-high performance
summerFound mostly
on high-performance sports
cars and sports sedans,
t Best for: Wet and dry
braking and handling. But
they are not suited for use
in winter conditions.
Speed ratings: Z (more
than 149 mph), W (168
mph), Y (186 mph).
Typically none.
WinterSpecially made
for use in freezing tem-
peratures and on snow
and ice.
Best for: Maintaining
traction on snow and ice.
But fast wear and so-so
wet and dry braking make
them suitable only for cold-
weather use.
Speed ratings: Q (99 mph
and higher).
None.
SUV/PickupDesigned
for the rigors of truck use.
Best for: All-terrain
models are designed for
on-road and light-duty off-
pavement use; all-season
models are made primarily
for on-road use. But some
automakers recommend
staying with whatever
type of tire came with your
vehicle.
Speed ratings: S (112 mph
and higher).
None or 40,000 to 70,000
miles.

Within types, in performance order.
Brand & model Overall score Three-season
driving
Winter Comfort
driving
"g
E
o
QJD O O O G O
fill
0 iO O
P I F I G I V G lE
ALL-SEASON T-SPEED RATED
Michelin D efender
Continentai P roC ontact E coP lus
Goodyear Assurance T ripleT red
All-S eason
Pirelli P 4 Four S easons
Michelin E nergy S aver A/S
Yokohama Avid Ascend
Uniroyal T iger P aw T ouring
Falken S incera T ouring S N 2 1 1
Cooper C S 4 T ouring
Hankook O ptima H72 7
Firestone FR 71 0
Yokohama Avid T ouring-S
Cooper G FE
Kumho S olus KR 2 1
Firestone P recision T ouring
Toyo E xtensa A/S
Maxxis M AT lE scapade
Firestone Affinity T ouring
Sumitomo HT R T 4 , . , -,...
Kelly E xplorer P lus !

O
O
O O O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

o o
o o
o o
e o
o o
8 o o
o o
o o
o o o o
o
o o
o o
o o o o
o

o
o

o
o
O O O

o

O O O
8 o o
O O O
O O O
O O O
8
o
o
o o

O O O
o o
8 8
o
Ratings
Key
8 o
> - Worse

Recommended
Quick P icks
ALL SEASON TiRES T-SPEED RATED
Best for ail-weather perfornfiance:
M ichelin D efender
C ontinentalP roC ontact E coP lus
Best baiance of three'-season perfornnance
and iong tread iife:
M ichelin D efender
G oodyear Assurance T ripleT red All-S eason
P irelliP 4 Four S easons
Y okohama Avid Ascend

T i R ES 215
Within types, in perfornnance order.
Brand & m o d e l
Overall score Three-seasDn
driving
'S
1
ai
Winter Comfort
driving
o 100
p I F I G IVGI E
PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON H-SPEED RATED
^ Michelin Primacy iVIXV4
^ Continental PureContact
Nexen CP672
Pirel l i P7Cinturato A/5
Michelin Piiot Exalto A/S
BFGoodrich Advantage T/A
DunlopSP Sport 7000 A/S
Cooper CS4 Touring
FUzion Touring
Falken Ziex ZE912
Uniroyai Tiger Paw Touring
Kumho Soius KHt6
Nokian WRG2
Duntop Signature il
:f Sumitomo HTR A/S POl
GT Radiai CliampiroVPl
Yokohama Avid ENVigor
Firestone Champion HR
. Firestone Precision Sport
Bridgestone Ecopia EP422
Quick Picks
PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON
H-SPEED RATED
Best for ail weather conditions:
Mi chel i n Pri macy MXV4
Cont i nent al PureContact
a
a
a
e
e
e
e
e
e
e
a
o
e
a
a
a e
e e
o e
a o
a o
a o
e e
o e
e e
o e
o e
o o
a a
e o
e o
o a
o o
a a
a a
a a
o e
e e
o
e o
o o
o

o
o

o

e o
e e
e e
e e
e a
e e
o e
e a
e e
e o
o o
o o
e e
e o
e o e o
o e
e o
e o
o e o
9 e e
o o a a
a
a a
a a
a
o
o o

