react ag Consumer Reports’. <— MZ TTT de) A ch Ter TOA CARS, TRUCKS & SUVs“CR is the most honest and transparent organization I know, and because | relate strongly to their mission of health and safety in the marketplace, it seemed like a good fit.” —Lowell Parker Professor, scientist and life-long CR supporter (Gams Explore All the Smart Ways coca] poe For You to Support Our Mission. Donor Advised Fund (DAF) legacy@consumer.org 877-275-3425 CRAPRIL 2024, VOL. 88 NO. 4 Contents 10 TOP PICKS These exceptional vehicles ‘meet our high standards forperformanee, reliability safety, and more, P.6 12 18 26 30 The Best & Worst The Hot Hybrid Airbags Are The Best Buys Lists—2024 Edition Everyone's alifesaver Right Now Check out our exclusive Talking About TheyVveproteeted thousands | CRSexperts found cholcestofindthe right Plugin hybrids can offer ofdriversand passengers Jo greatcars under $27,000, options for your festyle the fel avingsot EVs cover the past 50 years hus: Ways to save big on any and budget. STS aeniaoLen Here's what to know about new vehicle torecharge on the road. this essential equipment P.26 Volkswagen ID. Buzz 16 What's New ... What's Next nate md coming soon from Volkswagen, Mini, Ram,and more. Apri zoat chong 1CONTENTS 435 MODELS 3 RATED/ REVIEWED. Row TH PRESIDENT Why Recalls Aren't Enough We're working to get automakersand government leaders to put your safety firs. 4 How We Test Abehinklthesscenes look at our 227 acre Auto Test Hyundot track, where we evaluate lonig 6 dozens of vehicles each year for handling, acceleration, braking, and more. 34 36 46 83 Brands That Make New Car New Car Recalls the Best Cars Ratings Reviews See how 34 major Getourexchsive ratings ‘These detalled summaries anulomakers stackup in for 250 vehicles share rsulis from our four 2024 annual brand Inculingabouts0newor | tracktests, our Annual Auto 97 reportcard redesigned models. Survey. and more Some New Car Lingo to Know 80 84 Here our decode forall Used Cars Most & Least the higteh terminology youllind mths WeLove Reliable Cars ‘These eri reliable ‘Top performance thatsbullt preownedpickscanhelp | tolast Use our datato find youstretch yourautobudget. | arideyoucan counton, CourerFeporisieminie: wcomtadedertira, Nemainenastictreprsion Giagitat ——GotoRorgimapeae Slouundscfcoamerestiod sowalaswrkwthbuaness purtershprandoyraradonat Got CRerghstertoedor. a erogerinenaineascts fainintoatwaeporgis | Eowiniwcremmnmenet ronnewsrisesromioes QO © O © @ (eonsrerreparts [omens BB) aesremereports Consent reports racea00x ‘wneaos rwirter Youtuse fheomfsonumerepets (Gosrurneroports (Goonereports ‘Fonaureeprts f tsveme" a X som Ss "= 2 crore seni. 2024Consumer Reports" Preiant and CEO Marts Teli ating Heod of Content en shcter Deputy tor, Print Ans Leck, Diane Uns Ntlie van der Meer Design Director Mike mith ‘Creative Directo, ron Young Kin Manager, Detign Evia Mowicc bt Directors Tammy Meron eran, Ls Ste, Pete Shes Vivo ter Lacey Howe, En tes a Mars Seo Dect, roet Testo aria etek Drectr Lab Operations oles Seno Doctor, Content Strategy le Dtene ‘cit General Cnunel aie Calman ARS: Kevin Dose, Content Led Eo Wier Kh Bury, FS. Bar, nathan Litho ike Monel, enna Preston Ato Test eater Fisher, Shir Dect emer soktunger Dretor Product Testing Nal Hoch, ‘Nichol ros, Stove lk aly Funkhouser, Codon Ginga on b=, ‘Ale ze, ana Lam, Mie Mart, jan Pcs ike Que. ‘Nay Reed, Gari she: Kssty Simpson, sw Sea yA Thema, "Nar Terese Veselk, justi Walters Face Frank Chamber, EA Dal, ke sot, Steve Kus aly Lead Wile Wallace HEALTH G FOOD. Lauren Fridman, Content ea ltrs Writer Tisha Co, ‘Nevin Loria Catherine Roberts Pl Lad ian Kahl OME 6 A>PLIANCESara Morrow, Content Lend Edtr/ Writers Moly Gain ray, eunte Chen, Taya A Cis, Mary rel et ae, Pl Hope, [eh Sie, Tobe Stanger, anil Wrols Prodt Testing ohn Caras ‘Aland Maki james No, Testing Leds ok faa Sarah Hog, Sa ‘uth Tra Carel, rence Cue, eran Det Pano Fa, Kaheen Hale, Reh Handel isha ana Gey La an Mute Cheon Rep, NattScinen Pranks pl, Rent Sutton, Dave Tree Market Anal ark Allon, stay Canora Tune, el Noomey, Courtney Reicks, ‘Anools oni Mason Wibon Spence: Poy Leu: Wil Wallace ‘Mover tlt Marg Ginan Poly Land: Dll Had Teo ere linn, Content Lead fre Wrters Niles Den, ‘Court inal cris Raymond le on fares K Wie Prat Tsing Ricard Fs, Glen Rod Mich Vicon, Testing Leads: ‘i Aras, Atonte Adil See a, Cla Cac, Chae Daina, ‘avd ekoce, Cras Mesa, Hent Para, stn Stewart Ricard alin ‘Muusce Wynn Marke Anau in Kar By, Cr ara, Od xe, NishScarle oly Led tin rola SPECIAL PROJECTS: irr Key cate Dito Ms ln ory il Lun ict, oot Ned rian Vis Contict Options aber Karl Dist {Copy Eating ese onan, Copy Chie Noreen Browne, lion France, ‘Nem creed Fact Cheeng& Research Tracy Anderman, Manager: oy Crane, Sh Gora, CGrstne Gaon, lacy ang Karen eo Ponning& Production Ney Crow, Asoc Direct Bric Note, Nanoger: Leta Highs, ert Kai Alen Necasey Premed Wil Begs Ape Det Eugene Chin, Anthony Terma Phetoropy Set Mead, oa Towers Imegngtannc Calao ‘Audience Exponion Dui Schipper, scat Diet: Ginger Cones, Nana or tsa Fogarty, Pahl Ho Angela aso, Jodhaa Roriguer, Wrters se Amzu, odut Tester Diverse Autence Sotegy Hess Chane, Deco, thes Chang Cook, ‘ssc Decor Product Sustainatity Pal Sct, Dror: hata Whichirt, noise Director Food Softy ames ers, tector: Tunde Ale, Ele Boring. ‘Ay seaig, San Mua Prod Safty his apo, Anas rc n \ Angulle Conse Engagement Tetng Chars Ala, Disco Linda Gres, [apa eee Pal Ritchey Stats ota cnc Detr Dent hs Kea Dr Survey Resereh Debra aes Asscte Director Now Akan, Nk Gala ‘endaohcn, Mar Lace LisaPo, A Tas Wan Tess ane ‘Conse sight Frank Yang. Assoc Dgecor: psa Arora Member Support Ste li, ete Dons Murs Mating fn Reon, Snir Dict Print Supply Chin Seren Shs, ctr ‘mination Da ancy Eby [KECUTIVE TeV, Che People Ofer Gena 0. elk SVP, Cie Suotegy Officer esc Freeh VP GenerlCountl 6 Chi fStot ichel Hstner SVP. Chie! Memberhip Officer ur Sanh VP Chi Social pct Officer VICE PRestDenTs: Finance Plnning & Analisis ane Boj Chie Erperance Office an usr New Produte & Services Esher Ha Testing & rights ian Kay: Imovation Lb Hen Mosh (Chief Research & Anaiies Officer Kristen Purcell From the President Why Recalls Aren't Enough OORS THAT OPEN while you drive. Airbags that I don’t deploy properly. Engines that eatch fire. ‘These are just three reasons for car recalls in the past six months. White these voluntary recalls by automakers are good thing, there's more they should be doing to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Prioritizing safety from the start means improving the protective technology that already comes standard inevery vehicle, like airbags, which we write about fon page 32. But some of the atest safety features aren't available in all new autos-or consumers are required to pay extra to get them. This includes automatic crash