Buying ™
From the Editors of Consumer Reports
CONTENTS ELECTRONICS
82 Computers, Desktop 85 Computers, Laptop 93 Digital Cameras 100 Fitness Trackers 102 Headphones P. 102
P. 60
109 Printers, All-in-One 113 Printers, Regular 117 Smartphones
P. 48
P. 212
120 Smart Speakers 122 Smartwatches 124 Streaming Media 126 Tablets 129 TVs 141 Wireless Speakers AUTOS
146 Highs and Lows of the 2020 Models
QQ群: 970508760 3
Buying Advice at Your Fingertips
28 Generators
4
Ratings, Reliability & Owner Satisfaction
35 Lawn Tractors
6
Comparing Retailers
45 Microwaves
31 Lawn Mowers 38 Mattresses 48 Ranges
HOME
54 Refrigerators
12 Air Purifiers
60 Snow Blowers
14 Clothes Dryers
63 Vacuums
19 Cooktops
70 Wall Ovens
23 Dishwashers
73 Washing Machines
26 Gas Grills
80 Washer/Dryer Pairs
2
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
168 Rating the 2020 Models 183 Used Cars: The Most Reliable Models and the Ones to Avoid 192 Detailed Used-Car Reliability 212 Tire Ratings
Buying Advice at Your Fingertips The Consumer Reports Buying Guide for 2020 is your handy one-stop source for making informed, money-saving purchases. Consult it before you shop, then take it to the store or keep it beside your computer to help you compare brands. Here’s how to make the best use of this guide:
PACKED WITH HIGHLIGHTS from our exclusive buying advice and ratings for more than 2,000 product models, this little book will be an invaluable shopping tool for squeezing the most value from every dollar you spend. Preceding each ratings chart, you’ll find a Quick Guide with buying advice for that product. You can access our full buying advice by using the website address provided with each category. But before you delve into the best stuff to buy, be sure to read about the best places to find it—whether online or at a walk-in store—in the Comparing Retailers section, starting on page 6. Our surveys of thousands of Consumer Reports members provide invaluable insight into buying trends, plus the service, selection, and prices offered by dozens of retailers of appliances and electronics products. After you’ve honed your shopping savvy, turn to the Product Ratings section, starting on page 11, for guidance from CR’s experts on 34 product categories, in three sections: Home,
Electronics and Autos. Here you’ll find exclusive ratings based on our tough in-house tests, and, for many products, brand predicted reliability and owner satisfaction estimates from our surveys of hundreds of thousands of CR members about breakages and problems they’ve had with various brands. In the market for a car? The Autos section, starting on page 145, has all the information you need to make the right decision on a new or used model. If you’re buying new, start with a look at the Highs and Lows of the 2020 vehicles, check out the Standout Models in each category, and then move on to the full ratings. Used car buyers will find our experts’ picks for Best and Worst models, plus detailed reliability reports. We’ve even got ratings for more than 100 tire models. In today’s crowded marketplace, this guide can help cut through the endless options, helping you choose the best, safest products—and save money doing it. So keep it with you whenever you shop, and buy with confidence.
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
3
Ratings, Reliability & Owner Satisfaction The Quick Guides, product ratings, and brand reliability and owner satisfaction information that follow are designed to help you zero in on the model you want to buy. See the buying advice highlights in the Quick Guides to help you decide what you want from a product. Then go to the ratings charts to get the details on performance.
FOR SOME PRODUCT categories you’ll find full ratings that include every currently available model we tested. For others, the ratings charts show a select models recommended for most people and models designated as CR Best Buys. To develop our ratings, we put all models within a category through weeks of testing, side by side, so that test results can be compared. We rank products by performance. Consumer Reports checked that the products rated in this Buying Guide were still available at press time. But depending on how long after publication you use this book, you might find a rating for a product that’s no longer available. Or you might not find a rating for a model that’s available because it hadn’t been tested as of publication.
Introducing Our New Overall Score Consumer Reports evaluates a variety of factors for every product we test— performance, predicted reliability, and owner satisfaction.
4
Now CR is incorporating data from those assessments into one Overall Score, as we did with our autos ratings starting in 2016. The result is a single integrated rating that will make it even easier for you to make a well-informed buying decision. We started with refrigerators and washers and dryers and are now applying our integrated Overall Score to all major appliances, many small appliances, home and garden products, and electronics we test. By combining the results of performance tests in our labs with the data we collect through surveys of CR members, our new Overall Score gives a holistic picture of product quality. One result of this is that models from brands with high reliability ratings might cluster at the top of the ratings while brands with poor reliability are penalized. We believe that’s a good thing because it more closely reflects your experience with a product.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
$ 0
1
! 0
2
Bosch Ascenta 88 SHX3AR75UC Bosch 300 DLX 85 Series SHS863WD5N
$770
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
Cycle time (min.)
Noise
Energy use
Features
95 SS/P 150
Ratings Key
1 0 POOR
$ CR BEST BUY
Overall scores are based on a scale of 0 to 100. We rate products using these symbols:
2 FAIR
These models offer the best combination of performance and price. All are recommended.
3 0 GOOD 4 0 VERY GOOD 5 0 EXCELLENT
Self-cleaning filter
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
Test Results
Interior material
$540
Predicted reliability
Survey Results
Rank
Recommended
Price
Drying
Overall Score
Brand & Model
indicated by a gray dash (−), we assume the model has average reliability. Owner satisfaction. The same surveys provide data for this assessment, which asks CR members how likely they’d be to recommend the appliances they purchased. Here, too, a gray dash means insufficient data, and the product receives the category average by default.
Washing
Predicted reliability. Through our surveys, tens of thousands of CR members who purchased major appliances in the past 10 years tell us about their product experiences. Then we crunch the data to estimate the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand (not under a service contract)
will break or experience problems within five years. Products from brands that rate Fair or Poor for reliability can’t earn recommended status from CR, regardless of performance or satisfaction, because consumers also expect their appliances to last. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating,
Owner satisfaction
SURVEY RESULTS IN THE CHARTS
SS
! RECOMMENDED These are high-performing models that stand out.
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
5
Comparing Retailers Our product testers can tell you which refrigerator or computer delivers the most value. But then you have to find the lowest price and the best service. To help you find the best places to shop, we survey tens of thousands of Consumer Reports members annually about their experiences buying appliances and electronics in-store and online.
Appliances
Electronics
Most purchases are still made in brick-and-mortar stores but about four out of five major and small appliance shoppers use the internet to research their product by doing things like checking prices and reading reviews. More than 6 out of 10 small and major appliance shoppers visit a retailer’s website before making a purchase at its store or website. In our 2018 Spring Survey, over 46,000 CR members told us about more than 68,000 major and small appliance purchases they made from the Spring of 2017 through the Spring of 2018. This year we’re able to rate 21 major appliance and 19 small appliance retail chains (30 overall, as some chains are rated in both categories). We also rate independent stores and manufacturers’ websites as two separate groups in both appliance categories.
O verall, consumers are quite happy
6
with their shopping experience at electronic retailers, and online shoppers tend to be significantly more satisfied in all aspects of the transaction experience compared with their in-store shopping counterparts. But more than half of members in our ratings sample are still making their electronic purchases at walk-in retailers. Even so, you’re likely to hit the mall for many electronics purchases if you’re anything like the consumers we surveyed.
Research Can Yield a Good Price Doing online research for home products, such as large and small appliances, electronics and autos is useful, according to electronic products shoppers, researching the product online to determine the features they did or didn’t need was the strategy used most often by members to help find the best price.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
RE TA IL ERS
Appliance Retailers In order of reader score, within types.
0 5 5 0
5 0
− −
− −
0 3 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 5 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0
Shipping/ Delivery
0 5 5 0
Website usability
0 5 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
In-store atmosphere
Selection
5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
Service
Price paid
Reader Survey Results Overall satisfaction score
Retailer
MAJOR APPLIANCES Abt
94
Famous Tate
93
Amazon.com
92
Manufacturers’ websites
92
Costco
91
Nebraska Furniture Mart
91
Independents
90
Warners’ Stellian
89
Spencer’s TV & Appliance
88
Grand Appliance & TV
88
Pacific Sales
88
R.C. Willey Home Furnishings
87
Ferguson
87
P.C. Richard & Son
87
Best Buy
86
Albert Lee Appliance
86
JCPenney
85
Lowe’s
85
Menards
85
Sears Hometown Stores
84
Home Depot
84
Bray & Scarff
84
Sears
83
1
2
WORSE
3
4
−
− − 3 0
− − 0 3 4 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
−
−
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0
− 3 0
− 0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
7
Shipping/ Delivery
Website usability
0 5 5 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 0
In-store atmosphere
Selection
4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2 0
Service
Price paid
Reader Survey Results Overall satisfaction score
Retailer
SMALL APPLIANCES Abt
95
Amazon.com
92
QVC.com
92
Costco
92
Williams-Sonoma
91
Manufacturers’ websites
90
JCPenney
90
Independents
89
Bed Bath & Beyond
89
Kohl’s
88
BJ’s
87
Macy’s
87
P.C. Richard & Son
87
Sam’s Club
87
Best Buy
86
Target
86
Menards
85
Home Depot
84
Lowe’s
83
Walmart
82
Sears
82
HOW WE SURVEY: Ratings are based on Consumer Reports’ 2018 Spring Survey of 46,273 CR members reporting on 68,234 appliance purchases made between the Spring of 2017 and the Spring of 2018. Reader Score represents shoppers’ overall satisfaction with their retail experience. If
8
all respondents are completely satisfied with a particular retailer, the reader score would be 100; a score of 80 indicates that respondents are “very satisfied,” on average. Differences of less than 4 points are not meaningful. The other attributes listed under Survey Results reflect average scores on a
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
− 0 4 4 0 2 0 4 0 4 0
− 0 4 3 0 2 0
− 0 3 4 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 2 0
− − − 0 4 5 0
− − 0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 2 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
− − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − − −
− 0 3 3 0 3 0
− 3 0
− 0 3 3 0 3 0
− 0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0
scale from “very poor” to “excellent”. Ratings are based on the experiences of CR members, who may not be representative of the general US population. Dashes ( ), indicate insufficient sample size to provide a rating or that an attribute is not applicable to a retailer.
−
RE TA IL ERS
Electronics Retailers In order of reader score, within types.
Walk-in retailer buying ease
0 4 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
NA
−
NA
3 0 0 4 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
NA
5 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 5 0 0 3 4 0 0 3 0
− −
0 4 3 0
Web support
0 5 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 5 5 0 − 0 4 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 5 − 0 4 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 5 − 0 4 0 5 − 0 3 0 3 2 0 0 4 0 4 − 0 4 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 5 − 0 3 0 3 3 0 0 4 0 4 2 0 0 3 0 3 − 0 4 0 4 2 0 0 3 0 3 − 0 4 0 4 − 0 3 0 3 − 0 4 0 4 − 0 3 0 3 3 0 0 3 0 3 2 0 0 3 0 3 2 0 0 3 0 3
Website usability
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
Checkout ease
Customer service
Selection
4 0 4 0 5 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 0 4 3 0 4 0 0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0
Product quality
Price paid
Reader Survey Results Overall satisfaction score
Retailer
ONLINE STORES Crutchfield.com
96
BHPhotoVideo.com
96
Shopmyexchange.com
94
Apple.com
94
Adorama.com
93
Costco.com
93
Amazon.com
93
Abt.com
93
Target.com
92
Newegg.com
91
SamsClub.com
91
Bose.com
91
QVC.com
90
Staples.com
90
Independent websites
90
BestBuy.com
89
Woot.com
89
Walmart.com
89
HSN.com
88
Microsoft.com
87
Groupon.com
87
Samsung.com
87
HP.com
86
Lenovo.com
86
Dell.com
85
− 0 3 2 0 1 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
WALK-IN STORES Abt Electronics
96
Army & Air Force Exchange
93
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
9
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 3 0 5 0 0 5 3 − 0 4 − 0 4 0 0 4 − 0 4
Walk-in retailer buying ease
0 5 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0
Web support
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
Website usability
Product quality
0 4 4 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 2 0
Checkout ease
Selection
3 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 4 0 0 4 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 0 2 0 3 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
Customer service
Price paid
Reader Survey Results Overall satisfaction score
Retailer
WALK-IN STORES Continued Independent Stores
93
Apple Store
93
Navy Exchange
93
Bose
92
Costco
92
Video Only
92
Nebraska Furniture Mart
92
BJ’s
91
P.C. Richard & Son
90
Micro Center
89
GameStop
89
Fred Meyer Stores
88
Sam’s Club
88
Barnes & Noble
88
Target
88
Best Buy
87
Sears
87
Microsoft
86
Kohl’s
86
Staples
85
Fry’s Electronics
85
Office Depot/Office Max
85
Walmart
84
GUIDE TO THE R ATINGS:
Ratings are based on 88,021 purchases of electronics purchased by 56,289 Consumer Reports’ members between January 2016 and June 2017. Reader Score represents shoppers’ overall satisfaction with their retail experience. If all respondents
10
are completely satisfied with a particular retailer, the reader score would be 100; a score of 80 indicates that respondents are “very satisfied,” on average. Differences of less than 4 points are not meaningful. The other attributes listed under Survey Results reflect
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
− 0 3 2 0 3 0 1 0
− − 3 − 0 3 − 0 4 0 0 4
− − − − 0 0 3 2 3 − 0 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 3
− − 4 0 0 4
− − 0 3 2 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 2 0 3 0 2 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0
average scores on a scale from “very poor” to “excellent”. Ratings are based on the experiences of CR members, who may not be representative of the general US population. Dashes ( ), indicate insufficient sample sizes to provide a rating or that an attribute is not applicable to a retailer.
−
31 Lawn Mowers
60 Snow Blowers
14 Clothes Dryers
35 Lawn Tractors
63 Vacuums
19 Cooktops
38 Mattresses
70 Wall Ovens
23 Dishwashers
45 Microwaves
26 Gas Grills
48 Ranges
73 Washing Machines
28 Generators
54 Refrigerators
80 Washer/ Dryer Pairs
Home
12 Air Purifiers
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
11
QUI CK GUIDE
Air Purifiers The most effective portable air purifiers we tested were made for rooms 350 sq. ft. or larger. These models cleared the air quickly of dust, smoke, and pollen at their high and low speeds. What to Look For Most portable air purifiers use a fan to suck in air for filtration. Fanless models run more quietly, but those we tested worked poorly. Energy Star certified models can save you money on utility bills compared to standard models. Air purifiers with filter indicator lights let you know when the filter needs to be replaced. A washable—and reusable— prefilter collects large
BUYING ADVICE
particles before they reach the HEPA filter, possibly extending its life.
Air filters are certified based on room size and clean-air delivery rate (CADR), their cleaning speed. We judge a CADR of 240 and up excellent and below 100 poor.
What to Skip Models with electrostatic precipitators or ionizer technology could produce ozone, a lung irritant.
What You’ll Pay Portable air purifiers will run $50 to more than $1,000; plus filter replacements and the cost of energy required to run the machines 24 hours a day.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/air-purifiers.
Tested products in performance order.
Noise (high speed)
0 5 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0
0 1 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0
Annual cost ($)
Noise (low speed)
Test Results Dust/pollen/smoke removal (high)
Rank
Recommended
Price Dust/pollen/smoke removal (low)
Overall Score
Brand & Model
LARGE ROOM (350-650 SQ FT)
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 12
1
Blueair Classic 605
88
$750
2
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
85
$300
3
Honeywell HPA300
76
$250
4
Alen Breathsmart
72
$650
5
Honeywell 50250
69
$200
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
224 192 203 190 213
Dust/pollen/smoke removal (high)
Noise (low speed)
Noise (high speed)
0 3 3 0
0 2 2 0
121
$310
0 5 5 0
64
$230
3 0
5 0
3 0
2 0
231
64
$220
3 0
5 0
3 0
3 0
112
63
$220
3 0
4 0
3 0
2 0
187
62
$240
3 0
4 0
4 0
3 0
80
59
$200
3 0
4 0
4 0
3 0
80
Annual cost ($)
Dust/pollen/smoke removal (low)
Test Results
0 3 4 0
Rank
Recommended
Price
A IR P UR IF IERS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
LARGE ROOM (350-650 SQ FT) Continued
! 0
6
Idylis AC-2118
68
$306
7
SPT AC-2102
65
GermGuardian AC5900WCA Winix FresHome WACP450 Kenmore 83396
8 9 10
395
MEDIUM ROOM (150-350 SQ FT)
2
Honeywell AirGenuis 5 HFD-320 Honeywell Air Genius 4 HFD310
3
LG PuriCare AS401VGA1
54
$300
2 0
4 0
4 0
3 0
107
4
GermGuardian AC9200WCA
52
$300
2 0
4 0
4 0
2 0
222
5
Febreze FHT190W
51
$98
Sharp FP-F60UW
51
$241
7
Boneco P400
47
$300
8
Therapure TPP240
46
$120
9
Friedrich AP260
46
$250
0 4 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0
89
6
0 3 3 0 3 0 2 0 2 0
1
54 168 64 168
SMALL ROOM (LESS THAN 150 SQ FT) 1
Dyson Pure Cool Link
26
$500
Dyson TP04 Pure Cool
26
$550
0 1 1 0
0 2 2 0
0 5 4 0
0 2 2 0
102
2 3
Hamilton Beach TrueAir 04383
18
$55
1 0
1 0
4 0
3 0
25
HOW WE TEST: Dust/pollen/ smoke removal (high) indicates how well it removes particles at its highest speed. Dust/pollen/smoke removal (low) evaluates its ability to
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
remove particles at a lower speed (whichever one is closest to 50 decibels). Noise is measured using a decibel meter from 4 feet away at both high and low speeds. Annual Cost includes filter
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
107
replacements and the energy required to run the purifier 24 hours a day for an entire year. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests.
13
QUI CK GUIDE
Clothes Dryers Electric dryers are the bigger sellers, though decades of testing has revealed that gas and electric dryers perform similarly. Gas or electric, keep in mind that larger capacities let you dry more laundry at once. What to Look For
What to Skip
Moisture sensors detect the laundry’s dampness and shut off the appliance when clothes are dry, cutting down on energy costs. This is easier on fabrics, too. Auto-dry cycles provide settings of less dry to more dry for damp ironing, and points in between. An extended-tumble setting without heat helps prevent wrinkles when you can’t remove the load immediately.
Specialty cycles up the price. A choice of heat level, timed dry, and autodry, along with a few fabric types, should do.
BUYING ADVICE
If you intend to install the dryer near a bedroom, look for one that scored Very Good or Excellent in our tests for noise. You’ll hear it working, but it shouldn’t disturb you.
What You’ll Pay Prices vary from $350 to $2,000, depending on type, capacity, and features. Gas dryers cost roughly $50 to $150 more than comparable electric models, but the likely savings in fuel costs should more than make up for the difference.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/dryers.
Tested products in performance order.
0 5 4 0 5 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0
Claimed capacity (cu. ft.)
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0
Steam option
Noise
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0
Features Stainless-steel drum
Convenience
Test Results Drying performance
Survey Results Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
Predicted reliability
Overall Score
Brand & Model
0
0
7.3
0
0
9
0
7.3
0
9
ELECTRIC DRYERS
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 14
1
LG DLEX7600WE
91
$945
2
LG DLEX7700VE
91
$1,170
3
LG DLEX3570W
91
$1,100
4
LG DLEX9000V
90
$1,620
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
Features
Steam option
Claimed capacity (cu. ft.)
Stainless-steel drum
Noise
Convenience
Test Results Drying performance
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Survey Results
Rank
Recommended
Price
0
7.4
0
0
9.2
0
0
7.3
0
0
7.4
ELECTRIC DRYERS Continued 89
$800
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
5
LG DLEX3700W
! 0
6
Maytag MEDB955FW
88
$1,185
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
7
LG DLEX7900BE
87
$950
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
! 0
8
LG DLE7100W
87
$720
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
! 0
9
LG DLEX5000V
87
$1,345
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
10 LG DLEX8100V
87
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
11 Kenmore Elite 61632
86
$1,150
! 0
12 LG DLEX3900W
86
$900
13 Kenmore Elite 61552
85
14 Kenmore 81382 Samsung 15 DV42H5600EW (Lowe’s)
1
7.3
0
9
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5
0
0
9.2
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
0
0
7.4
$850
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5
0
0
7.3
85
$700
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
0
7.3
84
$720
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5
0
0
7.5
16 LG DLEX4370W
84
$1,080
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
0
7.4
LG Signature 17 DLEX9500K
84
$1,810
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
0
9
18 Kenmore 81392
83
$680
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5
19 Kenmore Elite 81582
83
$850
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
20 Kenmore 81182
83
$600
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
21 LG DLEX5005K
83
$1,500
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
0
22 Kenmore Elite 81782
82
$1,050
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
0
Whirlpool 23 WED8500DW
82
$1,085
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
24 Maytag MEDB765FW
81
$630
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
25 Kenmore 69132
81
$900
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
Samsung 26 DV50K7500EW
81
$995
27 GE GFD48ESSKWW
80
$1,135
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0
7.3
0
0
7.4
0
7.4
0
7.4
0
8.8
7.3
7.4 0
8.8
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
0
7.5
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
0
0
8.3
15
CL O T HE S DR Y ERS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Steam option
Claimed capacity (cu. ft.)
Features Stainless-steel drum
Noise
Convenience
Test Results Drying performance
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Price
Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
0
7
ELECTRIC DRYERS Continued Whirlpool 28 WED7300DW Whirlpool 29 WED7500GW
80
$550
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
80
$810
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
30 Kenmore 67132
79
$730
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
Samsung 31 DV45K6500EW Samsung 32 DVE50M7450W
78
$990
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
78
$600
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
7.4
0
0
7
0
7.5
0
7.4
0
9
33 Kenmore Elite 81982
78
$1,000
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
Fisher & Paykel 34 AeroCare DE7027P1 Fisher & Paykel 35 AeroCare DE7027P2
78
$1,000
1 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
0
7
78
$1,000
1 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
0
7
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
0
0
7.3
GAS DRYERS 1
LG DLGX7601WE
91
$1,035
2
LG DLGX7701VE
91
$1,540
3
LG DLGX3571W
91
$750
4
LG DLGY1902WE
91
$650
5
LG DLGX9001V
90
$1,710
6
LG DLGX3701W
89
$990
7
LG DLG7101W
87
$810
8
LG DLGX5001V
87
$1,440
9
LG DLGX8101V
87
$1,440
10 Maytag MGDB955FW
87
$1,260
11 Kenmore Elite 71632
87
$1,250
12 LG DLGX3901W
86
$1,000
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0
! 0
Samsung 13 DV42H5600GW (Lowe’s)
86
$1,000
! 0
14 Kenmore Elite 71552
85
$950
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 $ 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
16
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0
0
0 0
0
9
0
7.3
0
7.3
0
9
0
7.4 7.3
0
0
7.4
0
9
0
0
9.2
0
0
9.2
0
0
7.4
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5
0
0
7.5
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
0
0
7.3
Features
Steam option
Claimed capacity (cu. ft.)
Stainless-steel drum
Noise
Convenience
Test Results Drying performance
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Survey Results
Rank
Recommended
Price
0
8.8
0
0
7.4
0
0
7.4
0
7.3
GAS DRYERS Continued
! 0
15 Maytag MGDB855DW
85
$990
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
Whirlpool 16 WGD92HEFW
85
$830
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
17 LG DLGX4371W
84
$1,170
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
18 Kenmore 91392
84
$800
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
LG Signature 19 DLGX9501K
84
$1,900
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
9 7.4
20 Maytag MGD3500FW
83
$1,310
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
0
21 Maytag MGD5500FW
83
$960
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
0
7.4
0
0
7.4
0
7.4
22 Kenmore Elite 91582
83
$1,050
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
23 Kenmore 91182
83
$700
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
$1,600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
0
0
7.5
0
7.4
83
24 LG DLGX5006K
7.3
Samsung 25 DV50K7500GW
82
$1,100
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
26 Kenmore Elite 91782
82
$1,150
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
0
27 Kenmore 79132
81
$1,000
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
0
8.8
81
$1,100
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
0
8.8
80
$1,080
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
0
7.5
80
$1,050
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
0
0
7
$700
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
0
7.4
79
$810
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
0
7
79
$900
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
28 29 30 31 32 33
1
0
Whirlpool WGD8500DW Samsung DV45K6500GW Fisher & Paykel AeroCare DG7027P2 Samsung DVG50M7450W Whirlpool WGD7300DW Whirlpool WGD7500GW
80
7.4
34 Kenmore 77132
79
$830
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
0
Whirlpool 35 WGD8700EC Samsung 36 DVG54M8750V
79
$1,345
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
0
8.8
79
$1,260
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
7.4
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0
7
17
CL O T HE S DR Y ERS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Overall Score
Test Results
Features
38 GE GFD48GSSKWW
$1,195
0
8.3
39 Kenmore Elite 91982
78
$1,100
0 3 2 0 0 4 4 0 0 5 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 4 0
0 0
0
9
Miele TWI180WP
84
$1,900
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
0
4.1
77
$900
0
4.0
77
$990
− − 4 0 0 5 0 4 − − 0 4 5 0 0 4
0
4.0
Claimed capacity (cu. ft.)
7.4
79
Noise
0
Convenience
0
Drying performance
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
Owner satisfaction
$850
Predicted reliability
Steam option
Survey Results
Stainless-steel drum
Price
Rank
Recommended
Brand & Model
GAS DRYERS Continued Samsung 37 DVG52M8650W
79
COMPACT DRYERS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
Samsung DV22K6800EW Samsung DVE22N6850X
4
GE DCVH480EKWW
72
$995
4.0
LG DLEC888W
71
$855
0 1 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 4 0
0
5
0
4.2
Bosch 800 Series WTG86402UC Fisher & Paykel DE4024P1 Whirlpool WHD5090GW Electrolux EFDE210TIW
70
$1,315
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
0
4.0
58
$920
− − 0 3 0 4 0 2
0
4
55
$900
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3
0
53
$900
− − 0 2 4 0 0 3 − − 2 0 0 4 3 0
0
4.0
0
4.0
6 7 8 9
10 Kenmore 81942 HOW WE TEST: Drying Performance combines performance on three types of laundry loads of different sizes and fabric mixes: A 12-lb. load, predominantly cotton (6-lb. mixed loads for compact models); an 8-lb. load of cotton/polyester-blend clothing; and a 3-lb. load of synthetic delicates, such as women’s pajamas, slips, and underwear. Convenience is judged on controls and ergonomics, such as ease
18
51
$975
of loading and unloading, servicing the lint filter. Noise level is determined by a panel of judges who listen while the machines dry an 8-pound load, judging both sound quality and volume. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines performance test results with survey data for combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
4.3
purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the clothes dryer they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
COOK T OP S
QUI CK GUIDE
Cooktops Cooktops can be installed wherever counter space allows—including on an island. Gas and conventional smoothtop electric cooktops dominate the category, but prices are dropping for electric induction. What to Look For
What to Skip
All the models we test have at least one highpowered gas burner or electric element, necessary for quick heating. If you have a choice in fuel and want the visual feedback of a flame, a gas cooktop is for you; on the other hand, a smoothtop electric makes for easier cleaning. Induction speeds heating, thanks to an electromagnetic field that directly heats pans.
BUYING ADVICE
Buying by Btu. Short for “British thermal unit,” the measurement indicates gas used and heat generated— and doesn’t guarantee better or faster cooking.
Many 30-inch cooktops now have five burners, rather than four, but know that using all five at once often requires some maneuvering.
What You’ll Pay A cooktop and wall oven can cost $2,000 or more; some top-rated ranges sell for less than half that.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/cooktops.
Tested products in performance order.
0 5 5 0 3 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0
No. of highpower burners No. of mediumpower burners No. of lowpower burners
Low heat
Rank
Survey Test Results Results Features
High heat
Rec.
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
Price
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
30-INCH GAS COOKTOPS
$ 0 1
Samsung NA30N7755TS
92
$1,600
2
Samsung NA30N6555TS
91
$1,260
3
Monogram ZGU30RSLSS
84
$1,730
4
KitchenAid KCGS350ESS
79
$1,080
5
Ikea Framtid 602.887.01 [ICS655DS]
78
$530
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0 5 5 0 3 0 3 0
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
3
0
1
3
1
– – 0 3 0 5
1
3
1
19
Rank
No. of highpower burners No. of mediumpower burners No. of lowpower burners
Rec.
Low heat
Survey Test Results Results Features Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Price
High heat
Overall Score
Brand & Model
! 0
6
GE Profile PGP7030SLSS
77
$1,170
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5
2
2
1
! 0
7
Bosch 800 Series NGM8056UC
76
$1,370
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5
1
2
2
0 ! ! 0
8
Café CGP9530SLSS
72
$1,530 $900
2
1
66
$880
2
1
1
11 Kenmore 32683
61
$1,200
2
2
1
12 Electrolux EW30GC60PS
54
$1,300
2
2
1
13 KitchenAid KCGS950ESS
54
$1,440
1
3
1
14 Maytag MGC7430DS
45
$700
2
1
1
15 KitchenAid KCGD500GSS 41
$1,800
2
1
1
38
$700
0 4 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 1 0
2
10 GE JGP3530SLSS
0 4 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0
1
72
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
2
GE JGP5030SLSS
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
2
9
1
3
1
0 5 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0
2
2
1
3
2
0
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
2
1
2
1
30-INCH GAS COOKTOPS Continued
16 Whirlpool WCG77US0HS
36-INCH GAS COOKTOPS
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 $ 0 ! 0
1
Samsung NA36N7755TS
92
$1,700
2
Thermador SGSX365FS
82
$1,900
3
Kenmore 32713
77
$1,605
4
GE Profile PGP9036SLSS
74
$1,400
5
Maytag MGC9536DS
74
$900
6
Café CGP9536SLSS
72
$1,630
7
Frigidaire Gallery FGGC3645QS
71
$800
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4
2
8
Viking VGSU53616BSS
71
$2,320
2
1
Wolf CG365P/S
67
$2,000
0 3 2 0 0 4 0 5 3 0 0 5 4 0 0 3
3
9
2
3
0
Frigidaire Professional 10 FPGC3677RS
63
$1,100
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3
2
2
1
11 Miele KM3474GSS
53
$1,750
0
$1,600
4
0
1
13 KitchenAid KCGS556ESS
47
$1,260
1
2
2
14 LG LCG3611ST
46
$1,080
0 3 3 0 2 0 1 0
2
52
0 1 1 0 3 0 3 0
3
12 Jenn-Air JGC3536GS
2
2
1
$2,215
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 1
3
2
1
0 3 3 0 3 0 4 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0
36-INCH GAS RANGETOPS 1
20
Kenmore Pro Slide-in 34913
49
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
GE JP5030SJSS
93
$900
2
GE Profile PP9030SJSS
93
$1,350
3
KitchenAid KECC604BBL
91
! 0
4
Samsung NZ30K7570RG/AA
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 $ 0 ! 0 $ 0
5 6
No. of highpower elements No. of mediumpower elements No. of lowpower elements
Rank
1
Low heat
Rec.
0 ! ! 0 ! 0
High heat
Survey Test Results Results Features Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Price
30-INCH ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOPS 1
0
3
2
2
1
$900
0 3 4 0 0 5 0 5 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 3 0 0 3 0 5 5 0
2
0
2
91
$1,250
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
1
3
1
Kenmore Turbo-boil 45313
89
$1,385
3
$1,620
2
0
2
7
Whirlpool WCE97US0HB
87
$1,035
2
1
1
8
GE JP3030SJSS
86
$650
2
0
2
9
Whirlpool G7CE3034XP
85
$700
2
0
2
10 Frigidaire FFEC3024LB
83
$400
2
0
2
11 Maytag MEC8830HB
80
$765
1
2
1
12 Jenn-Air JEC4430BS
75
$1,600
2
0
2
13 GE JP3530SJSS
73
$880
2
1
1
14 Amana AEC6540KFB
66
$500
1
1
2
15 Whirlpool WCE55US0HB
65
$650
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
0
89
0 3 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
2
KitchenAid KCED600GSS
1
1
2
0 3 3 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 2 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
36-INCH ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOPS
! 0
1
Samsung NZ36K7570RG/AA
91
$1,400
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
2
2
1
! 0
2
LG LCE3610SB
90
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
2
1
1
3
Bosch Benchmark Series NETP668SUC
86
$1,350
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5
1
3
1
0 4 3 0 1 0 4 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 3 0
2
1
2
2
0
2
2
1
2
2
2
1
! 0 ! 0
4
GE JP5036DJBB
85
$900
5
Whirlpool WCE55US6HB
79
$630
6
Jenn-Air JED4536GS
77
7
$2,200
65
GE PP7036SJSS
$1,170
0 3 2 0 2 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 5 0 4 0
30-INCH ELECTRIC INDUCTION COOKTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
1
2
POOR
Samsung NZ30K7880UG/AA Dacor Modernist DTI30M977BB
97
$2,000
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
3
1
0
96
$3,230
− − 0 5 0 5
3
1
0
Kenmore 43820
95
$1,820
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
3
1
0
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
21
COOK T OP S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
No. of highpower elements No. of mediumpower elements No. of lowpower elements
Low heat
Survey Test Results Results Features Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
High heat
Overall Score
Brand & Model
30-INCH ELECTRIC INDUCTION COOKTOPS Continued 94
$1,450
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
3
1
0
! 0
4
Kenmore 43800
$ 0
5
Frigidaire FFIC3026TB
93
$700
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5
2
2
0
6
Whirlpool GCI3061XB
92
$1,350
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5
2
0
2
7
Viking MVIC 6304BBG
82
$2,580
− − 0 5 0 5
3
1
0
1
Bosch Benchmark Series NITP668SUC
98
$2,900
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
5
0
0
$2,250
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
4
1
0
! 0
36-INCH ELECTRIC INDUCTION COOKTOPS
! 0 ! 0
2
Samsung NZ36K7880UG
96
! 0
3
Wolf CI365T/S
95
$2,670
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
3
2
0
$1,650
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5
4
1
0
! 0
4
Frigidaire FPIC3677RF
94
$ 0
5
Frigidaire FFIC3626TB
93
$950
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5
3
2
0
6
Thermador CIT36XKB
84
$5,300
2 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
2
1
1
7
Jenn-Air JIC4536XS
73
$2,100
1 0 0 2 0 4 0 5
5
0
0
HOW WE TEST: High Heat reflects how quickly the highest-powered burner or element heats a large pot of water to near-boiling. Low Heat reflects how well the lowest-powered burner or element holds a low heat, and how the most powerful element, set to low, holds tomato sauce below a boil.
22
Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the cooktop they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
D I SH WA SHERS
QUI CK GUIDE
Dishwashers New dishwashers use far less energy and water than they did a decade ago, though cycle times can now exceed three hours. The models we recommend aced our washing tests and are relatively quiet. What to Look For
What to Skip
Soil
Drawer
sensors gauge how dirty the load is and determine the right amount of time and water needed to get everything clean, improving efficiency. An adjustable upper rack allows for flexibility when loading dishes. A rinse and hold option can help prevent soil from setting and keep odors under control while you wait for a full load.
BUYING ADVICE
models, which are more expensive and tend to use more energy and water than standard models.
Generally, the three basic wash cycles— light, normal, and heavy— suffice for most dishwashing needs, even baked-on food.
What You’ll Pay A dishwasher with special wash zones, an LED-lit tub, digital displays, and special grime-fighting cycles can cost $1,000 or more. For models with fewer features, sparkling performance starts at around $600.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/dishwashers.
Tested products in performance order.
! 0
4
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
88
$630
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
95 SS/P
85
$770
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
150
SS
84
$1,800
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
155
SS
84
$675
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
150 SS/P
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Self-cleaning filter
3
Interior material
! 0
Features Cycle time (min.)
2
Noise
! 0
Bosch Ascenta SHX3AR75UC Bosch 300 DLX Series SHS863WD5N Thermador DWHD660WFP Bosch 100 Series SHXM4AY55N
Energy use
Rank
1
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing
Recommended
$ 0
Survey Test Results Price Results
Drying
Overall Score
Brand & Model
23
155
SS
6
83
$700
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
125
SS
! 0
7
83
$2,300
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
150
SS
! 0
8
82
$1,600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
150
SS
! 0
9
82
$1,150
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
150
SS
! 0
10
82
$1,080
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
150
SS
! 0
11
82
$765
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
155
SS
$ 0
12
81
$570
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
115
P
$ 0
13
81
$380
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
115
P
14 Kenmore 14573
80
$730
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
145
SS SS
Noise
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
Energy use
Interior material
! 0
Bosch Benchmark SHX89PW55N KitchenAid KDTM354DSS Thermador DWHD770WFM Bosch Benchmark SHX88PZ55N Bosch 800 Series SHPM78ZO5N Miele Classic Plus G4977SCVISF Bosch 300 Series SHEM63W55N Whirlpool WDF540PADM Ikea Renlig IUD7070DS [288921]
Drying
$1,700
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing
Cycle time (min.)
5
Features
84
Rank
Recommended
! 0
24
Survey Test Results Price Results
15 Kenmore 14543
80
$750
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
145
Bosch 800 Series 16 SHPM78W55N KitchenAid 17 KDTM704ESS Miele Futura 18 Crystal G6665SCVISF
79
$900
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
160
SS
79
$1,710
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
110
SS
78
$1,800
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
140
SS
19 Kenmore 14523
78
$700
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
150
SS
Bosch 800 Series 20 SHXM98W75N KitchenAid 21 KDTM404ESS
78
$1,125
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
160
SS
78
$1,100
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
110
SS
22 Kenmore Elite 14793
77
$1,100
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
145
SS SS
GE Profile 23 PDF820SSJSS
76
$1,030
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
150
24 Kenmore Elite 14753
76
$980
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
145
SS
Miele Dimension 25 G6785SCVISF Bosch 500 Series 26 SHPM65W55N
76
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
145
SS
76
$855
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
160
SS
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Self-cleaning filter
Overall Score
Brand & Model
0
0
0
Interior material
75
$1,410
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
155
SS
29 Café CDT845P2NS1
75
$1,100
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
155
SS
30 Bertazzoni DW24XT
75
$1,080
− − 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
135
SS
31 Kenmore 13473
75
$530
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
160
P
74
$800
− − 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
130
SS
74
$810
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
135
SS
74
$750
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
135
SS
74
$965
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
135
SS SS
33 34 35
Thor Kitchen HDW2401SS KitchenAid KDPE204GPS KitchenAid KDPE234GPS KitchenAid KDTE304GPS
36 Kucht K6502D
74
$825
− − 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
140
Whirlpool 37 WDT730PAHZ
73
$630
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
140 SS/P
38 LG LDT7808BM
71
$1,125
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
145
SS
Whirlpool 39 WDF330PAHS Whirlpool 40 WDT970SAHZ Maytag 41 MDB4949SHZ
71
$500
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
110
P
71
$600
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
145
SS
71
$550
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
155
SS
HOW WE TEST: Washing is assessed by running the Normal or equivalent cycle to clean a full load of dishes with baked-on food. Drying performance is our assessment of how thoroughly a model dries plastic cups, the most stubborn in any load. Energy Use is energy and water use for our test cycle. A panel of testers judge Noise levels by listening to each machine through its entire cycle. Cycle
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
Time (min.), rounded to the nearest 5 minutes, is based on running the Normal or equivalent cycle to clean a full load. Under Features, in Interior Materials, SS= stainless steel, P=plastic. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly pur-
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Self-cleaning filter
Cycle time (min.)
SS
Noise
160
Energy use
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
Drying
$600
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing
75
GE Profile 28 PDT855SSJSS
Rank
Recommended
Features
27 Kenmore 13223
32
1
Survey Test Results Price Results
0
chased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the dishwasher they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brandlevel rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
25
D I SH WA SHERS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Gas Grills You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a grill that will consistently deliver great-tasting food. In fact, many midpriced grills now have side burners and other helpful perks once found exclusively on high-end models. What to Look For Burners
made of highquality stainless steel, cast iron, or cast brass, which usually carry a warranty of 10 years or longer. Stainless-steel and coated cast-iron grates for sturdiness and rust-resistance. A battery-powered electronic igniter.
pre-heating or better searing and cooking.
BUYING ADVICE
What You’ll Pay
You might not need as big a grill as you think: We found large grills can typically fit 28 or more 4-inch burgers at once. Medium models fit 18 to 28.
Plan on $300 to $700 for a grill that can handle most of your cooking needs. Several midsize grills that cost less than $600 outperformed models that cost hundreds of dollars more.
What to Skip Buying
by Btu. This measure alone doesn’t guarantee faster
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/gas-grills.
Tested products in performance order.