o
a a
o
o o
o o
o o
o o
o
o
e

o
Ratings
Key
Better
a O
Worse I1
^ l*lJ Recommended
W

Within types. In performance order.
B rand &model O verallscore T hree-season Winter C omfort!
dri vi ng driving
0
p 1 F 1 G
PERFORiUANCE ALL-SEASON V-SPEED RATED
100
I VG l E
i
n
g
ra
D
r
y
t
i
n
g
m
W
e
t
t
i
n
g
1
i
n
g
}
l
a
n
H
y
d
r
o
i
i
o
n
r
a
c
t
S
n
o
w
t
Continental P ureC ontact
Pirelli P7 C inturato A/5
Micheiin P rimacy M XV4
Micheiin P ilot E xalto A/S
Noiiian eN T yR E
Goodyear Assurance T ripleT red All-S eason
DuniopSP S port 5000
Goodyear Assurance C omforT red T ouring
DuniopSP S port 7000 A/S
G T R adial C hampiro 228
BFGoodrich Advantage T /A
Cooper C 54 T ouring
Sumitomo HTR A/S POl
Yoiioiiama VK580
Kumlio E csta LX P latinum
Uniroyal T iger P aw T ouring
Bridg estone T uranza S erenity
i1 ani(ook O ptimo H426
Firestone Firehawk Wide O val AS
Bridg estone E copia E P 422
Yokohama Avid E N Vigor
Toyo Versado LX I I
e
o
o
o
o
o
9
o
o
o
o
0
o
o
o
o
o
o
9
O
9
O
o
o
o
o
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
O
O
O
O
O
o
9
O
o
o
o
.
O
O
O
o
o
9
O
O
9
O
O
9
e
o
9
9
9
O
9
O
Ratinqs
Key
O
[ZI R oi
Ouici< P icks
PERFORMANCE ALL SEASON
V-SPEED RATED
Best for all-w eather performance:
C ontinental P ureC ontact
M ichelin P rimacy M XV4
Best balance of three-season performance
and lonq tread life:
M ictielin P rimacy M XV4

Ti R ES
217
Within types, in perfornuance order.
B rand S m odel O v eral l score T hree- season driv ing Winter | C om rort|
driv in
100
F I G I V Gl E
U H P A L L - S E A S O N
P irel l i P Zero Nero A l l Season
C ooper Zeon RS3-A
S um itom o HTR A /S P O l
M icheiin P il o t Sp o r t A /S Plus
Y ok oham a A v id ENVigor
C ontinental Ex tre m e C o n ta c t
DWS
S um itom o HTR *
U niroyal Tiger Paw GTZ A /S
B F G oodrich g-Force Su p e r
Sp o r t A /S
H itto P r e m iu m NT850
B ridg estone Potenza
RE960AS, Pole P o s it io n
G oodyear Eagle F l A l l Season
G oodyear Eagle GT
F al k en Z ie x Z E9 l 2
K um ho Ecsta ASX
Y ok oham a A d v a n S.4.
D unl op SP Sp o r t Sig n a t u r e
M ax x is V ic t r a Z4S
NittoNeoGen
Nexen N7000
O O
Rating s Better - <
Key a O
Recom m ended
Quick Picks
U H P A LL-S E A S O N T IRE S
B est for al l weather oondltlons:
P ir e l l i P Z e ro N e ro A ll Season
C ooper Z e o n RS3-A
Su m it o m o HTR A /S POl
O ther v ery good choices:
iv iic he lin P iio t Sp o r t A / S Plus
Yoiioham a A v id ENViqor
C o n t in e n t a l Ex tr e m e C o n ta c t DWS
B est for long tread l ife:
Cooper Z e o n RS3-A
Mic he iin P ilo t Sp o r t A /S Plus