notification (which dials 911 for you after a collision) and automatic emergency braking that can detect pedestrians both at night and when you're driving at higher speeds. ‘The bottom line: Safety shouldn't be a luxury add-on, Protecting your backseat passengers matters too. Last year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released the first frontal crash-test ratings in the US. focused on passengers sitting in rear seats, and it revealed, the need for better protection there. CR provides rearseat safety ratings from our own testing, and we're pushing. manufacturers to implement new standard safety technology that protects those in the back seat. There's also a need for automakers to provide real solutions for problems after a car has been recalled. Last December, our experts tested changes to Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance features, which had been updated by the company to address the potential for drivers to misuse this technology. CR's testing found that the update didn’t go far enough in addressing important safety concerns. This is why CR continues to push for automakers-and ‘government leaders-to always put consumers first by Improving your safety on our roads. Mak Tetlelo Marta L.Tellado, President and CEO Follow me on Taitter @MLTellado apRizoa CROREHOW WE TEST YOU HAVE TO COVER A LOT OF GROUND In an automobile to really know how it performs. That's why our experts log ‘thousands of miles on public roads and highways in every vehicle Wwe test, and push each of them to theit limits at our 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut. We purchase every tested vehicle anonymously to prevent an automaker from giving usa “special” version, We also have a tire-esting program for ears, SUVs, and pickup trucks to help ‘you choose the best replacement ties. ‘The team at our Auto Test Center recently added a battery ‘of new tests to more thoroughly assess electric vehicles. These include evaluations oftheir highway driving range, charging speed, and other EV-specific factors. YZ « Q 00 models are bought secretly each year and put through more than 50 tests for factors including handling, accelerating, and braking. > EV RANGE TESTING ‘The Environmental Protection Agency provides conly a combined city/highway range rating for EVs. We think highway range is @ key concem for consumers, so we base our range seore ‘on our own EV-speeic highway range test \We drive at a constant 70 mph on 2 100-mile loop on public roads (in dry summer weather) Until the EV can no longer move under its own power to gauge how far it could go before if needs recharging on a long tip, Going the Distance The EV range scare is Intialy based on the EPA combined range rating. Once we evaluate o model's highway range, we update the score using our Findings Rhighwoy + REAR-SEAT SAFETY We evaluate how easily child seats fit into each vehicle, along with how well reer occupant alert and rear bet minder systems perform {if equipped in the vehicle). Rear occupant alerts can help prevent children and pets from being Lnintentionally left behind in a hot vehicle, while rear belt minders prompt oor passengers to buckle up and alert the driver if they unbuckle during the trip. 4 enone sPRi. 2024‘Scan this QR code tosee auideo of highlights from our > DIRECT DRIVER MONITORING ‘Active driving assistance systems that ‘re capable of automating acceleration, ‘broking, and steering (which is the combination of adoptive cruise control ‘ond lane centering assistance) can reduce Civing stress. But they should be paired with comera-based monitoring to ensure the driver is paying attention to the road. VII Consumer Reports” Meno epost ee ei means umes sence Yrs Or wi ain aie {rhs Gog Pia Kn Nk ay io. ie cena mae pr eee rears rm Bora 0750p asbestos yl eerie ra oe ons hei nahn Pra & ren creo ry maa fete comm tater ern a0 _entntan Cnsone ort ape Seer ‘nonstate ome iy, Cane Rea ear of Cosumee eos ‘Sicha ps ae Suicuaumaeater og\ a) C3) SHo CARS, SUVs, Hou TRUCKS THATSUBCOMPACT SUV Redesigned for 2024, the ‘oppeal. At 29mpg overall, the experience is the Crosstrek’s Crosstrek made evolutionary Crosstrek boosts the best fuel excelent ide quolity ond SUBARU advancements with engine | economy for aontybrid SUV good everyday hanling. tis CROSSTREK Gnd transmission refinements, with ellwheel div, but easy to enter, and the cabin is amore modem infotainment admittedly the base 2.0-Iter roomy, with supportive seats systern, an optional power engine ise bit weak The tind good outward visibility. $25,195-$32,195 seat, ond an improved Uplevel 2 S-lter engine is This versatile vehicle is as well on EyeSight suite of active safety quicker, quieter, and more _suited to urban errands as itis features that all heighten ts satisfying. Adding to the to weekend adventures. 29 unc HYBRID/PHEV CAR @ OTOYOTA PRIUS/ PRIUS PRIME $27,950-$39,370 @ | Crsnsur cattt | Stes ev The latest Prius wos treated to even with the addition of oll- see out of. The Prius Prime @ © eeumsniry a glow-up, bringing much wheel drive. Plus, itis cooler plug-in hybrid provides porter sing and 7Smore looking ond more engaging 39 electri-only rie, ideal for cast | 43.re 39evaance —hpthan its predecessorhod. todtiveafterthe makeover, most dally chores. Once the The rest isa sensibie cor though some comfort Battery is depleted the Prime that sas efficient asitwas elements, such as space returns 43 mpg overall. Having before, while going from Sndride,crert equal to the two powertrain cheices with Oto 60 mph asignficant previous incarnations, and. this unique, and striking, car 2eseconds more quickly, _-—«‘Remuch more difficult to doubles its appeal 1B cRoRe APRIL 202410 TOP PICKS / 2024 compact suv SUBARU FORESTER $27,095-$37,395 QR | Oecunnur SHY | 28 wre Inits lost year before oxy design that moximizes The seats are comfortable, class, and its handling is redesign, the Forester still interior space and grants room is generous, and the responsive and secure, Thisis @ stands tall, making its Tth__—_ unrivaled visibility. Access is squared-off cargo space is__—_well-rounded small SUV that appearance as. Top Pick, The cinch, thanks to large doors copious. The Forester is among really delivers, making it easy to winning formula includesa and an elevated ride height. the best-iding models nits recommend year after year. pcneDeat styrg combination of @eT0Y0T Sorhigh point ood teat retotity and effiency CAMRY HYBRID that are the main draws. $28,855-$34,295 The Camry Hybrid returned © @rcuasury ‘on our highway test, making Sone AT 05 ‘commuting, and—with a 610- mazoa3 Shetc, yet peck tho $24,170-$36,650 tres fey 2p rb @ | omusun verve. The overall feel ‘especially on higher trims, is more premium than the SHEEHY | 30 wee price suggests, making the Mazde3 seem @ half-class Mazda proves that small, above