Ford has picked up internet gymkhana extraordinaire Ken Block to head up its racing efforts for 2010. The WRC rookie was picked up by Subaru in 2006, but now finds himself sitting behind either a Ford Focus or a Ford Fiesta.

Block said of the Fiesta: “I am very excited to be in the Fiesta. That is the damn car that beat me last summer at X Games. Ford has a great platform with the Fiesta to develop and push a very good rally car worldwide and also in the showrooms. I am very excited to get in the Fiesta and see what I can do in the Rally America championship and at the X Games and also in 2011 to be in the new Fiesta World Rally car.”

From what it sounds like, we can expect a lot more hoonage from Block in the future – and don’t worry, there is a Gymkhana 3 coming featuring the Ford Fiesta.

Full Press Release:

Dearborn, Mich. — With today’s announcement that Ford Motor Company is teaming up with Ken Block, the California-based action sports icon-turned-rally driver, for future global motorsports opportunities, the company’s profile and involvement in rally racing has truly taken on a global position.

Rally racing has always been an important part of Ford’s motorsports strategy, but the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile World Rally Championship doesn’t race in the United States and there has never been an American driver who has campaigned a full season in the premier rally championship. Block, the 2005 Rally America Rookie of the Year and a three-time medalist at X Games, has cultivated a tremendous following with his Gymkhana videos on YouTube. In 2010, Block will campaign a Ford Focus in the FIA World Rally Championship and a Ford Fiesta in Rally America and the X Games.

TODAY’S BIG ANNOUNCEMENT TAKES YOUR RALLY CAREER GLOBAL. WHAT ARE YOU THOUGHTS AS YOU JOIN FORD AND AS YOU LOOK AHEAD TO A BUSY 2010?

BLOCK: “The easiest thing for me to say is that I am really stoked to have this partnership with Ford. My dad was a Ford guy and for me it is just something in the World Rally Championship that I have looked up to for a long time because Ford has such a great heritage in rally. They have been around for a very long time back to the Escort days all the way through the RS 200, and obviously through the Focus and now the Fiesta. This is a huge thing for me and I am very proud to be part of the Ford family.”

IN 2010, YOU WILL BE RUNNING THE FOCUS IN WORD RALLY AND THE FIESTA IN RALLY AMERICA AND X GAMES. WHAT IS YOUR MINDSET COMING INTO THE SEASON GETTING READY TO RUN TWO DIFFERENT RALLY SERIES?

BLOCK: “This is going to be one of the biggest challenges of my life and my career. Obviously, Rally America I have been doing for five years now and I am going after the championship. I have been very close several times, but this year I feel like it is my year. Along with that I have the X Games coming up this summer and again the same thing, I have been very close and have stood on the podium several times, but never at the top and I am looking to take that top place. On top of that, with the World Rally Championship, I am stepping into the biggest rally championship in the world and I will be competing against some of the best drivers in the world. That level of racing isn’t something that you just step into and expect to instantly be on the podium. I would be in fantasyland if I thought that I was going to be anywhere near that. So, for me, 2010 is a developmental year and I am really looking to develop my skills as far as I can and then I can began pushing harder in 2011 and 2012. As far as 2010 goes, it is my year to get my feet wet in the championship and start polishing my skills. It is going to be an amazing experience, but I am also very realistic about where I stand in this world and what my goals are going to be for the next year to three years.”

YOU WILL BE DRIVING THE FOCUS RS IN WORLD RALLY AND THE FIESTA IN RALLY AMERICA. A YEAR FROM NOW IT WILL BE ALL FIESTA IN WRC AND RALLY AMERICA. YOU SAW THE FIESTA DEBUT LAST YEAR AT THE X GAMES. WHAT IS YOUR LEVEL OF ANTICIPATION FOR DRIVING THE FIESTA IN COMPETITION?

BLOCK: “I am very excited to be in the Fiesta. That is the damn car that beat me last summer at X Games. Ford has a great platform with the Fiesta to develop and push a very good rally car worldwide and also in the showrooms. I am very excited to get in the Fiesta and see what I can do in the Rally America championship and at the X Games and also in 2011 to be in the new Fiesta World Rally car.”

FROM YOUR MONSTER RALLY TEAM PERSPECTIVE YOU HAVE TWO DIFFERENT SERIES YOU ARE PREPARING FOR. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU AS A TEAM FACE?

BLOCK: “The biggest challenge is going to be getting me seat time. I have been racing with a different manufacturer for many years now and while I have a lot of confidence in my abilities, jumping into a new car is always difficult. It is a big program we have going on this year, its global and there are a lot of different aspects to it from World Rally Championship to X Games to a new Gymkhana car. That is a tremendous variety of different types of driving and different types of conditions. I need to push as hard as I can and be the best that I can, but it is going to come down to getting as much experience as I can and getting seat time. I am very lucky to be in the position that I am in. There are not many drivers around the world that can say they are doing the types of things that I am doing. I am very proud of that and I am going to push very hard to be the best that I can be.”

IS THERE A GYMKHANA 3?

BLOCK: “Of course! We are in the developmental stages of a new Fiesta Gymkhana car and we are looking to have some new video content out by the summer.”