Brand S modei
'S
Overaii score Tiiree-season driving Comfort
M,
0
P I F I 6I V C I E
UHPSUMMER
\ > \ Michelin P ilot S uper S port
0 Goodyear E agle Fl Asymmetric
\Z\ Duniop SP S port M axx GT
0 Michelin P ilot S port PS2
0 Continental E xtreme C ontact DW
0 Hankook V entus V12 evo
PireiliPZero
Dunlop SP S port M axx TT
BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KDW
Kumho E csta SPT
Bridqestone P otenza R E 050A P ole
P osition
N i t t oN T 05
Dunlop D irezza S port Zl S tar S pec
Bridgestone P otenza RE76O S port
Yokohama Advan S port
Firestone Firehawk Wide O val I ndy
500
' BFGoodrich g-Force S port
Sumitomo HTR Zlll
Maxxis V ictra M A-Zl
Nitto iN V O
Falken FK-452
Fuzion Zri
Yokohama S .drive
Quick Picks
UHP SUMMER TiRES
Best Ui-iP summer tires overail:
M ichelin P ilot S uper S port
G oodyear E agle Fl Asymmetric
D unlop SP S port M axx GT
M ichelin P ilot S port P S 2
O O
Other good choices:
C ontinental E xtreme C ontact DW
Hankook V entus V12 evo

T I R E S 219
Brand & modei Overall score Winter Three-season Comfort
driving driving
O D OD OD O D O D OJ QJ
'S
0 100
P I F I G I V C l E
WINTER TiRES
[ 7] Michelin X-lce Xi3 I
0 Michelin X-lce Xi2 I
0 Hankook Winter Tcept evo I
0 Pirelli Winter 210 Sottozero Serie II I
0 Uniroyal Tiger P aw Ice & Snov II I
0 B r i d g e s t o n e BlizzakWS70 I
Nokian Hakkapel iitta R I
Goodyear Ul tra Grip Ice WRT I
BFGoodrich Winter Sl al om KSI I
Continental ExtremeWinterC ontact I
General Al rimax Arctic I
Hankook Winter l *P ike I
Falken Espia EPZ I
Dunlop Graspic DS-3 I
Yokohama iceGuard ig20 I
Firestone Winterforce I
O O
o

o
o

8 o
e
o
o
o o
o o
o
O O O
o

e

O

O O

O

O O
o
o o

o
o
Ratinqs Better .<
Key
O
Recommended
Quick Picks
WINTER TIRES
Best for severe winter drivinq conditions:
Michelin X-lce Xi3
Michel in X-l ce Xi2.
Uniroyal Tiger P aw Ice & Snow II
Bridgestone Bl izzak WS70
Best for most driving conditions:
Hankook Winter l *cept evo
P irel l i Winter 210 Sottozero Serie II

Brand & model Overall score Winter Three-season Comfort
driving driving
^ *_? = ?= 'r^ a s
o 100
p I F I G ! V 6 l E
PERFORiMANCE WI NTER TI RES
Nokian WR G2
Hankook Winter i*cep t evo
Michelin P iio t Aip in PA3
Nokian Hai<kap eiiitta R
Goodyear U l tra G rip P erfo rmance 2
Dunlop SP Winter S p o rt 30
Bridgestone B iizzai< WS 6 0
Vredestein Wintrac Xtreme
Toyo S no wp ro x S 952
Bridgestone B iizzai< LM -6 0
Nokian Hai<i<ap eiiitta5
Pirelli S o tto zero Winter 240 S eries I I
Yokohama W.drive
Ratings Better <
Key a O
Recommended
Quick Picks
PERFORMANCE WiNTER TiRES
Best for severe winter conditions:
N o kian WR G 2
Hanko o k Winter i*cep t evo
M ichel in P il o t Al p in P A3

