As we all know, car manufacturers sometimes score and sometimes not when it comes to brand new vehicles. But the only way they can really know if a new model will fly is to build it and let it go. Well, the 2007s have gone through more than a year's worth of sales and comments. I asked Jody Victor to let us in on the real story behind the hits and misses for 2007.
Jody Victor: According to Consumer Reports, there are some cars that make the grade and some that don't. Most of these choices may not surprise you - but here's the list anyway.
Most Impressive
Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan - As expected, these replacements for the Taurus and Sable are practical and roomy. But people were unexpectedly impressed with their nimble handling and comfortable ride, which make them feel more like expensive European cars. Unlike many new cars in their first year, their reliability has been excellent.
Hyundai Santa Fe - With much better ride and handling than its predecessor, the new Santa Fe might be the best Hyundai we've tested. It also has a smooth powertrain, quiet interior, and impressive fit and finish, giving it a No. 2 ranking among small SUVs, behind the Toyota RAV4 V6.
Infiniti G35 - With its 2007 update, the G35 has been transformed into a very capable sports sedan. Quick and agile, with well-balanced handling and a controlled ride, it is a joy to drive, Handling, interior fit and finish, and controls are all markedly improved over the previous model.
Hyundai Entourage/Kia Sedona - The redesigned Sedona and new Entourage - minivan twins - are a big improvement over the small, clumsy, and fuel-thirsty first-generation Sedona. They are quiet, roomy, comfortable, and powerful, and offer a wide array of features at a competitive price.
Most Disappointing
Dodge Caliber/Jeep Compass - These new wagon-like models scored worse in Consumer Reports testing thant the Chrysler PT Cruiser, which hasn't been redesigned in five years. They share a platform, engine, and transmission, as well as multiple faults. Both have sluggish acceleration, lots of engine and road noise, and hampered visibility. Their poorly finished interiors reflects an unfortunate trend seen in other recent Chrysler vehicles.
Toyota Yaris - The Yaris offers excellent fuel economy and reliability. But the good news ends there. Emergency handling is sloppy, there's a lot of noise, the driving position is uncomfortable, and stops are very long without the optional (but hard to find) antilock brakes.
Dodge Nitro - Based on the Jeep Liberty, the bold, distinctive styling of this SUV will undoubtedly win over some buyers. But with vague steering, ungainly handling, unsettled ride, limited visibility, and a cheap-looking interior, the Nitro falls short of the Liberty. Both lack the refinement of most carbased SUVs.
Chrysler Sebring - While improved somewhat over the old Sebring, the all-new version still trails the competition. Conspiring against it are noisy engines, unimpressive braking and handling, uncomfortable seats, a cheap-looking interior, and only adequate performance and fuel economy.
Thanks, Jody!