We’re re-inventing our insane automotive photography feature as a weekly format of the best and most amazing automotive related pictures posted to our Insane Automotive Photography Group on Flickr.

This week we have super cars, super views, american muscle, and European luxury.

Sit back and enjoy.

Photographer: Kyter MC

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Photographer: calians.sevan

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Photographer: Mehow911

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Photographer: dbson

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Photographer: JNGIMAGES

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Photographer: A. Furlong Photography

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Photographer: Sothachoo

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Photographer: FallingFast

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Photographer: __martin__

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Photographer: ojsantiago21

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See more of the best automotive photography, or submit your own, at our Insane Automotive Photography Group on Flickr

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released its list of cars awarded Top Safety Pick. The 27 vehicle list includes 19 cars and 8 SUV’s. The Big Winner? Subaru, with five of its cars winning the awards from the IIHS. The Subaru Forester, Subaru Impreza (except WRX), Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback and Subaru Tribeca were selected, that’s almost Subaru’s entire lineup.

Volvo and Volkswagen also cleaned up with four cars a piece taking home a trophy. Detroit was not to be out done, each Big Three Automaker had at least two cars make the list.

The IIHS points out that Toyota and it’s subsidiaries were absent from the list after receiving 11 awards last year, as well as BMW, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Saab for not having qualifying vehicles. Other big surprises include the Honda Accord and Ford Fusion missing the grade for only meeting ‘acceptable’ standards in the new roof safety standards.

27 winners of 2010 Top Safety Pick award
New requirement to win is good rating for protection in rollovers

ARLINGTON, VA — Nineteen cars and 8 SUVs earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award for 2010. For the first time, good performance in a roof strength test to measure protection in a rollover is required to win. Top Safety Pick recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rear, and now rollover crashes based on good ratings in Institute tests. Winners also must have electronic stability control, which research shows significantly reduces crash risk. This is the second time the Institute has tightened criteria since announcing the first recipients in 2005.

Subaru is the only manufacturer with a winner in all 4 vehicle classes in which it competes. This automaker earns 5 awards for 2010. Ford and subsidiary Volvo have 6 winners, and Volkswagen/Audi has 5. Chrysler earns 4 awards, continuing a recent trend of improving the crashworthiness of its vehicles. Two new small cars, the Nissan Cube and Kia Soul, join the Top Safety Pick list for 2010.

“With the addition of our new roof strength evaluation, our crash test results now cover all 4 of the most common kinds of crashes,” says Institute president Adrian Lund. “Consumers can use this list to zero in on the vehicles that are on the top rung for safety.”

Good rollover ratings: A new requirement for strong roofs winnows the list of Top Safety Pick winners from a record 94 in 2009. The addition of this criterion recognizes manufacturers with vehicles that provide good protection in rollovers, which kill more than 9,000 people in passenger vehicles each year. The first rollover ratings were released in March. Vehicles rated good have roofs more than twice as strong as the current federal standard requires. The Institute estimates that such roofs reduce the risk of serious and fatal injury in single-vehicle rollovers by about 50 percent compared with roofs meeting the minimum requirement.

“Cars and SUVs that win Top Safety Pick are designs that go far beyond minimum federal safety standards,” Lund points out.

Missing the mark: Not a single model from the world’s biggest automaker by sales is represented among this year’s winners. Toyota and its Lexus and Scion subsidiaries had a strong showing in 2009 with 11 winners but were shut out for 2010. Four other manufacturers whose vehicles have earned Top Safety Pick in the past didn’t have a qualifying vehicle for 2010: BMW, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Saab. The Honda Accord picked up the award the past 2 years, but the 2010 didn’t earn the required good roof strength rating to qualify (the roof is rated acceptable). The Ford Fusion is another midsize car that dropped off the list for the same reason.

“Honda and Ford would have to make only minor changes to achieve good ratings for roof strength, as the Accord and Fusion just missed the mark,” Lund explains.

The midsize Toyota Camry would have qualified with good ratings, except for its rear crash evaluation. This car’s seats and head restraints are rated marginal for protection against whiplash injury. A change to good would have earned the Camry a Top Safety Pick for 2010. Other automakers have improved head restraints to win. For example, inadequate head restraints kept earlier Chrysler models from earning awards, but in 2010 the Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger and Journey, and Jeep Patriot all earn good ratings and Top Safety Pick. Likewise, General Motors upgraded the seats and head restraints in the Chevrolet Malibu to win.

Volvo glitch: The Institute identified a problem with the Volvo XC60 in the side test. A piece of plastic trim on the driver seat pushed against a service release button for the safety belt, which then detached from its anchor during the test.

“This would be a serious issue if it happened in a real crash, but it’s not likely to happen and it’s fixable,” Lund explains. “Still, belts shouldn’t come loose in a crash test. Volvo is fixing the problem so it won’t be an issue with XC60 models produced after November 2009. Top Safety Pick applies only to these modified XC60s.”

Consumers who own 2010 XC60s already on the road should see their Volvo dealer for repairs, Lund advises.