Sturdiness
Test Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Preheat performance Evenness performance Indirect cooking Temperature range
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results
Convenience
Overall Score
Brand & Model
MIDSIZE GAS GRILLS (ROOM FOR 18 TO 28 BURGERS)
! 0
1
Weber Genesis II E-310
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
Weber Genesis II S-335 61006001 Weber Genesis II E-330 61012001 Weber Genesis II SE-335 61016201
! 0
5
Weber Summit S-470
26
77
$700
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 40 5
76
$1,050
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 50 5
75
$900
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 50 5
75
$1,000
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
75
$2,150
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 40 5
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Sturdiness
Convenience
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Preheat performance Evenness performance Indirect cooking Temperature range
Rank
Rec.
Test Results
MIDSIZE GAS GRILLS Continued
! 0
6
$ 0
7
! 0
8
Weber Spirit II S-310 45000001 Even Embers GAS8560AS Nexgrill Deluxe 7200896B (Home Depot) Nexgrill 720-0896C (Home Depot)
! 0
9
! 0
10 3 Embers GAS7480BS Napoleon Prestige 11 P500RSIB
! 0
74
$500
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 40 5
74
$375
− − 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 40 3
73
$400
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 50 3
73
$700
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 50 5
72
$650
− − 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 30 5
72
$1,400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 40 5
LARGE GAS GRILLS (ROOM FOR 28 OR MORE BURGERS)
0 $ ! 0 ! 0
1
Monument Grills 77352
79
$500
2
Weber Summit E-670
79
$2,500
3
Weber Genesis II E-410
76
$1,000
− − 0 5 5 0 0 4 0 5 4 00 3 0 5 5 0 0 4 0 4 4 0 0 5 0 55 0 5 0 0 5 3 0 0 5 0 4 4 0 0 40 5
! 0
4
76
$1,250
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 50 5
! 0
5
76
$2,050
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 5
Weber Genesis II S-435 62006001 Napoleon LEX730RSBIPSS
SMALL GAS GRILLS (ROOM FOR 18 OR FEWER BURGERS)
! 0
1
Weber Spirit II E-210 44020001
HOW WE TEST: To measure Evenness Performance, we use thermocouples to map the evenness of heating over the grill’s surface at the highest and lowest setting using all main burners—plus the evenness after a 10-minute preheat. Preheat Performance evaluates the temperature after a 10-minute preheat, giving an indication of how quickly the grill reaches its maximum temperature. Temperature Range reflects how wide a temperature span the grill offers,
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
70
$400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 40 5
comparing temperatures at the high and low setting using all main burners. Indirect Cooking indicates grill temperature when only one or two of the burners are on, to represent a cooking task where the food is placed between or alongside the direct flame. Convenience includes grate material, wheels or casters for moving the grill, and useful features such as electronic igniter. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the gas grill they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
27
G A S GR IL L S
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Generators The best portable generators cost about $1,000 and can power your fridge and other essentials. Larger home standby models can power central A/C and more—and start automatically if the power goes out. What to Look For Enough
wattage for your needs. Plan on at least 5,000 watts to cover the basics; 10,000 watts or more for central A/C, an electric range, and a washer/dryer. All stationary units have a propane or naturalgas hookup, which saves the storage and potential sourcing hassles of gasoline. Automatic low-oil shutoff, which protects the engine from internal damage. For portables, look for life-saving safety features like a carbon monoxide shut-off.
Choose a generator that complies with PGMA G300 or UL 2201 safety standards, marked on the packaging.
What to Skip Disregard big surge claims; the best units can handle the extra watts that some appliances draw when they cycle on.
What You’ll Pay A portable unit with 5,000 to 8,000 watts will run $600 to $1,500; stationary units start at $2,000 and can cost well above $3,500 (plus installation).
BUYING ADVICE Factor in an extra $500 to $900 to have a transfer/ interlock switch, which will safely connect the generator to your circuit breaker. Always operate a generator 20 feet from the house, with the exhaust pointed away. For more buying advice, go to CR.org/generators.
Tested products in performance order. Price
Test Results
gas
0
77
$1,050
5 0 0 z 0 2 0 4 0 5
8000
gas
0
73
$1,000
5 0 0 x 0 2 0 4 0 5
8000
gas
0
Electric start Fuel gauge
7000
CO safety technology
5 0 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 5
Ease of use
$1,150
Noise
78
Power quality
Fuel type
Features Claimed output (watts)
Power delivery
Overall Score
Rank
Rec.
Brand & Model
PORTABLE GENERATORS
! 0
1
! 0
2
Ryobi RY907022F DeWalt PMC168000
! 0
3
Generac 7675
28
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
Test Results
gas
65
$700
3 0 0 z 0 2 0 4 0 5
6250
gas
65
$1,000
5 0 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 b
7000
gas
64
$600
3 0 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 5
5000
gas
63
$1,000
5 0 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 b
7000
gas
0
60
$1,000
5 0 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 b
7000
gas
0
57
$1,600
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 b
6600
gas
57
$1,550
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 b
6000
gas
Electric start Fuel gauge
8000
CO safety technology
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 b
Ease of use
$1,380
Noise
73
Power quality
Fuel type
Features Claimed output (watts)
Power delivery
Price
Rank
Rec.
Overall Score
PORTABLE GENERATORS Continued Generac 4 XT8000EFI Champion 5 100592 Ryobi 6 RY907000FI Craftsman 7 030731 Generac 8 RS7000E DeWalt 9 DXGNR7000 NorthStar 10 165603 Yamaha 11 EF7200DE
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
LARGE HOME GENERATORS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
NA NG 10000 LPG 11000 NA NG 11000 LPG 12500 NA NG 12000 LPG 14000 NA NG 13000 LPG 13000
LPG/ NG LPG/ NG LPG/ NG LPG/ NG
Generac 7031
93
$3,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5
Champion 100179 Kohler 14RESAL Cummins RS13A Briggs & Stratton 040546
93
$3,000
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5
93
$3,700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5
91
$3,400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5
90
$3,600
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 4
NA
NG 10800 LPG/ LPG 12000 NG
0
0 0 0 0
SMALL HOME GENERATORS Champion 100174 Generac Guardian 7030
94
$2,350
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5
NA
NG 7500 LPG/ LPG 8500 NG
0
92
$2,600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5
NA
NG 8100 LPG/ LPG 9,000 NG
0
3
Winco PSS8B
92
$4,400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5
NA
4
Kohler 8RESV 90
$2,400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5
5
Briggs & Stratton 040445
$2,400
5 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
$ 0
1
! 0
2
! 0 ! 0
1
2
POOR
3
4
73
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NG 7600 LPG/ LPG 8400 NG LPG/ NA NG 7000 LPG 8,000 NG NA
NG 7200 LPG/ LPG 8000 NG
0 0
0
29
GENER AT ORS
Brand & Model
Price
Test Results
gas
0
0
53
$3,600
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
5500
gas
0
0
34
$1,400
1 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 b
5000
gas
Electric start Fuel gauge
5500
CO safety technology
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
Ease of use
$4,000
Noise
68
Power quality
Fuel type
Features Claimed output (watts)
Power delivery
Overall Score
Rank
Rec.
Brand & Model
LARGE INVERTERS (220 VOLTS) 1 2 3
Honda EU7000is Yamaha EF6300ISDE Briggs & Stratton Q6500
0
MID-SIZED INVERTERS (110 VOLTS) 1 2 3 4
Honda EU3000is Predator 3500 Champion 100261 Honda EG2800i
77
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
2800
gas
0
75
$770
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
3000
gas
0
72
$1,050
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
3100
gas
0
69
$1,000
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
2500
gas
0
0
RECREATIONAL INVERTERS (UNDER 2000 WATTS) 1 2 3 4 5 6
Yamaha EF2000isV2 Predator 62523 Honeywell 6066 Briggs & Stratton 030651 Ryobi RYI2300BT Champion 73536i
63
$900
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
1600
gas
0
63
$500
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 b
1600
gas
0
63
$600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
2000
gas
62
$650
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
1700
gas
61
$600
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
1800
gas
61
$450
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 b
1700
gas
HOW WE TEST: Power Delivery indicates how much wattage models deliver and how well they handle surges in power demand over various loads. Power Quality evaluates a generator’s ability to deliver power smoothly, with consistent voltage. Noise is measured at 23 and 50 feet
30
from the generator. Ease of Use includes starting, transport (for portables), and helpful features such as fuel shutoff. Under Claimed Output (watts) and Fuel Type, LPG=propane and NG=natural gas. Price is approximate retail. Note: Portables have a run time of about 7 to 12 hours on a tank
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
of gas; stationary models run on natural gas indefinitely. CO safety technology is the ability of the generator to shut down in the presence of carbon monoxide in an enclosed space. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests.
L AW N MO W ERS
QUI CK GUIDE
Lawn Mowers Lawn size and slope should steer your decision. Most people opt for self-propelled gas mowers, which require regular upkeep and oil changes; self-propelled battery mowers require little more than blade sharpening. What to Look For If you have a small, level lawn, a less-expensive push mower will do the trick. If, on the other hand, your yard has hills, a selfpropelled mower (especially one with rear-wheel drive) will make the job easier. A blade-brake clutch, which stops the blade when you release the handlebar lever, allows the mower to safely idle while you, say, move a rock or empty the
BUYING ADVICE
grass clippings when bagging. A washout port that accepts a hose for easy deck cleaning.
We test how well each mower works in three cutting modes (mulching, bagging, and side-discharging). Find a model that earns high marks in your preferred mode.
What to Skip Larger engines don’t guarantee better mowing, and high rear wheels don’t always help with handling.
What You’ll Pay About $400 to $700 for gas self-propelled mowers; $350 to $600 for battery models; and about $300 for capable push gas mowers.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/mowers.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Price Results
Overall Score
! 0
2
Honda HRX217K6VKA
83
$600
5 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 3
! 0
3
Honda HRR216VYA
82
$500
5 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4
! 0
4
Honda HRR216VLA
80
$500
5 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4
$ 0
5
Honda HRR216VKA
79
$400
5 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 3
Noise at 25 ft.
5 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 3
Noise at ear
$850
Handling
86
Evenness
Honda HRX217K6HZA
Bagging
! 0
1
Mulching
Rank
Test Results
Recommended
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Side discharging
Brand/Model
GAS SELF-PROPELLED MOWERS
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
31
Noise at 25 ft.
Noise at ear
Handling
Evenness
Bagging
Test Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Side discharging
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Mulching
Overall Score
Brand/Model
GAS SELF-PROPELLED MOWERS Continued Toro Super Recycler 20381 Toro Super Recycler 21381
73
$520
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4
73
$550
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 3
Cub Cadet SC 700h
71
$550
Cub Cadet SC 900
70
$450
10 Honda HRS216K6 VKA
70
$400
0 4 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 5 0 5 4 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 4 NA 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 5 2 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 NA 5 0 0 4 0 3 4 0
! 0
Toro Recycler 11 SmartStow 20340
68
$400
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3
! 0
12 Toro Recycler 20333
67
$400
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
67
$450
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
67
$650
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2
66
$300
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3
! 0
6
! 0
7
0 ! ! 0 ! 0
8 9
! 0
Toro PoweReverse 13 Recycler SmartStow 20355 Husqvarna 14 HU800AWDX/BBC 15 Toro Recycler 20332 GAS PUSH MOWERS
! 0 0 ! ! 0 $ 0
1
Honda HRR216PKA
75
$430
2
Cub Cadet SC100 H
70
$300
3
Troy-Bilt TB160 XP
69
$280
4
Troy-Bilt TB110
67
$220
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 5 4 0 3 0 3 0
! 0
5
Toro Recycler SmartStow 21329
66
$300
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2
6
Toro Recycler 21320
65
$270
7
Craftsman M110
62
$230
8
Remington RM110
60
$170
9
Lawn-Boy 17730
58
$240
0 3 3 0 5 0 3 0
Hyper Tough 10 961140035
44
$150
− − 2 0 NA NA 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
11 Murray 11A-A2BF758
42
$190
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 2 4 0 4 0 4 0 0 4 4 0 2 0 3 0
0 5 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 2 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 5 0
0 2 2 0 2 0 2 0
0 4 4 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 4 0 0 3 4 0 0 5 0 2 4 NA 0 0 4 5 0 0 2 4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 2 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 4 0 0 4 4 0 3 0 4 0
GAS WIDE-DECK SELF-PROPELLED MOWERS
0 $ ! 0
32
1
Troy-Bilt TB WC28
73
$850
2
Toro Timemaster 21199 73
$1,000
3
Troy-Bilt FLEX
47
$500
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0 3 3 0 0 4 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 4 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 0 5 5 0 0 4 0 1 2 0 3 0 0 3 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 1 0 2
Mulching
Bagging
Evenness
Handling
Run time
Charge time
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Side discharging
Rank
Recommended
Test Results
0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 1 0 4 0
BATTERY PUSH MOWERS
$ 0 0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
4
Ryobi RY40180
61
$300
0 5 3 0 0 4 3 0 0 5 3 0 − − 0 2 4 0 0 5 NA
5
Echo CLM-58V4AH
61
$520
− −
6
GreenWorks MO60L410 [Item# 725987] (Lowe’s)
61
$430
3 0 0 5 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 2
7
Troy-Bilt TB510
60
$500
8
Snapper 1687884
57
$500
− − 0 3 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 − − 2 0 0 3 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 3 4 0
9
GreenWorks 25302
56
$340
3 0 0 5
10 Stihl RMA 370
52
$690
1
EGO LM2101
71
$400
2
EGO LM2002
68
$400
3
Stihl RMA 510
67
$550
NA
NA
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 4
11 Husqvarna LE121P
52
$500
− − NA 0 2 2 0 0 2 5 0 0 2 0 4 − − 2 0 0 3 0 4 4 0 0 5 3 0 0 1
12 Neuton CEM6X4X
52
$400
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 1
Black+Decker 13 CM2060C Craftsman V60 14 CMCMW260P1
51
$400
2 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1
50
$480
2 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1
15 Oregon LM400-A6
48
$310
− − 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 2
Black+Decker 16 CM2045
48
$340
2 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 2
17 Makita XML02PT
47
$400
18 DeWalt DCMW290H1
47
$400
− − NA NA 0 2 2 0 0 5 3 0 0 4 − − 2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 5 0 0 2 2 0
Black+Decker 19 CM2040
47
$330
2 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 2
20 Redback 106648
46
$450
21 DeWalt DCMW220P2
45
$400
Sun Joe 22 iON16LM-HYB
44
$350
− − 0 1 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 2 0 1 − − 2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 5 0 0 2 0 1 NA − − 0 1 2 0 0 2 0 5 2 0 0 2
23 Earthwise 60420
43
$325
24 Sun Joe MJ401C-XR
41
$190
25 Worx WG779
38
$250
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
1 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 2 0 0 3 0 5 4 0 0 1 NA − − 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 5 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 3 NA 0 2 0 2 0 2 5 0 0 3 0 1
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
33
L AW N MO W ERS
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Charge time
Run time
Handling
Evenness
Bagging
Test Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Side discharging
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Mulching
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BATTERY SELF-PROPELLED MOWERS
! 0
1
EGO LM2142SP
$ 0
2
EGO LM2102SP
79
$550
3
Kobalt (Lowe’s) KMP 6080-06
71
$570
− − 4 0 0 4 0 3 4 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 − − 0 4 4 0 0 3 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 4 − − 0 2 0 3 3 0 0 4 0 5 5 0 0 3
4
Ryobi RY40LM10
62
$600
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1
5
Troy-Bilt TB610
61
$600
− − 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
6
Ryobi RY40LM30
60
$450
3 0 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1
7
GreenWorks MO80L510
59
$600
− − 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
8
Ryobi RY40190
57
$400
3 0 0 5
! 0
HOW WE TEST: For Mulching we measure how well mowers can churn grass into clippings that recede into the surrounding lawn. For Bagging, we determine how easy it is to attach and remove the bag, then record the weight of a full bag. For Side discharging, we measure how evenly grass clippings are cut and dispersed through the discharge chute, favoring models that don’t leave big clumps of grass behind.
34
79
$750
Evenness is our measurement of how evenly the mower cuts. Handling is ease of using drive controls, pushing, pulling, U-turns, and other maneuvers. Engine Size (cc) is measured in cubic centimeters, unless otherwise specified. Price is approximate retail for mowers and attachments. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1
the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the lawn mower they bought. In cases where we have insufficient data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
L AW N T R A C T ORS
QUI CK GUIDE
Lawn Tractors Zero-turn-radius (ZTR) riding mowers have nimble levers for steering that provide handling and excellent maneuverability. Lawn tractors operate more like cars, offering more familiar steering. What to Look For
What to Skip
A washout port that accepts a hose for cleaning. A fuel gauge, or a clear fuel tank, that’s visible from the drivers’ seat. If storage space is tight, a more compact rear-engine rider might be the right fit. No matter which type of rider you choose, we prefer a high-back seat for added comfort and support.
Zero-turn-radius riders for steep slopes—they can be difficult to steer and stop.
BUYING ADVICE
If you’re torn between a tractor and a ZTR, consider a test drive. Some stores will let you rent a mower for the day.
What You’ll Pay Anywhere from $1,500 to more than $3,000 for tractors; $2,300-plus for many zero-turnradius mowers.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/tractors.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Results
Noise at 25 ft.
Noise at ear
Handling
Evenness
Bagging
Test Results
Mulching
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
Side discharging
Overall Score
Brand & Model
LAWN TRACTORS
! 0
2
John Deere X350-42 John Deere S240-48
$2,600
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2
! 0
3
John Deere E160
89
$2,300
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
$ 0
4
John Deere E130
86
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 2
1
2
! 0
1
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
90
$3,200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
89
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
35
Survey Results
Noise at 25 ft.
Noise at ear
Handling
Evenness
Bagging
Test Results
Mulching
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
Side discharging
Overall Score
Brand & Model
LAWN TRACTORS Continued
$ 0 ! 0
5
John Deere E140
85
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
6
Husqvarna TS 354X 80
$3,500
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
7
John Deere E110
78
$1,700
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50 Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 50 XP
77
$2,500
2 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
76
$1,900
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
10 Craftsman 27055
75
$3,300
2 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
11 Craftsman 27042
75
$2,200
2 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
Cub Cadet XT1 12 LT46
73
$1,700
2 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
13 Craftsman 27040
72
$2,000
2 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
14 Craftsman T240
72
$2,000
2 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
Cub Cadet XT1 15 LT42 EFI Cub Cadet XT1 16 LT42
67
$1,750
2 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
66
$1,500
2 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
8 9
LAWN TRACTORS ZERO-TURN John Deere Z345R-42 Toro MyRIDE TimeCutter MX5075 74768 Toro TimeCutter SS4225 74726 John Deere Z335E-42 John Deere Z375R-54
85
$2,800
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
84
$4,000
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
83
$2,500
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
83
$2,500
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
83
$3,500
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 1
! 0
1
! 0
2
$ 0
3
$ 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
John Deere Z355E
83
$2,900
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 2
! 0
7
Toro MX5000 74773 82
$3,000
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 1
! 0
8
Craftsman Z530
79
$2,700
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
9
Cub Cadet RZT SX 42
76
$3,000
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
! 0
36
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 1
Noise at 25 ft.
Noise at ear
Bagging
$3,700
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5
NA
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 1
74
$3,000
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4
NA
5 0 0 4 0 1 0 1
68
$3,900
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 1
67
$2,700
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
14 Ryobi RY48ZTR75
66
$3,900
− − 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
15 Husqvarna Z242F
65
$3,000
1 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
Cub Cadet RZT 16 L 34 Cub Cadet RZT S 17 Zero (Electric) Husqvarna Z254 18 [Item# 806317] (Lowe’s)
62
$2,300
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1
61
$4,000
3 0 0 4 0 4
59
$3,000
1 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 1
Handling
Mulching
Evenness
Test Results Side discharging
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Survey Results
76
Rank
Recommended
Price
LAWN TRACTORS ZERO-TURN Continued
! 0
10 11 12 13
Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2-50 Troy-Bilt Mustang 50 Troy-Bilt Mustang 54 XP Ariens Zoom 42 915213
NA NA
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5
REAR ENGINE RIDERS
! 0
1
Ryobi R48110 (Electric)
$ 0
2
Cub Cadet CC30 H
67
$1,300
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2
3
Cub Cadet CC30
60
$1,200
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 2 0 2 0 2
HOW WE TEST: For Side discharging, we measure how evenly grass clippings are cut and dispersed through the discharge chute, favoring models that don’t leave big clumps of grass behind. We prioritize Mulching, our recommended method, and measure how well mowers can churn grass into clippings that readily recede into the surrounding lawn. For Bagging, we determine how easy it is to attach and remove the
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
71
$2,500
− − 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2
bag, then record the weight of a full bag. Evenness is our measurement of how evenly the mower cuts. Handling is ease of using drive controls, making U-turns, and other maneuvers. Engine Power (hp) is measured in horsepower, unless otherwise specified. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the lawn tractor they bought. In cases where we have insufficient data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
37
L AW N T R A C T ORS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Mattresses Foam beds-in-a-box get a lot of attention, but traditional innerspring mattresses remain the biggest sellers. No matter which type you prefer, the key to comfort is support. What to Look For
What to Skip
Use
A
our ratings to select a mattress that scores Very Good or Excellent for your size and sleep position. Return windows can range from a couple of weeks to 120 days. Make sure the retailer offers a refund or credit toward another mattress, in case you aren’t totally happy with the one you selected.
BUYING ADVICE
layer of gel-infused foam, touted to provide a cooling effect, doesn’t guarantee cooler sleep.
If possible, lie on any mattress you’re considering, spending at least 10 to 15 minutes on each side, your back, and your stomach.
What You’ll Pay You’ll find a huge range of prices. But you don’t have to spend much more than $1,000 for a comfortable, supportive mattress—and you can certainly spend less.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/mattresses.
Tested products in performance order. Overall Score
Brand & Model
Price
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
INNERSPRING
! 0
1 Avocado Green
85
$1,400
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
7
! 0
Casper The Casper 2 Hybrid Ethan Allen EA 3 Signature Platinum Plush
84
$1,500
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
3
83
$2,100
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
5
! 0 38
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Price
M ATTRESSES
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
INNERSPRING Continued
! 0
Charles P. Rogers 4 Powercore Estate 5000
80
$1,500
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
6
$ 0
Bob-O-Pedic Hybrid 79 5 20038999003
$900
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
5
! 0
Avocado Green 6 Mattress Pillowtop
79
$1,800
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
5
$ 0
Beautyrest Silver Open Seas 7 Luxury Firm 700600242-1050
79
$620
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
4
! 0
Sealy Posturepedic 8 Performance Copper II
78
$1,580
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3
4
$ 0
Beautyrest Silver 9 BRS900-TSS Medium 78 Firm Tight Top
$790
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
4
! 0
Sealy Posturepedic 10 Premium Silver Chill
77
$2,000
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
3
$ 0
Sealy Posturepedic 11 Lawson LTD Cushion Firm
77
$710
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
5
! 0
12 Voila Hybrid Medium 77
$1,200
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
! 0
Charles P. Rogers 13 Real Bed
77
$950
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
3
! 0
WinkBeds The 14 WinkBed Luxury Firm
77
$1,600
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
5
! 0
Serta iSeries Hybrid 15 500 14” Cushion Firm 76
$1,900
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
5
$ 0
Denver Mattress 16 Doctor’s Choice Plush
76
$580
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
3
$ 0
17 Allswell Luxe Hybrid 75
$585
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
7
! 0
Charles P. Rogers 18 St. Regis Pillowtop
75
$1,160
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
! 0
Sealy Posturepedic 19 Performance Lawson 75 Euro Pillowtop
$1,670
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
39
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Price
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
INNERSPRING Continued Bedgear M3 1.0 Medium Firm Serta Perfect Sleeper Select Carverdale Sealy Posturepedic Essentials Trust II Classic Brands Sleep Trends Davy Kingsdown Crown Imperial Empire Denver Mattress Doctor’s Choice Euro Top Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Hybrid Copper Infused Thermic Phase Change Cooling Fabric Saatva Flagship Luxury Firm Eurotop Shifman Metropolitan Delancy Collection Ethan Allen EA Signature Firm Hampton & Rhodes Decker 10.5” Medium Hybrid Cushion Firm Helix Sleep Midnight Luxe
75
$2,000
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
5
75
$500
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
7
74
$1,100
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
74
$780
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
74
$1,800
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
3
74
$750
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
3
74
$1,300
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
2
74
$1,100
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
3
74
$2,570
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
3
74
$2,000
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
7
73
$700
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
3
73
$1,745
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
4
32 Purple 3
73
$2,200
33 Duxiana DUX 1001
73
$4,950
0 4 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 4 4 0 0 4 5 0 0 4 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 3
72
$3,500
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
72
$2,300
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
4
72
$2,500
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
2
! 0
20
$ 0
21
! 0
22
$ 0
23
! 0
24
! 0
25
! 0
26
! 0
27
! 0
28
! 0
29
! 0
30
! 0
31
0 ! ! 0
Tempur-Pedic 34 Tempur-Flex Supreme Breeze Stearns & Foster 35 Lux Estate Cassatt Beautyrest Black 36 Mariela 40
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
3 4
Price
M ATTRESSES
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
INNERSPRING Continued Tomorrow 37 SleepSystem
72
$990
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
3
Sealy Posturepedic 38 Performance Kelburn II
72
$1,300
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
5
MacyBed by Serta 39 Elite 13 ” Luxury Firm
72
$900
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
3
Leesa Hybrid 40 Mattress
72
$1,595
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
3
Serta Perfect 41 Sleeper Hybrid Weyburn
71
$900
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
3
Serta Hotel Beds 42 Concierge Suite II
71
$1,100
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
3
OrganicPedic by 43 OMI Stella
71
$2,000
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
4
44 Amore Beds Hybrid
71
$950
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
6
! 0
1 Essentia Stratami
81
$2,871
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
6
! 0
Reverie Dream 2 Supreme II Hybrid Sleep System Firm
81
$3,700
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
4
$ 0
Sleep on Latex Pure 3 Green Firm
81
$795
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
7
! 0
BedInABox 4 Tranquillium
79
$1,300
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
! 0
5 Tuft & Needle Mint
78
$895
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
4
$ 0
Novaform Serafina 6 Pearl Medium (Costco)
78
$800
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
5
$ 0
Serta Luxury 12 ” Gel 7 Memory Foam
78
$500
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
7
! 0
8 Lull The Lull
78
$800
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
! 0
9 GhostBed GhostBed
77
$895
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
7
! 0
Dream Bed Lux 10 LX510
77
$2,700
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
2
FOAM
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
! RECOMMENDED
41
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Price
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
FOAM Continued
$ 0
Sleep Innovations 11 Marley
77
$430
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
7
0 ! ! 0
12 GhostBed Luxe
77
$1,475
13 Serta SleepToGo
$800
0 4 4 0 0 3 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 4 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 5 0 0 3
4
76 76
$750
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
4
76
$395
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2
6
76
$1,000
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
3
75
$1,400
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
3
74
$1,900
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
3
74
$900
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
74
$700
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
4
74
$330
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
5
74
$595
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
5
74
$400
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
4
73
$230
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
7
Nest Bedding Love & Sleep Signature Sleep Gold Inspire Purple The Purple Mattress Sheex Performance Cooling Saatva Zenhaven Latex My Pillow 10 ” Mattress Ashley Sleep The Perfect 10 Spa Sensations by Zinus 12 ” Theratouch M-FMS-1200Q Tuft & Needle T&N Mattress Rivet M-MAT10000-QN-WHT Mainstays (Walmart) 12 Inch Memory Foam
5
! 0
14
! 0
15
! 0
16
! 0
17
! 0
18
! 0
19
! 0
20
$ 0
21
$ 0
22
! 0
23
! 0
24
0 ! ! 0
25 Nectar The Nectar
73
$795
73
$650
0 4 4 0 0 3 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 3 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 3 0 0 3 5 0 0 4
6
26 Tulo Medium
73
$3,700
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
3
73
$555
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
7
! 0 ! 0
42
Reverie Dream Supreme II Hybrid 27 Sleep System Medium Dream Science by Martha Stewart 28 Collection 12 ” Memory Foam
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
3
Price
M ATTRESSES
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
FOAM Continued
1
Serta Perfect 29 Sleeper 10 ” Brentwood Home 30 Sequoia Euro Top
72
$800
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
6
72
$1,150
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
5
31 Bear Queen OrganicPedic by 32 OMI Flora Nouveau Beautyrest 14” 33 SurfaceCool Gel Bob-O-Pedic 34 MyBob Gel Leesa The Leesa 35 Mattress Novosbed Memory 36 Foam Eight The Smart 37 Mattress
71
$850
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
6
71
$4,445
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
71
$600
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 5
4
70
$1,100
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
2
70
$995
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
69
$1,100
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
4
69
$1,050
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4
5
38 Luxi The Luxi Soft Yogabed Luxury 39 Foam Y10 Reverie Dream 40 Supreme II Hybrid Sleep System Soft Ashley Sleep 41 Chime Elite M67431 Dromma Triple 42 Layer Zinus Green Tea 43 Pressure Relief Sleep Innovations 44 Taylor 12 inch Gel Swirl Pure Talalay Bliss 45 Nature Novaform Comfort 46 Grande (Costco) Wright 1.27 Luxury 47 Memory Foam AmazonBasics 48 Memory Foam 10-Inch
69
$1,300
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
4
69
$850
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
6
69
$3,700
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4
3
69
$440
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
5
69
$850
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
4
69
$340
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
6
68
$470
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
6
68
$3,000
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
4
68
$600
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
6
68
$1,795
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
4
68
$245
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2
2
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
43
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Price
Test Results
Firmness rating
Stabilization
Durability
Average back sleeper Large/tall back sleeper
Petite back sleeper
Average side sleeper Large/tall side sleeper
Petite side sleeper
Rank
Recommended
Support
FOAM Continued 49 Ikea Myrbacka
68
$500
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
7
50 Puffy The Puffy
67
$1,150
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
7
Eclipse Two-Sided 51 10 ” Firm
67
$350
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
4
52 Saatva Loom & Leaf
67
$1,300
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
4
67
$1,779
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
4
65
$760
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 3
2
65
$1,200
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4
3
81
$2,600
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
4
80
$1,000
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
7
70
$2,200
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
4
67
$3,200
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
4
The Original 53 Mattress Factory Serenity Latex Classic Brands 54 Sleep Trends Sofia 55 Amerisleep AS3 ADJUSTABLE AIR
! 0
1
! 0
2 3 4
Sleep Number 360 p6 Smart Bed Sleep Number 360 c2 Smart Bed Personal Comfort A8 Bed Sleep Number 360 i8 Smart Bed
HOW WE TEST: Side Sleeper is the ability to keep a side sleeper’s spine relatively horizontal. Back Sleeper is the ability to maintain the natural curve of a back sleeper’s spine. In our support tests, we use a woman 4 feet 11½ inches to 5 feet 1½ inches, and 110 to 127.5 pounds for the Petite Sleeper scores, and a man
44
6 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 4 inches and 220 to 242 pounds for the Large/Tall Sleeper scores. The Average Sleeper is an average of the other two. Durability gauges a mattress’ ability to keep its original shape, height, firmness, and support after a simulated eight to 10 years of use, including our passing a nearly 310-pound roller over each mattress 30,000 times.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
A high score for Stabilization indicates little or no bouncing or vibration transferred. We rate Firmness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the firmest. Price is approximate retail for a queen-size mattress without a box spring. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests.
MICROWAVES
QUI CK GUIDE
Microwaves Whether you’ll set it on the kitchen counter, hide it in cabinetry, or install it over the range, start with a microwave that heats and defrosts evenly before considering specialty features and shortcuts. What to Look For
What You’ll Pay
A
Generally,
sensor helps prevent over- or under-cooking by measuring emitted steam to gauge when food is done.
What to Skip If
you mostly reheat food, you don’t need a raft of preprogrammed shortcut keys. Features like browning and grilling add versatility, but you shouldn’t expect a microwave to do either very well.
more affordable countertop models, which run between about $80 and $300, are best for kitchens with ample counter space. Be sure to check dimensions as you shop. Over-the-range microwaves can be had for $300 or less, though many cost upward of $400. These mounted appliances save space but don’t vent as well as a capable range hood.
BUYING ADVICE The higher the wattage, the higher the cooking power. But differences of 100 watts or so aren’t noticeable
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/microwaves
Tested products in performance order.
Venting (airflow)
Test Results Ease of use
Predicted reliability
Rank
Rec.
Survey Results
Price
Owner satisfaction Heating evenness Defrosting evenness Speed of heating Microwaving noise
Overall Score
Brand & Product
OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVES 1
Whirlpool WMH53521H
83
$400
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
! 0
2
Whirlpool WMH75021HZ
82
$370
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
! 0
3
GE PVM9005SJSS
80
$425
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
! 0
4
Café CVM721M2NS5
79
$855
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
5
Frigidaire Professional FPBM3077RF
79
$595
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
! 0 1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
45
Venting (airflow)
Test Results Ease of use
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Rank
Rec.
Price
Owner satisfaction Heating evenness Defrosting evenness Speed of heating Microwaving noise
Overall Score
Brand & Product
OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVES Continued 6
GE JVM3160RFSS
79
$250
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
! 0
7
KitchenAid KMHS120ESS
79
$585
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
! 0
8
LG LMH2235ST
78
$450
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
! 0
9
LG LMV2031ST
78
$350
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
! 0
10 Kenmore 83337
77
$405
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
Frigidaire Gallery 11 FGMV17WNVF
76
$380
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
! 0
12 Kenmore Elite 80373
76
$745
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
13 Frigidaire FFMV1645TD
73
$320
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3
Frigidaire Gallery 14 FGMV176NTD
73
$350
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4
15 Kenmore 80353
73
$535
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
$ 0
SMALL COUNTERTOP MICROWAVES 1
Avanti MO7191TW
65
$70
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 4
NA
MIDSIZED COUNTERTOP MICROWAVES LG NeoChef LMC1275SB Panasonic Genius Prestige NN-SD681S
84
$180
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
NA
80
$180
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5
NA
3
General GEW1000E
77
$310
− − 0 5 − 0 4 0 5 0 4
NA
4
Panasonic NN-SN686S
75
$175
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3
NA NA
$ 0
1
$ 0
2
5 6 7 8 9
Summit SCM1000SS
74
$320
Breville Quick Touch BMO734XL Samsung MG11H2020CT Samsung MC12J8035CT
71
$250
− − 0 4 − 0 5 4 0 0 4 − − 4 0 0 2 4 0 0 4 4 0
70
$160
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA
69
$500
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
NA
Danby DMW111KBLDB
67
$90
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA
67
$105
− − 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3
NA
Westinghouse 10 WCM11100SSB
46
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA
Survey Results
79
$200
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
NA
GE JES2051SN[SS]
79
$250
8
78
$220
9
LG LMC1575
77
$200
10 Kenmore Elite 79393
76
$250
0 3 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
NA
Panasonic NN-SD745S
0 4 3 0 0 3 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 2 4 0 0 4 4 0
NA
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
Panasonic NN-SE785S
86
$290
2
Panasonic NN-SD975S
83
$250
3
GE Profile JES2251SJ
81
$280
4
Panasonic NN-SD945S
81
$215
5
Panasonic NN-SN966S
81
! 0
6
Farberware Smart Sensor Cooking FMO16AHTBSA
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
7
Venting (airflow)
Ease of use
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
Rank
0 5 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0
NA
$250
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
Rec.
Owner satisfaction Heating evenness Defrosting evenness Speed of heating Microwaving noise
Test Results
Predicted reliability
Price
LARGE COUNTERTOP MICROWAVES
11 Panasonic NN-SN736B
76
$190
12 Toshiba EC042A5C-BS
72
$195
13 GE Profile PES7227SLSS
71
$350
0 3 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0
0 5 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 − − 0 4 0 3 3 0 0 3
0 4 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0
0 4 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0
NA NA NA NA
NA NA NA NA NA NA
BUILT-IN MICROWAVES 1
Sharp SMD3070AS
66
$1,100
2
Sharp Carousel R-1214
64
$380
HOW WE TEST: Heating Evenness reflects how evenly a model reheated a dish of cold mashed potatoes. Defrosting Evenness is based on how well the auto-defrost program defrosted a pound of frozen ground beef. Speed of Heating is based on the temperature rise of water heated. Microwaving Noise reflects how quiet the oven is while microwaving on high. Ease of Use includes how easy it is to set the microwave without referring to the instructions. Venting (airflow) is based on
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
the volume of air drawn in by the over-the-range model’s internal fan on the highest setting. Usable Capacity is the usable space based on our measurements and excludes the corner spaces for models with rotating turntables. Note that most OTR models allow you to turn off the rotation to fit large dishes. With the rotation off, measured capacity approximates claimed. But food might require extra tending and stirring. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the microwave they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
47
MICROWAVES
Overall Score
Brand & Product
QUI CK GUIDE
Ranges Electric smoothtop ranges remain the biggest sellers, but now, whether you’re renovating your kitchen or replacing an old model, you have more options than ever, including induction and double-oven ranges. What to Look For
What to Skip
Start with your power source—gas or electric. Dual-fuel ranges have an electric oven and gas cooktop burners, so they require a gas line and a 240-volt electric outlet. At least five oven-rack positions for flexibility when baking and roasting. For home cooks who host often, double ovens allow you to cook two dishes simultaneously, at different temperatures.
Shopping by Btu. Higher British thermal units don’t guarantee faster heating in our tests.
BUYING ADVICE
Generally, more expensive pro-style ranges aren’t the bestperforming models we test.
What You’ll Pay Anywhere from $700 to $3,000 for most ranges. You’ll find coil models for less than $700 and prostyle options that run more than $3,000.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/ranges.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Results
Self-cleaning
Oven capacity
Broiling
Baking
Test Results Cooktop low
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
Cooktop high
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH)
0 ! $ 0
1
GE Profile PB911SJSS
85
$1,085
2
LG LRE3193ST
83
$1,000
0 3 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 4 4 0 0 5 0 5 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 4 0 0 5 5 0 NA
! 0
3
Frigidaire Gallery FGEF3036TD
81
$750
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
0 ! ! 0
4
Kenmore Pro 92583
81
$2,250
5
LG LSE4613ST
81
$1,350
6
Samsung NE58F9500SS
80
$1,200
0 3 4 0 0 5 0 5 4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 3 3 0 0 3 0 5 5 0 0 4 0 5 5 0 0 4
48
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Survey Results
Cooktop low
Baking
Broiling
Oven capacity
Self-cleaning
Test Results
0 4 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0
0 4 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 5 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
Cooktop high
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
R A NGE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH) Continued 7
GE JS760SLSS
78
$1,100
8
GE JB655SKSS
77
$600
9
LG LRE3194BD
77
$750
10 Whirlpool WEE510S0FS
77
$1,080
11 Samsung NE59J7630SS
75
$900
12 Samsung NE59N6650SS
75
$1,000
13 GE Adora JB755BJTS
73
$860
0 3 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 4 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
14 Samsung NE59M4320SS 73
$650
15 Cafe CES700P2MS1
71
$1,600
16 Frigidaire FFEF3054TS
70
$675
17 GE JS645SLSS
70
$1,000
18 Electrolux EI30EF45QS
67
$2,205
19 Frigidaire FFEH3051VS
67
$1,000
20 Frigidaire FFEH3054US
67
$800
21 Whirlpool WFE515S0ES
67
$630
22 Frigidaire LGEF3046TF
66
$900
23 GE JBS60RKSS
66
$605
24 Maytag MER8800FZ
65
$900
25 Kenmore 95123
64
$1,300
26 Kenmore Elite 95223
64
$2,020
27 Samsung NE59M4310SS
63
$530
KitchenAid 28 KFEG500ESS
60
$1,250
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1
29 Whirlpool WFE775H0HZ 60
$950
30 GE JB645RKSS
59
$630
0 2 5 0 0 4 5 0 0 3 3 0 0 5 0 1 5 0 0 3 5 0 0 3 2 0 0 3 5 0 0 5
Whirlpool 31 WFE320M0EW
59
$420
5 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 4
32 KitchenAid KSEB900ESS 58
$2,400
33 Whirlpool WFE975H0HV 58
$1,170
57
$550
34 Frigidaire FFEF3052TS
1
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
0 4 5 0 4 0 NA
0 1 1 0 1 0 5 0
NA
0 2 3 0 0 4 0 5 3 0 0 5 0 4 0 1 5 0 0 2 5 0 0 3 0 4 4 0 0 5 0 1 4 0 0 2 0 4 4 0 0 2 0 3 3 0 NA 49
Survey Results
Self-cleaning
Oven capacity
Broiling
Baking
Test Results Cooktop low
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
Cooktop high
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH) Continued 57
$1,200
36 Whirlpool WEE750H0HZ 55
$1,300
53
$800
35 Whirlpool WEE745H0FS
37 Whirlpool WFE520S0FS
0 2 5 0 0 4 0 3 3 0 0 5 0 5 0 1 5 0 0 2 4 0 0 3 0 4 4 0 0 5 0 1 5 0 0 2 0 5 5 0 0 3 0 2 4 0 0 3
ELECTRIC SMOOTHTOP, DOUBLE OVEN (30-INCH)
0 ! ! 0
1
Whirlpool WGE745COFS 82
$1,200
2
Samsung NE58F9710WS
81
$1,600
3
LG LDE4415ST
79
$1,620
4
GE JB860SJSS
78
$1,350
5
LG LTE4815ST
78
$1,700
6
Samsung NE59J7850WS
78
$1,400
0 5 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0
0 2 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 4 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0
7
Ikea Betrodd 602.885.60 72 [IES900DS]
$1,000
− − 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
8
Maytag MET8800FZ
72
$1,620
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
ELECTRIC INDUCTION 1
GE Profile PHS930SLSS
85
$2,435
2
Kenmore Elite 95073
83
$1,590
0 3 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 0 5 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 5
! 0
3
Frigidaire Gallery FGIF3036TF
82
$1,080
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
4
LG LSE4617ST
81
$2,400
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3
5
Samsung NE58K9560WS/AA
79
$2,200
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
6
Frigidaire FFIF3054TS
78
$1,000
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
! 0 0 !