its mainstream low-priced cars don'tneed competitors. It offers all- to be boring. In fact, wheel drive with either the Mazda3 sedan and tengine, and BSW and RCTW hatchback are highly ‘ore standard for 2024, We entertaining to drive, with just wish the controls were nimble handling end smooth less distracting, OO DOO | Okromenneo | O Heencnorce pasos enone 8Q Foro ee am, Spee ene A MAVERICK, Sromscccinteac'" zaman tic MAVERICK = Svcatoscslctng fovctsohanoue™ HYBRID emer st cates meee $23,815-$34,855 BS 28 Mee @ RELIABILITY Sst! | 87 we PLUG-IN HYBRID SUV TOYOTA RAV4 PRIME $43,690-$47,560 aes BA ure A2eveance ELECTRIC VEHICLE OOTESLA MODEL Y $43,990-$52,490 330 vance The Model ¥ tops the electric car platform shared with the Model 3; its SUV-ike body provides more passenger and cargo space than the sedan does. It makes going electric allowing rapid recharging trims, going from 0 to 60mph Features are added and ‘easy, thanks to its appealing across o vast charging inunder 5 seconds. Plus, it enhanced through over-the- midsized packaging, long network. The Model ¥ handles like a sports cor, with air upgrades, so this olready diving range, and robust is stunningly quick in Long _ responsive steering ond good car can get even Supercharger compatibility, Range and Performance ‘minimal body roll in turns better over time, 10 crore sPait 2020 Solty to Gano A10 TOP PICKS / 2024 MIDSIZED SUV thoughtful eabin conve- TOYOTA riences, abundant active sofety features, ond HIGHLANDER commendable predicted reliobilty. But it realy excels HYBRID ct fuel efficiency, with its 243- hp hybrid powertrain. No 40720-3325 senor Sch The immensely popular RAVA is 42-mile electrc-only range cvoilable with a regular four- means owners can minimize cylinder engine and on efficient their use of the gasoline engine, hybrid powertrain, but the RAV4 When the battery is depleted, Prime plug-in hybrid takes the RAV4 Prime still delivers efficiency to even greater «24 mpg overall—slightly less heights. It boasts 302 hp, than the 37:mpg of the hybrid fenabling the small SUV to _ version. Frisky and frugal, the scoot from 0 to 60 mph ina Prime also rides better and is scant 63 seconds—2 seconds quieter than the other versions, Quicker than the gas-only making it a more premium version. An unusually long experience all round. Luxury suv @anw X5/®X5 PHEV = $65,200-$89,300 | Omnmurr § 23 wes rc 39ev nance { troveng in the XS so hnxury with coddling front seats The delvers quick oceleaton, but _metor and alrge-enough E Gperienceitewhisper- quiet bolanced suspension prevides the plugin hybrid version's battery for robust electric £ Ccbintclovshed wih lecther@tuppleride and composed” theveotace felsourese, propulsion, Exquisite nchnost endwood,inshedwith —Rendling that holds teow on turbo imine sik Butts teamed every detl the X3 sets @ Cushioned sufaces and filed Curvyoods The tubes” withonintegrled elecie high stand OO DOO | Okromenneo | O Heencnorce apmaoe chore 1A(MMU TsuBisa CUTLANOER BEST NEW CARS PLDT UNDER Uae TAY Subaru BRZ subaru WRX Toyota GRa6 Mazda MX-5 Miata Honda Civie Si Toyota Prius? Kia Niro ® AZO WSR LONGEST (& SHORTEST) EV RANGE rows n26 ovo) SUBARUSOLTERRA > RANGE IN MILES suontest Rane tonesstnant 12 crore APRIL 202 ‘L.ustaations ay RopRiGo DAMATLCae De) or tit Eon T een ie et 2,000 Preen eeenrs oer avenens patty ar ot eee oer On orltectr) Dre ee Red cod reece Hyundai MosweD.caas: SAL suve Le ee Toyota Camry Hybrid ® © Subaru Forester ely toyota @Honda Accord © Subaru Crosstrek coe Corolla Hybrid Hybrid @ Honda CR-V ae 'SMALLCARS, @ Toyota Camry @ Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Le Mazdas kia ks liyundi Tucson @suboru Impreza @Honda Accord @ Toyota Corolla A destination charge is the non- ereen ca @Suban Legacy cea wwenter the coat of araparting © tiyundoi Elantra Nissan Akima_ © kia Sportage Hybrid vehicle om the factory Kia Soul ‘@ Hyundai Sonata Toyota RAV4 Hybrid t we ee Pena © Toyota Corolla Hyundai Mitsubishi Outlander some cases by model, it's the Hatchback Sonata Hybrid same for particular mede) SHALL PICKUPS throughout the contiguous Ford Maverick states, 50 you wont save money seeking a dealership closer to ore arena the assembly plant. The highest svat destination charges, such as HYBRID those For large SUVs from Jeep ‘and Toyota, can be significant ‘expenses—especially when Included in vehicle financing, LOWEST Diy CHARGES: Sra enmmie wero are esaEDES- 27695 Peay aes @ eRceves- i220) eR ied sce reaver 6 “a — foc} oe meal ora oo ray Feanccnr ie wo & aD oe NCL Cee Honda Accord, Civic; pire mein Elly Era\\ Pn Caner} Ped Ciera oo Coed 7 wxuRy Peace PN Cuma a oem : a perry 6 oe ooose ° a enti) 28 eat cena © Peccr ceo) = von 2 eh Pe 25 ae — Ei fc Sumi 28 oe on ee CRONE 240 Pee CUTS @ Pero earn Eey Dery 20 CTT at cay Perera) MINN man fee Cadillac CTA OTesla Model 3% AMERICAN ssonecse CARS Ochewolet corvette Ford Escape Norning the American cars with the best Overall Scores fist requires defining what Ox we mean by “American.” This is complicated because some U.S. brands, ke Buick and Ford, build mony oftheir vehicles overseas. Similarly, some foreign brands, such HEY) Subaru, Honda, and Toyeta, produce many American-mark en used on American-fou Ford Edge © wy s Stellants, and Terrsuersit erovoTs 37 | MIRAGE PRIUS [AWD 2. QTOVOTACAMY erovoTs @KIRK, © HONDA A: Bard Eyre 31 Ey Cry Pony Cr) Crary Cry bret) rer brcenny Buick Enclave BEE ror Maverce — @) 288" Ford Murtons 28 Oram ss00 DS Mach-E & Otani Moser Be chrysler Pacifica Dt Lincoln Corsa @ Seouenoeo | © Sheen cuoice THE MOST (& LEAST) RELIABLE Everyone wants a car that won't leave them stranded or saddled with large repair bils, That's why the reliability survey date we collect each year on more than 330,000 vehicles factors heavily in our Overall Scores. The lists below feature the ew models that are predicted to be the most trustworthy and those that carry the greatest risk of problems. MOST RELIABLE Toyota Runner © Toyota Camry Hybrid © Toyota Camry © Toyota RAVA Prime © Bmw xs © Subaru Forester © Toyota RAVE @ Acura ROX © Toyota Corolla @ Toyota Highlander Hybrid 000000 ‘Jeep Wrangler Jeep Grand Cherokee Volkswagen Jetta Nissan Frontier ‘Jeep Grand Cherokee L Rivian RIT \Volve XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Ford F-150 Hybrid Volkswagen Taos Cinrster Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid ¥ crons 15WHAT'S NEW ... WHAT'S NEXT These six models are debuting in the months ahead, each promising power, efficiency, space, and/or clever features. We look forward to buying them and running them through our tests. In the meantime, here's a peek. sy Jerr s. sarruett VOLKSWAGEN = ‘ ID.BUZL +7 $85 00-570000 LATE 2024 A nostal tribute to the decidedly 21 Itmeasures 8 to 9 inch than tradtior MINI COUNTRYMAN p $98 90046 900 ple. The ID.Buzz