Improved protection: Front and side impacts and rollovers killed 24,056 passenger vehicle occupants in 2008. Rear-end crashes usually aren’t fatal but result in a large proportion of crash injuries. Neck sprain or strain is the most commonly reported injury in two-thirds of insurance claims for injuries in all kinds of crashes.

“In safety terms, we’ve come very far, very fast in just the past decade,” Lund says. “When the Institute began conducting frontal tests for consumer information in 1995, few vehicles earned top ratings. Now almost all do. Most cars failed the side tests we added in 2003. Test results in that initial round were so bad we nearly broke our budget for repairing the crash test dummy, but now most vehicles ace the side test thanks to side airbags and stronger side structures. Factor in improved head restraints to protect against whiplash and electronic stability control to prevent crashes, and consumers are the clear winners.”

Safety equipment is increasingly standard. Ninety-two percent of 2010 model cars, 99 percent of SUVs, and 66 percent of pickup trucks have standard side airbags with head protection. Electronic stability control is standard on 85 percent of cars, 100 percent of SUVs, and 62 percent of pickups.

“Now that roof strength is a priority, we think manufacturers will move quickly to bolster roofs to do well in our roof strength test. This means consumers likely will have more Top Safety Pick choices for 2011,” Lund predicts.

Keep in mind vehicle size and weight, he adds, because larger, heavier vehicles generally afford better protection in serious crashes than smaller, lighter ones. Even with a Top Safety Pick, a small car isn’t as crashworthy as a bigger one.

The Institute awarded the first Top Safety Pick winners to 2006 models and then raised the bar the next year by requiring good rear test results and electronic stability control as either standard or optional equipment. Early this year the Institute alerted auto manufacturers to the new criteria for roof crush and asked them to nominate candidates for testing.

How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute’s frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle’s overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.

Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on 2 instrumented SID-IIs dummies representing a 5th percentile woman, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle’s structural performance during the impact.

Rear crash protection is rated according to a two-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry — the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. Seats without good or acceptable geometry are rated poor overall because they can’t be positioned to protect many people.

In the roof strength test, a metal plate is pushed against 1 side of a roof at a constant speed. To earn a good rating for rollover protection, the roof must withstand a force of 4 times the vehicle’s weight before reaching 5 inches of crush. This is called a strength-to-weight ratio. For an acceptable rating, the minimum required strength-to-weight ratio is 3.25. A marginal rating value is 2.5. Anything lower than that is rated poor.

ALL 27 WINNERS

Large cars
Buick LaCrosse
Ford Taurus
Lincoln MKS
Volvo S80

Midsize cars
Audi A3
Chevrolet Malibu built after October 2009
Chrysler Sebring 4-door with optional electronic stability control
Dodge Avenger with optional electronic stability control
Mercedes C class
Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback
Volkswagen Jetta sedan
Volkswagen Passat sedan
Volvo C30

Small cars
Honda Civic 4-door models (except Si) with optional electronic stability control
Kia Soul
Nissan Cube
Subaru Impreza except WRX
Volkswagen Golf 4-door

Midsize SUVs
Dodge Journey
Subaru Tribeca
Volvo XC60
Volvo XC90

Small SUVs
Honda Element
Jeep Patriot with optional side torso airbags
Subaru Forester
Volkswagen Tiguan

Original Press Release

YONKERS, NY — The redesigned Subaru Legacy outpointed the freshened Ford Fusion in Consumer Reports’ latest tests of family sedans with all-wheel drive. The test included the freshened front-drive only Toyota Camry. The Legacy 6-cylinder outscored the Camry V-6, but the 4-cylinder Camry outpointed the 4-cylinder Legacy.

The Legacy 3.6R received an “Excellent” overall road test score of 88, and the Legacy 2.5i received an “Excellent” 83 score; outpointing the Fusion which received a “Very Good” 76.CR’s engineers say that both the Legacy and the Fusion make good, fuel-efficient alternatives for drivers who want extra traction in slippery conditions but don’t want an SUV.

The freshened Camry received an Excellent road test score of 84.

CR also tested two versions of the Mazda3. Among small sedans, the freshened Mazda3 received a Very Good road test score of 74.

“With its redesign, the Legacy goes from a decent but small family sedan to one in the top of its class,” said Rik Paul, automotive editor for Consumer Reports.

Reliability Findings Released

Consumer Reports survey found front-wheel-drive versions of the Fusion have better reliability than that of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The all-wheel-drive version’s reliability is just average, because of problems with its drive system, CR wrote.

Subaru Legacy: The redesigned Subaru Legacy is now significantly roomier and quieter, with an impressive ride and responsive handling. The Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited, ($30,094, Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price), is powered by a 240-hp, 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that delivers strong performance and gets 22 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests. The continuously variable transmission in four-cylinder versions is smooth and pleasant in leisurely driving, but when merging or climbing hills, it keeps the engine revving high. That version attained a commendable 25 mpg overall. Braking is Very Good. Although the plastics are hard, the Legacy’s interior is attractive, with tight fits and well-finished edges. Folding down the 60/40-split rear seatbacks expands the already good-sized trunk.

