In a world where there are literally hundreds of vehicles to choose from there are still a few that stand out above the rest. I asked Jody Victor to tell us about Consumer Reports Top Picks for 2007.
Jody Victor: This year Consumer Reports has added five new models to their list. Among small SUVs, the redesigned Toyota RAV4 now tops their ratings. The updated Infiniti G35 beat all other upscale sedans. A new engine propelled the Toyota Sienna to the top of their minivan ratings. The redesigned Mazda MX-5 Miata impressed them enough to earn the nod in the Fun to Drive category. And the new Honda Fit is their pick in a new category for small, fuel-efficient budget cars.The Top Picks are recommended vehicles that have met stringent requirements in the three key areas of : testing, reliability, and safety.
Fun to drive: Mazda MX-5 Miata - The Miata ($21,000 to $27,000) won drivers over with its balanced handling, quick and precise steering, and crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission - all available at a reasonable price. If you want a fun-to-drive car with the functionality of a four-door sedan or wagon, consider the Subaru Impreza WRX.
Small SUV : Toyota RAV4 - The RAV4's 2006 redesign is a significant improvement over its predecessor, and the V6 version is the only nonhybrid SUV to earn an excellent rating in CR reports. The newly redesigned Honda CR-V is a good runner-up.
Small sedan : Honda Civic - The Civic ($17,000 to $23,000) was redesigned for 2006. With a relatively roomy interior, comfortable ride, smooth powertrain, and good handling, the Civic is enjoyable to drive. Models with manual and automatic transmissions returned 31 and 28 mpg overall, respectively, in the testing, and the Civic Hybrid got 37 mpg.
Family sedan : Honda Accord - The Accord ($20,000 to $33,000) provides an excellent balance of comfort, roominess, ride, and handling. Also worth considreing : the Toyota Camry and Volkswagen Passat 3.6.
Minivan : Toyota Sienna - For years, the Sienna and Honda Odyssey have swapped spots as CR's top-rated minivan. For 2007, the Sienna ($26,000 to $38,000) received a new powerful and efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine that now gives it the edge in the testing.
Luxury sedan : Infiniti M35 - With an excellent combination of luxury and performance, the outstanding M35 ($42,000 to $45,000) earned the highest score of any current sedan in the testing. Well equipped and comfortable, it's just as capable on a twisty two-lane road as it is cruising down the highway.
Midsized SUV : Toyota Highlander Hybrid - The gas/electric Highlander Hybrid ($35,000 to $40,000) is an excellent overall package. It includes all the inviting attributes of the conventional Highlander plus better acceleration and moderately better fuel economy - 22 mpg.
Budget cars : Honda Fit - smaller than the Civic, the budget-priced Fit ($14,000 to $16,000) is the best overall in a new class of fuel-efficient subcompact cars. Not only is it fun to drive, but its compact dimensions pack an impressive amount of interior room and versatility.
Green car : Toyota Prius - The fuel-stingy, gas/electric Prius hybrid ($23,000) provides reasonable performance in addition to excellent fuel economy.
Upscale sedan : Infiniti G35 - The updated G35 ($35,000 to$39,000) successfully blends sportiness and luxury. Available in rear- or all-wheel drive, it has an exuberant powertrain, agile handling, and a reasonably comfortable ride. For an alternative that's very comfortable and refined, but not sporty, consider the Lexus ES350.
Thanks, Jody! We'll be sure to check them out.