TALKING CARS WITH CONSUMER REPORTS #16: 2013 RELIABILITY DATA: THE UPS AND DOWNS

EV Channels Review

Consumer Reports' 'Talking Cars' episode #16 delves into the 2013 auto reliability data, revealing significant shifts in brand rankings. While Japanese manufacturers like Lexus, Toyota, and Acura maintain top positions, Audi makes a surprising leap to fourth place, a remarkable turnaround attributed to steady improvements and high-content vehicles holding up well, particularly the A6 2.0T FWD. Volvo also shows improvement, ranking seventh. The episode highlights the growing pains of new technology, with complex infotainment systems negatively impacting brands like Ford (C-Max Hybrid, Escape, Fiesta) and Honda (Accord, Civic), and even affecting Tesla, whose Model S achieved an average reliability score despite issues with door handles and other minor components rather than its powertrain. Conversely, simpler electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt demonstrate strong reliability. A notable shift in recommendations is announced due to the IIHS small overlap crash test, with the Toyota Camry, RAV4, Prius V, and Audi A4 losing their recommended status due to poor performance in this critical safety test, signaling a move towards prioritizing safety alongside reliability.