Ford Fusion: Overall, the 2010 Fusion is refined and agile, and the AWD version doesn’t drive any differently. But it loses 2 mpg in fuel economy compared with the front-wheel-drive. The ride is steady and calm, with good isolation and handling is responsive. The Ford Fusion SEL AWD, ($29,425 MSRP), is powered by a 240-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers responsive performance and gets 20 mpg overall, but the AWD Fusion takes almost a second longer to reach 60 mph. Braking is Very Good. The interior is well finished. The trunk is nicely finished and holds four large suitcases and a small duffel. The rear seat folds 60/40.

Toyota Camry: A freshening for 2010 helped the Camry improve its standing as one of CR’s top-rated family sedans. It has a comfortable ride and a quiet, spacious cabin. Handling is sound, but the Camry is not particularly agile or fun to drive. The Toyota Camry LE, ($22,850 MSRP), is powered by a 169-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers decent acceleration and above-average fuel economy at 26 mpg overall. The new six-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. Braking is Very Good. Most of the interior materials are nicely finished, including a soft-touch dashboard. Folding down the 60/40-split rear seat-backs expands the good sized trunk.

The Mazda3 has been freshened for 2010 and is distinguished by agile handling and a nice interior that’s laid out well. The interior has been upgraded, but the rear seat remains tight and road noise is pronounced. The car is fun to drive, remaining composed while hustling around corners. CR tested both five-speed manual- and five-speed automatic-transmission versions of the Mazda3. Stability control is standard except for the two base trimlines of the sedan. The Mazda3 i Touring with automatic transmission, ($19,070 MSRP), is powered by a 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers good performance and 30 mpg overall. The five-speed-automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Braking was Good. The trunk, while not huge, is tall and well-shaped.

All the cars in this test group are Recommended. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Auto Survey of its more than seven million print and Web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

Full tests and ratings of the family sedans test group appear in the December issue of Consumer Reports or to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.

Source: Consumer Reports

]]> http://www.autoinsane.com/2009/11/11/news/newmodels/consumer-reports-grades-subaru-legacy-over-ford-fusion-toyota-camry-v-6/feed/ 1 http://www.autoinsane.com/2009/10/27/news/business-finance/consumer-reports-2009-reliability-survey-ford-fusion-tops-honda-accord-and-toyota-camry/ http://www.autoinsane.com/2009/10/27/news/business-finance/consumer-reports-2009-reliability-survey-ford-fusion-tops-honda-accord-and-toyota-camry/#comments Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:04:23 +0000 Zane Merva http://www.autoinsane.com/?p=4496

Ford scored big in this year’s Consumer Reports 2009 Car Reliability Survey. As the only Detroit automaker to be labeled with “world-class” reliability, 46 of 51 Ford/Lincoln/Mercury products scored average or above average.  General Motors did well with some of its new offerings but Chrysler continued to struggle.  Who took home the “most reliable” and “least reliable” titles? Read on and find out…

The Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan scored as the highest family sedans aside from the Toyota Prius and both beat the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Lincoln’s MKZ also topped it’s rivals, scoring higher than the Acura TL and Lexus ES. Ford’s Flex also continued the good news, but all-wheel-drive versions of the Lincoln MKZ, MKS, and MKX all scored below average.

“It’s rare for Consumer Reports to see family sedans from domestic carmakers continue to beat the reliability scores of such highly regarded Japanese models as the Camry and Accord,” said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports’ Automotive Test Center.

Mr Champion also noted that the last time a domestic sedan had better reliability than Camry or Accord was the Buick Regal in 2004.

But the news isn’t just confined to Ford Motor Company. The most reliable vehicle for 2009 is the Honda Insight and the worse is the Volkswagen Touareg. Interestingly, hybrids took five of the top sight spots for most reliable family cars.

Among the least reliable vehicles in their respective classes are the AWD Lexus GS, Nissan Versa sedan and Subaru Impreza WRX.

It’s a mixed bag for other domestic manufactures. Newer General Motors products such as the Chevy Malibu V6, Buick Lucerne, Chevy Traverse, and AWD Buick Enclave did well. Both the Chevy Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 earned a Consumer Reports’ Recommendation.

Chrysler on the other hand didn’t fair well at all. More than one-third of all Chrysler products tested landed “much worse” than average in reliability. The only Chrysler model that the magazine could reccomend was the new Dodge Ram 1500.

Out of 48 top models, 36 are Asian. 18 are Toyota, eight are Honda, four are Nissan, and Hyundai / Kia / Subaru have three each.

On the European front, Mercedes-Benz has made a signifigant come-back with most models “average or better”. CR noted the GLK for doing exceptionally well. BMW had mixed results with the 535i sedan and X3 SUV declining in reliability. The 135i, making it’s debut in the survey this year also scores below average.

Volkswagen and Audi also gain spots according to Consumer Reports. The VW Rabbit and new CC earn top scores. The Volkswagen Jetta TDi is the only diesel that the magazine recommends.

We could keep going on for hours but with all the same information included in the below press release- take a look for yourself.

Consumer Reports’ Annual Automotive Reliability results will be available at www.ConsumerReports.org soon or on newsstands November 3rd.