uses either a single motor with 282 hp to drive the rea isor a dual-motor, 330-hp configuration with ‘all-wheel drive; both rely on a 9t-kilowatt-hour battery,‘SPRING 2024 Redesigned for the 2025 model year, the Countryman is going to grow in length, height, and power. The biggest Mini ever starts with the $ Alla, making 241 hp from © 2.0-liter turbocharged four- cylinder engine. (The sportier John Cooper Works Countryman chums out 312 hp) A fuly electric Countryman is scheduled to follow this Fall with dual electric motors thot produce a total of 313 hp. Each version comes with cll wheal drive and a quirky intorior that employs @ giant, circular center screen in place of ‘© conventional instrument cluster TOYOTA CAMRY ‘SPRING 2024 The current Camry, redesigned back in sze0n0$36000 2018 is still great, eaming a Top Pick designation this year The subtle 2025 model year refresh brings refinements —,, throughout to make it even more desirable. The most notable change is replacing the conventional engines with a 25rlter four-cylinder hybrid that delivers more power than before. Every trim willbe available with all-wheel drive—a fist among Camry hybrids. In addition to the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of active safety features, all Camrys come with blind spot warning and rear eross traffic warning, LATE 2024 Ram kicks offits electric Rev-olution with the 1500 Rey, full-sized pickup RAM thot draws from the redesigned | ISQQREV 1500 ond new Ramcharger Peewee plug-in hybrid trucks. The Rev has a single 654-hp electric — powertrain, with achoice of standard (350-mile range) or lorge (500-rile range) battery pack, The electrical system Uses an 800-volk architecture for rapid public charging. ond the Rev can sand its onboard power to a house, worksite, for the grid. It is available with {an air suspension, TOYOTA CROWN SIGNIA $42,00-$50,000" ‘SUMMER 2024 / new model, the Crown Signia SUV is sized between the Venza and the Highlander Hybrid SUV. Ithhas assingle powertrain: @ 243-hp,2.5-lter four-cylinder hybrid ‘engine matched to @ continuously variable transmission shared with the Highlander Hybrid. All-wheel drive is standard. Toyote projects that twill earn an impressive 36 mpg ‘combined EPA fuel-economy rating. The dash design mmirrrs the Crown sedan, with a digital instrument panel ‘and 12.3-inch infotainment screen. This five-possengar SUV has mote passenger and cargo space than the sedan, SUBARU es FORESTER a $24000439,000" SPRING 2024 The sixth ‘generation Forester packs ‘many welcome upgrades into its fomliar package. A 180-hp, 25rlte fourcylinder engine is matched to @ CVT, routing power toll comers with the standard cll-wheel-drive systern. Each trim level comes withthe latest, more capable version ofthe EyeSight suite of octive safety features. Driver attention monitoring ventilated seats, and a hands free power litgate are available. The company says this models quieter, addressing o ertcism of the outgoing version APRIL 2008 va SRR. ne THE HOT HYBRID EVERYONE'S & TALKING ABOUT ae ‘s wae ¥ tay » eIf you are considering plugging into the electric vehicle revolution but worry about the potential hassles and uncertainties of charging on the road, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV, for short) could be the right car for you. PHEVs bridge the gap between a regular hybrid and an EV. Unlike a regular hybrid, which recharges its battery using only its gas engine and brakes, a PHEV can also be plugged in to add electric only range, usually between 20 and 40 miles. Itcan charge overnight from astandard household outlet, so you don’t need to purchase and install a special charger. Once the electric range is depleted, the gas engine provides power for longer trips. Ifyou, like a majority of Americans, tend to drive less than. 40 miles a day, you could end up visiting the gas pump just a few times. year. “Figuring out ifa PHEV is right for you might take more research up front than with a conventional gas car or hybrid, but for some drivers it could save them money over a gas, hybrid, or electric vehicle,” says Jake Fisher, senior director of CR's Auto Test Center. He says that in general, PHEVs can offer the best of both electric and conventional cars for people who do most of their driving around town, But he points ‘out thata conventional hybrid is usually a better choice for those who ‘mainly take longer trips or don’t have somewhere to plug in because they'll probably never make up the higher purchase price of a PHEV in fuel savings. ‘There are currently more than 30 PHEV models for sale in the U.S. ranging from small hatchbacks to luxurious SUVS. Most are based on existing gas-only vehicles or hybrids, Last year, sales of PHEVs grew by 60 percent~a larger increase than for EVs or conventional hybrids, according to CR’s analysis of vehicle sales numbers. Over the past year, CR bought and tested some of the most popular PHEVS on the market. Here, we explain how they work and tell you how to determine if PHEV will save you money, We also highlight the PHEVs that Consumer Reports recommends so that you can choose the one that’s best for you. Good News About PHEVs Concern about charging logistics, such as where and when to charge, is a primary reason people are reluctant to purchase an electric vehicle. For many car buyers, a PHEV provides FOUR WAYS TO POWER A i —_ INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE (ICE) nso HYBRIDS pi itl smal scsine engine ‘conventional cars with gas- or diesel-powered engines. with an electric motor to provide greater fuel efficiency thon ‘most conventional cors. They can't be plugged in. An electric motor supplements the gos ‘engine and ollows it to shut of ot low speeds > €6=—ErU(C( QZ their best fuel economy ot motors charged by the engine constant highway speeds. fond regenerative broking, 20 crore s°Ri. 202 ILLUSTRATIONS BY ELIAS STEINmost of the benefits of driving an EV without worries about how and where to charge, Fisher says. In general, a PHEV costs less to purchase than an EV and is less pricey to fuel than gas or hybrid vehicles. Just how much you'll save on gas depends ‘on how often you charge your PHEV. “In most cases, the more you plug in a PHEV, the more gas and money you'll save,” Fisher says. While fully charging a pure EV at a conventional 120-volt outlet can take several days, charging a PHEV from standard household outlet takes ‘much less time, (The models we tested took an average of 14 hours to charge at a 120V outlet, but a Level 2 [240V] charger can top up the battery in just a few hours.) Most PHEVs don’t work with public DC fast chargers. ‘And though many lack the pin-you- to-yourseat acceleration of a pure EV, most PHEVS we tested are more satisfying to drive than the gas-only versions of the same vehicles. “Our testing