T I R E S 221
Brand & model
Overallscore
0 10 0
p 1 F 1 G I V Gl E
Three-season
dri vi ng
D
r
y

b
r
a
k
i
W
e
t

b
r
a
k
i
H
a
n
d
l
i
tkO
H
y
d
r
o
p
i
a
n
i
W int er
driving
c: DO
o 1=
S
n
o
w

t
r
a
c
t
i
I
c
e

b
r
a
k
i
Comfort
WI
ALL-SEASON TRUCK
Micheiin LTX M/S '
Micheiin X Radial IV
Continentai CrossCont act LX20
EcoPlus
Micheiin Lat it ude Tour HP
Micheiin Lat it ude Tour
Hankook D ynap ro HT
Nokian WR G2 S p ort Ut ilit y
Gnerai General Grabber HTS
Goodyear W rangler SR-A
Cooper D iscoverer CTS
Nokian HT S p ort Ut ilit y '"
Bridgestone D ueler H/L Alenza H
Kumho Road V ent ure APT KL51
Bridgestone D ueler H/L Alenza T
BFGoodrich Long Trail T/A Tour
Duniop Rover H/T
Maxxis 750 Bravo H/T
Firestone D est inat ion LE
NexenRoadanH T5UV
Toyo Open Count ry H/T
Uniroyai Laredo Cross Count ry
Yokohama Geolandar H/T-S G051
Pireiii S corp ion STR A
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
9
o
o
o
9
9
9
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
9
9
0
9
9
9
O
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
9
o
o
9
9
O
o
9
O
e
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
9
9
9
O
O
O
O
9
O
O
Quick Pick s
ALL-SEASON TRUCK TIRES
Best for most weather conditions:
Michelin LTX M/S '
Michelin X Radial LT'
Cont inent al CrossCont act LX20 EicoPlus
Michelin Lat it ude Tour HP
Michelin Lat it ude Tour

2 2 2 C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S B U Y i N G G U I D E 2 0 1 3
Brand & model
"S
Overall score
0 i O O
P I F I G i V G l E
Three-season Winter Comfort
driving driving
cu cu QJ
;? Si
St >-
ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK
0 Cooper D iscoverer MV I
0 Micheiin LT X MV I
0 Hankook D ynapro AT M I
0 Kumho R oad V enture AT KL-78 I
0 Kumho R oad V enture S AT KL61 I
Bridgestone D uel er A/T R evo 2 I
BFGoodrich R ugged T errai n I
Pireiii S corpi on AT R I
Toyo O pen C ountry A/T I
Firestone D esti nati on A/T I
Bridgestone D uel er AP T I V I
Nexen R oadi an AT I I I
Yokohama G eol andar A/T -S G 0 1 2 1
Quick Picks
e
a o a
a o a e
a o a
a o a
e o e
e o e a
a o o e
e a a o
e o
O
o o
o e
o
a
a a o
a o a a
e o e e
o o
e o o
e
o o
e
o o
o e
o
a o
a
a

o
o
o
o

ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK TIRES
Best for most weather conditions:
C ooper D i scoverer A/V
M i chel i n LT X (K/V
Hani (ook D ynapro AT M
Kumho R oad V enture AT KL-78
Kumho R oad V enture S AT KL51
For longer tread life:
M i chel i n LT X A/V
Overall score i s based on 1 2 to 1 4 tests, wi th braki ng, handl i ng, and hydropl ani ng resi stance wei ghed
most heavi i y for most ti res. S now tracti on and i ce braki ng wei gh more heavi l y for wi nter ti res. Braking
tests on dry pavement are from 60 mph; on wet pavement, from 4 0 or 60 mph; and on i ce, from
1 0 mph. Handling, i n most cases, combi nes how wei l a ti re di d i n wet and dry corneri ng gri p, steer-
i ng feel , and an emergency handl i ng maneuver. Wet handl i ng for U HP ti res i s eval uated by dri vi ng
the car through a wet sl al om course, and i ncl udes wet corneri ng gri p. D ry handl i ng for U HP ti res
combi nes the emergency handl i ng maneuver, dry corneri ng gri p, and steeri ng feel . Hydroplaning
denotes a ti re's abi l i ty to resi st ski mmi ng al ong the surface of standi ng water and causi ng l oss of
steeri ng abi i i ty. Snow traction tests denote how far a vehi cl e has to travel to accel erate from 5 to
2 0 mph on fi at, moderatel y packed snow. Ride and noise are eval uated subjecti vel y, on rough and
smooth roads. Rolling resistance, as measured on a dynamometer, i s a factor i n fuel economy. Tread
life i s an i ndi cator of wear potenti al from C R 's extended mi xed dri vi ng test run on the government's
tread wear course.