Article photograph [Ford Fusion] by Zane Merva / AutoInsane.com

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CONSUMER REPORTS’ 2009 ANNUAL CAR RELIABILITY SURVEY:

FORD SECURES PLACE AMONG WORLD’S MOST RELIABLE CARMAKERS

Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan Reliability Tops Honda Accord and Toyota Camry

YONKERS, NY — Ford has secured its position as the only Detroit automaker with world-class reliability. About 90 percent (46 of 51) of Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln products were found to have average or better reliability, according to Consumer Reports’ 2009 Annual Car Reliability Survey. The results were announced today at an Automotive Press Association luncheon in Detroit.

Ford’s sustained production of vehicles that are as dependable—or better than—some of the industry’s best dispels the notion that only Japanese manufacturers make reliable cars. Other than the Toyota Prius, the reliability of the 4-cylinder Fusion and Milan ranks higher than that of any other family sedan. Both of those Ford Motor Company products continue to beat the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, while the upscale Lincoln MKZ tops its rivals, the Acura TL and Lexus ES.

“It’s rare for Consumer Reports to see family sedans from domestic carmakers continue to beat the reliability scores of such highly regarded Japanese models as the Camry and Accord,” said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports’ Automotive Test Center. The last domestic sedan that had better reliability than the Camry and Accord was the Buick Regal in 2004, he noted.

Ford’s position as the most reliable domestic carmaker includes good scores for its new Ford Flex SUV. But the Lincoln division has had mixed results; some models score below their Ford equivalents. All-wheel-drive versions of the Lincoln MKS, MKX, and MKZ, essentially high-end versions of the Ford Taurus, Edge, and Fusion, respectively, are all below average.

More details, and a list of models with the best and worst predicted-reliability Ratings, will appear first on www.ConsumerReports.org. The reliability report will also appear in the December issue of Consumer Reports, on sale November 3, and in the latest Consumer Reports Cars publication, Best & Worst New Cars for 2010, which also includes predicted-reliability ratings for more than 300 models.

A large margin separates the best from the worst. The least reliable vehicle, the Volkswagen Touareg, is 27 times more likely to have a problem than the most reliable car, the Honda Insight.

In addition to the Insight, small car reliability scores stood out. Twenty of 37 small cars have above-average predicted-reliability including the Honda Fit, Scion xD and Volkswagen Golf. Family cars fared nearly as well, with 21 out of 42 scoring above average. Five of the eight most reliable family cars are hybrids, including the Toyota Prius, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercury Milan Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Even good brands falter. Among the least reliable vehicles in their respective classes are the all-wheel-drive Lexus GS, the Nissan Versa sedan, and the Subaru Impreza WRX.

General Motors shows some bright spots, Chrysler still struggles

Some newer GM products are bright spots. Overall 20 of the 48 GM models Consumer Reports surveyed have average reliability scores, while the Chevrolet Malibu V6 has shown better-than-average scores and is on par with the most reliable family sedans. The Buick Lucerne did well in Consumer Reports road tests, and it scores average in reliability.

The Chevrolet Traverse SUV also makes the cut, as does its cousin, the Buick Enclave, but only in the all-wheel-drive version. The reliability scores of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 pickups has improved enough to earn Consumer Reports’ Recommendation. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on the Annual Auto Survey, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

GM has a number of strong contenders either just released or in the pipeline, but they are too new for CR to have reliability data on them.

Chrysler continues to struggle. More than one-third of Chrysler products are much worse than average, including its new car-based SUV, the Dodge Journey. Last year, Consumers Reports couldn’t Recommend any of its products either because of mediocre performance, poor reliability scores, or both. However, this year CR can recommend one important vehicle in Chrysler’s lineup: the four-wheel-drive version of the redesigned Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. It did well in CR road tests and rates average in reliability.

Asian brands still in command

Of the 48 models with top reliability scores, 36 are Asian—Toyota accounts for 18; Honda, eight; Nissan, four; and Hyundai/Kia and Subaru, three each. With only a few exceptions, Japanese vehicles are consistently good. All Honda and Acura products have average or above average reliability. Although, Toyota, with its Lexus and Scion brands, provides a broader product range, the Lexus GS AWD is the only Toyota model with below average reliability.

Models from Nissan and its Infiniti luxury division have mostly been very reliable. The once-troublesome Infiniti QX56 and Nissan Armada are now average, as is the four-wheel-drive Nissan Titan, although its rear-wheel-drive version is still troublesome. The Nissan Versa has produced uneven results. Over the last two surveys, the hatchback has been average while the sedan has been far below average. The Nissan Quest minivan also remains troublesome.

Hyundai and Kia continue to make reliable cars. The Hyundai Elantra and Tucson, and the Kia Sportage get top marks. The new Hyundai Genesis V6 is better than average; the V8 version is average. Only Kia’s Sedona minivan and Sorento SUV score below average.

European models continue to rally

European brands continue to improve. Mercedes-Benz has significantly rebounded, with most models average or better, and the GLK did exceptionally well in its first year in CR’s survey. Scores from rival BMW are more mixed. The 535i sedan and X3 SUV declined in reliability, and the 135i, debuting in this survey, scores below average. Some BMW models have average or better reliability, but the 328i versions are the only ones that we have tested and can Recommend.