GAS AND DUAL-FUEL, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH)
! 0
1
Samsung NX58H9500WS
0 $ ! 0 $ 0 ! 0
2
Samsung NX58H5600SS 76
$680
3
LG LSD4913ST (dual-fuel) 75
$1,600
4
Samsung NX58K3310SS
75
$720
5
LG LRG4113ST
74
$1,170
0 5 4 0 5 0 4 0
! 0
6
Samsung Chef Collection 74 NX58M9960PS/AA
$4,000
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2
! 0
7
Samsung NX58M9420SS 74
$1,200
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3
50
79
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
$1,600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 4 0 5 0 4 0
0 3 4 0 3 0 4 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 5 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 4 5 0 3 0 3 0
0 0 5 3 5 0 0 2 5 NA 0 5 0 0 3
Survey Results
$1,000
0 5 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0
0 5 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0
Self-cleaning
73
Oven capacity
$1,300
LG LRG3193ST
Broiling
73
9
Baking
GE JGS760SELSS
Cooktop low
Rank
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
8
Test Results Cooktop high
Rec.
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Price
R A NGE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
GAS AND DUAL-FUEL, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH) Continued
0 4 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0
3 0 NA
0 4 4 0 3 0
10 Samsung NX58M6630SS 73
$880
11 GE Profile PGS930SELSS 72
$2,340
12 GE PGB911ZEJSS
71
$1,500
13 LG LRG3061ST
70
$810
14 LG LSG4513ST
70
$1,600
! 0
Frigidaire Gallery 15 FGGF3036TDRF
69
$650
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
! 0
16 GE JGB700SEJSS
69
$750
17 Frigidaire FFGF3054TS
67
$720
18 GE JGB660SEJSS
67
$680
19 GE JGBS66EEKES
67
$675
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0
Bosch HDI8054U 20 (dual-fuel)
66
$2,500
21 GE JGBS62REKSS
66
$675
22 GE JGSS66EELES
65
$1,260
23 GE JGBS30REKSS
64
$450
24 GE JGBS60DEKWW
64
$400
25 Frigidaire FFGH3051VS
63
$850
26 Frigidaire FFGH3054US
63
$995
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
Frigidaire Gallery 27 FGGF3047TF
61
$980
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
28 Jenn-Air JGS1450FP
61
$3,000
Ikea Betrodd 29 002.885.58 [IGS505DS]
58
$800
− − 3 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 5 0 0 1 − − 0 3 4 0 0 4 2 0 0 4 4 0
30 Kenmore 74423
56
$530
31 Kenmore 75123
55
$1,515
0 3 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 2 3 0 0 3 NA 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 3 5 0 0 3 5 0 1 0
KitchenAid 32 KSGG700ESS
55
$1,890
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 1
33 Frigidaire FFGF3052TS
54
$500
34 Maytag MGR8800F
52
$990
35 Electrolux EI30GF45QS
51
$2,385
0 3 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 2 0 3 3 0 NA 3 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 5 0 0 2 0 5 1 0 − − 0 4 0 3 0 2 2 0 0 3 0 3
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 4 0 4 0 3 0
0 5 4 0 5 0 5 0
0 3 4 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
NA
3 0
0 0 4 3 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 5 NA 0
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 NA 4 4 NA 0 4 NA 0 4 NA 0 3 NA 0 3 4 0 0
51
Survey Results
Self-cleaning
Oven capacity
Broiling
Baking
Test Results Cooktop low
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
Cooktop high
Overall Score
Brand & Model
GAS AND DUAL-FUEL, SINGLE OVEN (30-INCH) Continued KitchenAid 36 KFGG500ESS Bosch 800 Series 37 HGI8054UC
51
$1,215
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1
50
$2,070
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3
38 Kenmore Elite 42783
49
$3,500
39 Whirlpool WEG745H0FS 49
$1,300
40 Whirlpool WFG525S0HS 49
$765
0 3 3 0 0 3 0 1 4 0 0 5 0 5 0 1 3 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 1 3 0 0 3 0 3 4 0 0 4 0 2 4 0 0 4
48
$2,250
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3
42 Whirlpool WFG745H0FS 48
$900
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1
47
$1,500
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1
44 Whirlpool WFG540H0ES 47
$1,000
45 Whirlpool WFG975H0HZ 47
$1,170
46 Kenmore 32673 Slide-in
$1,050
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
Frigidaire Professional 41 FPGH3077RF Whirlpool 43 WEG750H0HZ
46
47 Whirlpool WFG550S0HZ 46
$945
48 Kenmore Pro 72583
43
$2,000
49 Amana AGR6603SF
42
$600
50 Frigidaire FFGF3012TW
42
$485
51 Maytag MGR6600FZ
42
$650
52 Kenmore 75113
41
$1,050
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0
0 2 2 0 1 0 4 0 1 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 2 0
0 4 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 2 0
0 5 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0
0 1 1 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 NA
0 3 5 0
GAS AND DUAL-FUEL, DOUBLE OVEN (30-INCH) LG Signature 84 LUTD4919SN (dual-fuel) Samsung NY58J9850WS 80 (dual-fuel) Cafe C2S950P2MS1 76 (dual-fuel)
$3,240
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
$2,700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
$3,200
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
$2,130
$2,500
0 3 4 0 0 4 0 5 4 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 4 4 0 0 3 0 4 5 0 0 3 0 5 5 0 0 3
70
$1,400
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2
63
$1,530
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 3
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
0 ! ! 0 ! 0
4
GE PGB980ZEJSS
76
5
LG LDG4315ST
76
$1,710
6
GE Profile PGS960SELSS 71
7
Samsung NX58M6850SG
8
GE JGB860SEJSS
! 0
52
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Survey Results
Self-cleaning
Oven capacity
Broiling
Baking
Cooktop low
Cooktop high
Test Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
R A NGE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PRO-STYLE GAS AND DUAL-FUEL (30-INCH)
! 0
1
! 0
2
KitchenAid KDRS407VSS 70 (dual-fuel) Monogram 68 ZGP304NRSS
3
Wolf DF304 (dual-fuel)
64
4
NXR DRGB3001
61
$1,700
5
Miele HR1124
59
$5,000
6
Thermador PRG304GH
58
$4,400
7
Wolf GR304
54
$4,900
8
Jenn-Air JGRP430WP
53
$4,000
$4,230
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
$5,000
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
$6,400
3 0 0 5 3 0 − − 0 3 − − 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 4 3 0 0 5 0 3 1 0 0 3 0 3
4 0 0 5 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
4 0 0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0
4 0 0 3 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0
3 0 0 2 0 NA 3 4 0 0 4 3 NA 0 4 NA 0 3 0 0 4
PRO-STYLE GAS AND DUAL-FUEL (36-INCH)
! 0
1
! 0
2
KitchenAid KDRU763VSS 75 (dual-fuel) Monogram 74 ZDP364NDPSS (dual-fuel)
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
$8,100
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
3
Thermador PRG366JG
67
$7,700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1
4
Kucht Pro Style KRG3618U
66
$3,000
− − 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 NA
5
Wolf GR366
60
$6,000
6
NXR DRGB3602
59
$3,000
7
Viking VGR5366BSS
56
$6,400
3 0 0 5 3 0 5 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 − − 0 3 0 5 3 0 0 3 0 3 1 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 2 0 0 5
HOW WE TEST: Cooktop High reflects how quickly the most powerful element heated a large pot of water to near-boil. Cooktop Low is how well the lowest-powered element held a low heat, as for melting chocolate, and how well the most powerful element, set on low, held tomato sauce below a boil. Baking reflects even browning of cakes and cookies in multirack baking tests. Broiling is even browning
1
$7,300
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
of a pan of burgers and highheat searing. Oven Capacity is our evaluation of usable space. Self-Cleaning is that cycle’s effectiveness after the oven is coated with a mixture of eggs, lard, cheese, cherry pie filling, tomato puree, and tapioca. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA NA NA
likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the range they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brandlevel rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
53
QUI CK GUIDE
Refrigerators Refrigerator design continues to evolve, and new models often boast high-tech features. But no matter which type you choose, everyday performance still matters most—and that’s what our tests capture. What to Look For Temperature-controlled
drawers to keep meat, fish, and other food at lower temperatures. In French-door models, look for half or foldable shelves for storing taller items as needed. Adjustable door bins also allow for customization and flexibility.
What to Skip Our
tests found that the amount of usable
BUYING ADVICE
storage capacity is often less than the amount claimed. We measure the interior capacity of each model, which you’ll see in the ratings.
If you’re replacing your existing fridge (rather than remodeling), check each model’s width, height, and depth, and make sure you have room for the door to open fully.
What You’ll Pay Standard top-freezers start around $500. Side-by-sides start around $800, while Frenchdoor models are $1,000 and up. Built-ins can run beyond $10,000.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/refrigerators.
Tested products in performance order.
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
TOP-FREEZERS
! 0
1
Frigidaire Gallery FGTR2037TF
0 ! ! 0
2
LG LTCS20220S
3
LG LTCS24223S
4
Samsung RT18M6215SG
! 0 54
$880
5 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 30 1
70 30 33
78
$900 $1,000
0 3 5 0 0 3 4 0 0 5 5 00 2 5 0 0 3 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 52 0
66 30 33
78 78
$800
− − 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 40 3
67 29 29
79
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
68 33 33
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
TOP-FREEZERS Continued Samsung RT21M6213SG Samsung RT21M6215SG Blomberg BRFT1522SS Frigidaire FFHT1832TS
78
$1,080
78
$900
76
68 33 32
$1,100
− − 0 3 0 4 5 0 0 40 3 − − 3 0 0 4 0 5 4 00 3 − − 0 4 5 0 0 4 0 42 0
75
$765
5 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 30 1
67 30 31
LG LTCS20120S
74
$810
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 50 2
67 30 34
Maytag MRT311FFFM Frigidaire FFTR1821TD Whirlpool WRT549SZDM Frigidaire Gallery FGTR1837TF Frigidaire FFTR2021TS Whirlpool WRT518SZFM
74
$900
5 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 2
66 33 31
73
$600
5 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 30 1
66 30 31
73
$810
5 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 40 1
66 30 33
72
$790
5 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 20 1
66 30 31
71
$600
5 0 0 1 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
69 30 33
71
$600
5 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 20 1
68 28 31
16 GE GTS21FSKSS
69
$700
4 0 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
67 32 32
Maytag 17 MRT711BZDM GE 18 GTE15CTHRWW
68
$990
5 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 40 1
66 33 32
67
$540
4 0 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
62 28 30
19 GE GTS18FSLSS
67
$680
4 0 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
66 33 32
Whirlpool 20 WRT511SZDM Frigidaire 21 FFHT1821TS
67
$900
5 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 40 1
66 33 32
66
$720
5 0 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
64 30 30
22 GE GTS18GSHSS
65
$675
4 0 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 30 1
68 28 29
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
! 0
10
$ 0
11
! 0
12
! 0
13
! 0
14
$ 0
15
68 33 32 68 28 26
BOTTOM-FREEZERS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
1
2
POOR
Kenmore Elite 79043 Kenmore Elite 79023
89
$1,300
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 50 3
70 33 33
89
$2,000
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 50 3
69 30 34
LG LDCS24223S
89
$1,300
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 50 3
69 33 33
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
55
REF R I GER AT ORS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BOTTOM-FREEZERS Continued
$ 0
4
Kenmore 69313
85
$700
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 50 2
66 30 31
81
$1,170
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 30 2
69 33 31
79
$1,530
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 2
67 30 31
78
$1,170
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 30 2
66 30 31
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
Amana ABB2224BRM KitchenAid KRBR109ESS Amana ABB1924BRM
! 0
8
GE GDE25ESKSS
78
$1,575
4 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 40 3
69 33 35
9
KitchenAid KRBR102ESS
77
$1,530
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 30 2
69 33 31
10 GE GDE21ESKSS
75
$1,485
4 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 3
70 30 35
73
$2,300
− − 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 40 3
68 32 28
73
$1,260
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 2
67 30 31
$2,160
79 24 26
! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Fisher & Paykel 11 Active-Smart RF170WDRUX5 Whirlpool 12 WRB329DMBM
Haier 14 HRB15N3BGS Whirlpool 15 WRB322DMBM Blomberg 16 BRFB1822SSN Bertazzoni 17 REF31BEMXR
71
$945
− − 0 4 5 0 0 3 4 00 3 − − 4 0 0 4 4 0 0 42 0
71
$1,260
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 30 2
69 33 31
67
$1,700
60 30 31
65
$1,610
− − 3 0 0 4 3 0 0 40 3 − − 0 3 4 0 0 4 3 00 2
18 GE GLE12HSLSS
60
$1,305
4 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 50 2
70 24 26
Whirlpool 19 URB551WNGZ
57
$1,260
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 20 2
74 24 27
13 Bosch B11CB50SSS 71
68 28 24
69 32 27
THREE-DOOR FRENCH-DOORS 1
Kenmore Elite 74113
85
$2,700
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
69 36 36
2
LG LFXS32766S
85
$3,510
69 36 34
3
LG LFC24770ST
83
$1,710
0 3 3 0 0 5 5 0 0 4 5 00 5 3 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 54 0
! 0
4
Samsung RF28HDEDPWW
83
$2,200
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
69 36 34
! 0
5
LG LRFDS3006S
82
$2,700
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
71 36 34
! 0 0 ! $ 0
56
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
69 33 33
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
THREE-DOOR FRENCH-DOORS Continued
! 0 ! 0
6
GE GNE29GSKSS
81
$1,965
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 40 4
7
Kenmore Elite 73153
81
$2,200
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
69 36 34
70 36 34
$ 0
8
LG LFC22770ST
81
$1,620
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 50 3
68 30 33
! 0
9
LG LFXS30766S
81
$3,420
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 40 4
69 36 34
! 0
GE Café 10 CYE22TSHSS
80
$2,790
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
70 36 30
! 0
11 GE GFD28GSLSS
80
$2,905
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 30 5
70 36 33
! 0
12 GE GFE28GSKSS
80
$1,800
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 40 5
70 36 34
! 0
13 GE GYE22HSKSS
80
$2,610
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
70 36 30
! 0
GE Profile 14 PYE22PSKSS
80
$3,160
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
70 36 30
15 Kenmore 70333
79
$1,800
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
69 36 32
Kenmore Elite 16 73163
79
$2,400
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
69 36 34
17 GE GFE26GSKSS
78
$1,980
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 40 5
70 36 35
18 Kenmore 71323
78
$1,600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 50 4
68 30 33
19 LG LFXC24726S
78
$3,060
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
69 36 29
20 LG LFXS29766S
78
$3,060
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
69 36 35
FOUR-DOOR (OR MORE) FRENCH-DOORS
! 0
1
Kenmore Elite 72483
81
$2,500
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
69 36 36
2
LG LMXS30746S
79
$3,420
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
69 36 36
3
LG LMXS30796D
79
$3,000
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
71 36 36
4 5 6 7
1
2
POOR
LG LNXS30866D
79
$3,690
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
69 36 37
Samsung RF23M8070SR LG Signature LUPXS3186N Samsung RF22K9381SR
79
$2,200
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 5
70 36 29
78
$6,305
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
70 36 37
78
$2,795
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
72 36 29
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
57
REF R I GER AT ORS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
FOUR-DOOR (OR MORE) FRENCH-DOORS Continued 8 9 10 11 12 13
Samsung RF23M8570SG Samsung RF28K9070SR Samsung RF28HMELBSR Samsung RF28JBEDBSR Samsung RF28N9780SR Samsung RF28R7351SG
78
$3,100
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 5
70 36 29
78
$2,600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
71 36 35
77
$2,600
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 5
69 36 29
77
$3,600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 5
70 36 34
77
$3,400
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
72 36 34
77
$2,400
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 5
70 36 34
77
$1,980
3 0 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
70 36 33
76
$1,500
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
69 36 34
74
$1,800
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
70 36 30
73
$1,800
3 0 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 5
70 36 33
SIDE-BY-SIDES
! 0
1
GE Profile PSS28KSHSS
! 0
2
LG LSXS26366S Kenmore Elite 51863 GE Profile PSE25KSHSS
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
LG LSXC22486S
73
$1,800
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
70 36 30
! 0
6
LG LSXS26326S
73
$1,300
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 40 5
69 36 34
! 0
7
Kenmore 51763
72
$1,300
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 40 5
69 36 34
8
Kenmore 51783
71
$1,200
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 30 5
69 36 29
9
KitchenAid KRSC503ESS
71
$2,790
2 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
71 36 28
10 GE GSS23HSHSS
69
$1,485
3 0 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 4
70 33 33
Whirlpool WRS586FIEM Whirlpool WRS588FIHZ Frigidaire FFSS2625TS GE Profile PZS22MSKSS
69
$1,530
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 40 4
69 36 33
69
$1,530
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 40 4
69 36 33
68
$1,080
3 0 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 3
70 36 32
68
$2,610
3 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 50 4
70 36 29
68
$1,980
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
70 36 30
11 12 13 14
15 LG LSXC22386S
58
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Exterior depth (in.)
Exterior width (in.)
Exterior height (in.)
Features
Ease of use
Noise
Energy efficiency
Test Results Temperature uniformity Thermostat control
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
BUILT-INS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
Thermador Freedom Collection Professional Series T36BT920NS Jenn-Air JF42NXFXDE Miele MasterCool KF1903SF Jenn-Air JB36NXFXRE Sub-Zero BI-42UFD/S Dacor Modernist DRF427500AP Sub-Zero IT36CI
Dacor Modernist 8 DRF367500AP Sub-Zero 9 BI42SIDSPH KitchenAid 10 KBFN502ESS KitchenAid 11 KBBR306ESS
83
$9,300
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
84 36 25
81
$9,400
4 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
83 42 26
81
$9,100
− − 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
83 36 25
80
$7,400
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
83 36 26
79
$9,800
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
83 42 26
78
$10,500
− − 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
85 42 25
78
$7600
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 1
83 36 25
77
$8,200
− − 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 5
84 36 24
77
$11,345
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
84 42 26
76
$7,850
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
83 42 26
75
$6,900
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
83 36 26
HOW WE TEST: Temperature Uniformity is based on how well a model minimizes warm and cold spots. Thermostat Control looks at the appliance’s ability to achieve and maintain a set temperature despite changes in room temperature. Energy Efficiency is energy consumption per cubic foot of measured usable storage space. Noise is measured
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
with compressors running. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years.
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the refrigerator they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
59
REF R I GER AT ORS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Snow Blowers You don’t need a behemoth model for efficient snow clearing. You’ll find compact, easier-handling machines work well on smaller driveways, while midsized models can dispatch drifts left by a heavy storm. What to Look For Belts. You’ll need one drive belt for single-stage machines and two for twostage models. Shear pins. On two-stage models, they protect the engine and transmission by breaking if the auger hits something too hard. Keep spares on hand. Interlocking safety grips. These allow one-handed
operation so that you can also operate the discharge chute control.
What You’ll Pay You can spend as little as $200 for a snow blower that will handle light dustings or well over $1,000 for a snow blower that takes care of heavier snowfalls.
BUYING ADVICE Bigger engines and wider clearing swaths are great, but some smaller machines can out-clear and out-throw the big boys for less money. For more buying advice, go to CR.org/snowblowers.
Tested products in performance order.
! 0
4
$ 0
5
Width (in.)
3
Noise
$ 0
Controls
2
Test Results
Handling
Rank
! 0
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Recommended
! 0
1
Survey Price Results
Removal speed Plow pile removal Throwing distance Surface cleaning
Overall Score
Brand & Model
THREE-STAGE GAS: BEST FOR HEAVY SNOW UP TO 18 INCHES
60
Cub Cadet 3X 30 ” PRO H Cub Cadet 3X 30 ” HD Troy-Bilt Vortex 2890 Cub Cadet 3X 26” TRAC Troy-Bilt Vortex 2490
91
$2,600
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
91
$1,700
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
90
$1,200
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
28
87
$1,800
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2
26
83
$1,200
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
24
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Width (in.)
Noise
Controls
Handling
Removal speed Plow pile removal Throwing distance Surface cleaning
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Test Results
TWO-STAGE GAS: BEST FOR HEAVY TO MEDIUM SNOW UP TO 16 INCHES
! 0
1
Ariens 926060
91
$3,100
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2
28
Ariens Deluxe 30 EFI Toro Power Max HD 928 OAE 38840 Troy-Bilt Arctic Storm 30 Cub Cadet 2X 30 ’’ HP Cub Cadet 2X 28 ” HP Toro Power Max 826 OXE 37799
91
$1,700
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
91
$1,400
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2
28
91
$1,500
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
89
$1,200
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
87
$1,100
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2
28
87
$1,050
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 2
26
Craftsman 88976
87
$1,600
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
$1,000
− − 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2
27
$1,100
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2
28
$1,000
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
26
$1,000
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2
28
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
$ 0
5
$ 0
6
$ 0
7
! 0
8
$ 0 ! 0
Briggs & Stratton 84 9 1227MDS Ariens Deluxe 28 82 10 254CC 921046 Cub Cadet 2X 81 11 26” HP
$ 0
12 Troy-Bilt 2860
! 0
80
COMPACT TWO-STAGE GAS: BEST FOR MEDIUM SNOW UP TO 16 INCHES Toro Power Max 77 824 OE 37798 Briggs & Stratton 77 1696610 Honda 74 HSS724AW
$880
3 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 2
24
$730
− − 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2
24
$2,200
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2
24
Craftsman 88640 74
$800
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2
24
73
$700
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3
24
$900
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2
24
$880
− − 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 2
24
$800
4 0 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2
24
$ 0
1
$ 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
$ 0
5
Troy-Bilt 2410
! 0
6
! 0
7
! 0
8
1
2
POOR
Ariens Compact 72 24 920027 Briggs & Stratton 72 1696614 Ariens 920025
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
70
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
61
SNO W BL O W ERS
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Width (in.)
Noise
Controls
Test Results
Handling
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Removal speed Plow pile removal Throwing distance Surface cleaning
Overall Score
Brand & Model
SINGLE-STAGE GAS: BEST FOR LIGHT TO MEDIUM SNOW UP TO 9 INCHES
! 0
1
! 0
2
$ 0
3
Toro 824 QXE 36003 Toro Power Clear 721 QZE 38744 Toro Power Clear 721 R-C 38751
! 0
4
Honda HS 720AS
72
$700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
20
Toro 724 QXE 36002 Troy-Bilt Squall 208XP Troy-Bilt Squall 179E Craftsman CMXGBAM1054540
69
$750
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2
24
67
$650
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2
21
64
$450
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2
21
64
$550
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2
21
! 0
5
$ 0
6
$ 0
7
! 0
8
76
$850
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
24
75
$700
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2
21
74
$600
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2
21
SINGLE-STAGE ELECTRIC: BEST FOR LIGHT SNOW UP TO 6 INCHES 1
Toro Power Curve 50 1800 38381
1
EGO SNT2102
$250
5 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
18
SINGLE-STAGE BATTERY: BEST FOR LIGHT SNOW UP TO 6 INCHES
! 0
60
HOW WE TEST: For Removal Speed, we time how long it takes models to clear a highly controlled mixture of wet sawdust. Plow-pile Removal is an assessment of how quickly, and thoroughly, models cut through a large mound of wet sawdust designed to simulate a plow pile. Throwing Distance is how far each model throws the mixture. Surface cleaning reflects how much of our mixture each model leaves behind on a blacktop driveway. Handling denotes how easy
62
$600 NA NA each machine is to push, pull, and turn. Controls is our assessment of how easy it is to change speeds, adjust the discharge chute, and move the handle-bar. Noise is measured in decibels at the ear of the operator; a rating lower than good means you’ll need hearing protection. Price is approximate retail. Overall score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
21
likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the snow blower they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction. NA means we have no data.
−
VA CUUMS
QUI CK GUIDE
Vacuums The best uprights deliver the most power for deepcleaning carpets, but canisters are easier to maneuver. Robotics and stick vacs offer supplemental floor-cleaning convenience. What to Look For
What to Skip
If deep-cleaning carpet is the most important thing on your list, go for an upright. Canisters do well when cleaning drapes and upholstery, on stairs, and under furniture. They let you move mostly the hose and wand—instead of the entire machine. View robotic vacuums, as well as stick vacs, as maintenance cleaners; neither can replace your full-sized vacuum.
No need to splurge on extra cleaning tools. Those that come standard should suffice for most household cleaning jobs. We recommend against bagless models if you have asthma or allergies, because emptying the bin is usually a dusty, messy chore.
BUYING ADVICE
Even if you plan to order online, go to a store first. Push, pull, turn, and lift the vacuum cleaners you’re considering to get a sense of how easy they are to use.
What You’ll Pay Capable bagless uprights start at about $170; figure $200-plus for most canisters and bagged uprights.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/ vacuums.
Tested products in performance order.
Noise
Pet hair
Handling
Hose suction Clean emissions
Test Results Bare floors
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results
Carpet
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BAGLESS UPRIGHT VACUUMS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
1
2
POOR
Shark Navigator Powered Lift-Away NV586 (Target) Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away NV831 Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed NV800
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
77
$300
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
76
$350
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 3
75
$300
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 40 3
! RECOMMENDED
63
Noise
Pet hair
Handling
Hose suction Clean emissions
Test Results Bare floors
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results
Carpet
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BAGLESS UPRIGHT VACUUMS Continued
! 0
4
Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away NV501
75
$260
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 30 4
! 0
5
Shark Rotator Powered 74 Lift-Away Speed NV680
$260
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
! 0
6
Kenmore Pet Friendly CrossOver 31220
74
$250
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
! 0
7
Dyson Ball Animal 2
73
$500
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
! 0
8
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 73
$400
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 50 2
! 0
9
Shark APEX DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed AX912
73
$350
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 30 4
$ 0
Shark Navigator 10 Lift-Away NV352
72
$200
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 30 3
! 0
Shark APEX DuoClean 11 Zero-M Powered Lift-Away AZ1002
72
$400
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
$ 0
Shark Navigator 12 Professional Lift-Away NV356E
72
$200
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 30 3
! 0
Kenmore Elite Pet 13 Friendly CrossOver Ultra 31230
72
$350
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
! 0
Shark APEX 14 DuoClean Powered Lift-Away AX951
70
$400
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 30 4
Kenmore Progressive 15 10135
68
$150
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 50 3
Shark DuoClean Slim 16 NV201
68
$240
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 30 3
Dyson Cinetic Big Ball 17 Animal
67
$600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 30 3
Dyson Cinetic Big Ball 18 Animal + Allergy
67
$700
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 30 3
Shark Navigator Pet 19 Pro ZU62
65
$230
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
Shark Navigator 20 Zero-M Lift-Away Speed ZU560
63
$220
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
Dyson Small Ball 21 Multi Floor
59
$400
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 30 4
64
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Noise
Pet hair
Handling
Hose suction Clean emissions
Bare floors
Test Results
Carpet
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
VA CUUMS
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BAGLESS UPRIGHT VACUUMS Continued Hoover WindTunnel 22 T-Series Rewind Bagless UH70120 Hoover React 23 Professional Pet Plus UH73220 Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 24 Lift-Off 2087
56
$130
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 50 3
55
$240
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 30 3
54
$270
2 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 50 3
25 Hoover React UH73100
54
$180
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 40 3
Hoover React Powered Reach Lite UH73400 Hoover PowerDrive Pet UH74210PC Shark ION P50 Cord-Free Powered Lift-Away IC162 Hoover Air Steerable UH72400 Hoover Total Home Pet UH74100 Hoover Air Pro UH72450 Hoover High Performance Swivel UH74200 Black+Decker AirSwivel BDASV102 Bissell PowerGlide Lift-Off Pet 2043 Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 1650 Dirt Devil Power Max Rewind Pet UD70187 Dirt Devil Endura Max XL UD70182 Dirt Devil Endura Max UD70174
53
$270
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 40 3
52
$200
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 50 3
52
$450
4 0 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 4 0 50 4
52
$190
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 40 3
51
$140
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
51
$230
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 50 3
50
$170
2 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 50 3
47
$80
1 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 5 0 50 3
42
$170
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 50 2
42
$250
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 50 3
37
$85
1 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 50 3
34
$95
1 0 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 50 3
33
$65
1 0 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 4 0 50 3
77
$350
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 3
76
$550
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
BAGGED UPRIGHT VACUUMS
$ 0
1
! 0
2
1
2
POOR
Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly 31150 Miele Dynamic U1 Cat & Dog
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
65
Noise
Pet hair
Handling
Hose suction Clean emissions
Test Results Bare floors
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results
Carpet
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BAGGED UPRIGHT VACUUMS Continued
$ 0 ! 0
3
Kenmore Pet Friendly 31140
74
$200
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
4
Kirby Avalir 2
71
$1,600
3 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 50 2
5
Oreck Elevate Command
60
$450
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 50 3
6
Oreck Elevate Conquer
60
$600
7
Oreck Magnesium
59
$500
0 3 2 0 0 4 5 0 0 2 5 0 0 5 5 00 3 2 0 0 3 4 0 0 5 2 0 0 5 5 0 0 43 0
Hoover WindTunnel Max UH30600 Hoover WindTunnel T-Series UH30300
57
$180
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 50 3
55
$140
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 50 3
53
$300
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 50 2
8 9
10 Oreck Elevate Control
BAGLESS CANISTER VACUUMS
! 0 $ 0
Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog
77
$900
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
2
Kenmore 22614
71
$350
3
Dyson Ball Multi Floor
60
$300
0 3 3 0 0 4 5 0 0 4 4 0 0 2 5 00 3 3 0 0 3 2 0 0 5 4 0 0 5 3 0 0 34 0
Dyson Big Ball Multi Floor Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Animal Canister
56
$400
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
54
$600
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 40 4
1
4 5
BAGGED CANISTER VACUUMS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
$ 0
6
$ 0
7
$ 0
8
66
Miele Complete C3 Marin Miele Compact C2 Electro+ Miele Complete C3 Alize Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly UltraPlush 81714 Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly CrossOver 21814
84
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
78
$700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 50 4
77
$650
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 40 5
76
$400
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
75
$500
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 40 3
Kenmore 81614
74
$300
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 50 3
Kenmore 400 Series 81414 Kenmore 200 Series 81214
72
$200
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 50 3
72
$200
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 50 3
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Noise
Pet hair
Edges
Clean emissions
Bare floors
Test Results
Carpet
Rank
Rec.
Survey Results Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Price
VA CUUMS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
STICK VACUUMS (6 LBS. OR LESS) 1
LG CordZero A9 A906SM
86
$750
! 0
2
Kenmore Elite Complete 10441
77
$350
! 0
3
Kenmore Elite 10440
77
$300
− − 0 5 0 5 5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 − − 4 0 0 5 0 4 5 0 0 5 0 4 − − 0 3 5 0 0 4 0 5 5 0 0 4
4
Dyson V8 Absolute
75
$450
1 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
5
Kenmore 10341
71
$150
− − 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
71
$700
1 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
71
$500
1 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
70
$300
1 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
67
$70
4 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 5
65
$70
4 0 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 5 0 5
60
$150
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
56
$70
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
53
$100
3 0 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
53
$100
3 0 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
15 Hoover Impulse BH53020
52
$180
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4
16 Hoover Cruise BH52210
51
$180
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 5 0 4
Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik 17 SD20000RED
41
$30
4 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 4
18 Bissell Multi Reach 2151
38
$250
3 0 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
! 0
6 7 8
Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute Dyson Cyclone V10 Motorhead Dyson V7 Motorhead
Dirt Devil Accucharge 9 BD20035RED Dirt Devil Power 10 Swerve BD22050 11 Bissell Bolt 1954 Bissell Lift Off Floors 12 & More Pet 53Y8 Bissell PowerLifter Ion 13 Pet 2482 Bissell Adapt Ion Pet 14 2286A
STICK VACUUMS (GREATER THAN 6 LBS.)
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
1
2
POOR
Shark APEX DuoClean Corded ZS362 Shark SharkFlex DuoClean Ultra-Light Corded HV391
93
$250
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
92
$300
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
Tineco Pure One S12
88
$600
− − 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
Bissell Air Ram 1984
87
$200
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
67
jxs
Survey Results
Noise
Pet hair
Edges
Clean emissions
Bare floors
Test Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Price
Carpet
Overall Score
Brand & Model
STICK VACUUMS (GREATER THAN 6 LBS.) Continued 5
Dirt Devil Power Stick SD12530
85
$100
4 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 5
6
Shark ION F80 CordFree MultiFLEX IF281
85
$450
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
7
Shark IONRocket UltraLight Cordless IR101
84
$280
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 5
8
Shark Rocket DeluxePro TruePet HV322
83
$230
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
! 0
9
Shark ION X40 CordFree Ultra-Light IR141
81
$300
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
Shark Rocket Zero-M 10 Ultra-Light ZS352
81
$220
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
! 0
11 Shark Rocket HV302
78
$180
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
$ 0
Dirt Devil Reach Max 12 Plus BD22510PC
78
$130
4 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 2 0 5 0 4
Hoover React Whole 13 Home Advantage BH53210
76
$250
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
Shark Navigator 14 Freestyle SV1106
76
$100
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
Black+Decker Smartech 15 HSVJ520JMBF27
75
$200
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5
16 Dyson V11 Torque Drive
75
$700
1 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
Test Results
Carpet
Rank
Rec
Price
Features Remote control Clearance (in.) Run time (min.)
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Noise
! 0
Navigation
! 0
Ease of use
! 0
Bare floors
$ 0
ROBOTIC VACUUMS
! 0
1
Samsung POWERbot R7065 VR2AM7065WS/AA
0 ! $ 0
2
LG Hom-Bot CR5765GD
89
3
Eufy 30C
89
68
90
$600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
0
4.0 86
$1,000
0 5 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 5 4 0 0 5 5 0 0 5 5 0
0
3.5 72
0
2.9 58
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
$300
Remote control Clearance (in.) Run time (min.)
Features
Noise
Navigation
Ease of use
Bare floors
Test Results
Carpet
Rank
Rec
Price
ROBOTIC VACUUMS Continued 4
Eufy 11S
88
$220
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
! 0
5
iRobot Roomba e5
87
$450
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
6
Samsung POWERbot R7040
87
$450
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
7
iRobot Roomba 890
86
$500
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
8
Samsung POWERbot R7070
84
$700
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
$ 0
! 0
0
2.9 60 3.6 56
0
4.0 49 3.5 60
0
4.0 54
$ 0
9
iRobot Roomba 690
84
$375
5 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
3.5 72
! 0
10 iRobot Roomba 960
84
$700
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
3.8 33
! 0
Shark Ion Robot 11 Vacuum Cleaning System S87 RV851WV
83
$500
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
3.5 50
! 0
12 iRobot Roomba i7+
81
$950
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
3.6 25
$ 0
13 Shark Ion 720
81
$350
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
$ 0
iRobot Roomba 618 14 (Walmart) Shark Ion 750 15 Connected
81
$270
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
3.5 60
80
$350
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
3.6 61
16 iRobot Roomba 980
79
$900
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 4
4.0 19
Neato Botvac D6 17 Connected Neato Botvac D7 18 Connected
77
$700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
4.0 14
76
$800
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4
4.0 17
HOW WE TEST: In our cleaning tests, we lift embedded talc and sand from medium-pile carpet and suck up sand from bare floors. We use fine wood flour to see whether tools and attachments can maintain airflow and also to gauge emissions—how much dust the vacuum spews back into the air. Noise is based on measurements in decibels. Handling reflects how easy it
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
is to push, pull, and carry the vacuum. Pet Hair reflects how well the vacuum picks up pet hair from medium-pile carpet. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0
3.6 61
problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the vacuum they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
69
VA CUUMS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Wall Ovens Flexibility is one of the main attractions of wall ovens. If you’re renovating, you can install one anywhere (in an island base or into a cabinet), in a separate location from a standalone cooktop, and at any height. What to Look For Controls that are easy to reach and read. A score of Very Good or Excellent for baking and oven capacity, because these tests get at the function of this appliance. Five or more oven rack positions for more flexibility in arranging racks and bakeware. A covered heating element beneath the floor of the oven, which makes spill
BUYING ADVICE
cleanup easier and faster. Menu databases and other high-tech features may add convenience, but also can add considerably to the cost.
Measure your cutout space, then check the manual of the wall oven you’re considering for its cutout dimensions.
What You’ll Pay Electric wall ovens start around $1,300 and can cost upwards of $3,000. (Separate cooktops start around $1,000.) Capable ranges can cost far less.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/ovens.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Results
Features
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
30
0
! 0
2
Cafe CT9070SHSS
89
$3,600
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
30
0
! 0
3
KitchenAid KOSE500ESS
83
$2,300
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
30
0
$ 0
4
Maytag MEW9530FZ
82
$1,300
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
30
0
Self-cleaning
$1,640
Oven capacity
90
Broiling
LG LWS3063
Baking
1
Rank
! 0
Recommended
Convection mode
Test Results
Width (in.)
Predicted reliability
Price
Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
SINGLE ELEC TRIC WALL OVENS
70
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Features
− − 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
30
0
6
Jenn-Air JJW3430DS
77
$3,700
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
30
0
7
Kenmore 49513
77
$1,350
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
30
0
Whirlpool WOS51EC0AS Whirlpool WOS72EC0HS Electrolux EW30EW55PS Bosch 800 Series HBL8451UC KitchenAid KOSE900HSS Electrolux EI30EW38TS
77
$900
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
30
76
$1,600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3
30
0
74
$2,100
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
30
0
73
$2,160
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
30
0
73
$2,970
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2
30
0
72
$1,900
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
30
0
14 Kenmore Elite 48363
70
$2,550
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
30
0
15 Bosch HBLP451RUC
69
$3,100
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
30
0
16 Bosch HBL5351UC
63
$1,620
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
30
17 Thermador ME301JS
63
$2,700
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
30
0
18 Viking VESO5302SS
62
$4,300
1 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
30
0
59
$1,900
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 4
30
0
58
$2,600
− − 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
30
0
55
$5,250
1 0 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 4
NA
30
0
22 Amana AWO6313SFS
53
$990
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4
30
GE Profile Twin-Flex 23 PT9200SLSS Frigidaire 24 FFEW3026TD
50
$2,700
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 4
30
49
$950
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
30
25 Viking RVSOE330SS
44
$3,210
1 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2
30
Self-cleaning
$2,600
Oven capacity
81
Broiling
5
Baking
Convection mode
Test Results
Width (in.)
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Survey Results
Samsung NV51K7770SG/AA
Rank
Recommended
Price
SINGLE ELECTRIC WALL OVENS Continued
! 0
8 9 10 11 12 13
Frigidaire 19 Professional FPEW3077RF Miele PureLine H 20 6281 BP Viking Professional 21 VSOF730SS
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0
0
71
WA L L O V ENS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Survey Results
Features
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
30
0
! 0
2
Cafe CT9570SLSS
89
$5,530
5 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
30
0
83
$3,500
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
30
0
81
$3,600
− − 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4
30
0
Self-cleaning
$2,000
Oven capacity
90
Broiling
LG LWD3063ST
Baking
1
Rank
! 0
Recommended
Convection mode
Test Results
Width (in.)