clearly indicates that a PHEV PLUG-INHYBRIDS (PHEVs) ceneray hove orger battery thon regular hybrids. Unik regular hybrids, they can travel solely on lectric power at regulor driving speeds, usualy for 20 to 40 miles PHEVe ove designed to bo plugged Into charge (Once the battery runs out the gas engine kicks in for @ total range of hundreds of mies. version of any model is quicker and quieter than a gas-only version,” says Gabe Shenhar, associate director of R's Auto Test Center. Keep in mind that even with a full charge, PHEVS often engage the gas engine when it’s cold outside, when extra power is needed for acceleration on steep hills, Or just to keep gas from getting stale in the tank, says Alex Knizek, manager of auto testing and insights at CR. What's Right for You? Ifyou don't have a garage or somewhere to plugin, or if you mostly drive long distances, a PHEV isn’t the right choice for you. For example, when the Hyundai ‘Tucson PHEV is driven with an empty battery, it gets 4 fewer mpg in our tests than the hybrid version. If you never plug it in, a Tucson PHEY could cost ‘$150 more each year on gas than ifyou'd bought the conventional hybrid version, As with pure Es, highway driving and temperatures below 40° F can reduce a PHEY's electric driving range. Reliability can vary significantly among PHEV models, so check the CR reliability rating of any model before you buy. Many ofthe least dependable PHEVS are from brands that struggle with reliability in general. By contrast, auto manufacturers that usually make reliable vehicles also tend to make trustworthy PHEVs, says Steven Blek, program leader for automotive data analytics at CR. “The most reliable automakers have proved it's possible to build a reliable PHEV, like Toyota's Prius Prime and RAV Prime,” he says Generous federal tax credits for leasing a PHEV can add up to serious savings. For example, a well-equipped Hyundai Tueson SEL PHEV currently costs $34 per month less to lease than abase- model Hyundai Tueson Hybrid Blue, even though the rest ofthe lease terms are similar. Ifyou're trying to decide between an EV and a PHEY, fuel savings and tax credits could make leasing an EV the better choice from a financial standpoint. But you'll still have to charge on the road. ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVs) sort nove conventonol engines. Theyre powered by on alactic motor that gets its energy from a large battery. They can usualy travel over 200 miles between charges. ‘The electric motor (or motors) has fewer moving ports fond provides immediate ‘acceleration thats much quicker thon mast conventional cars. ‘A 240-vlt EV charger is recommended for charging at home. Powerful public charging stations can replenish the battery for cuicker but may be inconvenient to get te, depending en your location, aprizoa cRORG BLTHE BEST PHEVs These 10 PHEVs earned a CR recommendation after extensive testing. They scored well in our road tests, often outshining the gas or hybrid versions of the same vehicle, with quicker acceleration and quieter operation. In addition, their predicted reliability is average or above. Consumer Celene Lite © © © BMW XS PHEV $72.50 ARNGE MILES) 29 EV 37S GAS GAS-ONLY MPG at ‘The shorp-handling XS PHEV got a bigger battery for 2024, Increasing its range and power. Weld recommend a 240-volt charger to refill the battery overnight. All-wheel drive is standard O——@ © KIA SPORTAGE PHEV $39590-$44,090 ‘The PHEV is quicker and quieter thon the regular Sportage. All-wheel drive is standard, and the interior is spacious e © MAZDACX-90 PHEV $4945 -$57450 (MILES: aS€V-+420GAS GAS-ONLY MPG 23 ‘The CX-80 PHEV has three rows of seating, « large cabin, ‘and standard all-wheel drive. Handling is agile, though transitions from gas to electric power aren't the smoothest 08 ® MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV $40,345 $46,295 (MILES! 28 V+ 365.GAS GAS-ONLY MPG: 25 ‘The sever-passenger Outlander PHEV is based on the Nissan Rogue ‘and has @ smal third-row seat. I's quicker and quieter than the standard Outlander and has higher city but lower highway mpg PHEVs "Hybrid" doesn't always mean ‘reat mpg, Adding electric-only thirsty luxury cars and heavy off-roaders while still meeting range helps automakers sell fuel- ‘emissions stondards in the US. cond globally, says Chris Harto, senior policy analyst at CR ‘The pricey BMW XM has lightning-quick acceleration, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe can silently tackle o trail on electric ower, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee xe is more efficient than the gos-only version,© © HYUNDAI TUCSON PHEV $38,475 -$45,200 ‘The roomy and comfortable Tucson PHEV gets a generous 33 miles on electic power alone. All-wheel drive is standard FORD ESCAPE PHEV s40s00 Ra GAS-ONLY MG 37 ‘The agile Escape has a fairly quiet cabin. In our owner satisfaction survey, the Escape PHEV scored much higher than the gas and hybrid versions but is available only in front-wheel driv. © ®TOYOTA RAV4 PRIME $43,690- $7560, RANGE MILES): 42EV = 5S00;GAS. GAS-ONLY MG 24 The already recommended RAVA is quicker and quieter 0s «@ PHEY, thanks to a combined 302 hp from its electric drive ‘ond 25-Iter four-cylinder engine, But oll three have some of the shortest electric ranges cond the lowest combined {gos-only EPA fuel-economy estimates among PHEVS. 8 OOO ® | O eoumenoeo | keen croice © ®KIANIRO PHEV $34.390-$40140 The front-wheel-crive Nira is available as a hybrid, PHEY, and pure EV. The Niro PHEV can go almost 500 miles on single tank of {905 and o full charge, © ® BMW 330e sasiso0- 47600 RANGE MILES! 20 EV +200GKS. GAS-ONLY MPG: 28 This PHEV boasts the same sporty handling and luxurious interior as the already excellent 3 Series. All wheel drive is optionel The battery takes up some trunk space. 