Volkswagen and Audi are also staging a nice reliability recovery. The Volkswagen Rabbit (Golf) and the new CC earn top scores. The VW Jetta’s Recommendation now extends to the diesel version, making it the only diesel Consumer Reports currently recommends.

Both the VW Passat and Audi A3 have improved so that they now have average reliability scores. The new VW Tiguan SUV is average. The Audi Q7 SUV continues to be much worse than average, but not as bad as its platform mate, the VW Touareg, which not only scores poorly but has the worst new-car predicted reliability score in the survey.

All of Volvo’s sedans are average or better, but Volvo’s XC90 SUV is below average. Porsche, which has been doing quite well in our survey of late, has one serious hiccup this year: The Boxster drops to below average, which strikes it from Consumer Reports Recommended list. But the Cayenne SUV im-proved to average.

Findings are based on responses on more than 1.4 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or its Web site, www.ConsumerReports.org, the biggest response in the Annual Auto Survey’s history. The survey was conducted in the spring of 2009 by Consumer Reports’ National Survey Research Center and covered model years 2000 to 2009.

Consumer Reports’ expert team of statisticians and automotive engineers used the survey data to predict reliability of new 2010 models. Predicted reliability is CR’s forecast of how well models currently on sale are likely to hold up. To calculate predicted-reliability ratings, CR averages the overall reliability scores (used car verdicts) for the most recent three model years, provided that the model remained unchanged in that period and also didn’t substantially change for 2010. If a model was new or redesigned in the past couple of years, one or two years’ data may be used, or if that’s all that’s available.

Consumer Reports Annual Auto Survey is used in determining which makes and models are recommended to consumers by CR. Consumer Reports recommends only models that have performed well in tests conducted at its 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut, and that have average or better predicted reliability based on its annual survey. In addition, vehicles must perform well in government or insurance-industry crash and rollover tests, if tested, in order to be Recommended. Occasionally, Consumer Reports may recommend a redesigned model too new to have compiled a reliability record if the previous generation, and the manufacturer’s reliability track record has been consistently outstanding, and if the model meets the other criteria.

Full reliability history charts and predicted-reliability ratings on hundreds of 2010 models, plus a list of what’s up and what’s down, best and worst models, and a comparison chart of brands can be found online at www.ConsumerReports.org, in the December issue and in the latest Consumer Reports Cars publication, Best & Worst New Car for 2010 ($5.99 U.S./$6.99 Canada), on sale November 17, 2009 everywhere magazines are sold.

Subaru, fresh off a sales increase for 2008, unveiled only one concept car at this year’s Detroit Auto Show- a new Legacy, in extremely close to production form. We’ve got the full details and a huge photo gallery.

The details

• New concept marks the 20th anniversary of the Subaru Legacy model
• The concept’s exterior design theme is “Presence”
• It’s interior design theme is “High Definition”
• Features Subaru’s trademark: Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive
• The concept features a variety of touch-screens, cameras, and monitors
• Powered by a 3.6-liter six-cylinder horizontally-opposed engine

2009 Subaru Legacy concept photo gallery

 

Official Subaru Press Release

Detroit — January 11, 2009 – Subaru of America, Inc. revealed the 2009 Subaru LEGACY CONCEPT today at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. The new LEGACY CONCEPT is a hint at the future of Legacy design. The design showcases the sport sedan heritage of the Subaru Legacy, but in more modern and purposeful package.

Marking the 20th anniversary of the Subaru Legacy, the LEGACY CONCEPT has been developed to showcase the Legacy’s sporting capabilities and features Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system mated to a Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The design concept is based on a larger 108.3 in. wheelbase designed to maximize interior space and provide comfortable accommodations for four adults.

The theme of concept design is “Presence”, represented by the aggressive front facia and solid yet expressive body. Four powerful and defined wheel arches emphasize the dynamism of Symmetrical AWD. Sharp design lines carve out a substantial mass as they flow from the hood, across the roof to the trunk, while the sharp body lines project a sense of strength. Wedge-shaped Side Rear Vision Cameras are featured and provide a sense of flow from the momentum of the A-pillar lines. A character line runs from just before the A-pillar and sweeps up to the tail just above the taillamps.

This grille design incorporates a central wing motif that defines the Legacy’s Subaru brand identity. The Subaru logo separates a deep central grille shape that is accented by sharp headlamps with a dual vertical-row layout of multiple LED lamps. In addition, the slim, vertical fog lamps set in a large front valance with angular air intakes add a jewel-like touch to the front design. The LEGACY CONCEPT is finished in a special High-luster “Ultimate Silver” paint to accentuate the design’s angular shapes.

The interior design features a striking four-seat layout that showcases the “High Definition” design theme. Comfort and style are achieved with a mix of touch-screens, cameras and modern surface coverings. The high-tech look blends with comfort through four separate seating areas, a high roofline and generous legroom for all passengers. The center console features a large touch-panel display that concentrates various functions for simplified use, while the flowing shape extends vertically to emphasize the feeling of strength and solidity in union with the exterior. A steering wheel and shift lever have been adapted to accentuate the sporty nature elemental in the Legacy’s DNA.