Predicted reliability
Price
Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
DOUBLE ELEC TRIC WALL OVENS
! 0
3
! 0
4
KitchenAid KODE500ESS Samsung NV51K7770DG/AA
5
Jenn-Air JJW3830DS
77
$5,200
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3
30
0
6
Thermador ME302JS
63
$4,200
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
30
0
7
GE JT3500SFSS
52
$2,200
5 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4
30
HOW WE TEST: Baking reflects whether cakes and cookies baked on two racks were evenly browned. Broiling is based on even browning of a pan of burgers, and high-heat searing ability. Oven Capacity measures usable space. Self-Cleaning gauges the self-cleaning cycle’s effectiveness. Price is approximate retail. The
72
performance of double walloven models is based on the tested oven in the single electric wall oven category. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the wall ovens they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
WA SHING M A CHINE S
QUI CK GUIDE
Washing Machines Today’s washers tend to boast larger capacities, so you can do more laundry at once. You’ll also find specialty cycles and WiFi-enabled models that provide added perks, like notifications when a load is finished. What to Look For Capacity
that matches your needs. Our tests found that washers with a claimed capacity over 4.5 cubic feet readily fit a king-sized comforter. Front-loaders spin at higher speeds, extracting more water and cutting drying time. Automatic dispensers dispense detergent, bleach, and fabric softener at just the right time. An extra rinse cycle if you or others in your household
are sensitive to detergent residue. The cycle also helps get rid of pet hair.
What You’ll Pay Capable washing machines that combine performance and value start around $600 or so. If space is tight, a 24-inch-wide compact washer might appeal, but the price may not be right. You’ll spend $800 to $2,300 on a compact washer, and roughly the same on a compact dryer.
BUYING ADVICE If your laundry room is near any bedrooms or the family room, narrow your search to washing machines that score Very Good or Excellent in our noise and vibration tests. For more buying advice, go to CR.org/washers.
Tested products in performance order.
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Test Results Water efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
Energy efficiency
Overall Score
Brand & Model
FRONT-LOAD WASHERS
! 0
1
LG WM3900HWA
87
$900
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 4
$ 0
2
LG WM3500CW
86
$700
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
! 0
3
LG WM9000HVA
86
$1,620
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
! RECOMMENDED
73
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Test Results Water efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
Energy efficiency
Overall Score
Brand & Model
FRONT-LOAD WASHERS Continued
! 0
4
LG Signature WM9500HKA
! 0
5
LG WM3700HWA
85
$900
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
! 0
6
LG WM3997HWA
84
$1,820
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
! 0
7
Maytag MHW8200FW
83
$1,245
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
8
Kenmore Elite 41982
83
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
82
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
Electrolux 9 EFLS627UTT Maytag 10 MHW8630HC
82
$1,210
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
! 0
11 LG WM8100HVA
82
$1,350
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
$ 0
82
$810
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
$ 0
Maytag 12 MHW5630HW Maytag 13 MHW3505FW
82
$810
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
14 Kenmore Elite 41072
82
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
Samsung WF45R6300AW Electrolux EFLS527UIW Samsung WF50K7500AW Samsung FlexWash WV60M9900AV Samsung WF45K6500AW
82
$900
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
81
$900
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
81
$1,170
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
81
$1,500
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
81
$800
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
20 Kenmore Elite 41002
81
$1,425
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
21 Kenmore Elite 41682
81
$850
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
22 Kenmore Elite 41782
81
$1,050
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
23 Kenmore 41262
81
$600
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4
Speed Queen 24 FF7005WN
80
$1,900
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
15 16 17 18 19
74
85
$1,800
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Water efficiency
Test Results Energy efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
FRONT-LOAD WASHERS Continued 79
$680
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
79
$810
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
79
$720
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3
77
$1,250
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
77
$900
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
76
$1,350
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
76
$1,350
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3
76
$900
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4
76
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
75
$805
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
74
$900
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
36 GE GFW450SSMWW
68
$900
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3
37 GE GFW480SSKWW
67
$1,110
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
38 Electrolux EFLW317TIW 53
$700
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 2 0 3
25 Kenmore 41392 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35
Samsung WF42H5600AW (Lowe’s) Samsung WF42H5000AW Samsung FlexWash WV55M9600AW Samsung WF45M5500AW Whirlpool WFW9620HC Whirlpool WFW862CHC Whirlpool WFW6620HW Electrolux EFLW427UIW Whirlpool WFW7590FW Samsung WF45N5300AV
TOP-LOAD HIGH EFFICIENCY WASHERS
! 0
1
LG WT7900HBA
83
$950
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
$ 0
2
LG WT7100CW
81
$720
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
3
LG WT7600HWA
79
$1,035
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
! 0
4
LG WT7500CW
78
$945
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
! 0
5
LG WT7700HVA
76
$1,440
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
75
WA SHING M A CHINE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Test Results Water efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
Energy efficiency
Overall Score
Brand & Model
TOP-LOAD HIGH EFFICIENCY WASHERS Continued
! 0
6
Kenmore Elite 31552
75
$850
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
7
LG WT7300CW
72
$840
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 5
8
Kenmore Elite 31433
71
$900
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
Whirlpool 9 WTW8700EC Maytag 10 MVWB835DW
70
$1,260
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
70
$900
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
11 Kenmore 28132
70
$850
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
12 Kenmore 26132
70
$630
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
13 Kenmore 27132
70
$730
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
14 Kenmore 29132
70
$900
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
Whirlpool 15 WTW8500DW Samsung 16 WA50R5400AW
70
$1,040
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
69
$750
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
17 GE GTW860SSJWS
69
$1,035
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
69
$1,170
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
68
$600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
68
$1,170
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 5
68
$800
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
68
$700
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 2 0 5
23 Kenmore Elite 31632
67
$1,150
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
Whirlpool 24 WTW7500GW Samsung ActiveWash 25 WA52M8650AW Whirlpool 26 WTW7300DW
67
$810
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
67
$900
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
65
$720
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
18 19 20 21 22
76
Samsung ActiveWash WA54M8750AV Samsung WA50M7450AW Maytag MVWB955FW Whirlpool WTW8000DW Samsung ActiveWash WA52M7750AW
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Water efficiency
Test Results Energy efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
TOP-LOAD HIGH EFFICIENCY WASHERS Continued Samsung 27 WA45M7050AW Maytag 28 MVWX655DW
65
$800
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5
64
$570
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 5
29 GE GTW500ASNWS
63
$700
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
Fisher & Paykel Aqua 30 Smart WL4027P1
63
$1,000
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
31 GE GTW680BSJWS
62
$580
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
32 GE GTW750CSLWS
60
$855
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
Whirlpool 33 WTW5000DW
60
$530
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5
34 Kenmore 25132
60
$600
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5
Samsung 35 WA45N3050AW Whirlpool 36 WTW4950HW
58
$630
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
56
$650
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
TOP-LOAD AGITATOR WASHERS Maytag MVWB965HC Maytag MVWB865GW
70
$1,280
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 5
64
$900
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
GE GTW465ASNWW
64
$655
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
4
GE GTW685BSLWS
62
$580
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 2 0 5
! 0
5
Maytag MVWB765FW
62
$680
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5
! 0
6
Kenmore 22352
61
$580
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
7
Kenmore 20372
60
$730
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 5
8
GE GTW335ASNWW
60
$560
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
59
$550
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
59
$550
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5
Maytag 9 MVWC565FW Frigidaire 10 FFTW4120SW
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
77
WA SHING M A CHINE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Test Results Water efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
Energy efficiency
Overall Score
Brand & Model
TOP-LOAD AGITATOR WASHERS Continued Insignia 11 NS-TWM41WH8A Whirlpool 12 WTW4955HW
58
$450
− − 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5
58
$480
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
13 Maytag MVWC465HW
57
$490
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
14 GE GTW460ASJWW
55
$730
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
15 Kenmore 20362
55
$520
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5
16 GE GTW755CSMWS
54
$675
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 5
Hotpoint 17 HTW240ASKWS
50
$390
4 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 5
18 GE GTW330ASKWW
47
$565
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5
Fisher & Paykel 19 WA3927G1
45
$800
1 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5
20 Kenmore 20232
41
$400
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 5
21 Roper RTW4516FW
39
$400
4 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 5
22 Amana NTW4516FW
38
$400
4 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 5
Whirlpool 23 WTW4816FW Speed Queen 24 AWNE9RSN115TW01
38
$450
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 5
31
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 5
Miele WWH860WCS
83
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3
Samsung WW22N6850QX Samsung WW22K6800AW Bosch 800 Series WAT28402UC Electrolux EFLS210TIW
83
$1,170
78
$900
− − 4 0 5 0 0 5 4 0 0 4 0 3 − − 0 4 0 5 5 0 0 4 4 0 0 2
77
$1,310
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
76
$900
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
COMPACT WASHERS
! 0
1
! 0
2
$ 0
3
! 0
4
$ 0
5
78
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Vibration
Noise
Gentleness
Water efficiency
Test Results Energy efficiency
Survey Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction Washing performance
Rank
Recommended
Price
COMPACT WASHERS Continued
! 0
6
Kenmore 41942
73
$975
7
Fisher & Paykel WH2424P1
68
$950
− − 5 0 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 3 − − 0 4 0 4 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 2
8
LG WM1388HW
64
$905
5 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2
9
GE WCVH4800KWW
61
$930
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
10 Asko W6424W
44
$1,450
1 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2
Whirlpool 11 WFW5090GW
39
$1,150
1 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1
HOW WE TEST: Washing Performance reflects the degree of stain removal from fabric using the most aggressive normal cycle. Energy Efficiency is based on the energy needed to heat the water using a warm wash and cold rinse, to run the washer, and to dry the remaining moisture left at the end of a cycle. Water Efficiency is based on total water used when washing our 8-pound load. Models that earn lower scores for Gentleness are
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
more likely to treat your clothes roughly, causing wear and tear. Noise reflects panelists’ judgments during the fill, agitate, drain, and spin cycles. Vibration reflects usage on a suspended wooden floor. Cycle Time (min.) is rounded to the nearest 5 minutes. Claimed Capacity is based on claimed tub volume. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the washing machine they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
79
WA SHING M A CHINE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Washer-Dryer Pairs Here are our picks for six top-performing matching washer-dryer pairs across all the categories we test. See our Ratings for more.
FRONT-LOADERS
! 0 LG
! 0 Maytag
LG WM3700HWA washer LG DLEX3700W electric dryer Pair price: $1,700
MHW8630HC washer MED8630HC electric dryer Pair price: $2,420
86
79
HIGH-EFFICIENCY TOP LOADERS
! 0 LG
! 0 Kenmore Elite
WT7100CW washer DLE7100W electric dryer Pair price: $1,440
31552 washer 61552 electric dryer Pair price: $1,700
83
78
AGITATOR
COMPACT
! 0 Maytag
Miele
MVWB965HC washer MEDB955FC electric dryer Pair price: $2,460
WWH860WCS washer TWI180WP electric dryer Pair price: $3,900
75
80
83
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
85 Computers, Laptop 93 Digital Cameras 100 Fitness Trackers
102 Headphones 109 Printers, All-in-One 113 Printers, Regular 117 Smartphones 120 Smart Speakers
122 Smartwatches 124 Streaming Media 126 Tablets 129 TVs 141 Wireless Speakers
Electronics
82 Computers, Desktop
81
QUI CK GUIDE
Computers, Desktop Desktops typically offer more performance for the money than laptop. They can also be upgraded more easily than laptops, letting you increase power or add more features down the line. What to Look For
What to Skip
For less clutter and sleeker design, all-in-one desktops hide the computer hardware in a smaller package. A solid-state drive (which is faster than a traditional hard disk drive) will give you shorter load times and quick access to applications and other data. Some desktops include an additional hard disk drive of 1TB or more for extra storage space.
Upgrading beyond 16GB of memory, unless you’re a big multitasker or video editor.
BUYING ADVICE
Save money on your purchase by using coupon and forum sites such as Ebates. com, FatWallet. com, and Tech bargains.com.
What You’ll Pay You can get a very good all-in-one for $500 to $900, but many fullerfeatured models cost more than $1,000.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/computers.
Tested products in performance order.
Storage (GB)
Memory (GB)
Features Display size ( in.)
Display
Ergonomics
Versatility
Performance
Survey Test Results Price Results
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Rank
Recommended
Brand & Model
ALL-IN-ONE DESKTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
82
Apple 27-inch iMac 88 5K Display (2019, MRQY2LL/A) Apple 21.5-inch iMac 86 with 4K Display MNDY2LL/A Apple 21.5-inch iMac 83 MMQA2LL/A
$1,800
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
27 8 1000
$1,500
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5
21.5 8 1000
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 5 0 21.5
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
8 1000
Storage (GB)
Memory (GB)
Features Display size ( in.)
Display
Ergonomics
Versatility
Performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Test Results Price Results
COMP U T ERS , DE SK T OP
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ALL-IN-ONE DESKTOPS Continued HP 34B010
82
$2,060
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5
Asus Zen AiO ZN242GDT-08 Lenovo ideacentre 520-24ARR Lenovo IdeaCentre A340-24ICB HP Pavilion 27-a0013w Asus Vivo AiO V272UA-DS501T
80
$1,100
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 5 0 23.8 12
75
$550
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 23.8
8 1000
72
$865
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 23.8
8 1000
72
$720
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
27 8 1000
69
$700
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
27 8 1000
10 HP Pavilion 24-xa1014 68
$700
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 23.8
8
8 1000
! 0
4
! 0
5
$ 0
6 7 8 9
34 16 1256 1128
256
Acer Aspire 11 Z24-880-UR13 Dell Inspiron 12 5475-A957WHT HP Pavilion 13 24-xa0024
68
$600
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 23.8
67
$550
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4
67
$950
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 23.8 12
14 HP 24-f0047c
61
$460
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 23.8
8 1000
Acer Aspire 15 C24-860-UR11 Lenovo ideacentre 16 A340-22IGM MSI Pro 20EX 17 8GL-004US
60
$650
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5 23.8
8 1000
59
$400
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 21.5
4 1000
51
$500
− − 0 2 0 3 0 4 4 0 19.5
4
18 HP 20-c424
40
$380
3 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 4 3 0 19.5
4 1000
Dell Inspiron 19 3275-A821BLK
40
$425
3 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 5 4 0 21.5
4 1000
24 8 1000 256
532
FULL-SIZE DESKTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
1
2
POOR
HP ENVY 795-0050
89
$1,340
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA NA 16 2256
HP Pavilion 595-p0084 Lenovo ideacentre 720-18ICB
84
$780
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA NA 16 1128
82
$1,300
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
NA NA 16 2000
HP Omen 880-157c
82
$1,060
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
NA NA 16 1256
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
83
Storage (GB)
Memory (GB)
Features Display size ( in.)
Display
Ergonomics
Versatility
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Test Results Price Results
Performance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
FULL-SIZE DESKTOPS Continued Dell XPS 8930-7033BLK Dell Inspiron 5676-A719BLU Dell Inspiron 3670-5575BLK HP Pavilion 590-p0047c Dell Inspiron 3670-5656BLK
74
$900
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
NA NA 8 1000
73
$880
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA NA 8 1000
73
$700
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
NA NA 12 1128
73
$690
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4
NA NA 16 2000
71
$600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
NA NA 8 1256
10 HP 460-p274
68
$800
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA NA 8 1000
Acer Aspire 11 TC-885-UR18
65
$430
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA NA 8
5 6 7 8 9
256
COMPACT DESKTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2 3 4
Intel NUC 8 Enthusiast Apple Mac Mini Core i5 Apple Mac Mini Core i3 Dell Inspiron 3472-PBLK
HOW WE TEST: Performance reflects speed while running productivity applications, multimedia applications, and 3D games. Versatility includes hardware, such as memory-card slots and A/V connections; software, such as security programs; and tech support and warranty provisions. Ergonomics represents the quality of the keyboard and
84
80
$1,080
− − 0 5 4 0 NA NA
75
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3
NA NA NA 8
256
69
$800
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3
NA NA NA 8
128
57
$280
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 4
pointing device, and accessibility of features. For all-in-ones, Display is our judgment of clarity, color, brightness, and viewing angle. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA 16 512
NA NA 4 1000
or break within the first three years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the computer they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
COMP U T ERS , L A P T OP
QUI CK GUIDE
Computers, Laptop Some laptops offer features and capabilities that rival those of traditional desktops. You’ll find more thinand-light laptops than ever, and touch screens and solid-state drives are becoming more common. What to Look For
What to Skip
A convertible or detachable if you want a laptop/ tablet combo. A 10- to 13-inch model if you plan to carry the laptop around with you frequently. A 14- to 16-inch screen for a larger area to view photos or videos and a more comfortable keyboard fit. A 17- to 18-inch model for an entertainment-oriented desktop replacement.
A 4K display, unless you regularly edit hi-res photos or videos. These displays pack four times as many pixels as a 1080p display but typically at the cost of battery life.
BUYING ADVICE
If you want to customize a model, order à la carte from the manufacturer’s website.
What You’ll Pay A well-equipped 15-inch laptop in the middle price range should cost you $600 to $1,000.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/computers.
Tested products in performance order.
Battery life - web (hr.)
Battery life - video (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
Display
Versatility
Performance
Portability
Test Results
Ergonomics
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
11
6
1.7
10- TO 11-INCH LAPTOPS 1 2
1
2
POOR
Microsoft Surface Go (64GB) Microsoft Surface Go (128GB)
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
54
$400
3 0 0 4 0 30 40 20 30 4
53
$550
3 0 0 4 0 30 40 20 30 5
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
10.25 5.75 1.7
85
Weight (lb.)
Battery life - video (hr.)
Battery life - web (hr.)
Display
Versatility
Performance
Portability
Test Results
Ergonomics
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
10- TO 11-INCH LAPTOPS Continued 3 4
Acer Spin 1 SP111-33-P1XD Asus VivoBook E203MATBCL432B
50
$330
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 20 40 2
50
$130
3 0 0 3 0 30 40 10 30 3
12
80
$2,000
5 0 0 5 0 40 40 50 40 5
16 7.25 3
79
$1,120
4 0 0 3 0 40 50 30 40 5
16.25 11 2.1
73
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 40 40 30 30 5
11.5 7.5 2.7
72
$1,250
5 0 0 5 0 40 40 30 30 5
10 7.25 2.7
71
$880
3 0 0 3 0 40 50 40 40 4
14.75 9.25 2.7
70
$1,335
3 0 0 4 0 50 40 40 45 0 11.25 7.75
2.4
69
$1,645
3 0 0 4 0 50 40 30 40 5
12.5
2.8
69
$950
4 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 50 4
8.5 7.25 2.8
68
$1,600
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 40 5 11.25
68
$1,250
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 30 40 5
68
$900
3 0 0 4 0 50 40 30 40 4 10.75
68
$800
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 30 40 5 13.75 7.75
67
$750
3 0 0 4 0 50 40 30 30 4
11.5 7.25 2.7 7.5 2.2
12- TO 13-INCH LAPTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
! 0
10
! 0
11
! 0
12
! 0
13
86
Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with Touch Bar (2019, Core i5) LG Gram 13 8th Gen Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (2019, MVFH2LL/A) Apple MacBook Air 13-inch HP Spectre 13-AE011DX Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Core i7) Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 (Core i7) Samsung Notebook 9 Pro (2019) Dell XPS 13 (XPS93807066SLV) HP Spectre Folio Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Core i5) Asus ZenBook UX331UA-AS51 Microsoft Surface Laptop (Core i7)
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
8
7
2.7
18.5 10.25 3.2 7.5 2.4 2.7
12.5 7.5 2.8
Weight (lb.)
Battery life - video (hr.)
Battery life - web (hr.)
Display
Versatility
Performance
Portability
Test Results
Ergonomics
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
12- TO 13-INCH LAPTOPS Continued Microsoft Surface Book 2 Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 (Core i5) Lenovo ThinkPad L380 Yoga Samsung Notebook 7 Spin
67
$1,180
3 0 0 4 0 50 40 30 40 5
16 10.25 3.4
65
$1,305
3 0 0 4 0 40 40 30 30 5
12.75 8.25 2.8
64
$900
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 50 4
10.75 7.75 3.3
63
$720
4 0 0 3 0 50 30 30 40 4
HP Pavilion 18 13-AN0030WM
58
$500
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 30 30 2
HP Pavilion 13 19 AN0010NR
57
$530
3 0 0 3 0 30 30 30 40 4
Dell Inspiron 20 i7370-5725SLV HP Envy 21 13M-AG0002DX x360 Samsung 22 Notebook Flash
57
$850
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 40 40 4
8.75 4.75 3
55
$760
3 0 0 3 0 50 20 30 40 4
6.75 3.75 2.9
52
$400
4 0 0 3 0 40 30 10 30 4
9.25 7.25 3
Dell Inspiron 23 I7375
48
$580
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 30 40 3
7
Lenovo Yoga 24 C630
48
$800
3 0 0 3 0 50 50 10 40 4
14 14.25 2.6
25 HP Envy X2
38
$730
3 0 0 3 0 50 50 10 45 0 16.25 15.75 2.7
Asus NovaGo 26 TP370QL-6G128G 37
$630
3 0 0 3 0 50 50 10 40 4 15.75
Hyundai 27 Thinnote 13
37
$210
− − 0 40 20 20 20 4
3.25 2.5 2.8
RCA Cambio 28 W122SC24T2
32
$230
− − 0 40 20 10 30 4
3.5
! 0
14
! 0
15
16 17
9.5
6
3.2
10.25 6.5 2.8 9
5.5 2.8
4
3.5
11.5 3.1
2.5 2.9
14-INCH LAPTOPS
! 0
1
LG Gram 14 8th gen
77
$1,200
4 0 0 3 0 40 50 30 50 4 15.25 11.25 2.2
! 0
2
Asus ZenBook S UX392FN-XS71
70
$1,380
3 0 0 3 0 30 50 40 40 5
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
14 8.75 2.6
87
COMP U T ERS , L A P T OP
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Weight (lb.)
Battery life - video (hr.)
Battery life - web (hr.)
Display
Versatility
Performance
Portability
Test Results
Ergonomics
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
14-INCH LAPTOPS Continued 70
$1,200
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 40 5
68
$1,100
− − 0 40 40 40 40 4 14.75
67
$945
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 40 5
67
$840
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 30 40 4
11
7
3.3
Lenovo Flex 6-14IKB
65
$900
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 30 40 4
12
7
3.4
8
Acer Spin 3 SP314-51-59NM
62
$750
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 40 3
11.5 7.25 3.6
9
Dell Inspiron i5482-7120SLV
61
$1,020
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 40 50 3
7.75 5.75 3.8
Asus 10 VivoBook Flip TP410UA-DS52T
61
$700
3 0 0 3 0 50 20 30 40 4
7
Acer Swift 3 11 SF314-52-517Z
59
$640
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 40 40 3
8.5
5
3.6
Asus VivoBook 12 X420UA-CBI5A
58
$400
3 0 0 3 0 30 40 40 30 3
10
7
3
Asus VivoBook 13 Flip TP401CADHM4T
57
$500
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 20 40 3
Acer Swift 1 14 SF114-32-P2PK
55
$380
3 0 0 3 0 40 50 20 30 4 13.75 10.75 2.9
HP 15 14-CF0006DX
53
$320
3 0 0 3 0 30 40 20 40 2
12
8
3.1
16 Avita Clarus
53
$660
− − 0 40 20 30 30 4
5
4
3.4
Asus 17 X441BA-CBA6A
37
$165
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 10 30 2
6
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
88
MSI Prestige PS42 Modern-074 Huawei MateBook D Volta-W50D Acer Swift 5 SF514-52TP52LH Asus ZenBook Flip UX461UA-DS51T
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
8.75 6.75 2.8 9.5 3.4
9.25 5.25 2.1
4.75 3.5
9.25 6.75 3.2
3.75 3.7
Weight (lb.)
81
$1,770
4 0 0 3 0 50 50 50 50 4
11.25 7.75 3.4
80
$1,600
3 0 0 3 0 50 50 50 50 5
16.5 8.5 4.6
LG Gram 15
76
$1,530
4 0 0 3 0 40 50 30 50 4
13.5 11 2.5
5
MSI GS65 Stealth-006
74
$2,000
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 50 50 5
7.5
! 0
6
Dell XPS 15 8th gen
73
$1,600
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 50 40 5
9.25 5.25 4.4
! 0
7
Asus Q526FA-BI7T10
72
$900
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 54 0 10.75
$ 0
8
Lenovo Flex 15
72
$750
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 40 4 12.25 8.25
4.7
! 0
9
Lenovo Yoga 730-13IKB
70
$745
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 40 4
9.75
4.2
! 0
Dell Inspiron 10 i7586-7205BLK HP Envy 11 15M-DR0011DX x360
69
$1,330
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 40 50 4
8.25 5.5 4.5
69
$850
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 40 4
11 7.25 4.2
! 0
12 Razer Blade 15
68
$2,200
− − 0 30 30 50 40 5
7
! 0
Acer Predator 13 Helios 300 HP Pavilion 14 Gaming 15-CX0058WM HP Envy 15 15M-DS0011DX x360
68
$1,000
3 0 0 3 0 50 20 50 50 4
6.75 3.25 5.7
68
$830
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 40 50 4
8.25 4.5 5.2
67
$780
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 40 4
10 6.25 4.4
16 Dell G5 15
67
$1,110
3 0 0 3 0 30 30 50 50 4
9
Display
4
Versatility
7
Performance
15.5
Portability
5 0 0 5 0 40 50 50 30 5
Ergonomics
$2,400
Rank
82
Recommended
Battery life - video (hr.)
Test Results
Battery life - web (hr.)
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Survey Price Results
15- TO 16-INCH LAPTOPS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
! 0
! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
2
POOR
Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch with Touch Bar (2019, Core i7) Samsung Notebook 9 Pen (2019) HP Spectre 15-DF0023DX x360
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
6
4.4
7.5 4.3
7
5.75 4.5
5.5 6.2
89
COMP U T ERS , L A P T OP
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Battery life - video (hr.)
18 Dell G3 15
65
$850
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 50 50 4
8
4.75 5.3
19 Alienware 15 R4
64
$1,000
3 0 0 4 0 40 20 50 50 4
7
3.75 7.8
Acer Aspire 5 20 A515-52-53QM
64
$700
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 50 3
9.5
7.25 3.7
21 Dell G7 15
64
$1,080
3 0 0 3 0 30 30 50 40 4
7.25
5
5.9
22 HP 15-DA1005DX 63
$710
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 40 2
8
7
4.2
Weight (lb.)
! 0
Display
3 0 0 3 0 50 40 40 50 2
Versatility
$500
Performance
65
Portability
! 0
HP Pavilion 17 15-CS1063CL
Ergonomics
Rank
Battery life - web (hr.)
Test Results
Recommended
Predicted reliability
Survey Price Results Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
15- TO 16-INCH LAPTOPS Continued 4
Lenovo IdeaPad 23 S145-15IWL Hyundai 24 Kanabo HG156616E Lenovo IdeaPad 25 S340-15 Samsung 26 Notebook 5 (2018) Asus VivoBook 27 K570ZD-ES51
63
$730
3 0 0 3 0 40 40 40 40 3
62
$1,290
− − 0 40 20 50 50 4
62
$400
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 30 40 4
6.5 4.25 3.8
61
$590
4 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 40 4
6.25 3.5 4.3
61
$635
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 40 4
6.75 4.25 4.2
Acer Aspire 3 28 A315-41-R5TS
57
$760
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 30 50 3
8.25 6.25 3.7 5
6
3.5 6.8
3.75 4.5
Dell Inspiron 57 29 i5570-3064BLU Samsung Odyssey Z 57 30 NP850XACX01US Lenovo IdeaPad 55 31 330S-15IKB
$470
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 30 50 3
6.25 4.5 4.9
$1,260
4 0 0 3 0 30 20 50 40 4
4.25 2.75 5.2
$580
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 30 2
5.75
Lenovo IdeaPad 55 32 330S-15ARR
$410
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 30 4
4.75 2.75 3.8
55
$580
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 50 2
5.25
33 HP 15-BS115DX
90
9.75 6.5
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
4
4
3.9
4.4
Battery life - video (hr.)
Weight (lb.)
4.6
Asus 35 X555QA-CBA12A 49
$400
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 20 40 3
5.75 3.25 4.1
36 HP 15-DB0011DX 47
$230
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 10 40 2
8.25 4.5 4.4
Lenovo IdeaPad 44 37 130-15AST
$300
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 10 40 3
Display
4
Versatility
6.25
Performance
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 50 3
Portability
$400
Ergonomics
Battery life - web (hr.)
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Test Results
Lenovo IdeaPad 54 34 L340-15API
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
15- TO 16-INCH LAPTOPS Continued
5
2.75 4.5
17- TO 18-INCH LAPTOPS
4 0 0 3 0 40 50 40 55 0 15.25
10 2.9
$880
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 50 50 5
6
73
$1,500
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 50 50 5
7.25 5.25 7.1
73
$1,060
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 50 50 4
7.25
5
5
73
$1,650
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 50 50 5
5.75
5
6.1
72
$930
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 50 40 5
8
70
$1,150
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 50 50 5
5.25 3.5
68
$2,400
3 0 0 3 0 30 30 50 50 5
5.5
66
$1,090
3 0 0 3 0 30 20 40 50 4
6.25 4.75 6.7
Dell Inspiron 10 i7786-7929SLV
65
$1,000
3 0 0 3 0 50 30 40 50 4
5.75
Dell Inspiron 17 11 3000 (2019)
65
$650
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 40 50 5
4.75 4.25 5.9
12 HP 17-BY1033DX
59
$530
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 40 3
6.5 5.25 5.3
! 0
1
LG Gram 17
77
$1,300
$ 0
2
Acer Nitro 5 AN517-51-56YW
74
! 0
3
Dell G7 17
! 0
4
! 0
5
$ 0
6
! 0
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
! 0 ! 0
1
2
POOR
Asus VivoBook Pro N705FD-DS77 Asus ROG Strix GL704GV-DS74 HP Pavilion Gaming 17-CD0020NR HP Omen 17-AN198MS Asus ROG Zephyrus GX701GW-DB76 HP Envy 17M-BW0013DX
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
9
5.7
4.75 6.2 8
4.5 5.8
5.5
6
91
COMP U T ERS , L A P T OP
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Weight (lb.)
Battery life - video (hr.)
Battery life - web (hr.)
Display
Versatility
Performance
Portability
Test Results
Ergonomics
Owner satisfaction
Survey Price Results Predicted reliability
Overall Score
Rank
Recommended
Brand & Model
17- TO 18-INCH LAPTOPS Continued Lenovo IdeaPad 59 13 L340-17IWL Dell Inspiron 14 i5775-A604GLD- 55 PUS Lenovo IdeaPad 49 15 330-17AST HOW WE TEST: Ergonomics represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features. Portability is based on battery life under a mix of light and heavy tasks, size, and weight, including the keyboard dock for detachable laptops. Performance is based on performance while running productivity applications, multimedia applications, web browsing, and 3D games. Versatility includes hardware such as memory-card slots and AV connections, software such as security programs, and tech support and warranty provisions. Display covers display size, clarity, color, brightness, and glare. Battery life - web (hr) is the time it
92
$380
3 0 0 3 0 40 30 30 50 3
5.5 4.75 5.6
$570
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 30 50 4
4.5 2.75 6.1
$500
3 0 0 3 0 40 20 20 40 3
takes to deplete a fully charged battery while the laptop loads a sequence of web pages over WiFi. Bluetooth and 3G/4G are disabled and the screen is set to a specific brightness that’s usable indoors or outdoors. Battery life - video (hr) is the time it takes to deplete a fully charged battery while the laptop loops a 4K video. Bluetooth and 3G/4G are disabled and the screen is set to a specific brightness that is usable indoors or outdoors. Weight (lbs) of the laptop as you would carry it around, including the battery but without the power adapter or a removable CD/DVD drive. Detachable laptops include the weight of the keyboard. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
4
2.5 5.5
performance of the product in all of our tests. Scores are comparable between the 14-, 15-, and 16-inch models. Scores for the remaining size categories are not comparable to other size categories. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first three years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the laptop they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
D I G I TA L C A MER A S
QUI CK GUIDE
Digital Cameras Consumers are placing increasing demands on cameras, and manufacturers are meeting those needs by adding more capabilities, including wireless connectivity. An easily accessible video mode lets you record high-quality video. A lens with a wide maximum aperture opening helps capture images in lowlight situations. WiFi connectivity allows faster uploading.
What to Look For
An SLR or mirrorless model with interchangeable lenses maximizes versatility. A point-and-shoot model has fewer features, but can still take high-quality images. A zoom lens that includes a wide-angle option—look for a 28mm or even wider— is ideal for panoramic landscapes or large group portraits. An optical or electronic viewfinder helps you conserve battery power or compose photos when bright light washes out your LCD. An LCD screen provides an alternative to a conventional viewfinder. Look for one that pivots for easier viewing. Touch screen capability offers easy menu interaction.
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
What to Skip Buying solely based on megapixel count: Higher resolution doesn’t ensure better photographs. An extended warranty; digital cameras have been very reliable overall in our subscriber surveys.
BUYING ADVICE If you don’t intend to change the lens on your camera, consider an advanced point-and-shoot, with a fixed lens. Some models have large image sensors with excellent optics and lots of features.
What You’ll Pay For basic point-and-shoots, expect to spend $100 to $400. For advanced pointand-shoots, $300 to $1,200. For mirrorless cameras, $350 to $3,300. For SLRs, $400 to $3,700.
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/cameras.
93
Tested products in performance order.
Viewfinder Image stabilization
LCD quality
Ease of Use
Flash photos
Test Results Video quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results Image quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ADVANCED POINT AND SHOOT
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
$ 0
4
$ 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
$ 0
8
! 0
9
! 0 ! 0
10 11
Sony Cyber-shot RX10 II Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100 II Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Sony Cyber-shot RX100 IV Sony Cyber-shot RX1R II Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2500 Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VA Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V
87
$1,000
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 40 50 5 0 5
86
$1,300
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 40 50 5 0 5
85
$1,600
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 40 50 5 0 5
84
$700
4 0 0 4 5 00 40 50 40 5 NA 0 4
84
$495
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 4 NA 0 5
83
$1,200
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 40 50 5 0 5
83
$895
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 50 4 0 5
83
$650
4 0 0 4 5 00 40 40 40 5 NA 0 5
82
$800
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 50 40 50 5 0 5
82
$3,300
82
$995
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 50 5 0 3
82
$900
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 50 5 0 5
5 0 0 5 4 00 5
NA
40 0 40 5 0 5
! 0
12
! 0
13
82
$900
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 50 5 0 5
! 0
14 Canon PowerShot G3 X 81
$925
4 0 0 4 4 00 40 40 40 5 NA 0 4
! 0
15 Sony Cyber-shot RX10
81
$700
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 40 5 0 5
$ 0
Panasonic Lumix 16 DMC-LX100
80
$630
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 50 5 0 5
! 0
17 Leica D-Lux (Typ 109)
80
$905
− − 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 4
0 !
Panasonic Lumix 18 DMC-FZ1000 II
80
$895
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 50 5 0 3
! 0
19 Fujifilm X100F
80
$1,300
4 0 0 3 4 00 30 40 50 50 5 0 5
! 0
Canon PowerShot 20 G1 X Mark III Sony Cyber-shot 21 RX100 III
80
$1,100
4 0 0 4 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 5
80
$650
5 0 0 5 4 00 50 50 40 40 5 0 4
$ 0 94
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
$4,000
4 0 0 4 5 00 5
50 0 50 5 0 4
88
$2,100
4 0 0 5 5 00 4
NA
50 0 50 5 0 5
87
$1,700
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 50 50 5 0 5
87
$1,300
4 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 50 50 5 0 5
87
$2,200
3 0 0 5 5 00 5
86
$750
86
$3,400
4 0 0 4 4 00 5
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
85
$3,200
5 0 0 4 5 00 4
NA
40 0 40 5 0 4
85
$2,200
4 0 0 4 4 00 5
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
85
$1,100
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 50 5 0 4
85
$2,800
3 0 0 5 5 00 5
84
$800
84
$1,700
4 0 0 5 4 00 3
NA
50 0 50 5 0 4
84
$1,000
3 0 0 5 5 00 4
NA
40 0 40 5 0 5 40 0 50 5 0 5 40 0 50 5 0 5
Viewfinder Image stabilization
50 0 50 5 0 5
NA
LCD quality
Flash photos
NA
Ease of Use
Video quality
Image quality
4 0 0 4 4 00 5
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
$2,600
Rank
Rec.
Test Results
MIRRORLESS
! 0 ! 0
1 2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
0 $
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
! 0
10
$ 0
11
! 0
12
$ 0
13
! 0
14
$ 0
15
Nikon Z6 w/ 24-70mm S 89 Nikon Z7 w/ 24-70mm S 89 Fujifilm X-Pro2 w/ XF 23mm Fujifilm X-T3 w/ 18-55mm Fujifilm X-H1 w/ XF 16-55mm Sony Alpha A7 III w/ 28-70mm OSS Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 w/ 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. Power O.I.S. Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 w/ 24-105mm Canon EOS R w/ 24-105 IS USM Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 w/ 12-60mm Fujifilm X-T2 w/ XF 1855mm f2.8-4 R LM OIS Sony Alpha A7R III w/ FE 85mm Fujifilm X-T20 w/ 16-50mm OIS Fujifilm X-Pro2 w/ XF 18-55mm Sony Alpha A7 II w/ FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 w/ 12-60mm
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
4 0 0 4 4 00 50 40 50 50 5 0 4
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
4 0 0 5 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 5
! 0
16
83
$1,900
4 0 0 4 4 00 4
NA
! 0
Panasonic Lumix 17 DMC-GH5 w/ 42.5mm f1.7
83
$1,500
4 0 0 4 4 00 4
NA
$ 0
Fujifilm X-E3 18 w/ 18-55mm OIS
83
$1,000
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 40 5 0 2
! 0
Panasonic Lumix 19 DMC-GX8 w/ 14-42mm
82
$1,195
4 0 0 4 4 00 4
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
95
D I G I TA L C A MER A S
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Viewfinder Image stabilization
LCD quality
Ease of Use
Flash photos
Test Results Video quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results Image quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
MIRRORLESS Continued
! 0
Fujifilm X-T20 w/ 1820 55mm OIS
82
$1,000
4 0 0 5 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 2
0 !
Panasonic Lumix DC21 G95 w/ 12-60mm
82
$1,200
4 0 0 4 4 00 40 30 40 40 4 0 5
$ 0
Panasonic Lumix 22 DMC-G85 w/ 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Power OIS
81
$700
4 0 0 4 4 00 40 40 40 50 5 0 5
! 0
Fujifilm X-T30 w/ XF 23 18-55mm
81
$1,300
4 0 0 5 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 4
0 $
Panasonic Lumix DMC- 81 24 G7K w/ 14-42mm
$500
4 0 0 4 4 00 40 30 40 50 5 0 5
! 0
Canon EOS RP w/ RF 25 24-105mm
81
$2,200
5 0 0 4 4 00 4
NA
40 0 40 5 0 4
! 0
Sony Alpha A7S w/ T FE 81 26 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS
$2,000
3 0 0 5 4 00 5
NA
40 0 40 5 0 3
$ 0
Canon EOS M50 w/ 27 EF-M 15-45mm IS STM
80
$900
5 0 0 4 4 00 40 30 40 50 5 0 4
0 !