2. a © 6 © ® TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME $3275-$39670 RANGE MILES: 29 EV 4S5.GAS GAS-ONLY MPG: 4 a bc a ‘The Prius Prime has o larger battery than the regular Prius hybrid Unike the regular Prius, itis front-wheel drive only Its long electric range varies based on the trim level JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 4xe $60,495, JEEP WRANGLER 4xe $50,695 ELECTRIC RANGE: 25 MILES ELECTRIC RANGE: 21MILES APRIL 2004 CRORE BBMWILLA We've calculated the cost of PH owning 3 CR Recommended PHEVs, comparing them with their gas, hybrid, or EV counterparts. A PHEV WILL almost always cost ess to fuel than a conventional car and will usually cost less than a hybrid, too, says Jake Fisher, senior director of R's Auto Test Center. But on average, the purchase prices of PHEVs we tested were IS percent higher than their gas-only counterparts and 13 percent higher than hybrids. Whether your fuel savings will cover the additional purchase cost depends on a number of factors. We calculated for drivers who put 40 miles a day on their cars, plug in their EVs and PHEVs nightly, and take four 500-mile road trips each year. We assumed a blend of city and highway driving in optimal temperatures for electric range, used the latest fuel and energy prices available in January 2024, and chose gas and electric prices for states with energy costs that represent most of the country. “PHEYs give you the flexibility to pick whichever energy source costs less,” Fisher says. But if you live somewhere with high gas prices and relatively low electricity costs, such as Washington state, we found that a PHEV will save you more money per mile than, ifyou lived somewhere with lower gas prices and. higher electricity prices, such as Massachusetts. The savings are less significant in states such as California, where electricity and fuel costs are high, and Florida, where both costs are relatively low. Fuel and Energy Prices for States in Our Comparisons” eeiaaeat $56 SS Pachuca oo ss07 sais ges cic ni a a To customize these numbers for your situation, scan the QR code with your phone's camera to.use our online calculator. EV SAV EF YOU PHEV VS. GAS __BMWS Series THE WINNER: PHEV In general, « PHEV will save you money on fuel over a gas-only version ofthe same vehicle as long as you regularly plugit in. The payback period depends on your fuel and energy costs. The BMW '380¢ PHEV costs $1,390 more than the conventional 330i Even with a ‘modest electric-only range of 20 rniles, the 330e pays for tel in just Under three yearsin Washington but aver seven years in California. 24 crore sPRIL 2024 “fos ondomay pica on brad sth ond Dope EndaPHEV VS, HYBRID PHEV VS. EV _HyundaiTucson Kia Niro oe NIRO EV $42,400 °° TUCSON HYBRID © $36,045 THE WINNER: HYBRID . _THE WINNER: PHEV By ond lorge, @ PHEV will cost more to purchase than @ Fueling costs ore similar between the two vehicle types, and Conventional hybrid. In the case of this Tucson, any fuel savings EVs almost always cost more up front to purchase than PHEVs, might not make up the $3,395 difference in cost—especially if The Niro EV would make financial sense only if you could take electricity is expensive where you live. But conventional hybrids ‘edvantage of state and local incentives that apply to EVs ond not ‘orer't eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7500 that may PHEVs,if the manufacturer is offering a lease deal on an EV, or if help defray the cost of leasing the PHEV. you have solar panels at home. 8000 @ | O Seouneneo @0000 @ fhevewoee vena tonePN iere tet ARE A LIFESAVER Thousands have survived crashes since they've Cees Nie me eee at recall. Here, what you should know about those pene aeey Seem a essactcgsA eae these airbags protect, eee sen onic een eect) a has been 50 years since th introduction of the airbag, and on . this anniversary there is a remarkable — story of safety to tel s The stats are astounding: Frontal airbags have saved over 50,000 lives in the U.S. alone, according to data from the Tavsrecoe) National Highvtay Tratfie Safety Administration fel desler They reduce driver deaths by 29 percent in front- provide some protect end crashes, and fatalities offront-seat passengers igen 1B and older by 32 percent pone And airbags, along with other safety devices, such as seat belts, have brought down the total death tol in US. car crashes by more than 30 percent sincea peak of 54,589 1972, eventhough the population has grown by well over 100 million since then, Tes true that since airbags became mandatory in passenger vehicles, they've also hit some big bumps in the road. The most notable of these the ngping Takata airbag recal that began a decade a Hundreds of people have been injured and 27 killed by a malfunction that causes certain deployed airbags to spray metal fragments (Milions of ears with recalled cored the recall of more than 50 million airbags made by a U.S. manufacturer that could have a similar defect.rece Ty ery eet Perret) eee Eon Sen Sensors in the front ofthe WHEN A CRASH HAPPENS, Rear Frontal ena eet nos the heads of reat-seat paren ees paced vehicle detormine whether the im IF iti, the inflatos fill the than 0.05 seconds. Aitbox ling withthe in protect passengers by spreading the ener minimizing the force on the Pecan Cs rena peta Ceres oernters ena \ euecusis (aka Far-Side) eens pee eee ey pega oon re ord Dna pone ee coer eer ere eee ead canard ecBut safety experts are adamant that the benefits of airbags far outweigh any risks. ‘Airbags remain overwhelmingly safe and highly effective at saving lives and preventing injuries,” says Emily A. ‘Thomas, PhD, manager of auto safety at Consumer Reports. Becky Mueller, senior research engineer at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, agrees. “Airbags are still far more likely to protect you ina crash than they are to cause you harm,” she says. Safety experts also say it’s critically important for consumers purchasing a car to understand the various types and configurations of airbags and, if buying a used car, to make sure its airbags are not subject to a recall and are in good working order. Here, the story behind airbags in modern cars, and what you need to know about them when buying a vehicle. When Cars Became Safer For many years, cars lacked much in the way of safety equipment. In fact, it ‘wasn’t until 1968 that automakers were required to install lap and shoulder belts in the front seat. But no laws required people to use those seat belts. (New York became the Only driver and front- passenger airbogs are required in cars, but almost all models, first state to enact a seat belt use law, in 1984) Consequently, in the late "70s and early ’80s, less than I4 percent of Americans wore seat belts. Ina crash, unbelted passengers were often seriously injured or killed after being flung into metal dashboards, or ejected when doors flew open and ‘windows shattered. In 1974, General Motors introduced a ‘more primitive version of today's airbag ‘as a $235 option on certain Buick, Cadillac, and Oldsmobile models. Called the Air Cushion Restraint ‘System, itincorporated air cushions hidden in the steering wheel and under the instrument panel that would deploy in acrash. A main selling point was that it could keep you and your frontseat passenger safe while wearing only alap belt, requiring “no shoulder belts to confine movement or detract from the ccar’s interior appearance.” GM's airbag option didn't catch on. with the public, and it was quietly discontinued just two years later. But ‘automakers kept on experimenting with airbags, and in 1988 Chrysler began to promote them as a standard feature in most of its cars. Early airbags saved lives, but they also deployed with greater force than today’s do, and as a result, they ‘also come with front-seat aa Airbags