In-car entertainment is featured through monitors with multiple functions that are located in the center console, as well as in the rear of the front seat headrests to provide comfortable functionality as well a calm design that creates a relaxed ambiance for passengers. The monitor for the Side Rear Vision Camera has been situated toward the front of the roof to maximize rear visibility. The design is capped off with seats covered in pearl white leather that give off a blue sheen, while black metallic leather has been used for the door trim to create contrast with the instrument panel.

The Legacy was introduced globally in 1989, produced in Japan and Lafayette, Indiana. Since that date until November 2008, the total global production has exceeded 3.6 million vehicles making it Subaru’s core model. During that period, Subaru’s core technologies of a Horizontally-Opposed engine and Symmetrical AWD have served to further the basic elements of automotive performance while continuously evolving for unparalleled handling, stability, and safety. This LEGACY CONCEPT incorporates the Legacy heritage while also serving as a concept model that provides an image of the new driving comfort and reliability that will continue to serve as a touchstone for Subaru.

Specifications:

Body size (Overall: Length x Width x Height): 188.8 x 71.7 x 59.0 inches

Wheelbase: 108.3 inches

Engine: 3.6-liter six-cylinder Horizontally-Opposed engine

Tire size: 225/45R19

Occupancy: Four persons

Today’s featured photo comes from Mario Vasta
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Summary
As-Tested Price: $31,190
Engine: 2.5-liter horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed automatic w/shift control
EPA Fuel Economy: 20-city, 22-combined, 26-highway
Observed Fuel Economy: 18.8-mpg [90% snow covered roads, < 45mph]

Conclusion
The industry standard for usable utility that will get you anywhere you need to go in the most severe of weather conditions without breaking the bank during these frugal times.

Strengths

• Tackles the worst road conditions without breaking a sweat
• Small thoughtful features, like wiper-blade deicers, are a lifesaver
• Comfortable and well finished interior
• Large and flexible storage capacity

Weaknesses

• Navigation screen brightness is never quite right and display graphics are looking dated
• Wheels are prone to catching snow and becoming temporarily unbalanced
• Fuel mileage lower than you would expect from a 4-cylinder
• Four-speed automatic is smooth but needs at least another gear

Vehicle Dynamics & Performance
Subaru has been long known for its affinity to all-wheel-drive. Every Subaru that rolls off the factory line has it, including the 2009 Outback.  It’s an often under appreciated feature that non-Subaru owners may be quick to dismiss as unnecessary, however we found during our stint it was extremely invaluable.  With snow falling every few days here in the Northeast we had ample opportunity to find out exactly how the Outback handled in the worst of road conditions.

Powered by a 2.5 liter horizontally opposed 4 cylinder- the Outback is not a screamer.  With only 170-horsepower on tap, it’s immediately obvious you’re not driving a WRX.   Despite some reservations we came to love the Outback’s mild demeanor and found the engine to be perfectly matched to the AWD system.  Lay on the throttle and power builds in a smooth predictable manner.

Vehicle stability control is standard across the Outback line for 2009.  By keeping tabs on the AWD system and taming wheel-spin when necessary the VDC system turns the Outback into a point and shoot tank. Aim the wheel where you want to go and hang on.  Snow, freezing rain, sleet- it doesn’t matter. We threw the Outback into the most challenging conditions we could find and every time drove away impressed. While other cars literally slid off the road around us, the Outback was sure-footed and inspired confidence. Trust us when we say not many cars, crossovers, or even trucks feel this balanced.

Design Execution, Appearance, Fit & Finish
Subaru has increasingly done a great job on design over the past few years.  While going through an awkward styling phase not too long ago, minor changes on the 2009 Outback present a crisp visual package. The front end is more angular than in the past, almost aggressive.

Inside, the Outback has soft textured surfaces reminiscent of what you would find in a Volkswagen. You’re not getting top quality all the way around, but harder plastic and materials are limited to scratch prone areas, consistent with the overall utility theme.

The faux interior wood trim adds warmth and looks good.  Gauges are straight forward but even at max, never got as bright as we would have liked.

Audio, Electronics, & Technology
We were reassured that Subaru isn’t resting it’s hat entirely on the Outback’s utilitarian qualities.  An impressive 440-watt harman-kardon branded sound system plays burned MP3 files, is pre-wired for satellite radio, and even has an auxiliary input.  Sound quality was impressive for this price range.  Being the spoiled audiophiles that we are left us wishing for a crisper low end, but in reality it’s hard to get much better.

Our Outback also came equipped with Subaru’s navigation system.  While simple in presentation, it offers a set of digital auxiliary gauges, fuel mileage information, a calendar, and a simple display of maintenance records.  Handy and useful for sure.

Comfort & Ergonomics
A stand out area for Subaru has been their three-spoke steering wheel.  It’s super comfortable, wrapped in leather, and just feels right.  Audio and cruise controls are positioned perfectly and have a positive action.  It’s surprising how many automakers can’t get steering wheel mounted controls to feel even remotely this good.

The door window switches are oddly placed- partially blocked by the door grab handle. It leaves no good spot to rest your arms and makes quick window adjustments challenging behind the wheel. The heated leather seats are a lifesaver on frigid mornings and allow the already comfortable seats to be even more so.