Fujifilm X-T2 w/ XF 28 56mm F1.2 R APD
80
$1,100
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 50 5 0 2
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 w/ 12-32mm 79 29 F3.5-5.6 ASPH. Mega OIS
$995
4 0 0 4 4 00 40 40 40 40 5 0 5 5 0 0 4 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 5
96
Canon EOS M5 w/ 1830 150mm IS STM
79
$1,000
Sony Alpha A7 w/ FE 31 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
79
$800
Olympus OM-D E-M1 II 32 w/ 12-40mm 1:2.8 PRO
79
$1,700
2 0 0 4 4 00 40 40 40 50 5 0 5
Canon EOS M5 w/ M 33 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
78
$800
5 0 0 4 4 00 30 40 40 50 5 0 4
Fujifilm X-E2S w/ XF 34 18-55mm
78
$700
4 0 0 5 4 00 30 30 40 50 5 0 4
Canon EOS M6 w/ 1535 45mm IS STM
78
$700
5 0 0 4 4 00 30 40 40 5 NA 0 5
Canon EOS M100 w/ 36 15-45mm IS STM
78
$450
5 0 0 4 4 00 30 40 40 5 NA 0 5
Sony Alpha a6400 w/ E 78 37 18-135mm
$1,300
3 0 0 5 4 00 50 30 40 40 5 0 5
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
3 0 0 5 4 00 5
NA
40 0 40 5 0 5
Viewfinder Image stabilization
LCD quality
Flash photos
NA
Ease of Use
Video quality
Image quality
4 0 0 3 4 00 5
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Test Results
SLR Sony Alpha 99 II w/ 85mm F2.8 SAM
83
2
Nikon D3500 w/ 50mm
81
3
Nikon D7200 w/ 18-55mm
! 0
! 0
1
$ 0
$3,200
40 0 50 5 0 5
$500
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 40 5 0 5
81
$900
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 40 5 0 5
4
Nikon D500 w/ AF-S 50mm 1:1.8G
81
$1,800
$ 0
5
Canon EOS 77D w/ 1855mm IS STM
81
$850
! 0
6
Canon EOS 6D Mark II w/ 24-105mm IS STM
80
$1,900
$ 0
7
Canon EOS 800D Rebel 80 T7i w/ 50mm
$715
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 50 4 0 4
! 0
8
Nikon D7500 w/ AF-S 50mm
80
$1,150
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 50 40 50 5 0 5
9
Nikon D7200 w/ 18105mm VR
79
$700
4 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 40 5 0 4
Canon EOS 800D Rebel 10 T7i w/ 18-55mm IS STM 79
$800
5 0 0 5 4 00 30 40 40 50 4 0 4
Canon EOS 200D Rebel 11 SL2 w/ 18-55mm IS STM 79
$600
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 50 40 50 5 0 5
Nikon D7200 w/ 1812 140mm VR
79
$700
4 0 0 5 4 00 50 40 40 40 5 0 4
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV 13 w/ EF 85mm 1:1.8 USM
79
$3,000
Canon EOS 760D Rebel 79 14 T6s w/ 18-135mm IS STM
$750
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 40 40 40 4 0 5
! 0
1
361667513
4 0 0 5 4 00 5
NA
40 0 50 5 0 3
5 0 0 5 4 00 30 40 40 50 4 0 5 5 0 0 5 4 00 4
5 0 0 5 4 00 5
NA
NA
40 0 50 5 0 5
40 0 50 5 0 3
Canon EOS 7D Mark II 15 w/ EF 50mm 1.8 STM
79
$1,800
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 50 40 50 5 0 2
Canon EOS 80D w/ 1816 135mm IS USM
78
$1,400
5 0 0 5 4 00 40 50 40 50 5 0 3
Canon EOS 6D Mark II 17 w/ EF 85mm
78
$1,500
5 0 0 5 4 00 4
Nikon D5500 w/ 1818 55mm VR II
78
$795
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
NA
40 0 50 5 0 3
4 0 0 5 4 00 40 30 40 50 4 0 5
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
97
D I G I TA L C A MER A S
Survey Price Results
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Image stabilization
LCD quality
Ease of use
Video quality
Test Results Flash photos
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results Image quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
RUGGED/WATERPROOF POINT AND SHOOT
! 0
1
Olympus TG-5
69
$400
3 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
0 !
2
Nikon CoolPix W300
69
$390
4 0 0 3 3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
! 0
98
3
Canon PowerShot D30
65
$330
3 0 0 3 4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
4
Fujifilm Finepix XP140
64
$230
4 0 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 2
5
Fujifilm FinePix XP120
62
$170
4 0 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
6
Ricoh WG-6
61
$400
5 0 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2
7
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30
60
$125
4 0 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
8
Fujifilm Finepix XP130
57
$130
4 0 0 3 2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
9
Ricoh WG-60
56
$240
5 0 0 3 2 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 1
Panasonic Lumix 10 DMC-TS25
55
$150
4 0 0 3 3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 5
Panasonic Lumix 11 DC-TS7
55
$295
4 0 0 3 2 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5
12 Ricoh WG-50
48
$230
5 0 0 3 2 0 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1
13 Nikon CoolPix W100
40
$160
4 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
LCD quality Image stabilization Battery life (shots)
Ease of use
Video quality
Flash photos
Test Results Image quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Rec.
Survey Price Results
SUPERZOOM
$ 0
1
Canon PowerShot SX730 HS
77
$380
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
250
! 0
2
Panasonic Lumix ZS80
77
$445
4 0 0 4 0 3
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 4
380
$ 0
3
Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
75
$300
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
250
! 0
4
Nikon Coolpix P1000
74
$1,000
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2
250
! 0
5
Nikon Coolpix P900 72
$600
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4
360
! 0
6
Canon PowerShot SX540 HS
71
$350
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
205
! 0
7
Sony Cyber-shot HX99
71
$450
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3
370
! 0
8
Nikon Coolpix B600 71
$325
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2
280
! 0
9
Sony Cyber-shot HX400V
70
$400
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 1
300
$ 0
Canon PowerShot 10 SX530 HS
70
$250
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3
210
! 0
Sony Cyber-shot 11 WX500
70
$350
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3
400
HOW WE TEST: Megapixels refers to the number of pixels, in millions, on the sensor. Image Quality combines several tests, including regular photos, low-light photos, and flash photos as well as color tests, among others. Video Quality mostly reflects footage shot in regular and low light, with audio quality and macro (close-up) capability also considered. Flash Photos tests the quality of the built-in flash’s light output and evenness of illumination. Ease
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
of Use is our evaluation of the camera’s controls, manual, response time, and focusing. LCD Quality is a judgment of images viewed under various lighting conditions. Image Stabilization is our evaluation of the camera’s ability to compensate for handheld camera shake. Battery Life (Shots) is as the manufacturer states. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction.
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first four years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the digital camera they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
99
D I G I TA L C A MER A S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Fitness Trackers Fitness trackers range from simple to sophisticated, with prices to match. Here’s how to find the right one to fit your budget, fitness, lifestyle, and fashion sense.
What to Look For Most trackers are designed to be worn on the wrist. Look for a greater variety of materials, shapes, and colors. Preview the tracker’s companion app to make sure it fits your needs. Battery life can stretch from one day to up to a year depending on the sophistication of the device. Most are rechargeable, but some run on the coin cell batteries often used in cameras and calculators. If you like to swim, it
BUYING ADVICE
should be waterproof. Double-check that the device works with your smartphone or computer.
What to Skip GPS. You can get the same benefit by carrying your smartphone and activating a free app, such as RunKeeper. Most models over $200. At that price, you might as well buy a smartwatch.
If you simply want to know how many steps you’re taking each day, you can save money by buying a simpler device.
What You’ll Pay Expect
to pay $25 for a basic model and $200 for a fully featured model.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/ fitness-trackers
Versatility
Water resistance
Heart-rate monitor accuracy Step count accuracy
Ease of pairing
Ease of use
Test Results
Rank
Recommended
Price Ease of interaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Readability in bright light Readability in low light
Tested products in performance order.
BUILT-IN DATA READOUT
! 0
1
Samsung Gear Fit2 Pro
$ 0
2
Garmin Forerunner 35
100
85
$200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
84
$130
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Versatility
Readability in bright light Readability in low light
Water resistance
Heart-rate monitor accuracy Step count accuracy
Ease of pairing
Ease of interaction
Test Results
Ease of use
Rank
Recommended
Price
BUILT-IN DATA READOUT Continued 3
Fitbit Charge 3
76
$150
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
$ 0
4
Samsung Galaxy Fit
76
$100
4 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
$ 0
5
Fitbit Inspire HR
73
$100
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
! 0
6
73
$130
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
$ 0
7
Garmin Vivosmart 4 Withings Pulse HR
71
$80
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 4
8
Garmin Vivofit 4
71
$80
5 0 0 5 0 5 NA 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2
9
Fitbit Inspire
69
$70
4 0 0 4 0 5 NA 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
10 Garmin Vivofit 3
62
$55
4 0 0 5 0 3 NA 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 2
Letscom I 11 D115 Plus HR Garmin 12 Vivofit jr. 2 Samsung Galaxy 13 Fit e
56
$30
4 0 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3
56
$70
4 0 0 4 0 5 NA 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1
43
$60
4 0 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 3
! 0
HOW WE TEST: Ease of Use is composite score of ergonomics, ease of interaction, syncing, pairing, and readability of the display in bright light and low light. Ease of Interaction is the ease of accessing core functions; performing key tasks such as accessing messages, calendars, alarms, etc.; interacting with the device menu and app interface; taking activity measurements; reading activity results from the display; and responsiveness of touch screen or other
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
control-interaction methods. Ease of Pairing is an assessment of the steps necessary for pairing the tracker with another device for the first time. Heart-Rate-Monitor Accuracy measures how accurately the fitness tracker measured our testers actual heart rate. Step-Count Accuracy measures how accurately the fitness tracker counted our testers actual steps. Water Resistance measures how resistant the watch is to submersion in water as tested by subjecting
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
the device to a water pressure equivalent to the depth the manufacturer claims the fitness tracker can withstand. Readability in Bright Light such as on a sunny day. Versatility indicates features that increase a fitness trackers utilities or capabilities. These include the number of sensors it has, if time can be displayed on the tracker, GPS tracking and other useful features. Price is approximate. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests.
101
F I T NE S S T R A CK ER S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Headphones Headphones come in all sizes and types, from tiny earbuds to big, over-the-ear DJ-style models. They’re indispensable for listening to music on the go or for watching videos on a tablet, laptop, or smartphone. What to Look For Clear, accurate sound and sufficient volume. A comfortable fit. An isolating design that physically blocks sound or headphones with active noise-canceling technology if you don’t want to be disturbed by outside noise. Wireless headphones if you don’t want cords tangling or flapping. A model that doubles as a headset if you want the ability to answer or place
BUYING ADVICE
calls without taking your phone out of your pocket or backpack.
What to Skip Paying a high price just to get a big-brand name.
What You’ll Pay You can find decent earbuds for as little as $20. Decent over-ear and onear models start around $50wbut can cost $100 or more. Expect to pay more for wireless connectivity and active noise-cancellation.
If you want the best sound, especially for serious music listening, we recommend one of the top-rated corded models in our ratings. For more buying advice, go to CR.org/headphones.
Tested products in performance order.
Design
Sensitivity
Type
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price Noise reduction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
HOME/STUDIO NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES
! 0
1 2
102
Audio-Technica SonicPro ATH-MSR7NC Audio-Technica ATH-ANC50iS
81
$180
5 0 0 5
Medium high/ Over-ear medium high
Closed
42
$100
2 0 0 4
Medium high/ Over-ear low
Closed
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Type
Design
Sensitivity
Noise reduction
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
HE A DP HONE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Earbud
Isolating
On-ear
Closed
On-ear
Closed
Earbud
Isolating
PORTABLE NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES
! 0
1
Bose QuietComfort 20
74
$250
4 0 0 5
2
JVC HA-NC250
63
$100
4 0 0 3
3
JVC HA-NC120
57
$45
3 0 0 2
Medium high/ medium Medium high/ low High/high
WIRELESS PORTABLE NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES Bose QuietControl 30 JBL Everest Elite 150NC
87
$300
5 0 0 5
NA
74
$200
4 0 0 5
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
Sony WF-1000X
69
$200
4 0 0 4
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
4
Sony WI-SP600N
69
$150
4 0 0 4
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
5
Sony WF-SP700N 69
$180
4 0 0 4
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
6
Audio-Technica ATH-ANC100BT
$100
4 0 0 5
68
Medium high/ Ear-insert Isolating medium high
WIRELESS HOME/STUDIO STYLE NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
$ 0
7
$ 0
8
! 0
9
1
2
POOR
Bose QuietComfort 35 Series II Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 Microsoft Surface Sony WH-1000XM2 Sony WH-1000XM3 beats by dre Beats Studio3 Wireless JBL LIVE 650BTNC Monoprice BT-300ANC Bowers & Wilkins PX
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
87
$350
5 0 0 5
87
$400
75
Medium/ medium
Over-ear
Closed
5 0 0 5
Low/medium Over-ear
Closed
$350
4 0 0 5
75
$350
4 0 0 5
75
$350
4 0 0 5
Medium/ Over-ear medium high High/high/ Over-ear medium high High/high/ Over-ear medium high
73
$280
4 0 0 5
73
$130
4 0 0 5
72
$50
4 0 0 5
70
$400
4 0 0 5
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Medium
Over-ear
Medium/ Over-ear medium Medium high/ Over-ear medium Medium high/ Over-ear medium high
Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed
103
Design
Type
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Sensitivity
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PORTABLE STEREO HEADPHONES 1MORE E1001 Triple Driver 1MORE Quad Driver
86
$75
5 0
Medium
Ear-insert Isolating
86
$150
5 0
Medium high
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
Audeze iSine 10
86
$350
5 0
High
Ear-insert
! 0
4
Klipsch X12i
80
$350
4 0
High
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
5
80
$150
4 0
Medium high
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
6
Westone ADV Alpha Scosche SportFlex 3
76
$15
4 0
Very high
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
7
Phiaton MS 100 BA
71
$40
4 0
High
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
8
Pioneer SE-CH9T
71
$80
4 0
High
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
9
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear
71
$80
4 0
High
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
10 Shure SE112
71
$50
4 0
Very high
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
Westone AM PRO 11 20 Bowers & Wilkins 12 C5 series 2 Panasonic 13 RP-TCM125
71
$340
4 0
Very high
Ear-insert
66
$150
4 0
High
Ear-insert Isolating
4 0
Medium high
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0 $ 0
66
$15
Nonisolating
Non-isolating
WIRELESS PORTABLE STEREO HEADPHONES
! 0
1
! 0
2
$ 0
3
$ 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
104
Samsung Galaxy Buds Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E6 1MORE iBFree Sport Anker SoundCore Liberty Air Bose SoundSport Wireless Jabra Elite Active 65t JBL UA True Wireless Flash
86
$130
5 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
80
$300
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$60
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$150
4 0
NA
76
$190
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$170
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Earbud
Isolating
Design
Type
Sensitivity
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
HE A DP HONE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
WIRELESS PORTABLE STEREO HEADPHONES Continued $150
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$50
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
76
$55
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$150
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$200
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$130
4 0
NA
15 Jabra Elite 25e
71
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
16 Jabra Elite Sport
71
$220
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
17 Jaybird Run
71
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
18 Jaybird Tarah
71
$80
4 0
NA
$ 0
19 Jaybird X3
71
$90
4 0
NA
! 0
20 Jaybird X4
71
$130
4 0
NA
$ 0
21 JBL E25BT
71
$60
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
22 MEE audio X10
71
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$50
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$170
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$100
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$105
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
71
$70
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
8
$ 0
9
$ 0
10
$ 0
11
! 0
12
! 0
13
! 0
14
$ 0
$ 0
23
! 0
24
$ 0
25
$ 0
26
$ 0
27
1
2
POOR
JLab Audio Epic Air 76 JLab Audio JBuds Air Optoma NuForce BE6i SOL Republic Shadow Wireless 1MORE Triple Driver BT Audio-Technica Sonic Sport ATH-Sport7TW Bose SoundSport Free Wireless
Monoprice True Wireless Earphones IPX4 Monster Elements Wireless In-Ear Samsung Gear IconX 2018 Sennheiser CX Sport SOUL Electronics Run Free Pro
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Earbud
Earbud
Isolating
Isolating
Ear-insert Isolating Earbud
Isolating
105
Type
Design
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Sensitivity
Overall Score
Brand & Model
WIRELESS PORTABLE STEREO HEADPHONES Continued
$ 0 $ 0 ! 0
1MORE StylishÊTrue 66 28 Wireless beats by dre 66 29 BeatsX V-Moda Forza 66 30 Metallo Wireless
$100
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$100
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$130
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
31 Fitbit Flyer
66
$50
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
House of Marley 32 Smile Jamaica BT JBL Endurance 33 DIVE JBL Endurance 34 SPRINT
66
$20
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
66
$90
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
66
$50
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
35 JBL Reflect Mini 2
66
$100
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
JVC HA-FX9BT 36 Gumy Wireless
66
$20
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
37 MEE audio X7 Plus
66
$60
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
Optoma NuForce 38 BE Sport3
66
$55
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0
39 Skullcandy Indy
66
$80
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
! 0
Skullcandy Push 40 Truly Wireless Earbuds
66
$130
4 0
NA
Ear-insert Isolating
$ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
WIRELESS HOME/STUDIO STYLE STEREO HEADPHONES
! 0
1
Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H4
! 0
2
Grado GW100
76
$250
4 0
Medium high
On-ear
Open air
Klipsch Reference On-Ear Bluetooth Marshall Monitor Bluetooth Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Bose SoundLink around-ear headphones II Bowers & Wilkins P5 Wireless
76
$250
4 0
Medium
On-ear
Closed
76
$140
4 0
Medium
Over-ear
Closed
71
$300
4 0
NA
Over-ear
Closed
71
$230
4 0
Medium high Over-ear
Closed
71
$300
4 0
Medium high
Closed
! 0
3
$ 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
106
76
$250
4 0
Low
Over-ear
Closed
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
On-ear
Design
Sensitivity
Type
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
HE A DP HONE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
WIRELESS HOME/STUDIO STYLE STEREO HEADPHONES Continued
$ 0 ! 0 $ 0 ! 0
Jabra Move Style 8 Edition V-Moda Crossfade 9 2 Wireless Audio-Technica 10 ATH-SR5BT beats by dre Solo3 11 Wireless
71
$100
4 0
71
$280
4 0
66
$150
4 0
Medium
On-ear
Closed
66
$240
4 0
High
On-ear
Closed
66
$150
4 0
Medium high Over-ear
Closed
66
$100
4 0
Medium high Over-ear
Closed
66
$180
4 0
15 JBL E55BT
60
$100
3 0
Marshall Major 16 III BT
60
$140
3 0
17 Phiaton BT460
60
$130
3 0
$105
3 0
Low
Over-ear
Closed
$120
3 0
High
On-ear
Closed
$120
3 0
Low
On-ear
Closed
46
$80
3 0
NA
On-ear
Closed
41
$80
3 0
Medium
Over-ear
Closed
41
$75
3 0
Medium
On-ear
Closed
40
$80
2 0
NA
Over-ear
Closed
40
$75
2 0
Medium high
On-ear
Closed
40
$130
2 0
NA
On-ear
Closed
36
$200
2 0
$ 0
12 JBL LIVE 500BT
$ 0
Sennheiser HD 13 4.40BT Skullcandy Hesh 3 14 Wireless
! 0
Skullcandy Crusher 51 18 Wireless Audio-Technica 46 19 SonicFuel ATH-AR3BT Plantronics 46 20 Backbeat FIT 505 21 UrbanEars Hellas 22 23 24 25 26
Skullcandy Hesh 2 Wireless UrbanEars Plattan ADV Wireless JLab Audio Flex Sport Marshall Major II Bluetooth Sony MDR-XB650BT
27 MEE audio Matrix3
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
Medium
On-ear
Medium high Over-ear
Low
Closed Closed
Over-ear
Closed
Medium high Over-ear
Closed
Low
On-ear
Medium high Over-ear
Medium high Over-ear
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Closed Closed
Closed
107
Sensitivity
Design
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Type
Overall Score
Brand & Model
HOME/STUDIO STYLE STEREO HEADPHONES
! 0
1
! 0
2
Grado Prestige SR325e Grado Prestige SR225e
! 0
3
$ 0 ! 0
91
$295
5 0
Medium high Over-ear
Open air
88
$200
5 0
Medium high Over-ear
Open air
HiFiMan HE-400S
88
$300
5 0
Low
Over-ear
Open air
4
Grado Prestige SR80e
86
$100
5 0
Medium high
On-ear
Open air
5
Shure SRH1440
81
$300
5 0
Low
Over-ear
Open air
80
$150
4 0
Medium high
On-ear
Open air
76
$80
4 0
Medium high
On-ear
Open air
! 0
6
$ 0
7
Grado Prestige SR125e Grado Prestige SR60e
! 0
8
Sony MDR-1AM2
76
$300
4 0
High
Over-ear
Closed
! 0
Audio-Technica 9 ATH-M50x Monoprice 10 Monolith M650
71
$150
4 0
Medium
Over-ear
Closed
66
$150
4 0
Medium
Over-ear
Open air
$ 0
11 Skullcandy Grind
66
$30
4 0
Medium high
On-ear
Closed
! 0
12 Sony MDR-1A
66
$300
4 0
Medium
Over-ear
Closed
! 0
HOW WE TEST: Sound Quality represents the tonal accuracy, clarity, detail, ambience, and dynamics of the audio reproduced by the headphones. Sensitivity
108
assesses how loudly wireconnected headphones will play for a given audio input signal level; for wireless models, we judge sensitivity using the optional wired
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2019
connection. An isolating design blocks some outside noise. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the performance of the product in all of our tests.
PR IN T ERS , A L L-IN - ONE
QUI CK GUIDE
Printers, All-in-One All-in-ones are by far the most popular type of printer on the market. The reason? They let you not only print but also copy, scan, and, for some models, fax.
What to Look For
What to Skip
Low
An
ink replacement costs (ink cost per year). An all-in-one inkjet if you want color printing and a versatile model that excels at printing your photos, scans and other functions. A black-and-white laser all-in-one for high reliability, excellent text quality, fast print speed, and a low cost per page—provided you don’t need to print in color.
BUYING ADVICE
inkjet with a single cartridge for color inks, because separate color cartridges may be more economical, depending on what you print. High replacement ink costs. You can compare printers using our ink costs for year spec.
Today, most printers come with built-in WiFi that enables you to print photos and documents from computers and mobile devices on a home network.
What You’ll Pay Laser all-in-ones start at a little more than $100. Inkjet all-in-ones cost $25 and up.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/printers.
Tested products in performance order. Test Results
Text speed (ppm)
Ink cost/year ($)
2 0 0 5 0 4
18.8
71
79
$250
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
3 0 0 5 0 4
20
40
79
$280
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
23.1 29
Graphics quality Maintenance ink use
NA
Text speed
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
Text quality
$140
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Scan quality
Specs
79
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Photo quality
Overall Score
Brand &Model
ALL-IN-ONE BLACK AND WHITE LASER PRINTERS
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
1
2
POOR
Brother HL-L2395DW Canon imageClass MF267dw Brother MFC-L5700DW
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
109
Ink cost/year ($)
Text speed (ppm)
Specs
Scan quality
Graphics quality Maintenance ink use
Photo quality
Test Results
Text speed
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Text quality
Overall Score
Brand &Model
ALL-IN-ONE BLACK AND WHITE LASER PRINTERS Continued
! 0
4
! 0
5
! 0
6
! 0
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
! 0
10
! 0
11
0 $
12
! 0
13
0 $
14
! 0
15
! 0
16
Canon imageCLASS MF269dw Brother MFC-L2750DW Brother DCP-L5500DN Canon imageCLASS MF424dw Canon imageCLASS MF264dw Canon imageCLASS MF249dw Brother MFC-L2740DW Brother MFC-L2720DW Brother MFC-L2710DW Canon imageCLASS D1520 Canon imageCLASS MF232w Brother MFC-L2685DW Canon imageCLASS MF236n
79
$230
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
27.3 40
79
$200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
14.3 32
79
$270
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
23.1 29
79
$350
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
23.1 52
78
$175
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
20
52
78
$155
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
20
44
78
$200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
16.7 54
77
$205
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
18.8 30
77
$140
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
16.7 44
76
$365
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
23.1 29
75
$100
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
15.8 43
75
$140
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
3 0 0 5 0 4
15.8 59
75
$195
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5
NA
2 0 0 5 0 4
17.6 40
ALL-IN-ONE COLOR LASER PRINTERS
! 0
1
! 0
2
0 $
3
0 $
4
! 0
5
110
Canon imageCLASS MF642Cdw Brother MFC-L8900CDW Brother MFC-L3750CDW Brother MFC-L3710CW HP Color LaserJet Pro M477FDW
69
$350
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4
13.6 124
69
$530
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
15.8 126
68
$300
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
10.7 121
68
$300
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
10.7 121
67
$430
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4
15.8 116
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Ink cost/year ($)
Text speed (ppm)
Specs
Scan quality
Graphics quality Maintenance ink use
Photo quality
Text speed
Test Results
Text quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
ALL-IN-ONE COLOR LASER PRINTERS Continued
! 0
6
$ 0
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fnw HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw Canon imageCLASS MF733Cdw HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M180nw Canon imageCLASS MF632Cdw Canon imageCLASS MF634Cdw Samsung ProXpress C3060FW Samsung Xpress C480FW
66
$370
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
17.6 149
66
$350
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4
14.3 95
64
$330
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
18.8 206
62
$240
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
10.7 110
62
$350
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4
12
106
61
$275
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 4
12
115
56
$425
1 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4
54
$280
1 0 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
16.7 38 12
251
ALL-IN-ONE INKJET PRINTERS 69
$100
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
10.7 101
68
$300
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
8.3
68
$70
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
9.1 108
67
$150
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4
9.4
74
65
$380
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
10
97
65
$205
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
9.1
27
65
$40
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
8.8 108
65
$100
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
8.3 132
64
$400
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
7.5
10 HP Deskjet 2635 64
$30
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
8.6 124
$ 0
1
$ 0
2
$ 0
3
$ 0
4
! 0
5
$ 0
6
$ 0
7
! 0
8
! 0
9
$ 0 1
Brother MFC-J895DW Canon Pixma G4210 Canon Pixma MX532 Brother MFC-J985DW HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile Brother MFCJ775DW XL Canon Pixma MG3620 Canon Pixma MX492 Canon Pixma G4200
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
6
5
111
PR IN T ERS , A L L-IN - ONE
Overall Score
Brand &Model
Overall Score
Survey Price Results
Ink cost/year ($)
117
12 HP Envy 4520
63
$100
3 0 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4
9.1
171
HP Officejet 3830 Canon Pixma G3200 HP Officejet 3833 Canon PIXMA TS5120 Brother MFC-J491DW Brother MFC-J497DW
63
$50
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
10
154
63
$230
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
8.3
5
63
$100
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
8.6 154
62
$45
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4
9.4
61
$80
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
10.7 78
61
$80
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
10.7 78
19 HP DeskJet 2652 61
$40
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
8.6
61
$130
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4
9.4 187
60
$100
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4
10
117
60
$60
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4
8.1
122
Scan quality
9.4
Graphics quality Maintenance ink use
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
Photo quality
$100
Text speed
64
Text quality
! 0
HP Envy Photo 11 7155
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Text speed (ppm)
Specs
Rank
Test Results
Recommended
Brand &Model
ALL-IN-ONE INKJET PRINTERS Continued
13 14 15 16 17 18
HP Envy Photo 20 7855 AiO HP Envy Photo 21 7158 AiO Canon PIXMA 22 TR4520
HOW WE TEST: Photo Quality reflects a photo’s appearance. Text Quality assesses clarity and crispness of black text. Text Speed reflects how quickly the model can print text on five plain, letter-sized pages. Thirty seconds or less is excellent; 31 to 60 seconds is very good; 61 to 90 seconds is good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and longer than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics Quality assesses the appearance of color graphics produced by the printer. Black-andwhite lasers were judged on black-and-white graphics.
112
Maintenance Ink Use reflects the amount of extra ink used by an inkjet printer to maintain its print heads. Scan Quality is for color photos, graphics, and text scanned at each model’s default settings. Text speed (ppm) is our measure of how fast the printer can print pages of monochrome text. Ink cost/year ($) is the estimated cost (in dollars) for ink or toner in a year of typical use, based on our tests and how members told us they print. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
93
141
for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first four years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the printer they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash (−), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
P R I N T ER S , REGUL A R
QUI CK GUIDE
Printers, Regular If you don’t need to scan, copy, or fax—or you own other machines to do those tasks—a regular printer may be the most cost efficient option for you. Models start at around $100. BUYING ADVICE
They’re costlier than their monochrome counterparts and unsuited for photos. Regular inkjet printers, which get unfavorable ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction.
What to Look For A laser printer if you want a reliable printer and fast, low-cost, top-quality blackand-white text. An inkjet if you want the most versatile printer. You can print color photos and graphics as well as text. A black-and-white laser if you want reliability and to maximize long-term savings.
A low price tag may not be what it seems. Ink costs can often rack up hundreds of dollars more as the years go by.
What You’ll Pay Color inkjets can cost as little as $45 and up to $350, and monochrome laser printers can cost less than $100, and upwards of $500.
What to Skip
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/printers.
Regular color laser printers aren’t always a good choice.
Tested products in performance order.
Ink cost/year ($)
Features
Maintenance ink use Text speed (ppm)
Photo quality
Graphics quality
Test Results
Text speed
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Text quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BLACK AND WHITE LASER PRINTERS HP LaserJet Pro M501dn Brother HL-L2370DW
81
$400
2 5 5 5 5 0
NA
5 23.1 19
80
$115
5 5 5 5 2
NA
5 17.6 60
!
1
!
2
!
3
Lexmark B2338dw
80
$140
− − 550 2 NA 5
4
Brother HL-L6300DW
80
$360
5 5 5 5 3
! 1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
21.4 58
5 25 28 113
Ink cost/year ($)
Features
Maintenance ink use Text speed (ppm)
Photo quality
Graphics quality
Test Results
Text speed
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Text quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
BLACK AND WHITE LASER PRINTERS Continued
$ $ ! ! ! ! !
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Brother HL-L2350DW Brother HL-L2315DW Brother HL-L5200DW Brother HL-L6250DW Brother HL-L6200DW HP Laserjet Pro M402n Brother HL-L2340DW Brother HL-L5100DN HP Laserjet Pro M203dw Samsung Xpress M2020W HP Laserjet Pro M15w HP LaserJet Pro M118dw Canon imageCLASS LBP162dw Canon imageCLASS LBP113w HP LaserJet Pro M102w Canon imageClass LBP251dw
80 78 77 77 77 76 76 75 75 73 72 72 72 70 70 67
$120
5 5 5 5 0 2
NA
5 16.7 48
$90
5 5 5 5 2
NA
5 15.8 49
$160
5 5 5 5 0 2
NA
5 23.1 29
$300
5 5 5 5 2
NA
5 25 19
$200
5 5 5 5 0 2
NA
5 25 19
$190
5 5 5 5 2
NA
5 25 19
$120
5 5 5 5 0 1
NA
5 15 55
$185
5 5 5 5 2
NA
5 23.1 29
$130
5 5 5 5 0 1
NA
5 16.7 37
$70
4 3 5 5 3
NA
5 14.3 56
$80
5 5 5 5 0 1
NA
5 14.3 67
$90
5 5 5 5 1
NA
5 18.8 42
$160
5 3 5 5 0 2
NA
5 21.4 60
$160
5 3 5 5 2
NA
5 15.8 52
$100
5 5 4 5 0 2
NA
5 15.8 49
$325
5 3 3 5 2
NA
5 18.8 71
COLOR LASER PRINTERS
$
1
$
2
!
3 4
114
HP Color LaserJet Pro M452nw Brother HL-L3230CDW HP Color Laserjet Pro M254dw
70
$240
5 4 5 5 4 0 2 5 15 104
68
$230
4 5 5 5 4 1 5 10.3 119
66
$300
1 5 12 116 5 4 5 5 4 0
Lexmark C2325dw
63
$270
3 2 5 5 4 3 5 11.1 121
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Ink cost/year ($)
Features
Maintenance ink use Text speed (ppm)
Photo quality
Graphics quality
Text speed
Test Results
Text quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
COLOR LASER PRINTERS Continued 5 6 7 8 9
Brother HL-L8360CDW Brother HL-L3270CDW Brother HL-L8260CDW Brother HL-L3210CW Samsung Xpress C1810W
63
$350
4 5 5 5 3 0 1 5 16.7 122
63
$200
4 5 5 5 4 0 1 5 12.5 186
60
$330
4 5 3 5 3 1 5 15 134
59
$180
4 5 5 5 3 0 1 5 10.7 127
59
$280
2 1 5 5 5 2 5 10.3 91
57
$200
4 5 5 5 4 0 1 5 10.3 157
Canon imageCLASS 57 11 LBP612Cdw
$280
5 2 5 2 4 1 5 2.8 110
57
$450
3 0 2 5 5 5 0 2 5 15 44
1
HP Officejet 200 Mobile
61
$300
2 2 4 5 5 3 4 10 122
2
Canon Pixma iP110
59
$150
3 2 4 4 3 4 2 8.3 146
3
Canon Pixma TS702
59
$100
3 2 4 5 0 2 5 0 1 12.5 110
4
Canon Pixma iX6820
55
$155
3 2 4 5 5 4 1 12 155
5
Canon Pixma TS302 53
$45
3 2 3 4 4 0 2 3 8.3 130
10 Brother HL-3140CW
12 Lexmark CS410dn INKJET PRINTERS
Canon Pixma iP8720 Canon Maxify iB4020
53
$190
3 2 5 5 5 4 1 11.5 231
52
$110
3 0 2 4 5 0 2 3 0 1 18.8 85
8
HP Tango
52
$150
2 2 5 3 2 3 4 4.5 139
9
HP Officejet Pro 6230 52
$130
2 0 0 2 4 5 0 2 4 0 1 11.1 126
10 HP AMP 100
50
$70
2 2 2 4 3 3 4 8.3 156
Canon Maxify 11 iB4120 Epson Workforce 12 WF-100
50
$110
2 4 5 3 3 0 1 20 113 3 0
49
$200
1 2 3 4 3 4 4 5.2 182
6 7
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
115
P R I N T ER S , REGUL A R
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Ink cost/year ($)
Features
Maintenance ink use Text speed (ppm)
Photo quality
Graphics quality
Test Results
Text speed
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Survey Price Results
Text quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
INKJET PRINTERS Continued Epson Workforce 13 Pro WF-C5210 Epson WorkForce 14 WF-7210 15 Canon Pixma TS202 Canon Pixma 16 iP7220 Epson 17 Expression Photo HD- XP-15000 HP OfficeJet Pro 18 8210 HOW WE TEST: Photo Quality reflects a photo’s appearance. Text Quality assesses clarity and crispness of black text. Text Speed reflects how quickly the model can print text on five plain, letter-sized pages. Thirty seconds or less is excellent; 31 to 60 seconds is very good; 61 to 90 seconds is good; 91 to 120 seconds is fair; and longer than 120 seconds is poor. Graphics Quality assesses the appearance of color graphics produced by the printer, or black-and-white graphics
116
49
$170
1 0 0 2 3 5 4 3 0 1 12.5 84
49
$200
1 2 4 5 4 3 2 12.5 63
49
$35
3 0 2 0 2 4 3 0 2 3 8.3 125
48
$100
3 2 2 5 4 4 1 12 236
45
$300
1 0 0 2 3 4 3 4 0 1 5.7 226
45
$150
2 2 4 5 4 3 1 15.8 97
for black-and-white lasers. Maintenance Ink Use reflects the amount of extra ink used by an inkjet printer to maintain its print heads. Text speed (ppm) is our measure of how fast the printer can print pages of monochrome text. Ink cost/ year ($) is the estimated cost (in dollars) for ink or toner in a year of typical use, based on our tests and how members told us they print. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first four years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the printer they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash (−), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
SM A R T P HONE S
QUI CK GUIDE
Smartphones Smartphones are do-it-all companions for texting, email, and social networking, along with playing music, shooting photos and video, and directing us with GPS. Today, consumers have more good options than ever. What to Look For The phone’s operating system. Both Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android are good. For most people, it comes down to personal preference. A display large enough for viewing web pages, maps, and videos but not so big that it makes the phone difficult to handle comfortably.
What to Skip Phone insurance and extended warranties, which,
generally speaking, are not worth it when you weigh cost, high deductibles, and low chance of using them.
What You’ll Pay The two-year contract price with subsidy is largely a thing of the past. You can either pay full retail up front (often $800 or more for premium phones) or make installment payments over time, generally about $15-$40 per month for two years.
BUYING ADVICE Make sure you can read the phone’s display in bright sunlight, especially for texting and web surfing.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/smartphones.
Tested products in performance order.
Rank
! 0
1
Samsung Galaxy S10+
90
$800
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
2
Apple iPhone XS Max
90
$1,100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
3
Samsung Galaxy S10
90
$850
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
4
Apple iPhone XS
89
$1,000
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
Ease of use
Recommended
Water resistance test
Test Results Battery life Camera: Rear image quality Camera: Rear 1080p video quality Camera: Selfie image quality Display
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Price
Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
! RECOMMENDED
117
Water resistance test
Ease of use
Test Results Battery life Camera: Rear image quality Camera: Rear 1080p video quality Camera: Selfie image quality Display
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Price
Owner satisfaction
Overall Score
Brand & Model
$ 0
5
Samsung Galaxy S10e
88
$550
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
6
Samsung Galaxy S10 5G
88
$1,300
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
7
Samsung Galaxy Note9
87
$950
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
8
Apple iPhone XR
87
$750
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
9
Apple iPhone 8 Plus
87
$700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
$ 0
10 OnePlus 6T
86
$550
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5
NA
! 0
11 Apple iPhone 8
86
$600
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
Pass
! 0
Samsung 12 Galaxy S9+
86
$700
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
Samsung 13 Galaxy S9
85
$600
5 0 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
14 OnePlus 7Pro
85
$700
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5
NA
$ 0
15 OnePlus 6
84
$470
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 5
NA
! 0
Google Pixel 16 3 XL
79
$600
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
Pass
! 0
17 LG G8 ThinQ
78
$650
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
LG V50 ThinQ 18 5G
78
$1,150
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
19 LG V40 ThinQ
75
$800
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
Pass
! 0
20 LG G7 ThinQ
74
$400
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4
Pass
! 0
21 LG V35 ThinQ
74
$400
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5
Pass
Huawei Mate 22 10 Pro
72
$350
2 0 0 1 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 4
Pass
23 Sony Xperia XZ2
71
$500
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
Pass
24 Nokia 6.1
71
$190
5 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA
Motorola 25 Moto Z3
71
$480
4 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
NA
118
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Water resistance test
Ease of use
Test Results Battery life Camera: Rear image quality Camera: Rear 1080p video quality Camera: Selfie image quality Display
Owner satisfaction
Predicted reliability
Rank
Recommended
Survey Results
Sony Xperia 26 XZ2 Premium
70
$600
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
Pass
Sony Xperia 27 XZ2 Compact
70
$450
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
Pass
28 HTC U12+
68
$580
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
Pass
29 Razer Phone
68
$340
4 0 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4
NA
30 Motorola One
67
$280
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 4
NA
31 Google Pixel 3
65
$500
4 0 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
Pass
32 BlackBerry Key2
64
$500
− − 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 4 0 4
NA
33 Nokia 3.1
58
$120
5 0 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 4
NA
HOW WE TEST: Battery Life represents tests under nominal cell-network signals, including battery consumption, performing tasks that involve voice, data, display, and other factors. Camera: Rear Image Quality tests still-image quality using the rear facing (main) camera. It is based on objective and subjective judgments of test images, which includes evaluating resolution, dynamic range, color accuracy, and visual noise. Camera: Rear 1080p Video Quality is based on the judgments of trained panelists who viewed recorded video images shot at the highest quality setting available (1080p max.) in multiple lighting
1
Price
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
conditions. Camera: SelfieImage Quality tests still-image quality using the front facing (selfie) camera. (See Camera: Rear Image Quality for complete description.) Display rates the overall quality of the display, including its color, clarity, off-angle viewing, and touch-responsiveness. Ease of Use includes subjective and objective ratings of the convenience of using the menu, web browser, camera, testing, buttons, and unlocking the phone via a finger and facial recognition. Price is the lowest approximate retail cost for the smallest capacity available when purchased without a contract or an agreement.
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Overall Score combines test results with survey data for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first two years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the smartphone they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
119
SM A R T P HONE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Smart Speakers Sure, smart speakers can play music or tell you a joke, but increasingly these versatile devices are functioning as the hub of a connected home because they can control other smart products. What to Look For An operating system that’s compatible with smart home devices that you own or plan to buy in the future, from a simple smart lightbulb to an entire connected kitchen suite. Versatility and ease of use are key because a smart speaker’s requests are handled by cloud-based servers, so there’s little difference in basic performance between the cheapest and most expensive models.
BUYING ADVICE
Sound quality should be a deciding factor because most consumers use their smart speakers to listen to music. A screen can be handy, but even models with these visual aids are designed to be voice-controlled.
If you want better sound quality, try pairing a budget smart speaker with a non-smart wireless speaker that sounds great.
What to Skip Expensive models without exceptional sound.
What You’ll Pay
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/smartspeakers.
Prices
range from less than $50 to as much as $400.
