Gear

Japanese Sweep Consumer Reports' Auto Rankings

Toyota and Honda ruled while Detroit got shut out in this year’s Consumer Reports auto rankings. For the second year running, Japanese cars took first place in all ten categories in the annual roundup. Europe, too, took a hit vis à vis the Japanese models, with Mercedes-Benz finishing dead last for reliability. The Los Angeles […]

2007_mazda_mx5_pr_f

Toyota and Honda ruled while Detroit got shut out in this year's Consumer Reports auto rankings. For the second year running, Japanese cars took first place in all ten categories in the annual roundup. Europe, too, took a hit vis à vis the Japanese models, with Mercedes-Benz finishing dead last for reliability.

The Los Angeles Times, graciously avoiding the word "whining," reported surprise on the part of DaimlerChrysler, which aimed its response directly at the messenger:

"We had some issues a couple of years back, but today's models are some of the best we've ever built. If their survey doesn't reflect that, then there's something wrong with the survey."

If so, at least the message is consistent: This is the fifth year in a row that Toyota, Honda, and their Lexus and Acura luxury brands have nailed at least seven out of ten categories.

And now, the top-scoring vehicles in each category (drum roll, please):

  • Fun to drive: Mazda MX-5 Miata

  • Small SUV: Toyota RAV4

  • Small sedan: Honda Civic

  • Family sedan: Honda Accord

  • Minivan: Toyota Sienna

  • Luxury sedan: Infiniti M35

  • Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid

  • Budget cars: Honda Fit

  • Green car: Toyota Prius

  • Upscale sedan: Infiniti G35

[Source: Consumer Reports, Los Angeles Times]