One small touch that we really appreciated was a heated wiper blade rest at the base of the windshield. Even a thick coating of ice and snow was quickly loosened enough to come free in a few minutes.  When heavy snow is falling the last thing you need is frozen wiper blades streaking your vision.  Subaru does a great job building in utility and function all around.

Closing Words
While almost every single automaker saw a massive drop in sales during 2008, Subaru actually bucked the trend and gained ground. After getting wheel time in the new Forester a few weeks ago and now the 2009 Outback it’s really no surprise why. Subaru offers an affordable no frills ride that is really tough to beat when it comes to value.  The 2009 Outback will never let you down when you absolutely need to get somewhere while comforting you in all the right ways. We’re sad to see it go.

Check out our Road Test Gallery
We’ve got a whole slew of photos from our time in the 2009 Subaru Outback Click the image below and take a look.

Click for our exclusive Road Test Photo Gallery

Our exclusive photo gallery from our Road Test of Subaru’s extremely versatile and much adored Outback.

Check out our full Road Test of the Outback

Photographed by Zane Merva

 

Somebody apparently forgot to phone up the executives at Subaru and tell them 2008 was nothing but doom and gloom for the auto industry. Bucking the trend of bad news and declining sales, the company saw a sales increase in 2008.

We’ve long been huge fans of Subaru vehicles. Standard all-wheel-drive gets you anywhere in the worst of weather.  Competitive pricing also leaves your wallet a bit heavier- which comes in handy as ballast, for even more traction when the roads are super slick.  We’ve got a 2009 Subaru Outback at the office right now actually and the timing could not be better. A considerable winter storm is headed our way. Up to 10 inches of snow- maybe some freezing rain.

Look for our Road Test of the 2009 Subaru Outback in the next few days! Then tune in next week for the unveiling of the new Subaru Legacy Concept in Detroit.

Check out the official press release below. Congratulations to you Subaru. You bucked the sales trends in 2008.  We’re sure many will agree when we say, that’s not an easy task.  Sure, it’s only +0.3% – but compared to what the other guys are laying down- 0.3% never looked so good.

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CHERRY HILL, N.J., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ — Subaru of America today announced a 0.3% sales increase for full-year 2008 sales over 2007. Driven by record results for its Impreza, Legacy and Forester model lines, Subaru was the only full-line brand with positive sales through November 2008. (Full-year results for other makers are not known at time of posting).

The year-over-year sales increase adds to the good news the company enjoyed in 2008: the Subaru Forester was named 2009 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year and the company was awarded the title Automotive Marketer of the Year by Mediapost.com and the brand has performed well in Kelley Blue Book and ALG ratings.

                  December                   December YTD
               2008     2007    %chg       2008       2007    %chg
    Legacy     1824     2066   -11.7%     22596      21094     7.1%
    Outback*   4067     5831   -30.3%     44280      57334   -22.8%
    Impreza    4192     5376   -22.0%     49098      46333     6.0%
    Forester   6499     3992    62.8%     60748      44530    36.4%
    Tribeca     705     1471   -52.1%     10975      16790   -34.6%
    Baja          0        3  -100.0%         2       1127   -99.8%
    Total    17,287   18,739    -7.7%   187,699    187,208     0.3%

* Includes Legacy Wagon

Subaru has also announced it will show a Concept Legacy Sedan at the upcoming North American International Auto Show (Jan. 11, 2009) to showcase a potential direction for the model that celebrates 20 years of U.S. sales and production in 2009.

Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America said, “To post increased sales for the year the Industry has just experienced reflects the strength of our products, our dealers and the Subaru brand. In a difficult market we were able to establish new sales records for Forester, Impreza and Legacy sedan and also record our highest market share ever.”

Tom Doll, executive vice president for Subaru of America said, “Our 2008 sales results are tribute not only to our product offerings, but also to the commitment, perseverance and dedication of our retail sales network. Our strategy was to concentrate on building our brand image and also to leverage the value, performance and utility of our products rather than focus on “selling the deal”, and that strategy has allowed us to significantly outperform the market.”

December may be one of the busiest shopping months of the year, but it didn’t help US automotive sales from posting sharp drops in sales over December 2007.

Not all December sales figures have been reported, but here’s what we know so far. The biggest loser looks to be Chrysler with December sales down a staggering 53% over last year.

The bright spot that most of the media is ignoring is that many of the automakers posted an actual increase in sales from November to December. Here’s for hoping that trend continues.

BMW
Down 35.9%
12/2008: 21,626
12/2007: 33,761

General Motors (GM)
Down 31%
12/2008: 221,983
12/2007: 323,453

Chrysler
Down 53%
12/2008: 89,813
12/2007: 191,423

Ford (F)
Down 32%
12/2008: 134,114

Toyota (TM)
Down 36.7%
12/2008: 141,949
12/2007: 224,399

Volkswagen: Down 14.4%
Subaru: Down 7.7%
Daimler AG (DA): Down 23.5%
Honda: 34.7%

Today’s featured photo comes from Russell Tracy Photography
Check out more Insane Automotive Photography on Flickr
Submit your photo to the group for a chance to get featured here.