Tested products in performance order. Overall Score
Test Results
Optional multiroom sharing
Google Home Max
76
$270
4 0 0 4 0 5
0
0
$ 0
2
Amazon Echo Show (2nd Generation)
69
$230
3 0 0 4 0 5
0
0
! 0
3
Bose Home Speaker 500
65
$400
4 0 0 5 0 3
0
$ 0
4
Sonos One
64
$170
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
$ 0
5
Sonos One (Gen 2)
64
$200
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
120
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Versatility
1
Ease of use
$ 0
Sound quality
Adjustable tone settings
Features
Rank
Price
Recommended
Brand & Model
Test Results
$500
3 0 0 4 0 3
! 0
7
Sony SRS-XB501G
62
$300
3 0 0 4 0 4
! 0
8
JBL Link 500
62
$200
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
! 0
9
JBL Link 300
62
$125
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
$ 0
10
Amazon Echo Plus (2nd Generation)
62
$150
3 0 0 4 0 5
! 0
11
JBL Link View
61
$250
3 0 0 4 0 3
! 0
12
Riva Concert
61
$200
3 0 0 4 0 5
0
! 0
13
60
$400
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
! 0
14
Marshall Stanmore II Voice Amazon Echo Sub Bundle w/ 2 Echo (2nd Gen)
60
$250
3 0 0 2 0 5
0
0
! 0
15
JBL Link 20
59
$100
3 0 0 4 0 3
! 0
16
Cavalier Audio The Maverick
59
$250
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
! 0
17
Apple HomePod
59
$300
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
! 0
18
iHome AVS16
58
$150
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
! 0
19
Harman Kardon Allure
58
$250
3 0 0 4 0 3
! 0
20
Ultimate Ears MEGABLAST
57
$250
3 0 0 3 0 3
! 0
21
Phorus PS10
56
$80
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
! 0
22
55
$130
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
! 0
23
55
$100
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
Pioneer Elite Smart Speaker F4 Amazon Echo (2nd Generation)
HOW WE TEST: Sound Quality measures a speaker’s ability to reproduce music in a realworld environment. Ease of
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
Use measures how difficult it was to set up a speaker and how intuitively it functioned in everyday use. Versatility tallies the useful features of each
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Optional multiroom sharing
63
Adjustable tone settings
Klipsch The Three
Versatility
6
Ease of use
! 0
Sound quality
Rank
Features
Recommended
Price
0 0
0
0
0 0
0
0
model. Price is most frequent or approximate price in retail. Overall Score is based on the results of all our tests.
121
SM A R T SP E A K ERS
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Smartwatches Smartwatches are great for keeping tabs on everything from your daily step count to sports scores and your local weather. Here’s how to find the right smartwatch for you. What to Look For
What to Skip
Some models focus on sports and fitness, while others focus on having more varied types of apps. Make sure to pick a model that’s compatible with your smartphone. Some models work with a variety of phones, but Apple Watches only work with iPhones, and Samsung smartwatches work best with that company’s phones.
BUYING ADVICE
What You’ll Pay
Not every model is water-resistant. Make sure yours is before jumping in the pool.
If you’re into fitness, go with a sports-focused smartwatch. Some dressier models have limited fitness features.
Expect to pay about $200 for a basic model and up to $650 for a fully featured one. For more buying advice, go to CR.org/smartwatches.
Tested products in performance order. Overall Score
! 0
2
$ 0
3
122
Apple Watch Series 4 (44mm) Aluminum case GPS + Cellular Apple Watch Series 4 (40mm) Stainless Steel case GPS + Cellular Apple Watch Series 4 (44mm) Aluminum case GPS
82
$530
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
82
$700
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
82
$400
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Readability in bright light Readability in low light Step count accuracy Heart-rate monitor accuracy Water resistance test
Rank
1
Ease of use
Recommended
! 0
Ease of pairing
Test Results
Ease of interaction
Price
Brand & Model
Test Results
80
$300
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
80
$200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
77
$400
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5
77
$330
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
$ 0
5
! 0
6
$ 0
7
Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) Aluminum case GPS + Cellular Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) Aluminum case GPS Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music LTE Samsung Galaxy Watch (42mm)
$ 0
8
Fitbit Ionic
76
$250
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
$ 0
Samsung Gear S3 9 Frontier Samsung Galaxy 10 Watch Active Fossil Venture HR 11 Gen 4
75
$300
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
73
$200
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
72
$260
4 0 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 5
12 Garmin Vivoactive 3
72
$270
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
13 Samsung Gear Sport 71
$280
4 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
71
$850
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
70
$395
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 5
70
$600
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
69
$450
4 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
14 15 16 17
Garmin fenix 5 Plus (47mm) Michael Kors Access Women’s Sofie HR Garmin fenix 5X Sapphire Garmin Forerunner 645 Music
HOW WE TEST: Ease of Use is a composite score of ease of interaction, pairing, connecting to charger, mobile compatibility, and readability of the display in bright light and low light. Ease of Interaction is the ease of accessing core functions, performing key tasks, such as accessing messages,
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
calendars, alarms, etc.; interacting with the device menu and app interface; taking activity measurements; reading results from the display; and responsiveness of touchscreen or other control interaction methods. Ease of Pairing is an assessment of the steps necessary for pairing the smartwatch with another device for
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
Ease of pairing
4
Ease of interaction
Rank
$ 0
Ease of use
Recommended
Readability in bright light Readability in low light Step count accuracy Heart-rate monitor accuracy Water resistance test
Price
the first time. Heart-Rate Monitor Accuracy measures how accurately the smart watch measured our testers’ actual heart rate. Step Count Accuracy measures how accurately the smartwatch counted our testers’ actual steps. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the results of all our tests.
123
SM A R T WAT CHE S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Streaming Media Binge-watching TV shows has become an all-American pastime. Streaming devices are an ideal solution for those who don’t have a smart TV, or who want better performance or services not available on their TV. What to Look For 4K With HDR. All the major streaming player brands now offer at least one 4K model that supports high dynamic range (HDR) content. WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) means you don’t have to manually select a network SSID or enter a password. Instead, it involves simply pressing one button on the router and another on the device to be securely connected.
BUYING ADVICE
Dual-Band WiFi. Newer models now support the 802.11ac standard, which has the potential to deliver stronger, faster signals, but only if your wireless router also supports it. Voice control. More models now let you search for and play content using voice commands.
We prefer devices with universal search, which can search across multiple services to find shows, without favoring one service over another.
What You’ll Pay Basic 1080p models now cost $30 to $40; expect to pay $40 to $80 or more for 4K models that support HDR.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/streamingmedia.
Tested products in performance order.
First time setup
Connectivity
Everyday use
Test Results
Picture quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Features
Overall Score
Brand & Model
4K STREAMING MEDIA DEVICES
! 0
1
Roku Ultra (2018)
83
$100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3
! 0
2
Amazon Fire TV Cube
82
$100
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
3
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
81
$50
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5
124
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
First time setup
Connectivity
Everyday use
Features
Picture quality
Test Results
Rank
Recommended
Price
4K STREAMING MEDIA DEVICES Continued
! 0
4
Google Chromecast Ultra
80
$70
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
! 0
5
Apple TV 4K (32GB)
77
$180
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
$ 0
6
Roku Streaming Stick +
77
$60
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
$ 0
7
Roku Premiere+ (2018)
76
$50
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
$ 0
8
Roku Premiere (2018)
72
$40
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
HD STREAMING MEDIA DEVICES
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
$ 0
4
Google Chromecast (3rd generation) Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote
76
$35
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4
74
$40
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
Roku Streaming Stick 2017
72
$40
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
Roku Express (2017)
69
$30
5 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
HOW WE TEST: Picture Quality includes image clarity, color accuracy, and contrast of streaming video. Features reflects the presence or absence of features, including
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
how many streaming services it can access. Everyday Use reflects how easy the device is to use on a daily basis. Connectivity reflects the type and amount of connections.
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
First-time Setup reflects how easy it is to set up the device. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the results of all our tests.
125
S T RE A MING MED I A
Overall Score
Brand & Model
QUI CK GUIDE
Tablets Lightweight and highly portable, tablets are made to be carried wherever you go. Most have 7- to 10-inch screens, but larger models are available as well.
What to Look For
What to Skip
A 10-inch screen for web surfing, video, and gaming; a 7-inch screen for portability; or an 11- or 12-inch screen and detachable keyboard for work (but watch the weight!). Excellent performance if you want to play more than simple games. The same operating system as your other devices if you want to sync across hardware. A rich variety of apps authorized by the OS maker.
A 4G model, unless you need “everywhere access” and will pay extra for it.
BUYING ADVICE
Look for a compatible keyboard if you’re planning to do a lot of typing.
What You’ll Pay At least $250 for a good 10-inch Android tablet with 32 gigabytes of storage and WiFi-only access. An equivalent iPad costs $330. Some smaller Android tablets that we rate Very Good start at less than $200.
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/tablets.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Results
Versatility
Photo and Video
Specific tasks
Convenience
Test Results
Display
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
Performance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
9-INCH SCREEN AND LARGER TABLETS
! 0
1
Apple iPad Pro 11 (4G, 64GB) - 2018
87
$950
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
! 0
2
Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (64GB) - 2018
86
$1,000
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
! 0
3
Apple iPad Pro 11 (64GB) - 2018
86
$800
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3
126
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Survey Results
Versatility
Photo and Video
Specific tasks
Convenience
Display
Test Results
Performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
TA BL E T S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
9-INCH SCREEN AND LARGER TABLETS Continued 4
Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (4G, 64GB) - 2018
85
$1,150
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
5
Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 (SM-T830), (64GB)
83
$550
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
6
Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 SM-T820 (32GB)
82
$520
5 0 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
7
Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 (SM-T835), (4G, 64GB)
82
$570
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4
! 0
8
Apple iPad 9.7 (4G, 32GB) - 2018
81
$400
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
! 0
9
Apple iPad Air (64GB) - 2019
81
$500
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
$ 0
Apple iPad 9.7 10 (32GB) - 2018
80
$200
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3
! 0
Samsung Galaxy 11 Tab S5e (64GB)
79
$400
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
$ 0
Samsung Galaxy 12 Tab A 2019
75
$230
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
! 0
Samsung Galaxy 13 Tab A 2019 (4G)
75
$280
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
$ 0
Samsung Galaxy Tab 14 A 10.1 SM-T580 (16GB)
75
$200
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
15 Lenovo Tab P10
73
$280
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
Google Pixel Slate 16 (Core i5, 128GB)
73
$880
3 0 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3
Amazon Fire HD 10 17 (32GB)
70
$150
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
Lenovo Tab M10 18 (32GB)
67
$200
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
Lenovo Tab 4 10 19 (TB-X304F) (16GB)
61
$150
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
Acer Iconia One 10 20 B3-A50-K4TY
54
$150
3 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
21 Walmart Onn
47
$80
− − 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3
! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
127
Survey Results
Versatility
Photo and Video
Specific tasks
Convenience
Test Results
Display
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
Performance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
8-INCH SCREEN AND SMALLER TABLETS
! 0
1
Apple iPad Mini (64GB) - 2019
82
$400
5 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
2
Amazon Fire 7 (16GB) - 2019
66
$50
5 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
3
Amazon Fire HD 8 2018 (16GB)
66
$80
5 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3
4
Lenovo Tab 4 8 (TB-8504F) (16GB, 2GB RAM)
66
$130
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4
5
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 SM-T280 (8GB)
64
$130
5 0 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
6
Amazon Fire Kids Edition (16GB)
60
$90
5 0 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3
HOW WE TEST: Performance rates the speed of actions and visual smoothness when running apps with complex graphics. Display Quality of the screen, including color, viewing angle, brightness and outdoor readability. Convenience rates the ease of using the buttons, keyboard, and touchscreen, or interacting with apps. Specific Tasks is based on the ease of performing a variety of scenarios, including reading books, playing media, and using email and the Web, as well as the quality of produced
128
photos and videos. Photo and Video Quality of the photos taken from the front and rear cameras, and videos taken from the rear (main) camera. Based on evaluations of items such as color accuracy, visual noise, and video sound quality, as viewed on and off the tablet. Features such as autofocus, flash, and available resolution are also taken into account. Versatility is the presence of useful features, such as ports, and quality of the build. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first three years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the tablet they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
T Vs
QUI CK GUIDE
TVs Most larger-sized sets are now 4K TVs with high dynamic range (HDR) capability. Most are also smart TVs with access to streaming online content.
BUYING ADVICE
dollars are fine, even for 4K. An extended warranty; TVs from major brands have been very reliable. A smart TV if you already own or prefer a streaming media player.
What to Look For A 4K set with decent HDR, which can display greater contrast and a wider range of colors, if you seek the latest tech and want to future-proof your purchase. A 1080p TV only if you’re looking for a smaller screen size, because there’s no longer a premium to get the higher 4K resolution.
Ask whether the retailer offers a 30-day price-match guarantee, which protects you if the price drops after you buy.
What You’ll Pay As little as $250 for a 55-inch 4K set; 65-inch 4K models now start as low as $500. But top-performing larger-sized models can still cost $2,000 or even more.
What to Skip Pricey HDMI cables; highspeed cables costing a few
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/tvs.
Tested products in performance order. Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
60-INCH AND LARGER TVs
! 0
1
Sony XBR-65A9G
90
$3,800
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5
! 0
2
LG OLED65C8PUA 89
$2,500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
3
LG OLED65C9PUA 89
$2,800
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
129
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
60-INCH AND LARGER TVs Continued
! 0
4
Sony XBR-65A8G
89
$3,500
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
5
LG OLED65B8PUA
88
$2,300
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
6
LG OLED65E9PUA
88
$3,800
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
7
LG OLED65C9AUA
88
$2,750
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
8
Samsung QN65Q90R
86
$2,500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
9
Sony XBR-65Z9F
86
$3,500
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
! 0
85
$2,000
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
84
$4,500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
Samsung 10 QN65Q80R Samsung 11 QN65Q900R Sony 12 XBR-65X900F
81
$1,500
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
13 LG 65SM9500PUA 80
$2,695
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
14 LG 65SM9000PUA 80
$1,300
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
80
$1,500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
Samsung 15 QN65Q70R Sony 16 XBR-65X950G
80
$1,800
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
17 LG 65SM8600AUA 78
$1,070
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
Samsung 18 QN65Q7DR
77
$1,500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
19 LG 65SM8600PUA 77
$1,200
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
76
$1,300
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
75
$1,050
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
75
$1,080
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
75
$1,300
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
! 0
20
! 0
21
! 0
22
! 0
23
130
Samsung QN65Q6DR Samsung UN65RU8000 Samsung UN65RU800D Samsung QN65Q60R
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Ultra HD performance
Test Results HD picture quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
T Vs
Overall Score
Brand & Model
60-INCH AND LARGER TVs Continued 74
$1,300
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
73
$2,200
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
$ 0
Sony 24 XBR-65X850G Samsung 25 QN75Q6DR Samsung 26 UN65RU7300
73
$750
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
27 LG 65UK6500AUA
72
$600
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
$ 0
28
72
$600
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
! 0
29
72
$1,000
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
$ 0
30
72
$700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
31
Samsung UN65NU6900 Sony XBR-65X800G Samsung UN65RU7100 Samsung UN65RU7200
71
$700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
! 0
32 LG 70UM7370PUA
71
$840
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
! 0
Samsung 33 UN75RU710D
70
$1,280
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
34 LG 65UM7300PUA 70
$700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
69
$1,300
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
36 LG 65UM7300AUE 69
$680
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
Samsung 37 UN65NU6950
69
$600
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
38 TCL 65R615
69
$730
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
39 Vizio PX65-G1
68
$2,000
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
40 LG 60UK6090PUA
68
$550
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
41 LG 75UK6190PUB
67
$1,000
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
42 TCL 65S517
65
$600
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
43 TCL 75S425
64
$1,000
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
! 0 ! 0
Samsung 35 UN75RU7200
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
131
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
60-INCH AND LARGER TVs Continued 44 Vizio P759-G1
64
$2,000
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
45 Vizio P659-G1
63
$1,250
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
46 Vizio P75-F1
63
$1,600
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
47 Vizio M658-G1
60
$900
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
48 Vizio V655-G9
59
$550
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
49 Vizio M657-G0
57
$800
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
50 Vizio V705-G3
55
$800
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
51 Philips 65PFL5604
54
$490
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3
52 Vizio V605-G3
54
$500
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
53 Hisense 65R7E1
53
$550
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
54 Hisense 65R6E1
53
$450
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4
NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
55- TO 59-INCH TVs
! 0
1
Sony XBR-55A9G
90
$2,800
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5
! 0
2
LG OLED55B9PUA
87
$1,595
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
3
LG OLED55C9AUA 87
$1,750
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
4
LG OLED55B8PUA
87
$1,300
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
! 0
5
LG OLED55C9PUA 86
$1,800
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
6
Samsung QN55Q80R
84
$1,600
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
7
LG 55SM9000PUA
80
$1,100
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
8
Sony XBR-55X900F
79
$1,200
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0 132
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Ultra HD performance
Test Results HD picture quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
T Vs
Overall Score
Brand & Model
55- TO 59-INCH TVs Continued 79
$1,300
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
78
$1,200
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
Sony XBR-55X950G Samsung 10 QN55Q7DR Samsung 11 QN55Q70R
77
$1,200
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
12 LG 55SM8100AUA
77
$750
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
! 0
13 LG 55SM8600PUA
76
$850
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
76
$1,000
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
! 0
Samsung 14 QN55Q60R Samsung 15 QN55Q6DR
75
$1,000
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5
$ 0
16 LG 55SK8000AUB
75
$600
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 5
! 0
17
75
$750
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
$ 0
18
74
$550
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
! 0
19
74
$930
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
20
73
$800
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
21
73
$730
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
$ 0
22
73
$550
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
23
72
$500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
24
72
$500
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
! 0
25
Samsung UN55RU8000 Samsung UN58RU7100 Sony XBR-55X850G Sony XBR-55X800E Samsung UN55RU800D Samsung UN55RU7300 Samsung UN55RU7100 Samsung UN55RU7200 Skyworth 55XA8000
72
$1,300
− − 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4
$ 0
26 LG 55UM7300PUA
72
$440
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
$ 0
27 LG 55UK6500AUA
70
$400
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4
$ 0
Samsung 28 UN55NU6900
70
$430
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4
2
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
! 0 ! 0
1
9
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
133
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
55- TO 59-INCH TVs Continued
$ 0
29 LG 55UM7300AUE
70
$400
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
$ 0
Samsung 30 UN58RU710D Samsung 31 UN55NU6950
70
$530
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
70
$430
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
32 TCL 55R617
69
$530
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
33 TCL 55R615
69
$500
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
34 TCL 55S517
63
$400
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
35 TCL 55S515
62
$380
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
Sharp 36 LC-55Q7000U Sharp 37 LC-55LBU711U
61
$450
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4
61
$450
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
38 Vizio M558-G1
60
$700
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
39 Hisense 55H8F
59
$450
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5
40 Vizio M557-G0
58
$600
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
41 Vizio M55-F0
58
$550
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
42 Vizio V555-G1
57
$400
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
43 Philips 55PFL5703
57
$350
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3
44 Vizio V556-G1
56
$430
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
Insignia 45 NS-55D510NA19
56
$250
3 0 0 2 0 4
46 Philips 55PFL5604
56
$400
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3
47 Hitachi 55R80
54
$350
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 5
48 Hisense 55R7E
54
$300
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
$ 0
134
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA
NA NA
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 2
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Ultra HD performance
Test Results HD picture quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
T Vs
Overall Score
Brand & Model
55- TO 59-INCH TVs Continued 49 Hisense 55R6E
53
$300
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
50 Hitachi 58C61
52
$330
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
Insignia 51 NS-55D420NA20
51
$330
3 0 0 2 0 4
52 Polaroid 55T7U
47
$270
− − 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3
77
$1,000
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
77
$1,000
4 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5
75
$800
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
75
$1,000
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
74
$800
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
73
$400
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
73
$380
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 5
73
$400
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4
72
$650
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5
NA
1 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
46- TO 52-INCH TVs Samsung QN49Q70R Sony XBR-49X900F Samsung QN49Q6DR Samsung QN49Q7DR Samsung QN49Q60R Samsung UN50RU7200 Samsung UN50RU710D Samsung UN50RU7100 Samsung UN49RU8000
! 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
! 0
4
! 0
5
$ 0
6
$ 0
7
$ 0
8
! 0
9
! 0
10 LG 49SM8600PUA
72
$650
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
$ 0
11 LG 50UM7300PUA 71
$360
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5
$ 0
12 LG 50UM7300AUE
70
$330
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
Sony 13 XBR-49X800G Samsung 14 UN50NU6900 Sony 15 KDL-48W650D
69
$700
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
69
$330
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 4
68
$450
4 0 0 5 0 5
2
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
$ 0 $ 0 1
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 135
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
46- TO 52-INCH TVs Continued
$ 0
136
Samsung 16 UN50NU6950
67
$330
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
17 TCL 50S421
63
$280
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
18 TCL 50S423
63
$270
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
Toshiba 19 49LF421U19
62
$280
3 0 0 3 0 4
20 TCL 49S517
62
$320
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
Toshiba 21 50LF711U20
61
$380
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
22 TCL 49S515
61
$300
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4
Insignia 23 NS-50D510NA19 Sharp 24 LC-50LB601U Sharp 25 LC-50LBU711U
61
$280
3 0 0 2 0 4
NA NA
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 2
60
$330
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA NA
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4
59
$400
3 0 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
26 Hisense 50H8F
59
$380
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5
27 Vizio M507-G1
57
$470
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
28 Philips 50PFL5604 57
$300
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3
Insignia 29 NS-50DF710NA19
56
$270
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
30 Hisense 50R7E
55
$270
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
31 TCL 49S405
54
$300
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5
Magnavox 32 50MV349R Element 33 E4SC5018RKU
48
$270
3 0 0 1 0 3
46
$200
2 0 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5
34 Hitachi 50C61
45
$250
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
NA NA
NA NA
NA
4 0 0 3 0 2 0 4
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Ultra HD performance
Test Results HD picture quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
T Vs
Overall Score
Brand & Model
39- TO 43-INCH TVs Sony XBR-43X800G Samsung UN43LS03NA Samsung UN43RU7200 Samsung QN43Q6DR
72
$600
4 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
68
$1,250
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
67
$330
3 0 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5
66
$700
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
5
LG 43UK6500AUA
65
$290
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4
$ 0
6
Samsung UN43NU6900
64
$280
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
$ 0
7
LG 43UM7300PUA
64
$300
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5
! 0
8
Samsung UN43RU7100
64
$330
3 0 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
LG 43LM5700PUA
62
$250
3 0 0 5 0 4
10 TCL 43S517
61
$260
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
11 TCL 43S421
61
$220
3 0 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
12 LG 43LM5000PUA
60
$210
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 2
Toshiba 13 43LF421U19
60
$270
3 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 4
14 TCL 43S425
60
$220
3 0 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
15 Vizio V405-G9
58
$240
2 0 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
16 Vizio V436-G1
57
$300
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
Toshiba 17 43LF621U19 Insignia 18 NS-43D420NA20
57
$250
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
57
$200
3 0 0 2 0 4
19 Vizio V435-G0
57
$280
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
20 Philips 43PFL5703 57
$230
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3
! 0
1
! 0
2
$ 0
3
! 0
4
$ 0
9
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
NA
1 0 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
137
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
39- TO 43-INCH TVs Continued 21 Philips 43PFL5604 56
$270
3 0 0 2 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
Insignia 22 NS-43DF710NA19
56
$270
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
23 Vizio D40F-G9
56
$200
2 0 0 3 0 5
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
24 TCL 43S325
54
$200
3 0 0 4 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
25 TCL 43S405
53
$220
3 0 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 5
Hisense 26 43H4030F
53
$230
2 0 0 3 0 3
27 Hisense 43R7E
53
$220
2 0 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4
28 RCA RTR4360
51
$200
2 0 0 1 0 4
NA NA
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
Insignia 29 NS-39D310NA19
50
$130
3 0 0 2 0 3
NA NA
3 0 0 2 0 2 0 2
30 RCA RTU4300
49
$160
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 3
Magnavox 31 40ME338V
48
$170
3 0 0 1 0 4
32 Hitachi 43C61
47
$200
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 3
Element 33 ELST4316S
47
$200
2 0 0 1 0 4
Westinghouse 34 WG43UX4100
42
$280
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4
Westinghouse 35 WD39HB2108
41
$180
2 0 0 1 0 4
NA NA
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
NA
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 2
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 2 0 3
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 3
32-INCH TVs
! 0
1
Samsung UN32N5300
65
$250
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA
! 0
2
LG 32LM620BPUA
62
$200
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
! 0
3
LG 32LM570BPUA
62
$170
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA
138
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
2 0 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
1 0 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Ultra HD performance
Test Results HD picture quality
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
T Vs
Overall Score
Brand & Model
32-INCH TVs Continued 4
Samsung UN32J4000
62
$170
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 2 0 2
! 0
5
Samsung UN32M4500
61
$180
3 0 0 5 0 5
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
$ 0
6
Toshiba 32LF221U19
60
$140
3 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 4
$ 0
7
LG 32LM500BPUA
59
$130
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
8
Sanyo FW32R19F
56
$130
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
9
Insignia NS-32DF310NA19
56
$170
3 0 0 2 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 4
10 TCL 32S327
54
$150
3 0 0 4 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
11 Hisense 32H5590F
54
$130
2 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
12 Vizio D32h-F1
53
$140
2 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 1 0 4
Toshiba 13 32L310U20
52
$130
3 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 2
14 Vizio D32h-G9
52
$140
2 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
Insignia 15 NS-32D220NA20
51
$100
3 0 0 2 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 3 0 3 0 2
16 Philips 32PFL4664
50
$130
3 0 0 2 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
17 JVC LT32MAW388
49
$130
− − 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 2 0 4
18 Hisense 32H4030F 47
$130
2 0 0 3 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
Element 19 ELEFW328C
$100
2 0 0 1 0 3
NA NA
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 2
! 0
35
29-INCH AND SMALLER TVs
$ 0
1
LG 28LM400B-PU
61
$115
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
! 0
2
LG 24LM520S-WU
58
$150
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
139
Survey Results
Versatility
Motion blur
Sound quality
Viewing angle
HDR
Test Results
Ultra HD performance
Predicted reliability Owner satisfaction
Rank
Recommended
Price
HD picture quality
Overall Score
Brand & Model
29-INCH AND SMALLER TVs Continued
$ 0
3
LG 24LF454B
57
$100
3 0 0 5 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 1
$ 0
4
Insignia NS-24D310NA19
57
$90
3 0 0 2 0 4
NA NA
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 2
5
Vizio D24h-G9
50
$120
2 0 0 3 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 2 0 3 0 4
6
Onn ONA24HB19E02
49
$90
− − 0 4
NA NA
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 2
HOW WE TEST: HD Picture Quality assesses detail, color accuracy, and contrast using signals from special test patterns, a Blu-ray player, a cable box, or other high-quality video playback device. All signals are routed through an HDMI input. Ultra HD Performance, which includes HDR performance, evaluates a model’s ability to deliver the best UHD experience from various 4K sources. Viewing Angle evaluates picture quality for clarity and color accuracy at various horizontal and vertical viewing angles.
140
Sound Quality is measured from the set’s built-in speakers using test equipment, with additional subjective testing by a listening panel. Motion Blur evaluates how well the display can present a blurfree image during motion scenes. Versatility indicates features that increase a TV’s utilities or capabilities. These include access to the internet, UHD capabilites, number of HDMI and USB inputs, and other useful features. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score combines test results with survey data
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Predicted reliability estimates the likelihood that newly purchased models from a given brand will develop problems or break within the first five years. Owner satisfaction reflects the proportion of CR members who are extremely likely to recommend the TV they bought. In cases where we have insufficient survey data to provide a brand-level rating, indicated by a gray dash ( ), we assume the model has average reliability and satisfaction.
−
W IREL E S S SP E A K ER S
QUI CK GUIDE
Wireless Speakers Wireless speakers use Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity to let you stream your favorite tunes without a collection of separate components or a tangle of cables.
What to Look For A home model, which usually requires AC power and often connects to your home network via a robust WiFi connection, can usually fill a decent-size room with sound without distorting. A portable mode with a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth pairing to your smartphone, ideal for streaming music while you’re on the go. A weatherproof portable model is great for outdoor
BUYING ADVICE
use, and can travel from the deck to the beach. Sound quality separates top speakers from lesser models; that’s why our testers weigh it most heavily in our ratings. A USB port will let you charge a phone or tablet.
If you buy online, check the return policy so that you can exchange it if you’re not happy with the sound quality.
What to Skip Portable models with limited battery life that will restrict their use.
What You’ll Pay
For more buying advice, go to CR.org/wirelessspeakers.
Prices range from less than $100 to more than $400.
Tested products in performance order. Features Adjustable tone settings Optional multi-room sharing Updatable software/firmware
Versatility
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Ease of use
Overall Score
Brand & Model
HOME
$ 0
1
74
Edifier S1000DB
$350
5 0 0 4 0 3
0
NA 0
0
0
0
! 0
2
Denon Heos 7 HS2
74
$400
4 0 0 4 0 5
0
! 0
3
Sonos Play:5 (2015)
73
$500
4 0 0 3 0 4
0
$ 0
4
Edifier R2000DB
73
$250
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
141
Features Adjustable tone settings Optional multi-room sharing Updatable software/firmware
Versatility
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Ease of use
Overall Score
Brand & Model
HOME Continued
! 0
5
Devialet New Phantom 71
$1,690
4 0 0 4 0 4
! 0
6
Denon HEOS 5 HS2
69
$400
4 0 0 3 0 4
! 0
7
Wren Sound V5US
64
$400
$ 0
8
Sonos Play:1
63
! 0
9
Master & Dynamic MA770
$ 0
10
! 0 $ 0 $ 0
0
0
0
0
0
4 0 0 4 0 4
0
0
0
$150
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
0
0
62
$1,800
4 0 0 4 0 4
0
0
Paradigm PW 600
61
$270
4 0 0 3 0 4
0
0
11
MartinLogan Crescendo X
61
$1,000
4 0 0 3 0 5
0
0
0
12
Fluance Fi50
61
$200
4 0 0 4 0 3
0
NA
13
Edifier E30 Spinnaker Bluetooth Speaker System
61
$250
4 0 0 3 0 3
14
Como Audio Solo
60
$300
3 0 0 5 0 5
15
Denon HEOS 1 HS2
60
$180
16
Bluesound Pulse Mini
60
17
Bose SoundTouch 20 Series III WiFi
18
NA
0
0
0
0
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
0
0
$500
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
0
0
60
$350
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
0
Naim Mu-So QB
60
$800
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
0
Klipsch Heritage Wireless The Three House of Marley One Foundation
60
$500
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
0
59
$785
3 0 0 3 0 5
0
0
21
Sony SRS-ZR7
58
$300
3 0 0 3 0 5
0
0
0
22
Marshall Stanmore
58
$250
3 0 0 5 0 3
0
23
Edifier Luna (e25)
58
$200
4 0 0 3 0 3
24
Audioengine HD3
56
$350
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA
25
Definitive Technology W7
54
$100
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
19 20
142
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
Features Adjustable tone settings Optional multi-room sharing Updatable software/firmware
Versatility
Ease of use
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
HOME Continued 26
Bose SoundTouch 10
54
$200
3 0 0 4 0 4
27
Tivoli Audio Sphera
45
$250
28
Audioengine B2
45
JLab Audio Block Party Monster SuperStar Monster Blaster
0
0
0
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
0
$200
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA
60
$150
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
60
$220
3 0 0 4 0 4
0 0
PORTABLE
$ 0
1
! 0
2
! 0
3
Marshall Kilburn
60
$200
3 0 0 5 0 3
! 0
4
JBL Boombox
60
$450
3 0 0 4 0 3
$ 0
5
Creative iRoar Go
60
$130
3 0 0 4 0 4
$ 0
6
JBL Pulse 3
60
$200
3 0 0 5 0 3
Bose SoundLink Color II Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 5
60
$130
3 0 0 4 0 3
59
$155
3 0 0 4 0 3
Ion Tailgater Sport
59
$100
3 0 0 5 0 4
$220
3 0 0 4 0 3
$ 0
7
$ 0
8
$ 0
9
0
NA NA
0
0 0
NA
0 0
NA
0
! 0
10
JBL Xtreme 2
59
! 0
11
Sony SRS-XB41
58
$150
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
$ 0
12
Marshall Stockwell
58
$150
3 0 0 5 0 4
0
! 0
13
Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 4
58
$180
3 0 0 4 0 3
NA
0
$ 0
14
JBL Charge 4
58
$150
3 0 0 4 0 3
NA
0
$ 0
15
Sony SRS-XB31
58
$150
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
$ 0
16
57
$110
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
! 0
17
57
$300
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
! 0
18
Creative Sound Blaster Roar Pro Bose Soundlink Revolve+ Bose Soundlink Revolve
57
$200
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
RECOMMENDED
CR BEST BUY
0 0
NA
0
143
W IREL E S S SP E A K ER S
Overall Score
Brand & Model
Features Adjustable tone settings Optional multi-room sharing Updatable software/firmware
Versatility
Test Results
Sound quality
Rank
Recommended
Price
Ease of use
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PORTABLE Continued
$ 0
19
JBL by Harman Flip 4
57
$100
3 0 0 4 0 3
! 0
20
JBL Control X Wireless
56
$400
3 0 0 4 0 3
$ 0
21
Ultimate Ears Megaboom
56
$110
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
NA
0
! 0
22
Libratone Zipp
56
$300
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
0
0
! 0
23
Kicker Bullfrog Jump
56
$330
3 0 0 4 0 4
0
NA
! 0
24
Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3
55
$170
3 0 0 3 0 3
0
$ 0
25
KEF Muo
53
$150
3 0 0 4 0 3
26
Vizio Crave 360 (SP50-D5)
53
$140
3 0 0 2 0 4
27
JBL Xtreme
52
$180
28
Edifier MP700
52
29
Ultimate Ears Boom 3
30
JBL Charge 3
! 0
NA
0
NA 0
0
0
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA
0
$100
3 0 0 3 0 3
NA
51
$150
3 0 0 3 0 3
51
$100
3 0 0 3 0 3
0
NA
0
NA
31
Kicker Bullfrog BF100
48
$125
3 0 0 4 0 4
32
Beats by Dr. Dre Pill+
48
$130
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
33
Bose Soundlink Micro
47
$100
3 0 0 4 0 3
0
34
Altec Lansing Super LifeJacket
46
$150
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
35
Libratone ONE Click
46
$200
3 0 0 3 0 4
0
36
Fugoo Style XL
45
$170
3 0 0 3 0 3
0
37
Bowers & Wilkins T7
43
$350
3 0 0 3 0 3
0
HOW WE TEST: Sound Quality measures tonal accuracy and ability to reproduce fine sonic
144
0
detail. Ease of Use refers to setup and use of controls. Versatility is based on useful
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0
NA
0
0
features. Price is approximate retail. Overall Score is based on the results of all our tests.