to Look xd 2B cRoRe sPRIL 202 side airbags and side curtain sirbags becouse they help carmakers meet federal requirements for protecting passengers in a side-impact crash, But other types of airbags are olso available tand may be agood choice if theyre available in the cor you're considering. Here is Info about adcitional airbag ‘options and other important cirbag-related safety considerations to make when you shop for a new or used cor. Consider rear-side and front-center airbags. Emily A. Thomas, CR’s cor safety expert, says that whether you need these depends largely on how you use your car. You want the highest degree of protection for all your passengers” she says. "If you always or often have people in the back seat, you'll want rear-side oirbogs. injured and killed people. NHTSA estimates that airbags were the cause of more than 290 deaths between 1990 and 2008-mostly unbelted children or infants riding in the front passenger seat. Advances in airbag technology, including reducing the force of deployment and adding weight sensors that detect a smaller driver or passenger, have almost eliminated injuries and fatalities caused by properly functioning airbags. (NHTSA says that all children younger than 13 should ride in the back seat regardless of airbag advancements.) And while airbags are required only for the driver and front passenger, they are commonly found throughout cars today (see the illustration on pages 26 and 27). “Safety programs like the IIHS vehicle ratings help raise the bar beyond what the government requires,” ‘Thomas says. “This incentivizes automakers to engineer safety solutions to be competitive among their peers.’ New Safety Concerns Last spring, NHTSA took initial steps toward a recall of as many as 52 million airbags made by ‘Tennessee-based manufacturer ARC and a licensee Similar to the Takata recall, the problem is with allegedly Similarly, Thomas says, you ‘may want to consider a front- center (olso called for-side) airbag for extra protection, especially if you often ferry @ front-seat passenger. Located between the two front seats, itis designed to prevent, the driver and front-seat passenger from hitting each ‘ther or the vehicle interior inthe event of o side impact to the vehicle, CCheck the vehicle's crash-test ratings from NHTSA’s New Cardefective inflators that can spray ‘metal fragments into the car when the airbags deploy in a crash. As of December 2023, seven injuries and one death in the U.S. have been connected to the ARC airbags, according to NHTSA. ARC has so far resisted NHTSA's efforts to force a recall, but General Motors last year voluntarily recalled nearly a million ‘Assessment Program (NCAP) fond the Insuranes Institute for Highway Safety. ‘These measure a vehicle's performance in crash tests, including how well the orbags ‘work to protect passengers from Injury. You will ind the NCAP stor rating on the vehicle window sticker of most new cars. For used cars, you can search for the rating at nhtsa.gov/ratings. The IIHS vehicle rating i at ibs cexgjrotings. ‘The IIHS tests have been more frequently updated than NHTSA, so they are o stronger predictor of real-world crash protection,’ Thomas says Look for vehicles that have the Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pic designation frorn the IHS. Cee oar eee pepernes Ce ofits 2014 to 2017 models that could be affected. At publication time, GM was the only automaker of 2 using the ARC bags to have issued a broad voluntary recall related to the possible defect. CR’s Thomas says that while news of the possible ARC airbag defect is concerning, the risk to the public is low. “The chance of being in a crash in buy the cor. Moke sure the aitbogs are not subject to an open recall. While federal law specifically bans the sale of a new car with ‘an open recall, that'snot true for Used cars, To find out f the used cor you are thinking of buying has a recalled airbag enter its ‘T-dight vehic! number {VIN} at nhtsa.gov/ Ifyou free of charge.) identification recalls or on NHTSA’s SaferCor ‘pp. Ifthe vehicle has ony open recalls—airbag-related fF otherwise—have the seller ‘address them before you ‘considering a used car, {get vehicle history report from ‘AutoCheck or Carfax. (Some dealerships provide the reports The report will indicate whether the car has been in any crashes that resulted in airbag deployments. "Ifa car's history which a defective airbag deploys is very small,” she says. NHTSA estimates the risk of malfunction of an ARC airbag to be roughly 1 in 371,400. ‘Thomas advises car owners to check the NHTSA website (ntsa.gov/recalls) at least every six months to learn about any recalls affecting their vehicle, including any related to airbags. report shows that its airbags have deployed, consider walking ‘away, says CR auto technician Mike Crossen.“Ifaitbogs deployed, the impact could have been forceful enough to cause structural domoge to the vehicle thot you may not see.” Have an experienced technician inspect any used car before you buy it. “They will check for citbag foult codes, which, iF present, would indicate a problem with the cars airbags,’ Crossen soy.Rea Bucy Car prices are at a record high. But we've uncovered some great options under $27,000. 80 crore APRIL 202 Ifyou haven't been car shopping in a few years, prepare yourself for some sticker shock. Manufacturers are pumping out the most popular, higher priced SUVs and trucks, and have pulled back on production of lower-priced models. And those less expensive vehicles on dealer lots can be loaded with options you don’t necessarily want that bump up their prices. “Manufacturers may advertise the base trim,” says Gabe Shenhar, associate director of CR’s Auto Test Center, “but dealerships tend to stock pricier versions packed with popular features.” This, along with limited supply and high demand, can drive the final cost well above the base price. The average transaction price-the amount you'll actually pay for a new car after negotiating with the dealer—is now more than $48,000, a 23 percent increase since 2019, according to Cox Automotive. But you don’t have to spend that much. We've found 10 great cars that are safe, reliable, and inexpensive. The list is based on the national average transaction prices from TrueCar, a CR partner, not including destination charges and options. Each meets CR’s strict criteria to be recommended. To save you the most, we chose the lowest-priced trim typically available. © | O keouenoeoKIA FORTE Xs ovenuut 34 $21,503 ‘Simple controls, agile handling, ‘excellent fuel economy, an smmodating rear seat, fond a trunk thats significantly larger than those of most cars inits class make the Forte a ‘reat value for the money. Key features for this trim: ‘The midlevel LXS trim includes keyless entry, a 6-way manual river's seat, AEB