223
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2013 VOLUME 77, N o . 13
CONSUMER REPORTS
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magazines unless we have a corrected address within two years. Canada Post; If copies are undeliverabie, return to C O N S U M E R / Qr
R E P O R T S , P.O. Box 1051, STN M AIN , P ort E rie, O N L2A 6C 7. Back issues: Single copies of 12 preceding issues, $7.95 each; 7
Buying Guide, $14.49 each (includes shipping and handling). Write Back Issues, C O N S U M E R R E P O R T S , C ustomer R elations,
101 T ruman Ave., Yonkers, N.Y. 10703-1057.

StateiTient of Ownership, Management, and Circulation
(Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)
1 . Publication Title; Consumer Reports.
2. Publication No: 001 0-71 74.3. Filing Date:
August 22,201 2.4. Issue Frequency: Monthly,
except two issues in December.
5. No. ot Issues Published Annually: 1 3.
6. Annual Subscription Price: $29.
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Otfice
of Publication: Consumer Reports Inc.,
101 Truman Avenue, Yonkers, NY 1 0703-1 057.
8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters
or General Business Office of Publisher:
Consumer Reports Inc., 101 Truman Avenue,
Yonkers, NY 1 0703-1 057.9. Full Names and
Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher,
Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher:
Consumer Reports Inc., 101 Truman Avenue,
Yonkers, NY 1 0703-1 057.
President: James A. Guest; Editorial Director,
Editor in Chief: Kimberly Kleman;
15. E xtent and N ature of C irculation:
Print Magazine, U.S. and Canada
Managing Editor: Robert Tiernan. 1 0. Owner:
(If the publication is published by a nonprofit
organization, its name and address must be
stated.) Full Name: Consumer Reports Inc.,
a nonprofit organization. Complete Mailing
Address: 101 Truman Avenue, Yonkers, NY
1 0703-1 057.1 1 . Known Bondholders, Mort-
gagees, and Other Security Holders Owning
or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount
of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities.
If none, so state: None. 1 2/For Completion by
Nonprofit Organizations Authorized to Mail
at Special Rates: The purpose, function, and
.nonprofit status of this organization and
the exempt status for federal income tax
purposes has not changed during preceding
12 months. 1 3. Publication title:
Consumer Reports. 1 4. Issue Date for
Circulation Data below: October 201 2.
Average no. copies
each issue during
past 12 mo.
No. copies of
single issue published-
nearest to filing date
A. Total no. of copies (net press run) 4,544. 790
B. Paid circulation
1 . Mailed outside-county paid subscriptions
stated on Form 3541 3.969,692
2. Maiied in-county paid subscriptions stated on Form 3541 0
3. Saies through deaiers. carriers, street vendors,
counter saies, and other non-USPS paid distribution 1 02,783
4. Other ciasses maiied through the USPS 0
C. Totai paid distribution
(sum of 1 5ba), (2), (3), and (4)) 4,072,475
D. 1 . Free or Nominai Rate Outside-County
Copies included on PS Form 3541 1 ,1 29
2. Free or Nominai Rate in-County inciuded on PS form 3541 0
3. Free or Nominai Rate Copies Maiied at Other 0
Ciasses Through the USPS (e.g. First-Ciass Maii)
4. Free or Nominai Rate Distribution Outside the Maii
(Carriers or other means) 13,072
E. Totai free distribution (sum of 1 5d(l) and (4)) 14,201
F Totai distribution (sum of 1 5c and 1 5e) 4,086,677
G. Copies not distributed 458,1 1 3
H. TOTAL (sum of 1 5f and 1 5g) 4, 5 44790
I. Percent paid and/or requested circuiation 99. 6 5 %
4,561 ,738
4,034. 520
0
8 0, 000
0
4,1 1 4,520
1 ,1 33
0
0
1 1 ,905
1 3,038
4,127.558
434,180
4,561 ,738
99. 6 8 %
17. r certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete.
JoAnne Boyd, Sr. Director, Business Planning S Analysis


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