168 Rating the 2020 Models
183 Used Cars: The Most Reliable Models & the Ones to Avoid
192 Detailed Used-Car Reliability 212 Tire Ratings
Autos
146 Highs and Lows of the 2020 Models
BUYING GUIDE 2019 CONSUMER REPORTS
145
The Highs and Lows of the 2020 Models THIS OVERVIEW OF the highs and lows of all the major 2020 models can start you on your search for a new car, minivan, SUV, or pickup truck. Each listing includes the positive and negative attributes for the model. A majority of the highs and lows are based on our experiences with tested vehicles, and the findings are applicable to the 2020 modelyear vehicles. In some cases, there are models that we haven’t put through our formal testing. But we spent time with them by renting a version from the manufacturer and evaluating it at our Auto Test Center. After reading the overviews, turn to our vehicle ratings (starting on page 168) to see how individual models
146
rank according to their Overall Score, which accounts for a vehicle’s performance in our road tests, results from our reliability and owner satisfaction surveys, the availability of a frontal crash-prevention system— forward-collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB), pedestrian detection—and, if applicable, safety tests done by the government and outside agencies. The ratings include Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability rating, an indication of how problematic we expect a model is likely to be. It’s based on our latest Annual Auto Survey, where we asked owners about any serious problems they had with their vehicles in the previous 12 months. Turn to page 192 for more information on reliability.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
Lows
Acura ILX Premium
Standard safety features
Stiff ride, loud cabin, access, controls, overpriced for what you get
Acura MDX Tech
Fit and finish, easy third-row access, rear seat, headlights
Reliability, controls, transmission, agility, suspension noise, rear visibility
Acura RDX Tech
Handling, acceleration, stopping distances, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability, controls, gear selector, engine noise, brake pedal feel
Acura RLX Tech
Spacious and plush interior, seat comfort, braking
Ride, agility, complicated controls, suspension noise
Acura TLX 2.4L
Powertrain, braking
Annoying audio controls, lacks panache
Acura TLX SH-AWD
Acceleration, braking
Transmission; annoying controls, including gear selector; lacks panache
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti
Handling, style, character
Controls, visibility, tight rear seat, limited seat adjustments, touchy brake pedal
Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti (AWD)
Agility, steering, character
Reliability, controls, rear seat, limited driver’s seat adjustments
Audi A3 Premium
Handling, feels solid, braking
Rear seat, some controls, headlights
Audi A4 Premium Plus
Ride, handling, quietness, transmission, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Controls, including gear selector, take getting used to; tight rear seat
Audi A6
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Audi A8 3.0T
Ride, quietness, transmission, interior room, seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls require a learning curve, scant in-cabin storage
Audi E-Tron Premium Plus
Ride, acceleration, fit and finish, no tailpipe emissions, quietness, low running costs
Long charging times, limited range
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
147
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Audi Q3
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Audi Q5 Premium Plus
Ride, quietness, seat comfort
Gear selector, controls require a learning curve
Audi Q7 Premium Plus
Powertrain, quietness, handling, braking, high-tech features, luxury interior, towing capacity
Controls and gear selector take getting used to, rear visibility
Audi TT 2.0T
Agility, braking, front-seat comfort, fit and finish, hatchback versatility, high-tech features
Controls take getting used to, ride, access, tiny rear seat
BMW 330i xDrive
Handling, acceleration, braking, transmission, fuel economy, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls, overzealous lane keeping assist
BMW 530i xDrive
Ride, quietness, transmission, seat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability, gear selector
BMW 750i xDrive
Ride, quietness, powertrain, seat comfort, room, fit and finish
Narrow trunk; controls, including gear selector
BMW i3 Giga Rex
Agility, ability to extend EV range with small gas engine
Short range, seats only four, rearseat access, cargo space, stingy instrumentation, gear selector
BMW M240i
Acceleration, handling, braking, front-seat comfort, quietness, reliability
Rear-seat room, some controls
BMW X1 xDrive28i
Fuel economy, transmission, braking
Reliability, road noise, narrow front seats, stiff ride, blind spot warning unavailable
BMW X2 xDrive28i
Handling, responsive engine and transmission, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Reliability, visibility, ride, road noise, blind spot warning unavailable
BMW X3 xDrive30i
Handling, braking, transmission, quietness, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Unintuitive gear selector
BMW X4
Handling, braking, transmission, front-seat comfort
Coupelike profile sacrifices utility
BMW X5 xDrive40i
Ride, quietness, acceleration, transmission, braking, seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls require a steep learning curve
148
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
BMW X6
Handling, luxurious interior
Stiff ride, coupelike profile sacrifices utility, visibility
BMW X7 xDrive40i
Ride, quietness, acceleration, transmission, seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls require a steep learning curve
BMW Z4 sDrive30i
Handling, braking, acceleration, seat comfort, fit and finish, quick top operation
Ride, top-up visibility, controls, overzealous lane keeping assist
Buick Enclave Premium
Ride, braking, quietness, interior room, powertrain, infotainment system
Reliability, confusing gear selector, fuel economy, cheap manual sunroof shade, no standard AEB
Buick Encore Preferred II
Ride, quietness, braking, maneuverability
Acceleration, driving position, narrow cabin, rear visibility, no standard AEB
Buick Envision Premium
Simple controls, easy access
Lacks agility, unsettled ride, low dash vents
Buick Regal Essence (2.0T, AWD)
Ride, powertrain, braking, controls, front-seat comfort, hatchback versatility
Interior ambience
Cadillac CT4
Haven’t evaluated new model yet
Cadillac CT5
Haven’t evaluated new model yet
Cadillac CT6 Luxury (3.6, AWD)
Agility, ride, braking, quietness, seat comfort, interior room, fit and finish
Reliability, controls, low dash vents, scant in-cabin storage
Cadillac Escalade Premium
Quietness, fit and finish, frontseat comfort, towing capacity, headlights
Reliability, stiff ride, handling, braking, fuel economy, unintuitive infotainment system, tiny thirdrow seat, no standard AEB
Cadillac XT4 Premium Luxury
Handling, transmission, braking, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Engine noise, ride
Cadillac XT5 Luxury
Plush interior, seat comfort, quietness
Reliability, stiff ride, unintuitive gear selector, visibility
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
149
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Cadillac XT6 Premium Luxury
Ride, quietness, transmission
Fuel economy, missing luxury features
Chevrolet Blazer Leather (V6)
Acceleration, braking, transmission, quietness, controls
Visibility, low dash vents
Chevrolet Bolt Premier
Long range for an electric car, acceleration, agility, quietness
Charging times, brake pedal feel, ride, seat comfort, gear selector
Chevrolet Camaro 2SS (V8)
Acceleration, handling, braking, styling
Reliability, visibility, tight interior, low dash vents, no AEB offered
Chevrolet Colorado LT (diesel)
Maneuverability, towing and payload capacities, fuel economy, damped tailgate
Reliability, ride, uncomfortable seats and driving position, no AEB offered
Chevrolet Colorado LT (V6)
Maneuverability, towing and payload capacities, damped tailgate
Reliability, ride, uncomfortable seats and driving position, no AEB offered
Chevrolet Corvette
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Chevrolet Equinox LT (1.5T)
Interior room, ride, quietness, controls, infotainment system
So-so acceleration, interior fit and finish
Chevrolet Impala Premier (V6)
Ride, handling, braking, quietness, spacious cabin and trunk
Rear visibility
Chevrolet Malibu 1LT (1.5T)
Ride, quietness, controls
Reliability, raspy 1.5-liter turbo, front-seat comfort, so-so visibility
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Fuel economy, ride, quietness, controls
Reliability, front-seat comfort, so-so visibility
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (5.3L V8)
Interior room, deep bed, quietness
Ride, step-in height
Chevrolet Sonic LT (1.8L)
Braking, trunk, quick and quiet for class
Darty steering, narrow driving position, seat comfort, no AEB offered
150
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Chevrolet Spark 1LT
Easy to park, braking, fuel economy
Acceleration, ride, noise, seat comfort, driving position
Chevrolet Suburban Premier
Utility, quietness, fit and finish, easy-to-use infotainment system, cargo and towing capacities
Step-in height, maneuverability, feels underpowered, fuel economy
Chevrolet Tahoe LT
Quietness, fit and finish, easy-touse infotainment system, cargo and towing capacities
Handling, stiff ride, feels underpowered, step-in height, fuel economy
Chevrolet Traverse Premier (V6)
Ride, roominess, braking, quietness, controls, access
Reliability, advanced safety features only on pricier trims, cheap manual sunroof shade
Chevrolet Trax LT
Easy to park, decent room within a small footprint
Reliability, acceleration, ride, engine noise, rear visibility, front seats, fussy touch-screen radio, no AEB offered
Chrysler 300 C (V8)
Acceleration, transmission, ride, quietness, seat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability
Chrysler 300 Limited (V6)
Acceleration, transmission, ride, quietness, seat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Platinum
Interior space, ride, quietness, Uconnect infotainment system, access, fuel economy
Reliability, Hybrid loses Stow ‘n Go seating/cargo flexibility
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L
Interior space and flexibility, ride, quietness, Uconnect infotainment system, access
Reliability, coarse-sounding engine
Dodge Challenger R/T Plus (V8)
Braking, exhaust sound, infotainment system, habitable rear seat, brawn
Ride, noise, visibility, no AEB offered
Dodge Charger R/T Plus (V8)
V8 sound and power, transmission, easy-to-use infotainment system
Visibility, access, reliability
Dodge Charger SXT (V6)
Transmission, quietness, ride, interior room, feature content
Visibility, access, reliability
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
151
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Dodge Durango GT (V6)
Ride, quietness, transmission, interior space, access, front-seat comfort, usable third-row seat, towing capacity
Reliability, rear visibility, maneuverability, fuel economy
Dodge Grand Caravan SXT
Ride, quietness, foldaway secondrow seats, cargo flexibility
Poor IIHS small-overlap crashtest results, fuel economy, cornering limits, unrefined transmission, radio controls
Fiat 124 Spider Lusso
Agility, manual shifter, fuel economy, easy manual top
Ride, noise, tight quarters, access, cumbersome infotainment system, no AEB offered
Fiat 500L
Roomy interior, handy size, access
Reliability, poor IIHS small-overlap crash-test results, stiff ride, touchy brake pedal, front seats, driving position, no AEB offered
Fiat 500X Easy
Maneuverability, upscale features
Reliability, ride, transmission, noise, idle vibration, touchy brake pedal, visibility, front-seat comfort
Ford EcoSport SES (2.0L)
Handling agility, easy controls, access
Ride, noise, acceleration, cargo space, transmission, no AEB offered
Ford Edge SEL (2.0 EcoBoost)
Quietness, handling, braking, interior room
Driving position
Ford Escape
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Ford Expedition MAX Limited
Quietness, acceleration, controls, interior room
Ford Explorer
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Ford F-150 XLT (2.7 V6 EcoBoost)
Quiet cabin, acceleration, towing and payload capacities, lots of clever features
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Ride, handling, fuel economy
Jittery ride, lackluster handling, braking
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Ford Fusion Hybrid SE
Fuel economy, agility, ride, quietness, fun to drive, powertrain
Reliability, visibility, touchy brakes, rear seat, small trunk opening
Ford Fusion SE (1.5T)
Agility, ride, quietness, fun to drive, braking
Reliability, visibility, rear seat, small trunk opening
Ford Fusion Titanium (2.0T)
Agility, ride, quietness, fun to drive, braking
Reliability, visibility, rear seat, small trunk opening
Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8)
Handling, acceleration, braking, interior details, exhaust sound
Reliability, fuel economy, rear seat, ride
Ford Mustang Premium (2.3 EcoBoost)
Handling, braking, interior details
Reliability, rear seat, noise, raspy engine sound
Ford Ranger XLT
Relatively fuel efficient, maneuverable size
Ride, controls, high step-in
Genesis G70 Elite (2.0T, AWD)
Handling, controls, fit and finish
Tight quarters, gear selector, stopping distance
Genesis G80 3.8 (AWD)
Ride, braking, quietness, slick powertrain, fit and finish
Gear selector
Genesis G90 Premium (3.3T, AWD)
Powertrain, ride, quietness, interior room
Fuel economy, unintuitive gear selector, low dash vents
GMC Acadia Denali
Quietness, ride, rear-seat room, controls, easy-to-use infotainment system
Reliability, fuel economy, missing some common features
GMC Canyon SLE (diesel)
Maneuverability, towing and payload capacities, fuel economy, damped tailgate
Reliability, ride, uncomfortable seats and driving position, no AEB offered
GMC Canyon SLE (V6)
Maneuverability, towing and payload capacities, damped tailgate
Reliability, ride, uncomfortable seats and driving position, no AEB offered
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Make & Model
Highs
Lows
GMC Sierra 1500 SLE (5.3L V8)
Interior room, deep bed, quietness
Ride, step-in height
GMC Terrain SLE (2.0T)
Acceleration, braking
Loud cabin, stiff ride, agility, visibility, fit and finish, unintuitive gear selector
GMC Yukon SLT
Quietness, fit and finish, easy-touse infotainment system, cargo and towing capacities
Handling, stiff ride, feels underpowered, step-in height, fuel economy
GMC Yukon XL SLT
Utility, quietness, fit and finish, easy-to-use infotainment system, cargo and towing capacities
Handling, stiff ride, step-in height, maneuverability, feels underpowered, fuel economy
Honda Accord EX (1.5T)
Ride, handling, fuel economy, controls
Low stance hurts access
Honda Accord Hybrid EX
Fuel economy, ride, trunk space
Low stance hurts access, unintuitive gear selector
Honda Civic EX-T
Fuel economy, ride, handling, interior storage
Awkward access, front-seat comfort, complicated infotainment for EX and higher trims
Honda Civic LX
Fuel economy, ride, handling, interior storage
Awkward access, front-seat comfort
Honda Civic Si
Handling, braking, fuel economy, value
Ride, controls, access
Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
Acts as an EV for short distances, ride, interior room
Reliability, clumsy handling, front-seat comfort, confusing controls, small gas tank for long trips
Honda CR-V EX (1.5T)
Fuel economy, roomy interior, access
Cumbersome infotainment system on EX and higher trims
Honda Fit EX
Fuel economy, interior room, versatility, handling, access, reliability
Ride, noise, confusing uplevel audio system
Honda HR-V LX
Fuel economy, roomy interior, storage, secure handling
Ride, noise, acceleration, frontseat comfort, rear door handles
154
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
Lows
Honda Insight EX
Fuel economy, ride
Gear selector, controls, front-seat comfort, low stance hurts access
Honda Odyssey EX-L
Ride, quietness, interior room and flexibility, kid-friendly tech
Reliability, unintuitive gear selector
Honda Passport EX-L
Acceleration, interior room, quietness, standard advanced safety features
Gear selector, ride
Honda Pilot EX-L
Roomy interior, visibility, access, smooth powertrain
Clumsy handling, controls, 9-speed automatic with push-button gear selector on high-end versions
Honda Ridgeline RTL
Ride, quietness, clever in-bed storage and dual-mode tailgate, fuel economy
Complex optional radio, low towing capacity, rear access, shallow bed
Hyundai Accent SEL
Controls, fuel economy, braking
Stiff ride, loud cabin, seat comfort, interior room
Hyundai Elantra GT (2.0L)
Handling, braking, transmission, controls, hatchback versatility
Ride, noise
Hyundai Elantra SEL
Relatively roomy, easy controls, fuel economy, long warranty
Engine noise, ride, front-seat comfort
Hyundai Ioniq SEL
Fuel economy, controls, cargo versatility, long warranty
Braking, agility, hesitation off the line
Hyundai Kona EV Limited
Long range for an electric car, acceleration, agility, low running costs, no emissions
Charging times, gear selector
Hyundai Kona SEL (2.0L)
Agility, braking, controls, fuel economy
Ride, noise, acceleration
Hyundai Palisade SEL
Powertrain, interior room, access
Agility, gear selector
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Hyundai Santa Fe Limited (2.0T)
Handling, controls, rear-seat room
Hyundai Sonata
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Hyundai Tucson SE (2.0L)
Room, agility, braking, long warranty
Reliability, acceleration, engine noise
Hyundai Tucson SEL (2.4L)
Controls, braking
Reliability, humdrum interior, fuel economy for class
Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-spec
Handling, braking, manual shifter, controls
Ride, noise, visibility
Hyundai Venue
Haven’t evaluated new model yet
Infiniti Q50 3.0t Luxe (AWD)
Acceleration, agility, braking, visibility
Cumbersome infotainment system, small trunk
Infiniti Q70 Luxe
Acceleration, transmission, agility, braking, fit and finish
Busy dashboard, ride and quietness not up to par for class
Infiniti QX30 Essential
Fit and finish, handling, braking
Stiff ride, road noise, cramped interior, visibility, uneven power delivery, some controls
Infiniti QX50 Essential
Quietness, fit and finish, braking
Confusing controls, short on agility
Infiniti QX60 Pure
Plush interior, roomy cabin, quietness, fit and finish, access, front-seat comfort, controls
Agility, rear visibility, fuel economy
Infiniti QX80 Luxe
Powertrain, quietness, rear seat, fit and finish, cargo capacity, towing, off-road, standard AEB
Handling, fuel economy, access, NHTSA crash-test results
Jaguar E-Pace S
Handling, fit and finish, standard advanced safety equipment
Reliability, uneven power delivery, ride, visibility, controls
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Uneven power delivery with turbo engine
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Jaguar F-Pace Prestige
Agility, acceleration, braking, transmission, rear seat
Reliability, ride, noise, rear visibility, so-so infotainment system, wimpy A/C
Jaguar I-Pace HSE
Acceleration, handling, quietness, fit and finish, low running costs, no emissions
Controls, long charging times, limited range, brake pedal feel
Jaguar XE Premium (25t AWD)
Handling agility, steering
Tight quarters, seat comfort, controls, interior short on luxury grade
Jaguar XF Prestige (V6, AWD)
Ride, agility, acceleration, braking, transmission, front-seat comfort
Controls, expensive to get advanced safety features, weak A/C
Jaguar XJL Portfolio
Acceleration, transmission, handling, ride, quietness, seat comfort, fit and finish
Fuel economy, trunk, some controls, access, rear visibility, unintuitive shifter
Jeep Cherokee Limited (2.0T)
Interior room, controls, braking
Sluggish off the line, uncooperative transmission, ride, agility, engine noise
Jeep Compass Latitude
Controls, access
Reliability, feels underpowered, touchy brake pedal, lacks agility, ride, engine noise, rear seat
Jeep Gladiator Sport
Powertrain, towing capacity, character
Handling, wind noise, ride
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (V6)
Quietness, ride, off-road and towing capabilities, seat comfort, fit and finish, easy-to-use Uconnect system
Fuel economy
Jeep Renegade Latitude
Styling, upscale features
Reliability, ride, transmission, visibility, front-seat comfort, grabby brakes, idle vibration
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
Off-road ability, strong powertrain with the V6 engine
Stiff ride, lots of wind noise, awkward access, fuel economy
Kia Cadenza Premium
Acceleration, smooth powertrain, quietness, braking, interior room, controls
Reliability, lacks agility
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Kia Forte LXS
Controls, fuel economy
Ride, noise, seat comfort, fit and finish
Kia Niro EV
Robust range for an EV, quick acceleration, cargo versatility, no tailpipe emissions
Limited range, long charging times, limited availability
Kia Niro EX
Fuel economy, cargo versatility, easy controls
Braking, agility, hesitation off the line, front-seat comfort, ride
Kia Optima LX (2.4L)
Roomy interior, seat comfort, controls, braking
Low dash vents
Kia Rio S
Controls, fuel economy
Stiff ride, loud cabin, seat comfort, interior room
Kia Sedona EX
Powertrain, second-row comfort, fit and finish, reliability
Clumsy handling, stiff ride, lacks expected minivan flexibility
Kia Sorento EX (V6)
Smooth V6 powertrain, intuitive controls, ride, quietness, has a third-row seat
Tight third-row seat
Kia Soul EX
Braking, controls, access, passenger space
Ride, loud engine
Kia Sportage LX (2.4L)
Handling, powertrain, room, easy controls
Rear visibility
Kia Stinger Premium (2.0T, AWD)
Handling, front-seat comfort, hatchback versatility
Ride, tight rear seat, difficult access, visibility
Kia Telluride EX
Ride, quietness, braking, interior room, controls, well-equipped for price
Agility
Land Rover Defender
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
Access, rear seat, some off-road ability
Transmission, uneven power delivery, ride, handling, controls, rear visibility
Land Rover Discovery HSE
Acceleration, ride, quietness, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Agility, fuel economy, controls, low rear seat, third-row access
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SE
Fit and finish, front-seat comfort, agility, braking
Ride, controls, visibility, brand reliability, hesitation when accelerating from a stop
Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE (3.0L)
Handling, acceleration, fit and finish, towing and off-road capabilities
Stiff ride, controls, fussy shifter, fuel economy
Land Rover Range Rover Velar S
Handling, fit and finish, standard automatic emergency braking
Stiff ride, distracting controls, visibility, fuel economy
Land Rover Range Rover HSE (3.0L)
Ride, quietness, acceleration, interior room, fit and finish, visibility, seat comfort, off-road and towing capabilities
Agility, fuel economy, controls
Lexus ES 350
Ride, quietness, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls, rear seat
Lexus GS 350
Quietness, ride, powertrain, front-seat comfort, fit and finish, visibility, reliability
Fussy controls
Lexus GX 460
Powertrain, quietness, ride, fit and finish, front-seat comfort, off-road ability, towing
Fuel economy, agility, tight thirdrow seat, side-hinged tailgate
Lexus IS 300 (AWD)
Reliability
Cramped interior and driving position, ride, road noise, lackluster handling, fuel economy, controls, access
Lexus LS 500 (AWD)
Acceleration, quietness, transmission, driver’s seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls, rear-seat space for class, small trunk
Lexus NX 300
Handling, maneuverability, reliability
Tight quarters, visibility, fussy touchpad controller, in-cabin storage
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Lexus NX 300h
Fuel economy, handling, maneuverability, reliability
Tight quarters, visibility, fussy touchpad controller, in-cabin storage
Lexus RX 350
Ride, quietness, powertrain, fit and finish
Agility, wet stopping distances, distracting controls, rear visibility
Lexus RX 350L
Ride, quietness, powertrain, fit and finish
Distracting controls, tiny third-row seat
Lexus RX 450h
Quietness, ride, fuel economy, fit and finish
Agility, wet stopping distances, distracting controls, rear visibility
Lexus UX 250h
Fuel economy, transmission, quietness
Controls, tight interior, rear seat
Lincoln Aviator
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Lincoln Continental Select (2.7T, AWD)
Ride, quietness, acceleration, braking, interior room
Lincoln Corsair
Haven’t evaluated new model yet
Lincoln MKZ 2.0 EcoBoost
Handling, ride, quietness
Reliability, visibility, snug interior, hidden exterior trunk release, gear selector
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
Handling, ride, quietness, fuel economy
Reliability, visibility, snug interior, hidden exterior trunk release, gear selector
Lincoln Nautilus (2.7T)
Ride, handling, quietness, acceleration, fit and finish
Fuel economy, gear selector, small text in instrument cluster
Lincoln Navigator Select
Quietness, powertrain, rear-seat and third-row-seat room
Front-seat comfort, unintuitive gear selector, clumsy handling, fuel economy
Maserati Ghibli S Q4
Exhaust sound, steering feedback, braking, acceleration, transmission, fit and finish
Ride, initial turbo lag, fuel economy, rear seat, access, touchy brake pedal, fussy gear selector
Mazda CX-3 Touring
Handling, fuel economy
Noise, tight rear seat and cargo room, visibility, ride with 18-inch wheels
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Confusing gear selector, controls, front-seat comfort
Highs
Lows
Mazda CX-30
Haven’t evaluated new model yet
Mazda CX-5 Touring (2.5L)
Ride, quietness, handling
So-so rear visibility, controls have a learning curve
Mazda CX-9 Touring
Ride, handling, quietness, high-end versions feel upscale
Controls have a learning curve, rear visibility, tight driving position
Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
Agility, manual shifter, fuel economy, easy manual top, reliability
Ride, noise, tight quarters, cumbersome infotainment system, access
Mazda3 Select
Fit and finish, quietness, braking, fuel economy
Controls, base trim lacks advanced safety features
Mazda6 Touring (2.5L)
Handling, ride
Relatively tight quarters
Mercedes-Benz A220 (4MATIC)
Handling, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Ride, controls, hesitation accelerating from a stop, cramped rear seat
Mercedes-Benz C300 (4MATIC)
Ride, handling, acceleration, quietness, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls, including gear selector
Mercedes Benz CLA
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Mercedes-Benz E300 (4MATIC)
Agility, braking, quietness, frontseat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability, controls, tight rear seat, rear access
Mercedes-Benz GLA250
Acceleration, braking, fuel economy, fit and finish
Ride, noise, uneven power delivery, rear seat, visibility, controls
Mercedes-Benz GLC300
Ride, agility, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Reliability, controls, engine noise
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450
Acceleration, seat comfort, fit and finish
Controls
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Mercedes-Benz S550 (4MATIC)
Most comfortable riding car, quietness, acceleration, braking, interior room, seat comfort, fit and finish
Fuel economy, complicated and distracting controls
Mini Cooper Countryman S
Handling, braking, powertrain, seat comfort, fit and finish, character
Ride, noise, controls
Mini Cooper S
Handling, fuel economy, manual shifter, engine sound
Rear seat, some controls, premium fuel
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE
Access, rear seat
Controls, agility, visibility, front-seat comfort, acceleration, cargo space
Mitsubishi Mirage ES
Fuel economy, turning circle, relatively roomy rear seat, hatchback versatility, feature content
Handling, noise, vibration, acceleration, feels cheap and insubstantial
Mitsubishi Outlander SEL (4-cyl.)
Standard third-row seat, access, visibility
Agility, acceleration, engine noise, unsettled ride, no A/C vents for rear passengers
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Versatility, good seating position
Ride, handling, noisy cabin
Nissan 370Z Touring (coupe)
Acceleration, handling, braking, fit and finish
Ride, noise, visibility, access
Nissan Altima 2.5 SV
Controls, fuel economy
Agility, ease of entry
Nissan Armada Platinum
Smooth and powerful powertrain, quietness, towing capacity, fit and finish
Agility, unsettled ride, fuel economy, NHTSA crash-test results
Nissan Kicks SV
Fuel economy, controls, visibility
Acceleration, fit and finish, front-seat comfort, agility
Nissan Leaf SL
Low running cost, quietness, power delivery, access
Charging times, short range, driving position, lack of agility
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Nissan Leaf Plus
Running cost, range, quietness
Agility, charging times
Nissan Maxima Platinum
Acceleration, controls, fit and finish
Ride, steering, engine noise, access, snug driving position, visibility, rear-seat room
Nissan Murano SL
Plush interior, access, easy infotainment system
Visibility, overly light steering, agility, towing capacity
Nissan Pathfinder SL
Roominess, controls, access
Handling, fuel economy, rear visibility, second-row thigh support
Nissan Rogue Sport SV
Access, fuel economy, controls
Acceleration, rear-seat comfort, rear visibility
Nissan Rogue SV
Ride, access, spacious interior, optional surround-view camera
Engine noise, cloth front seat lacks support
Nissan Sentra SV
Braking, fuel economy, spacious rear seat, access
Ride, noise, fit and finish, front-seat comfort
Nissan Titan SV (V8)
Acceleration, braking, roomy cab, light tailgate
Reliability, ride, fit and finish, no AEB offered
Nissan Versa
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Porsche 718 Boxster (base)
Acceleration, handling, braking, fit and finish, quick top operation that works on the move
Ride, noise, access, some controls, visibility with closed top
Porsche Cayenne Base
Handling, quietness, fit and finish, seat comfort
Controls, ride, uneven power delivery
Porsche Macan S
Handling, powertrain, ride, quietness, braking, front-seat comfort, fit and finish, towing capacity
Rear visibility, modest cargo area, controls, fuel economy
Porsche 911
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Ram 1500 Big Horn (5.7L V8)
Ride, quietness, transmission, cabin room, controls
High step-in
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Subaru Ascent Limited
Ride, quietness, interior room, visibility, braking, controls, usable third-row seat
Agility
Subaru BRZ Premium
Driving fun, handling, braking, fuel economy, reliability
Ride, noise, access, vestigial rear seating, no AEB offered
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Ride, fuel economy, controls
Engine noise, battery robs cargo space, limited electric-only range
Subaru Crosstrek Premium
Ride, braking, controls, fuel economy, reliability
Acceleration, engine noise, driver’s seat short on lumbar support
Subaru Forester Premium
Fuel economy, roomy interior, great visibility, easy controls
Engine noise
Subaru Impreza Premium
Ride, braking, fuel economy, relatively roomy interior, controls
Front-seat comfort
Subaru Legacy
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Subaru Outback
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Subaru WRX Premium
Acceleration, cornering grip, braking, four-door practicality, visibility
Reliability, ride, constant engine drone, stiff clutch, clunky shifter, turbo lag
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Instant power, handling agility, front-seat comfort, low running costs, driving range
Reliability, stiff ride, distracting controls, rear seat, long charging times
Tesla Model S 100D
Energy efficiency, acceleration, handling, luggage capacity
Reliability, long charging times, access, rear-seat comfort, visibility, controls
Tesla Model X 100D
Acceleration, handling, front-seat comfort, fit and finish, energy consumption, running cost, standard forward collision warning
Reliability, limited range, long charging times, fussy doors, ride, wind noise, rear visibility, controls
164
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Toyota 4Runner SR5
Off-road ability, power-retractable rear window, reliability
Fuel economy, handling, ride, driving position, fit and finish, access
Toyota 86
Driving fun, handling, braking, fuel economy, reliability
Ride, noise, access, vestigial rear seating, no AEB offered
Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE
Hybrid fuel economy, ride, interior room, controls, trunk space
Lower stance hurts access
Toyota C-HR XLE
Fuel economy, controls, reliability
Slow acceleration, wind noise, rear visibility, rear access, unsupportive driver’s seat
Toyota Camry Hybrid LE
Fuel economy, ride, controls
Low stance hurts access
Toyota Camry LE (4-cyl.)
Fuel economy, braking, ride, controls
High-rpm engine noise, transmission refinement, low stance hurts access
Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE
Handling, fuel economy, controls, braking
Ride, engine noise, tight rear seat
Toyota Corolla LE
Fuel economy, ride, controls
Acceleration, rear seat, access
Toyota Corolla LE Hybrid
Fuel economy, ride, controls
Acceleration, rear seat, access
Toyota Highlander
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Toyota Land Cruiser
Ride, quietness, powertrain, fit and finish, front- and second-row seat comfort, off-road capability, towing capacity
Fuel economy, agility, tight third-row seat
Toyota Mirai
Long range for an EV, relatively quick fill-ups, ride, emits only water vapor
Seats only four, clumsy handling, limited hydrogen infrastructure, cargo space
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Make & Model
Highs
Lows
Toyota Prius LE
Fuel economy, hatchback versatility, ride, reliability
Rear visibility, acceleration, seat comfort, insubstantial for price, odd gear selector and gauges
Toyota Prius Prime Premium
Fuel economy, no range anxiety, ride, hatchback versatility, reliability
Complex infotainment screen, no rear wiper
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE
Fuel economy, access
Ride, fit and finish
Toyota RAV4 XLE
Fuel economy, access
Engine noise, ride, fit and finish
Toyota Sequoia Limited
Powertrain, accommodations, towing and off-road capabilities, storage, power-retractable rear window
Fuel economy, agility, braking, unsettled ride, high step-in, long reach to some controls, too easy to turn off DRL
Toyota Sienna XLE
Ride, interior space and flexibility, rear seat, reliability
Transmission smoothness, agility, fit and finish, too easy to turn off DRL
Toyota Supra
Haven’t evaluated redesign yet
Toyota Tacoma SR5 (V6)
Fuel economy, resale value, off-road capability
Ride, handling, braking, noise, driving position, seat comfort, too easy to turn off DRL
Toyota Tundra SR5 (5.7L V8)
Powertrain, towing, low-effort tailgate, reliability
Ride, visibility, braking, fuel economy, no full-time 4WD, poor IIHS passenger-side small-overlap crash-test results
Toyota Yaris LE
Fuel economy, agility, reliability
Noise levels, infotainment learning curve, tight rear seat, wet braking
Volkswagen Arteon SEL (AWD)
Handling, fit and finish, front-seat comfort, hatchback versatility, easy controls
Engine noise
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Highs
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Make & Model
Lows
Volkswagen Atlas SEL (V6)
Accommodations, third-row seat comfort and access, nimbler than size suggests, ride, quietness, controls
Reliability, acceleration trails competition
Volkswagen Golf SE
Ride, handling, quietness, braking, easy infotainment system, hatchback versatility
Pricey
Volkswagen GTI Autobahn
Agility, seat comfort, quiet cabin, hatchback versatility
Reliability
Volkswagen Jetta SE
Fuel economy, controls, relatively roomy cabin
Low dash vents
Volkswagen Passat
Interior room, rear seat, trunk, access, agility, braking
Transmission refinement at low speeds
Volkswagen Tiguan SE
Generous interior, easy controls, access, visibility
Reliability, acceleration
Volvo S60 T5 Momentum
Braking, quietness, front-seat comfort, fit and finish
Ride, controls
Volvo S90 T6 Momentum (AWD)
Seat comfort, fit and finish
Reliability, ride comfort, coarse engine noise, unintuitive controls
Volvo XC40 T5 Momentum
Interior ambience, comfortable front seats
Stiff ride, controls, annoying gear selector, engine noise
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum
Seat comfort, fit and finish, braking, standard advanced safety equipment
Stiff ride, controls
Volvo XC90 T6 Momentum
Quietness, seat comfort, fit and finish, visibility, braking, high-beam headlights
Reliability, stiff ride, unintuitive controls
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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Rating the 2020 Models INCLUDED HERE ARE ratings on 236 vehicles that Consumer Reports has recently tested. Within each category, they are ranked by their overall score.
To earn our Recommendation !, vehicles must do well in our Overall Score, which accounts for a vehicle’s performance in our road tests, results from our reliability and owner satisfaction surveys, the availability of a frontal crash-prevention system, and, if applicable, safety tests that were conducted by the government or the insurance industry. Price as tested is the sticker price at the time of purchase of our test vehicle, including typical equipment. Survey results include predicted reliability, which is our forecast of how well a new car will likely hold up based
168
on its recent history from our Annual Auto Survey. Owner satisfaction is the percentage of members who say they would definitely buy or lease their vehicle again. Reliability and owner satisfaction predictions for new or redesigned models are based on the manufacturer’s history, and the previous generation of the vehicle or similar models. Overall MPG is what a vehicle achieved in CR’s own fuel-economy tests, comprising a mix of city and highway driving. Our road-test score is based on results from more than 50 tests and evaluations at our 327-acre test facility including acceleration, braking, emergency handling, usability, fit and finish, noise, ride, and safety systems.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Standout Models by Category C A RS Subcompact & Compact $14,000-$22,000 Best Overall: Subcompact Honda Fit Toyota Yaris (sedan) Best Overall: Compact Subaru Impreza Toyota Corolla (including Hybrid) Kia Soul Hyundai Elantra GT Honda Civic Mazda3 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Fuel-Efficient Honda Insight Toyota Prius Toyota Corolla (sedan, hybrid, and hatchback) Volkswagen Jetta Hyundai Elantra Kia Forte Electric Cars/Plug-In Hybrids Kia Niro EV Toyota Prius Prime Chevrolet Bolt Hyundai Kona Electric
Midsized $22,000-$33,000 Best Overall Toyota Camry Kia Optima Mazda6 Honda Accord Volkswagen Passat Fuel-Efficient Toyota Camry (including Hybrid) Honda Accord (including Hybrid) Nissan Altima
Large $35,000-$45,000 Best Overall Toyota Avalon Hybrid Nissan Maxima
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
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C A RS
Continued
Luxury Compact $35,000-$45,000 Best Overall Volkswagen Arteon Audi A4 BMW 3 Series Buick Regal Fun to Drive Audi A4 BMW 3 Series
Luxury Midsized $40,000-$60,000 Best Overall Lincoln Continental Genesis G80 Lexus ES Lexus GS Great Value Genesis G80
Luxury Large $70,000-$110,000 Best Overall BMW 7 Series Mercedes-Benz S-Class Audi A8 Great Value Genesis G90
Sports Cars $30,000-$60,000+ Best Overall BMW M240i Porsche 718 Boxster Fun Coupes Subaru BRZ Toyota 86 Hyundai Veloster Audi TT Roadsters Porsche 718 Boxster Mazda MX-5 Miata BMW Z4
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CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
T HE 2020 MODEL S
SU Vs Subcompact & Compact $25,000-$35,000 Best Overall: Subcompact Subaru Crosstrek Hyundai Kona Nissan Rogue Sport Honda HR-V Best Overall: Compact Subaru Forester Mazda CX-5 Honda CR-V Toyota RAV4 Kia Sportage Nissan Rogue Fuel-Efficient Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Subaru Forester Honda CR-V Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Sporty Mazda CX-5
Midsized $30,000-$45,000 Best Overall (two-row) Hyundai Santa Fe Nissan Murano Ford Edge Best Overall (three-row) Subaru Ascent Kia Telluride Mazda CX-9 Kia Sorento Honda Pilot
Large $60,000-$75,000 Best Overall Ford Expedition Toyota Sequoia Chevrolet Suburban
Luxury Entry-Level & Compact $35,000-$45,000 Best Overall Mini Cooper Countryman Lexus NX Audi Q5 BMW X3 Porsche Macan
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
171
SU Vs
Continued
Fuel-Efficient Lexus NX 300h Lexus UX 250h Fun to Drive Audi Q5 BMW X3 Porsche Macan Mini Cooper Countryman
Luxury Midsized $50,000-$75,000 Best Overall (two-row) Audi E-Tron BMW X5 Lexus RX Lincoln Nautilus Best Overall (three-row) Audi Q7 Lexus RX 350L Infiniti QX60 Fuel-Efficient Lexus RX 450h Sporty Audi Q7 BMW X5
Luxury Large $60,000-$85,000 Best Overall BMW X7
MINI VA NS $35,000-$45,000 Best Overall Toyota Sienna Kia Sedona
P ICKUP TRUCKS $35,000-$50,000+ Best Compact Pickup Honda Ridgeline Best Full-Sized Pickup Ford F-150
172
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
Road-test score
! 0
Kia Niro EV
79
$47,270
4 0
4 0
81
122 ⁄
! 0
Toyota Prius Prime Premium
78
$29,889
5 0
5 0
74
133 ⁄/ 50 €
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Hyundai Kona Electric Limited
78
$42,330 $27,323
75
52
Honda Insight EX
71
$24,955
Chevrolet Bolt Premier
71
$43,155
0 5 5 0 4 0 5 0
120 ⁄
78
0 4 5 0 4 0 3 0
76
Toyota Prius LE
! 0
BMW i3 Giga Rex
70
$51,095
5 0
Hyundai Ioniq SEL
68
$25,035
Kia Niro EX
66
$26,805
Toyota Mirai
65
$58,335
Nissan Leaf SL
64
$38,115
Honda Fit EX
72
$19,025
Toyota Yaris LE
65
$17,570
Hyundai Accent SEL
63
$18,435
Chevrolet Sonic LT (1.8L)
61
$17,290
Kia Rio S
60
$17,220
Chevrolet Spark 1LT
48
$16,660
Mitsubishi Mirage ES
31
$16,050
Subaru Impreza Premium
76
$23,410
Kia Soul EX
76
$25,320
Toyota Corolla LE Hybrid
75
$24,129
Toyota Corolla LE
74
$23,530
Hyundai Elantra GT (2.0L)
74
$23,265
Volkswagen Golf SE
74
$25,315
Rec.
As tested
Predicted reliability
Overall mpg
Survey Results
Price
CARS: COMPACT ELECTRIC AND HYBRIDS
69
54
76
119 ⁄
3 0
70
113 ⁄/ 29 €
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 3 0 5 0
67
52
65
43
0 5 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 0 3 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0
61
67 ⁄
62
112 ⁄
0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0
67
33
60
35
64
33
66
28
61
33
47
33
29
37
0 3 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0
85
30
76
28
69
48
68
33
79
28
82
28
CARS: SUBCOMPACT
0 ! ! 0
CARS: COMPACT
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
⁄Miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe). €Miles per gallon while running on gas engine.
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
! RECOMMENDED
173
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Overall Score
Make and Model
Road-test score
Overall mpg
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
As tested
Rec.
Survey Results
Price
Predicted reliability
Overall Score
Make and Model
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 1 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 1 0
75
30
76
32
66
36
75
31
78
34
66
33
64
29
67
34
64
32
62
31
50
27
0 4 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
89
47
86
32
79
28
86
28
89
31
86
47
81
31
83
22
0 2 2 0 2 0 2 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
81
24
80
39
80
29
79
41
4 0
110 ⁄/ 72 39 €
CARS: COMPACT Continued
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Mazda3 Select
74
$24,115
Honda Civic LX
72
$20,275
Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE
72
$24,263
Honda Civic EX-T
72
$23,035
Volkswagen Jetta SE
69
$23,325
Hyundai Elantra SEL
69
$20,090
Toyota C-HR XLE
68
$23,892
Kia Forte LXS
68
$20,165
Nissan Kicks SV
64
$21,050
Nissan Sentra SV
61
$20,125
Fiat 500L
30
$24,595
Toyota Camry Hybrid LE
88
$28,949
Toyota Camry LE (4-cyl.)
86
$26,364
Mazda6 Touring (2.5L)
84
$26,590
Kia Optima LX (2.4L)
84
$25,860
Honda Accord EX (1.5T)
82
$28,345
Honda Accord Hybrid EX
80
$29,780
Nissan Altima 2.5 SV
76
$29,330
Ford Fusion Titanium (2.0T)
71
$33,180
Ford Fusion SE (1.5T)
70
$27,720
Ford Fusion Hybrid SE
69
$28,290
Chevrolet Malibu 1LT (1.5T)
59
$26,790
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
59
$30,735
CARS: MIDSIZED
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
54
$34,290
⁄Miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe). €Miles per gallon while running on gas engine.
174
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
1 0
0 5 4 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0
0 3 4 0 2 0 0 3 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0
Overall mpg
0 5 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 1 0
Test Results Road-test score
Owner satisfaction
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Rec.
As tested
Price
93
42
91
22
81
25
CARS: LARGE
0 ! ! 0 ! 0
Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE
98
$38,643
Chevrolet Impala Premier (V6)
84
$39,110
Nissan Maxima Platinum
80
$41,995
Dodge Charger R/T Plus (V8)
68
$40,375
Chrysler 300 C (V8)
67
$45,650
Chrysler 300 Limited (V6)
67
$38,335
Dodge Charger SXT (V6)
66
$34,510
Kia Cadenza Premium
62
$36,945
Audi A3 Premium
68
$31,495
Acura ILX Premium
64
$30,820
Mercedes-Benz A220 4MATIC
54
$43,385
Volkswagen Arteon SEL (AWD)
82
$43,475
Audi A4 Premium Plus
80
$48,890
BMW 330i xDrive
77
$52,995
Buick Regal Essence (2.0T, AWD)
77
$39,715
Acura TLX 2.4L
74
$35,920
Mercedes-Benz C300 (4MATIC)
74
$47,560
Genesis G70 Elite (2.0T, AWD)
73
$43,115
Acura TLX SH-AWD
71
$42,345
Infiniti Q50 3.0t Luxe (AWD)
69
$48,775
Kia Stinger Premium (2.0T, AWD)
67
$40,400
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
65
$59,000
Volvo S60 T5 Momentum
61
$47,110
Lexus IS 300 (AWD)
60
$48,149
85
20
84
20
83
22
82
22
91
24
0 3 1 0 3 0
77
27
61
28
64
27
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0
91
24
88
27
86
29
87
23
79
27
85
26
74
23
75
25
85
22
CARS: LUXURY ENTRY-LEVEL
CARS: LUXURY COMPACT
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
75
23
82
130 ⁄
71
26
56
20
! RECOMMENDED
175
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Overall Score
Make and Model
Road-test score
Overall mpg
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
As tested
Rec.
Survey Results
Price
Predicted reliability
Overall Score
Make and Model
0 1 1 0
0 4 3 0
70
27
69
25
CARS: LUXURY COMPACT Continued Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti (AWD)
48
$48,890
Jaguar XE Premium (25t AWD)
39
$47,378
CARS: LUXURY MIDSIZED
! 0
Lincoln Continental Select (2.7T, AWD)
89
$55,590
5 0
4 0
83
20
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Genesis G80 3.8 (AWD)
84
$52,450 $48,855
84
25
Lexus GS 350
83
$58,858
83
21
Infiniti Q70 Luxe
78
$53,825
90
21
Cadillac XTS Premium
73
$57,200
82
22
BMW 530i xDrive
71
$65,210
94
26
Acura RLX Tech
71
$55,345
75
23
Lincoln MKZ 2.0 EcoBoost
70
$41,990
88
23
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
70
$41,990
88
34
Mercedes-Benz E300 (4MATIC)
65
$69,585
85
24
Cadillac CT6 Luxury (3.6, AWD)
62
$64,485
95
22
Volvo S90 T6 Momentum (AWD)
56
$61,855
73
23
Maserati Ghibli S Q4
48
$89,010
71
19
Jaguar XF Prestige (V6, AWD)
46
$66,586
0 5 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 3 0
20
84
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0
89
Lexus ES 350
83
21
Mercedes-Benz S550 (4MATIC)
87
$114,475 $110,645
99
21
Audi A8 3.0T
0 4 4 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0
18
87
0 4 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 1 0
96
BMW 750i xDrive
96
21
CARS: ULTRA LUXURY
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
86
$97,595
Genesis G90 Premium (3.3T, AWD) 81
$71,550
Tesla Model S100D
78
$100,200
Lexus LS 500 (AWD)
73
$103,899
Jaguar XJL Portfolio
47
$81,575
⁄Miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe). €Miles per gallon while running on gas engine.
176
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
89
18
97
102 ⁄
72
20
82
19
Road-test score
Overall mpg
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Rec.