with ppedestrion detection, LKA, and iver attention monitoring ONISSAN SENTRAS\ eet BR $21,909 The Sentra has alot to offer, including a roomy interior, great fuel economy, imple handing, sprightly ‘acceleration, a comfortable Fide, and easy-to-use controls Koy features for this tri: The midlevel SV trim adds standard features like alloy wheels ond a 6-speaker audio system with SiriusXM, AEB, BSW, and driver attention ‘monitoring are standard @ TOYOTA COROLLALE eae) 36 $22,498 Long @ favorite among budget minded cor shoppers, the Corolla offers great reliability, Ltlity, ond fuel economy at ‘competitive price. It also boasts lively handling ond ‘comfortable interior. Key features for this trim: The base LE trim includes ‘automatic climate contra, (9 6-way manual drivers seat, front and rear USB ports, ‘AEB, LOW, ond LKA, Toray ovine) le Pe VENUE Bt HYUNDAI VENUE SEL eae 32 $22,781 ltmay look tke on SUY, but the Venue is essentially @ front weel-drive (FWD) subcompact hatenback—one with good forward visibility intuitive controls, and generous cargo space for car this small Key features for this trim: Among standard features in the midlevel SEL trim are Wireless Android Auto/Appla CarPlay, dual-zone climate controls, AEB, BSW, and LKA, Apri z0at chong BLEr say NISSAN KICKS sy © we z $23,643 The FWD Kicks hatchback has SUV looks, good forword Visibility, and a relative! ‘uiet, comfortable ride. The climate systern and radio are controlled by straightforward knobs, and its fuel economy is {© boon to in-town driving Key features for this trim: ‘The midlevel SV trim includes ‘center console storage bin, ‘on &-inch infotainment screen, AEB, BSW, LDW, and RCTW. 82 cRoRE APRIL 202 Pr) ria © HYUNDAI ELANTRASEL Ore B $24,551 Relatively roomy for its class, the Elantra offers nimble handling, smooth ‘acceleration, great fuel economy, and an easy-to-use infotainment screen, Key features for this trim: ‘The ist of standard features offered in the midievel SEL trim includes dual-zone climate controls, a 10.25-inch digital gouge cluster, AEB, BSW, LKA, ‘ond driver attention monitoring. Triad En Ec ea © MAZDA3 © SUBARU 2.5 SELECT SPORT IMPREZA sporT Om PR Om HR $25,094 $25,155 The Mazda’ offers engaging _A versatile hatchback with handling ond a responsive standard all-wheel drive, the powertrain. It also feels Impreza isa sold option for Upscale, with o quiet. budget-minded car buyers comfortable ride and a The base 20-ter engine is fuel- luxurious-looking interior. efficient, and the car provides Key features for this trim: 1 stable, comfortable vide. (One tim level up from the Key features for this trim: base sedan, the 5 Select The midlevel Sport tin Sport trim includes includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate controls, LED feg lights, AEB, and faus-leather upholstery, ‘automatic high beams, ‘AEB, BSW, ond RCTW. 09008 | O2.,oKIA SOUL Ex ovenaut 28 $25,679 ‘The boxy Soul looks small from the outside but has @ roomy interior —most notably @ huge rear seat. The easy-caccess cargo orea can be expanded by folding the rear seats fat. Koy features for this trim: The top-of-the-line EX trim includes an 8-way power civers seat, heated front seats, @ sunroof, AEB with ppedestrion and cyclist tection, BSW, and RCTW. KIA SOUL HONDA CIVIC spor ce lB $26,607 The Civic i known for Impressive fuel economy, cond with its quick steering and precise handling, i's @ good choice for buyers who place value on driving enjoyment Key features for this trim: Near the bottom of the lineup, the Sport trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, «leather-wrapped steering wheel, AEB, LKA, ‘ond automatic high beams. CR’s auto experts have the advice you need to sn9g a great new vehicle at a really low prico— ‘no matter what size and style youre looking for. > TARGET THE LESS-PRICEY MODELS, BUT KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN. ‘You can save money by being flexible with both the size ond type of car you buy. For example, small sedans tend to be less expensive than small SUVs, Sof the small SUV you want has limited availabilty, or the price is too high due to increased demand, pivot to a second choice such as a compact hatchback, referring to CCR’s reviews and ratings to find alternatives Inthe same vehicle category and price range. You can also broaden your seorch area. Websites ike TrueCar or CarGurus help you search by geographical area and enable you to widen your search radius to include low-priced cars that are forther afield but stil lose enough to see in person. Call ahead to ‘make sure the car you want is stillon the lot ‘ond will be there when you arrive. > CONSIDER THE OPTIONS YOU NEED VS. THE ONES YOU WANT. ‘You may wont the convenience and comfort of a power drivers soat, a heated steering ‘wheel, or all-wheel drive, but those features ‘re often available only as part of a package cof other options, or in higher trim level that can increase the price by thousands Cf dollars. Most of the inexpensive models. CR recommends have standard active sofety features, such os AEB with pedestrian detection, and all of them have power windows, locks, and mirrors. Search for lower trim levels without extra options if you want to save money. > PLACE A FACTORY ORDER. Although this approach often requires months Cf lead time, it may enable you to afford the ‘model you want by avoiding the expensive ‘options packages commonly found in cars Con dealership lots. Just be sure you'll be hoppy with a model lacking these features. "You can order @ base version of most cars, but most people will wish they had paid « few hundred dollars extra for Features like ‘automatic climate control and keyless entry, soys CR's Gabe Shenhar Apri 2028 chong 88BRANDS THAT MA We rank automakers from best to e° worst on their scores and survey results. WORSE #—— nerren : ll or ee ee RANK CHANGEFROM2023.— = tence! PREDICTED RELIABILITY CERI a ee ee ee er ey MODEISTESTED 120098 4 10 1 2 1 7 em ww 4 8 3 6 6 Cte GRENCHOIES® 4 ltt 2 OO TS UP ‘OUR ANNUAL RANKINGS of 34 automakers _allof the modelsfrom each automaker. _road-test scores and very good predicted can steer you in the right direction The top two brands this year are the reliability. Porsche takes the third position when making a new-car purchase, same ones as 2023, with BMW leading the with a score of 80. Both Porsche and These rankings ore based on the pack with an 82 point score, followed Codillac moved up 10 positions this year ‘overage Overall Score, a combination of _by Subaru—the leading mainstream dlue to theirimproved reliability our road-test scores, predicted reliabty _—_brand-—at 80. The key forboth companies Keep in mind that even high-scoring downer satisfaction data, and safety for _istheir consistent combination of high brands can have some lower- performing Pr PRL 2024