As tested
Price
0 3 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0
0 4 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0
98
25
95
26
84
26
86
29
85
20
84
19
70
20
0 4 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0
0 5 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0
80
34
79
30
78
30
83
29
81
23
74
34
80
30
82
29
76
31
SPORTS/SPORTY CARS OVER $40,000
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
BMW M240i
89
$50,400
Porsche 718 Boxster (base)
86
$69,790
Audi TT 2.0T
78
$50,600
BMW Z4 sDrive 30i
77
$59,195
Chevrolet Camaro 2SS (V8)
70
$47,020
Ford Mustang GT Premium (V8)
64
$43,295
Dodge Challenger R/T Plus (V8)
59
$40,860
SPORTS/SPORTY CARS UNDER $40,000
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
79
$29,905
Subaru BRZ Premium
79
$27,117
Toyota 86
78
$25,025
Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-spec
76
$23,785
Nissan 370Z Touring
74
$38,565
Honda Civic Si
71
$24,775
Mini Cooper S
70
$29,945
Volkswagen GTI Autobahn
69
$31,730
Fiat 124 Spider Lusso
64
$29,985
Ford Mustang Premium (2.3 EcoBoost)
59
$33,080
2 0
4 0
76
25
Subaru WRX Premium
53
$29,742
1 0
3 0
75
26
Toyota Sienna XLE
78
$38,424
21
74
$34,795
0 4 3 0
79
Kia Sedona EX
0 4 5 0
70
20
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Platinum
62
$48,380
1 0
4 0
88
84 ⁄/ 27 €
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L
60
$38,245
21
59
$37,295
72
17
Honda Odyssey EX-L
58
$40,300
0 4 2 0 4 0
85
Dodge Grand Caravan SXT
0 1 3 0 1 0
82
22
MINIVANS
0 ! ! 0
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
! RECOMMENDED
177
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Overall Score
Make and Model
Survey Results
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
Road-test score
! 0
Subaru Crosstrek Premium
87
$25,905
5 0
4 0
87
29
! 0
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
84
$36,685
5 0
4 0
82
90 ⁄/ 33 €
0 ! ! 0 ! 0
Hyundai Kona SEL (2.0L)
73
$25,025 $25,655
72
26
Honda HR-V LX
67
$22,045
66
29
Ford EcoSport SES (2.0L)
58
$28,130
61
24
Mazda CX-3 Touring
58
$25,800
64
28
Jeep Renegade Latitude
44
$27,525
56
24
Chevrolet Trax LT
43
$25,560
55
25
Fiat 500X Easy
35
$26,600
0 3 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 1 0
26
68
0 4 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 1 0
71
Nissan Rogue Sport SV
50
23
Subaru Forester Premium
89
$29,341
28
82
$29,530
80
24
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE
80
$34,193
76
37
Honda CR-V LX (2.4L)
78
$26,245
83
27
Honda CR-V EX (1.5T)
77
$28,935
82
28
Toyota RAV4 XLE
77
$32,109
72
27
Kia Sportage LX (2.4L)
75
$26,720
78
23
Nissan Rogue SV
74
$29,920
74
24
Chevrolet Equinox LT (1.5T)
68
$33,730
78
25
Volkswagen Tiguan SE
67
$31,645
84
25
Hyundai Tucson SE (2.0L)
65
$25,920
76
24
Jeep Cherokee Limited (2.0T)
65
$37,655
68
23
Hyundai Tucson SEL (2.4L)
64
$28,530
75
22
Mitsubishi Outlander SEL (4-cyl.)
64
$28,405
59
24
GMC Terrain SLE (2.0T)
60
$36,950
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0
90
Mazda CX-5 Touring (2.5L)
0 4 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 3 0
67
22
Rec.
As tested
Predicted reliability
Price
Overall mpg
Overall Score
Make and Model
SUVs: SUBCOMPACT
SUVs: COMPACT
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
⁄Miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe). €Miles per gallon while running on gas engine.
178
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Overall mpg
0 3 1 0
0 2 2 0
57
24
56
24
0 5 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 1 0 4 0
0 5 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
93
22
97
21
78
22
80
22
80
20
83
18
72
18
95
20
84
20
55
18
0 4 3 0 4 0 3 0
0 4 3 0 3 0 4 0
80
21
84
22
77
21
76
21
$49,780
2 0
4 0
84
24
67
$43,290
2 0
4 0
83
19
67
$41,375
2 0
4 0
80
18
35
$48,400
2 0
5 0
36
18
Ford Expedition MAX Limited
72
$75,430 $54,005
60
15
Nissan Armada Platinum
67
$63,020
0 5 4 0 2 0
16
69
0 4 4 0 3 0
73
Toyota Sequoia Limited
69
14
Rec.
As tested
Road-test score
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
Survey Results Predicted reliability
Price
SUVs: COMPACT Continued Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE
53
$28,470
Jeep Compass Latitude
41
$30,870
Subaru Ascent Limited
96
$43,867
Kia Telluride EX
90
$40,855
Kia Sorento EX (V6)
78
$41,925
Mazda CX-9 Touring
78
$40,470
Honda Pilot EX-L
74
$40,655
Dodge Durango GT (V6)
67
$43,525
Nissan Pathfinder SL
66
$40,470
Chevrolet Traverse Premier (V6)
65
$49,945
Volkswagen Atlas SEL (V6)
62
$44,165
Toyota 4Runner SR5
59
$37,425
Hyundai Santa Fe Limited (2.0T)
80
$37,200
Ford Edge SEL (2.0 EcoBoost)
78
$42,610
Nissan Murano SL
77
$42,065
Honda Passport EX-L
73
$39,937
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (diesel)
70
Chevrolet Blazer Leather (V6) Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (V6) Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
SUVs: MIDSIZED (3-ROW)
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
SUVs: MIDSIZED (2-ROW)
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
SUVs: LARGE
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
! RECOMMENDED
179
T HE 2020 MODEL S
Overall Score
Make and Model
Overall Score
Survey Results
Overall mpg
0 3 3 0 3 0 3 0
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0
74
16
67
16
67
16
67
16
0 4 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 1 0
0 4 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0
82
25
71
37
69
23
70
26
77
25
71
25
74
26
71
24
78
23
69
21
$56,997
1 0
3 0
58
20
81
$53,745
74
24
Lexus NX 300h
77
$51,224
71
29
Porsche Macan S
77
$63,290
84
19
Audi Q5 Premium Plus
76
$51,570
83
24
Volvo XC60 T5 Momentum
73
$50,040
79
23
Acura RDX Tech
67
$43,995
80
22
Buick Envision Premium
66
$45,380
69
21
Infiniti QX50 Essential
65
$51,380
0 5 2 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0
24
$43,284
0 3 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 2 0
92
79
77
22
Rec.
As tested
Road-test score
Test Results
Owner satisfaction
Price
Predicted reliability
Make and Model
SUVs: LARGE Continued
! 0
Chevrolet Suburban Premier
66
$69,790
Chevrolet Tahoe LT
64
$60,100
GMC Yukon SLT
64
$62,125
GMC Yukon XL SLT
61
$67,370
Mini Cooper Countryman S
77
$39,535
Lexus UX 250h
75
$37,740
Buick Encore Preferred II
69
$30,555
Mercedes-Benz GLA250
64
$42,210
BMW X2 xDrive28i
64
$45,895
Infiniti QX30 Essential
62
$43,745
BMW X1 xDrive28i
61
$44,745
Volvo XC40 T5 Momentum
59
$41,510
Cadillac XT4 Premium Luxury
57
$49,430
Jaguar E-Pace S
43
$48,070
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque SE
41
BMW X3 xDrive30i Lexus NX 300
SUVs: LUXURY ENTRY-LEVEL
0 ! ! 0
SUVs: LUXURY COMPACT
0 ! ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
⁄Miles-per-gallon equivalent (MPGe). €Miles per gallon while running on gas engine.
180
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Overall mpg
Test Results Road-test score
Survey Results Owner satisfaction
Rec.
As tested
Price
Predicted reliability
Overall Score
Make and Model
0 2 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0
0 3 3 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 1 0
81
22
74
24
76
20
76
21
72
20
58
21
SUVs: LUXURY COMPACT Continued Mercedes-Benz GLC300
58
$49,105
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti
58
$52,040
Cadillac XT5 Luxury
55
$51,025
Land Rover Range Rover Velar S
53
$59,503
Jaguar F-Pace Prestige
43
$53,895
Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE
36
$49,895
SUVs: LUXURY MIDSIZED
! 0
BMW X5 xDrive40i
88
$68,730
3 0
5 0
98
23
! 0
Audi Q7 Premium Plus
87
$68,695
4 0
5 0
96
20
! 0
Lexus RX 450h
82
$57,565
4 0
4 0
80
29
! 0
Audi E-Tron Premium Plus
81
$80,450
3 0
5 0
84
74.1 ⁄
! 0
Lexus RX 350L
81
$56,518
4 0
4 0
80
20
! 0
Lexus RX 350
79
$51,630
4 0
4 0
77
22
! 0
Infiniti QX60 Pure
78
$51,920
4 0
2 0
79
19
! 0
Lexus GX 460
75
$58,428
4 0
3 0
70
17
! 0
Lincoln Nautilus (2.7T)
75
$54,945
3 0
3 0
84
18
Porsche Cayenne Base
70
$79,280
2 0
4 0
87
21
Acura MDX Tech
67
$51,410
2 0
2 0
79
21
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450
66
$75,090
2 0
4 0
80
20
GMC Acadia Denali
64
$51,585
2 0
3 0
83
19
Volvo XC90 T6 Momentum
62
$56,805
1 0
3 0
84
20
Cadillac XT6 Luxury
60
$62,515
1 0
4 0
82
18
1
Jaguar I-Pace HSE
58
$86,841
2 0
5 0
76
76 ⁄
Tesla Model X 100D
55
$109,200
1 0
5 0
77
87 ⁄
Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE (3.0L)
50
$74,040
1 0
4 0
72
18
Land Rover Discovery HSE
49
$69,260
1 0
2 0
71
17
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
! RECOMMENDED
181
T HE 2020 MODEL S
E23G671
Overall Score
0 3 4 0 3 0 3 0 1 0
0 5 4 0 2 0 5 0 4 0
94
22
68
14
68
15
65
16
87
18
$88,545
1 0
3 0
78
17
$87,360
1 0
3 0
61
16
74
$36,480
55
20
Chevrolet Colorado LT (V6)
49
$34,300
61
18
GMC Canyon SLE (V6)
49
$35,835
61
18
Chevrolet Colorado LT (diesel)
48
$39,295
60
24
GMC Canyon SLE (diesel)
48
$40,895
60
24
Jeep Gladiator Sport
45
$46,405
52
18
Toyota Tacoma SR5 (V6)
45
$34,364
0 5 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0
20
$40,355
0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 3 0
83
58
42
19
Ford F-150 XLT (2.7 V6 EcoBoost)
67
$52,535 $53,120
83
17
Toyota Tundra SR5 (5.7L V8)
63
$44,245
0 4 5 0 4 0
19
64
0 3 2 0 4 0
74
Ram 1500 Big Horn (5.7L V8)
59
15
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT (5.3L V8)
58
$50,225
2 0
4 0
76
17
GMC Sierra 1500 SLE (5.3L V8)
58
$52,100
51
$44,370
0 4 3 0
17
Nissan Titan SV (V8)
0 2 1 0
76 70
16
Rec.
As tested
Overall mpg
Test Results Road-test score
Survey Results Owner satisfaction
Price
Predicted reliability
Make and Model
SUVs: LUXURY LARGE
0 ! ! 0
BMW X7 xDrive40i
85
$84,095
Toyota Land Cruiser
75
$84,820
Infiniti QX80 Luxe
65
$63,395
Lincoln Navigator Select
65
$86,480
Buick Enclave Premium
56
$55,680
Land Rover Range Rover HSE (3.0L)
52
Cadillac Escalade Premium
43
Honda Ridgeline RTL Ford Ranger XLT
PICKUP TRUCKS: COMPACT
! 0
PICKUP TRUCKS: FULL-SIZED
! 0
182
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
jixiansheng
Best and Worst Used Cars NEED NEW WHEELS BUT don’t want to spend a fortune? Buying used is a good way to get the biggest bang for your buck. It’s simple: After one year a new car has likely depreciated more than 20 percent off of its sticker price; after three years, it may be worth barely half its sticker price. But picking out a good used car from the sea of bad ones has never been easy. You want a vehicle that’s reliable, affordable, and equipped with modern safety features. You also want to make sure it’s been maintained properly, and that it hasn’t been in a crash. The process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve created this handy guide to help you find the small cars, sedans, and SUVs that are most likely to fulfill your needs without breaking down and
soaking you in repair bills. In the Reliable list, each model performed well in our road tests when it was new and had above-average reliability for the model years shown. In addition, each offered electronic stability control (ESC) as a standard feature. In addition to the cars we recommend, we also included lists of used cars that proved to be particularly troublesome— and that you should avoid considering. Even for the used cars that we recommend, there can be stinkers— because of a bad day at the factory or a former owner who didn’t care much for car maintenance and ended up neglecting the car. That’s why you should pay for a thorough inspection by a certified mechanic before you sign on the dotted line, so there are no surprises down the road.
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
183
Best of the Best Used Cars UNDER $10,000
COMPACT CARS Toyota Matrix 2010 Scion xB 2009-10, ‘12
The Matrix is a reliable and spacious compact hatchback, with fairly nimble handling, but a ride that is borderline jittery. AWD was optional. The Toyota-made xB is a reliable, small box of a car that delivers a ton of room. MIDSIZED CARS Mazda6 2009-12
Mazda’s midsized sedan is a sporty four-door, with nimble handling, good
steering feel, and a supple ride. Reliability is excellent and the four-cylinder engine is fuel-efficient. $10,000–15,000
SUBCOMPACT CARS Honda Fit 2016
Although it’s a bit noisy, the Honda Fit is a standout for reliable, fuel-efficient transportation. Its small footprint makes it easy to park and maneuver, and a flexible interior means it’s a practical choice among subcompact cars.
COMPACT CARS Toyota Corolla 2014-16
Dependable, fuel-efficient transportation is the Corolla’s strength. There isn’t anything flashy, but the interior is comfortable and roomy, and reliability is excellent. MIDSIZED CARS Acura TSX 2011-12 Toyota Camry 2012-14
You can stick to your budget and still get a reliable premium car if you choose the slick-handling TSX, which is a sporty car based on the European Honda Accord. The Camry is a solid choice because of its outstanding relia-
Honda Fit
Used Cars to Avoid
184
Acura MDX ‘16, TLX ‘15-16 Alfa Romeo Giulia ‘17 Audi A4 ‘09-11, Q5 ‘11, Q7 ‘15 BMW 1 Series ‘11, ‘13, 2 Series ‘18, 3 Series ‘09, ‘11, ‘18, 5 Series
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
‘10-12, ‘17, X1 ‘16, X3 ‘11-13, X5 ‘11-13 Buick Enclave ‘0912, ‘18, Encore ‘14 Regal ‘11, Verano ‘16 Cadillac ATS ‘16, CT6 ‘17, CTS ‘16, DTS ‘10, Escalade ‘15-17, SRX ‘13-14,
XT5 ‘17-18, XTS ‘13-15 Chevrolet Camaro ‘17, Colorado ‘17-18, Corvette ‘18, Cruze ‘11-14, Equinox ‘10-11, HHR ‘09, Malibu ‘10-11, ‘16, Silverado 1500 ‘17, Silverado
USED C A RS
Toyota Prius
bility, strong value, and fuel-efficient powertrains. SMALL SUVS Honda CR-V 2011-13
This SUV is one of the most popular on the market thanks to its strong resale value, agile handling, excellent reliability, and fuel-efficient powertrains. Curtain airbags and ESC are standard. MIDSIZED SUVS Acura RDX 2011
The RDX has a host of standard safety features and very good reliability. It’s roomy inside and easy to get in and out of. The SUV has agile handling, but its ride is stiff.
2500HD ‘11, ‘14, ‘16-18, Silverado 3500HD ‘15, ‘17, Sonic ‘12-13, Suburban ‘15, Tahoe ‘09, ‘15, Traverse ‘0911, ‘18, Trax ‘17, Volt ‘15, ‘17 Chrysler 200 ‘15,
$15,000–20,000
COMPACT CARS Toyota Prius 2015
The Prius has always proved that you don’t have to give up space or ride comfort to get stellar gas mileage—its 44 mpg overall is better than any vehicle that doesn’t plug in. MIDSIZED CARS Honda Accord 2014-16 Lexus CT 200h 2013-15 Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2011-12
With its cavernous backseat, a responsive suspension, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Accord is a dependable used sedan. The Lexus CT is based
300 ‘13-14, ‘17, Pacifica ‘17-18, Town & Country ‘09-11 Dodge Challenger ‘17, Charger ‘17, Dart ‘13, Durango ‘11-12, ‘15-16, Grand Caravan ‘09-11, Journey ‘14-15
on the Prius, but with a nicer interior and more responsive handling. Reliability is excellent, but the car has a small rear seat and cargo area. If you want a bit more luxury for your money, the E-Class is plush, quiet, quick, and fun to drive. WAGONS Toyota Venza 2014-15
Part wagon, part SUV, the Venza has a quiet, roomy interior and a generous cargo area. Handling is secure, though not sporty. Reliability is rock-solid.
Fiat 500 ‘12-13, ‘15 Ford C-MAX ‘18, Expedition ‘10, ‘13, Explorer ‘15-16, F-150 ‘18, F-350 ‘11, ‘15, ‘18, Fiesta ‘11-12, ‘14-15, Focus ‘12-17, Fusion ‘17, Mustang ‘15-17, Transit ‘16
Continued on next page
GMC Acadia ‘09-16, Canyon ‘17-18, Sierra 1500 ‘17, Sierra 2500HD ‘11, ‘14, 1618, Sierra 3500HD ‘15, ‘17, Terrain ‘10-11, Yukon ‘09, ‘15, Yukon XL ‘15 Honda Clarity ‘18,
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
185
Lexus LS 460
SMALL AND MIDSIZED SUVS Toyota RAV4 2014-16 Toyota 4Runner 2010-11
These models are two different takes on SUVs, both with stellar reliability. The compact RAV4 is available with four- and six-cylinder engines, both of which are very fuel-efficient. It is great for urban and suburban families, and its nimble, secure handling is a plus. On the other hand, the rugged 4Runner is a serious off-roader with a well-finished and quiet interior, smooth V6 or V8 engine, and an available third-row seat.
Used Cars to Avoid Continued
186
$20,000–25,000
SEDANS Toyota Avalon 2016-18 Lexus LS 2011
For less than the price of a new, compact sedan, you can buy one of these slightly older models that offer more space. The Avalon features a generously sized cabin and luxury features for a nonluxury price. The LS is the flagship of the Lexus line. A competent cruiser that floats over bumps and ruts, it’s supremely comfortable, and emphasizes quietness and luxury over sportiness. Both sedans offer optional hybrid powertrains.
Odyssey ‘18 Ridgeline ‘18 Hyundai Genesis ‘10 Sonata ‘11, Tucson ‘16-17 Infiniti JX ‘13, Q50 ‘17, Q70 ‘15, QX60 ‘14 Jaguar F-Pace ‘17, 18 Jeep Cherokee
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
WAGONS Toyota Prius V 2016-17
Longer and more versatile than a standard Prius, the V still returns excellent fuel economy despite its extra weight and larger size. This efficient hybrid takes the best attributes of the Prius, but adds a roomier rear seat and expanded cargo capability. SMALL AND MIDSIZED SUVS Mazda CX-5 2018 Toyota Highlander 2014-15
Mazda’s small SUV is also sporty. It has taut, agile handling and well-weighted steering,although the ride is choppy and the cabin
‘14-16, Compass ‘18, Grand Cherokee ‘1115, Liberty ‘12, Patriot ‘14-15, Renegade ‘15-16, Wrangler ‘09, ‘11-13, Wrangler JK ‘18 Kia Cadenza ‘17, Optima ‘12
Lincoln MKZ ‘17 Mazda 5 ‘10, CX-3 ‘17 Mercedes-Benz C-Class ‘15, ‘18, E-Class ‘09, ‘18, GLC ‘16-17, GL-Class ‘14, ‘16, M-Class ‘10, S-Class ‘16 Mini Cooper 09-14,
PICKUPS Honda Ridgeline 2013-14
The Ridgeline is an excellent alternative to a traditional pickup truck. It has a carlike ride, an innovative composite cargo bed, a lockable weatherproof trunk under the bed, and a powerful V6. It isn’t designed for serious off-roading or hauling, and its fuel economy isn’t better than
larger trucks, but if you don’t need to tow more than 5,000 pounds, consider buying one. $25,000–30,000
MIDSIZED AND LARGE CARS Lexus ES 2016-17 Lexus GS 2014-15
The ES takes the platform of the reliable Toyota Camry and adds luxury appointments, road-tripworthy front seats, and a quiet cabin. The GS is a true sports sedan with ample power and superb handling, but it also boasts a supple ride and a roomy, luxurious cabin.
USED C A RS
gets loud. Reliability is very good. The Highlander is a roomy three-row SUV available with four- and six-cylinder gas engines as well as V6-powered hybrid version. It has a quiet interior, room for seven, straightforward controls, and top-notch reliability.
MIDSIZED AND LARGE SUVS Lexus RX 2015 Toyota Sequoia 2013
The RX offers a quiet, luxurious cabin; fuelefficient gas and hybrid powertrains; a plush ride; and stellar reliability. The big Sequoia SUV can seat up to eight passengers and has a refined V8 powertrain. PICKUPS Toyota Tundra 2015-16
The reliable Tundra gets impressive off-road and towing abilities. Its V8 engine provides plenty of power with competitive fuel economy. A damped tailgate is a nice convenience feature.
Toyota Tundra
‘16, CooperClubman ‘09-14, ‘16,Cooper Countryman ‘12, ‘14 Mitsubishi Outlander ‘15, Outlander Sport ‘15 Nissan Leaf ‘16, Pathfinder ‘14-15, Quest ‘12, Rogue ‘09,
Sentra ‘13, ‘15, Titan ‘17, Versa Hatchback ‘10 Porsche Boxster ‘14, Cayenne ‘13, ‘16, Macan ‘15 Ram 1500 ‘16, ‘18, 2500 ‘12-16, 3500 ‘16-17
Saturn Outlook ‘09 Vue ‘09 Subaru Impreza ‘09, Legacy ‘09, WRX ‘15-16 Tesla Model S ‘17-18, Model X ‘16-18 Volkswagen Atlas ‘18, Golf ‘18,
GTI ‘16, ‘18, Jetta ‘11, ‘13, Jetta SportWagen ‘12, Passat ‘14, ‘18, Tiguan ‘09, ‘11-13, Touareg ‘14 Volvo C70 ‘11, ‘13, S90 ‘17, XC90 ‘16-17
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
187
Reliable Used Cars for Every Budget THESE ARE THE MOST reliable 2009 to 2018 models available, according to our Annual Auto Survey. These lists show vehicles in five price categories. Each tested well when new and has had aboveaverage reliability.
To help you buy the newest vehicle— with the most up-to-date safety features—
that your budget allows, we show the first year that each model offered electronic stability control (ESC) as a standard or optional feature. Models highlighted in dark gray have multiple years of much-better-thanaverage reliability, according to our survey.
Prices Make & Model
ESC (’09-18)
$5K$10K
$10K$15K
$15K$20K
$20K$25K
$25K$30K
Opt. in
Std. from
‘09-13
‘16
‘17-18 ‘16
‘17
-
-
‘11
-
-
‘09
-
CARS: SUBCOMPACT Honda Fit Hyundai Accent Nissan Versa Hatchback Toyota Corolla iM Toyota Prius C
‘11-12
-
‘12-14 ‘15-16
‘10, ‘12
-
-
‘17
Ford Focus
‘09-11
-
-
-
Honda Civic
‘09-11 ‘12-14
‘15
‘18
Hyundai Elantra
‘09, ‘11 ‘14-17
-
-
Toyota Yaris Toyota Yaris iA
-
-
‘12
‘10
‘12
-
all ‘10
‘09
‘10
‘09
‘12
‘09
‘11
-
all
‘09
‘11
-
all
all
all ‘10
CARS: COMPACT
Kia Forte
‘12
‘14-16
‘18
Kia Soul
‘10-13
‘16
‘18
Mazda3
‘09-13 ‘14-15 ‘16-17
‘18
Nissan Leaf
‘11, ‘13 ‘14-15
‘17
Pontiac Vibe
‘09-10
-
-
-
-
Scion xB
‘09-10, ‘12
‘15
-
-
-
-
-
-
‘15-16
‘18
-
-
all
‘09-13 ‘14-16 ‘17-18
‘09
‘10
Subaru Impreza Toyota Corolla Toyota Matrix Toyota Prius Volkswagen Jetta
188
all
all
-
-
‘09
‘10
‘09-10 ‘11-14
‘15
‘16-17
‘18
‘09
‘10
‘15-16
‘17
-
-
-
all
‘10
-
-
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
$5K$10K
$10K$15K
ESC (’09-18)
$15K$20K
$20K$25K
$25K$30K
Opt. in
Std. from
‘17-18
‘09
‘10
-
all
‘09
‘10
-
all
‘09
‘10
-
all
-
all
CARS: MIDSIZED AND LARGE ‘12
-
‘15
Ford Taurus
‘09-11
‘12
‘14, ‘16
-
Honda Accord
‘09-11 ‘12-13 ‘14-16
‘17
Chevrolet Impala
‘16
‘17
-
‘13
‘16
‘09-12
‘14
-
-
Hyundai Azera
-
‘13
‘14, ‘16
-
Hyundai Sonata
‘09
‘15
‘16
‘18
Kia Optima
-
-
‘14-15
‘18
Mazda6
‘09-12
‘14
‘15-17
‘18
Nissan Altima
‘10, ‘12
-
‘16-17
‘18
-
‘16-17
Nissan Maxima
‘11
Subaru Legacy
‘10-11 ‘12, ‘14 ‘16-17
Toyota Avalon
‘09-10 ‘11-12 ‘13-15 ‘16-18
Toyota Camry
‘09-11 ‘12-14 ‘15-17
Volkswagen Passat
-
-
-
‘18 ‘18
all all all all all
all all
CARS: LUXURY Acura ILX Acura TL Acura TSX
‘09-10 ‘11-12 ‘13-14
-
-
‘15-16
‘17
‘15
‘16
‘12-13
‘15
‘16
Buick Regal
-
-
‘15-16
‘17
Buick Verano
‘12
‘13-15
-
-
‘09-10 ‘11-12
‘13
-
Audi A4 BMW 3 Series Buick LaCrosse
Infiniti G Infiniti M Lexus CT 200h Lexus ES Lexus GS Lexus IS Lexus LS Lincoln MKZ Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz E-Class Volvo S60
-
-
‘11-12 ‘13-15
‘09, ‘11-12
-
‘11, ‘13
‘09-12
‘13
-
-
-
‘14-15 ‘16-17 ‘13
‘14-15
‘10
‘11-13 ‘14-15
‘16
-
‘09-10
‘12
-
-
‘11
all all all all all all all all all all all all all all
-
-
-
all
‘10-11 ‘13-14
-
‘16
all
-
‘11-12
‘13
-
‘13
-
‘16
‘17
-
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
all all
189
USED C A RS
Prices Make & Model
Prices Make & Model
ESC (’09-18)
$5K$10K
$10K$15K
$15K$20K
$20K$25K
$25K$30K
Opt. in
Std. from
-
-
‘12
-
‘14
‘16 ‘17
-
all
‘15 ‘15
‘16
‘10-12
‘13
‘15
‘16
‘10
-
‘12
-
‘13
‘10
‘15
‘16
‘09
‘12
-
-
-
all
-
all
SPORTS CARS/CONVERTIBLES Audi A5 BMW 2 Series BMW 4 Series Chevrolet Camaro Chevrolet Corvette Ford Mustang Mazda MX-5 Miata
‘09-10 ‘11-14
-
-
‘13
‘11
-
-
‘15
‘16
Kia Sedona
‘12
-
‘14
Honda Odyssey
-
‘15-16
‘17
Mazda5
‘13
‘14-15
-
-
-
Subaru Outback
-
‘11-12
‘14
‘16
‘17
Scion FR-S Subaru BRZ
‘13
all all all all
all
WAGONS AND MINIVANS Honda Accord Crosstour Honda Crosstour
Toyota Prius V Toyota Sienna Toyota Venza Volvo XC70
‘12-13 ‘14-15 ‘16-17
-
‘11-13 ‘14-15
‘16
‘18
‘09-13 ‘14-15
‘16
-
-
‘12
all all all ‘10 all all all all all
SUVs: SMALL Audi Q3 Ford Escape Honda CR-V
-
-
-
-
‘16-17
‘12
‘15-16
‘18
-
‘09-10 ‘11-13 ‘14-15 ‘16-17
‘18
‘10-11
-
-
Honda HR-V
-
-
‘16
‘17
Hyundai Tucson
‘11
‘12-13
‘14
-
Kia Sportage
‘09
-
‘15-16
‘18
Mazda CX-5
-
‘13-14 ‘15-17
‘18
-
Honda Element
Mini Cooper Countryman Mitsubishi Outlander Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Nissan Rogue
190
-
‘15
‘16
‘17
-
‘17-18
‘17
‘18
‘13
-
‘17
-
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
-
all all all all all all all all all all all all
ESC (’09-18)
$5K$10K
$10K$15K
$15K$20K
$20K$25K
$25K$30K
Opt. in
Std. from
-
-
‘16 ‘15
‘17
‘18 ‘18
-
all
‘16-17
‘09-10 ‘11-13 ‘14-16 ‘17-‘18
-
-
‘12-13
‘15
‘14
‘16
-
all
SUVs: SMALL Continued Subaru Forester Subaru XV/Crosstrek Toyota RAV4
-
‘14
‘09-10
Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
-
Nissan Murano
‘11
‘12-14
-
‘12
Volkswagen Tiguan
‘15, ‘17
all all all
SUVs: MIDSIZED AND LARGE Acura MDX Acura RDX Chevrolet Equinox Chevrolet Tahoe Ford Flex GMC Terrain GMC Yukon Honda Pilot Hyundai Santa Fe Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Infiniti QX50 Kia Sorento Lexus NX Lexus RX Lincoln MKX Mazda CX-9
Nissan Xterra Toyota 4Runner Toyota FJ Cruiser Toyota Highlander Toyota Sequoia
‘11
‘13
-
‘15-17
-
‘12
‘13
‘12
-
‘17
-
‘15-17
-
‘12
‘13
‘11-12
-
‘14-15
-
-
‘15
‘16-17
‘18
‘15-16 ‘17-18
-
‘16-17
-
-
‘16-17 ‘18 ‘15
‘09-10 ‘11-12 ‘13-14
‘15
-
‘13
‘14
-
‘15
‘17
‘11
-
‘16
‘18
‘15
-
-
‘15
‘10-11 ‘12-13 ‘14-15
-
-
‘14
‘09-11 ‘12-13 ‘14-15 ‘16-17
-
‘10
-
‘13
‘09-11
‘12
‘13-14
‘09-10 ‘11-13
‘15
-
-
all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all all
PICKUP TRUCKS Honda Ridgeline Nissan Frontier Toyota Tacoma Toyota Tundra
-
‘09-12 ‘13-14 ‘09
‘15
‘11-12 ‘13-14 ‘15-16
-
all
‘09
‘12
-
all
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
all
191
USED C A RS
Prices Make & Model
Detailed Used Car Reliability THESE CHARTS GIVE YOU a model’s complete reliability picture for its used versions (2013 through 2018). The detailed reliability ratings are based on our Annual Car Reliability Survey, for which we received responses on more than half-a-million vehicles. The Annual Car Reliability Survey is sent to subscribers of Consumer Reports and ConsumerReports.org. Respondents reported on any serious problems they had with their vehicles in any of the trouble spots included in the following
HOW TO USE THE CHARTS
To check on the reliability history of a particular year’s model, start with the Used Car Verdict. This score shows whether the model had more or fewer problems overall than the average model of that year, calculated from the total number of problems reported by subscribers in all trouble spots. Because problems with the engine, major; engine cooling; transmission, major; and drive system can be serious and expensive to repair, our calculations give extra weight to problems in those areas. To assess a used car in more detail, look at the individual ratings for each of the 17 trouble spots. They will pinpoint a model’s strengths and weaknesses. Ratings are based on
192
charts, during the previous 12 months. These were considered serious because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime. Because high-mileage vehicles tend to have more problems than low-mileage ones, problem rates are standardized to minimize differences related to mileage. The 2018 models were generally less than 6 months old at the time of the survey and had been driven an average of about 3,000 miles. Models with insufficient data are noted with a column of asterisks (*).
the percentage of survey respondents who reported problems for that trouble spot, compared with the average of all vehicles for that year. Models that score a 1 are not necessarily unreliable, but they have a higher rate of problems than the average model. Similarly, models that score a 5 are not necessarily problemfree but had relatively few problems compared with other models. Because problem rates in some trouble spots are very low, we do not assign a 1 or a 2 unless the model’s problem rate exceeds 3 percent. If a problem rate is below 2 or 1 percent, it will be assigned a 4 or a 5 respectively. Newer vehicles should have few, if any, problems. In some cases a model may
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
score 4 and 5 in most categories, but the verdict is a 3 or lower because it still has more problems than the average model. Model years with insufficient data are noted with a column of asterisks (*). A model year in bold identifies the year it was introduced or underwent a major redesign. TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, Major Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt. Engine, Minor Oil leaks, accessory belts and pulleys, engine mounts, engine knock or ping. Engine Cooling Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating. Transmission, Major Trans
rack and pinion), power steering, wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension. Brakes Premature wear, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, master cylinder, calipers, rooters, antilock brake system (ABS), parking brake, brake failure. Exhaust Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks. Paint/Trim Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, peeling), loose trim or moldings, rust. Noises/Leaks Squeaks or rattles, seals and/or weather stripping, air or water leaks, wind noise. Body Hardware Windows,
locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect. Power Equipment and Accessories Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior light, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, alarm or security system. In-Car Electronics Audio systems, entertainment systems, navigation system, backup camera/sensors, communication system.
AVERAGE PROBLEM RATES MODEL YEARS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Engine, Major
13 14 15 16 17 18 1
1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Engine, Minor
1
1
Engine, Cooling
1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
1
1 <1 <1
Trans., Major
1
1
1 <1 <1 <1
Trans., Minor
1
1
1
1
1 <1
Drive System
2
1
1
1
1 <1
Fuel System
2
1
1
1
1 <1
Electrical
1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Climate System
2
2
2
1
1 <1
Suspension
2
2
1
1
1 <1
2
2
1
1
1 <1
Brakes Exhaust
<1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Paint/Trim
2
1
1
1
1 <1
Noises/Leaks
2
2
2
2
1
Body Hardware
1
1
1
1 <1 <1
Power Equipment
3
3
2
2
1
1
In-Car Electronics
3
3
3
3
2
1
1
This chart shows the average rates of problems for all vehicles in our survey. For example, in 2013, fewer than one percent of vehicles had exhaust problems on average. Models with fewer problems will score a 5 or 4; models with more problems will score a 2 or 1.
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
193
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
mission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement. Transmission, Minor Gear selector or linkage, coolers and lines, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, hydraulics (clutch master or slave cylinder). Drive System Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/ AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, stability control (ESC), electrical failure. Fuel System Checkengine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel-injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation. Electrical Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure. Climate System Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure. Suspension Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes
TROUBLE SPOTS
Acura MDX
Acura RDX
Acura TL, TLX
Acura TSX
Audi A3 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 50 5 0 40 30 50 10 40 5 0 50 40 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 30 40 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 40 5 0 40 20 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 30 40 40 40 5 0 20 10 30 30 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 40 50 5 0 20 30 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 30 20 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 20 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 20 50 40 5 0 40 40 50 30 20 4
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 40 50 5 0 20 50 10 10 20 4 0 40 40 30 30 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 40 5 0 20 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 30 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 40 40 50 5 0 10 50 40 30 50 5 0 20 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 30 50 5 0 30 30 30 30 10 1
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 30 4 0 20 5 0 50 5 0 40 3 0 30 1 0 40 1 0 40 5 0 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 30 40 10 30 3
0 40 40 30 40 40 4
0 30 40 10 10 30 4
0 40 5
Audi A4
Audi A5
Audi A6
Audi Q3
Audi Q5
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
50 40 50 5 *0 50 50 40 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 50 40 50 5 *0 50 40 40 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 20 30 50 4 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 40 40 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 20 50 50 5 *0 40 50 40 4 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 10 30 20 5 *0 40 40 10 5 *0 0 30 20 30 3
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 20 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 40 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 40 5 0 50 30 50 50 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 40 40 40 40 4
0 30 50 30 5 0 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 2 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 30 4 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 50 20 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 4 0 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 30 5 0 40 50 40 4
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 10 10 20 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 40 50 5 0 20 10 10 10 30 2 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 40 30 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 40 40 20 30 5
0 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 50 3 0 20 10 10 2
0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 10 10 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 30 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 20 20 30 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 10 20 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 30 10 4
USED-CAR VERDICTS
* 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 20 40 50 40 3
0 30 50 30 5
0 4
0 40 30 30 20 20 2
0 30 40 50 3
0 20 30 30 40 50 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 5
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
194
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Engine, Major Engine, Minor Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip. In-Car Elec. USED-CAR VERDICTS
Audi Q7
BMW 1 Series, 2 Series
BMW 3 Series
BMW 4 Series
BMW 5 Series
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 3
0 50 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 30 5 0 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 50 3 0 50 40 40 4
0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 40 5 0 30 10 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 30 40 40 4 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 30 40 4 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 10 30 40 50 4 0 40 10 50 40 30 4
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 30 40 5 0 40 40 50 30 5
0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 30 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 20 50 30 10 4 0 30 30 40 40 40 5
0 50 30 50 1
0 20 20 40 40 30 1
0 30 40 40 40 5
0 30 30 50 30 10 2
0 50 4
0 50 5
* * 50 4*0 50 5 *0 50 4*0 50 5 *0 50 5*0 50 5 *0 50 5*0 50 5 *0 50 5*0 50 5 *0 30 1*0 50 5 *0 50 4*0 50 5 *0 40 3*0 50 5 *0 50 5*0 50 5 *0 30 1*0 30 5 *0 40 5*0 50 5 *0 40 5*0 50 5 *0 50 1*0 50 4 *0 50 2*0 50 5 *0 30 1*0 40 5 *0 50 1*0 20 5 *0 0 40 1
0 30 5
0 1
*
*
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
BMW i3
BMW X1
BMW X3
BMW X5
Buick Enclave
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 10 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Major
0 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 20 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 3 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 10 5 0 40 5
0 40 50 50 30 40 5 0 10 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 40 5 0 50 40 40 30 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 40 30 5 0 50 50 50 10 50 5 0 40 50 30 10 40 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 30 50 50 40 5 0 20 40 10 30 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 10 30 2 0 50 30 50 20 30 5
0 10 30 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 40 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 10 10 20 40 3 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 40 30 5 0 30 30 30 30 20 5
0 10 20 50 40 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 40 50 40 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 40 50 50 40 5 0 40 10 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 30 40 30 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5
0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 3 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 30 40 5 0 10 40 30 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 30 50 40 4 0 40 20 30 40 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
* * 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 4* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 5
0 5
0 20 50 30 10 30 3
0 10 30 30 50 40 3
0 10 40 40 40 20 4
0 30 30 30 30 40 1
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
0 5
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
195
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Buick Encore
Buick Envision
Buick LaCrosse
Buick Regal
Buick Verano
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 30 40 40 50 5
0 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 10 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 30 50 50 5 0 10 30 10 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 30 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 50 50 40 5 0 30 50 20 30 40 5
0 10 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 20 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 40 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 20 40 5 0 30 40 5
0 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 4 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 10 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 4 0 40 40 40 30 5 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 4 0 30 40 50 40 5 0 30 30 40 30 4 0 30 40 30 30 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 10 20 30 40 5
0 40 30 5
0 40 30 40 40 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 30 30 50 5
* * 30 50 40 5* *0 50 50 50 5* *0 50 50 40 5* *0 50 50 50 5* *0 30 50 50 5* *0 50 50 50 5* *0 10 50 40 5* *0 40 50 50 5* *0 50 50 50 5* *0 10 50 50 3* *0 50 50 50 5* *0 50 20 50 5* *0 50 20 50 4* *0 50 50 50 4* *0 30 50 30 4* *0 10 20 20 3* *0
0 50 50 50 1
0 20 40 40 4
0 40 50 50 1
0 50 50 50 1 0 50 50 50 1 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 1 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 5 0 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 40 5 0 30 10 50 1 0 20 40 50 4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Cadillac ATS
Cadillac CTS
Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac SRX
Cadillac XTS
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
* * 20 40 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 10 30 5* *0 10 10 2* *0 10 40 2* *0 50 50 5* *0 40 40 5* *0 10 10 5* *0 10 50 4* *0 10 30 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 10 40 5* *0 10 10 2* *0 10 30 5* *0 10 10 5* *0 10 10 5* *0
0 50 40 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 40 40 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 4 0 10 30 50 5 0 30 30 40 5 0 30 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 4 0 20 10 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 30 3 0 20 50 40 4 0 20 30 40 5 0 10 10 10 3 0 10 10 10 1
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 5 0 50 30 50 40 2 0 30 30 40 40 5 0 50 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 40 40 5 0 10 10 10 50 3 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 5 0 50 30 40 50 5 0 40 40 10 40 3 0 30 50 50 40 5 0 10 10 10 20 4 0 10 10 40 10 4
0 10 10 1
0 10 10 30 3
0 10 10 10 30 3
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 30 50 5
0 50 50 50 4
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 20 10 1 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 3 0 50 30 30 1 0 10 50 30 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 10 30 50 1 0 40 40 10 4 0 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 3 0 50 50 50 1 0 40 50 30 1 0 50 50 40 1 0 50 30 40 5 0 10 10 10 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 30 20 1
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 3 0 50 50 50 3 0 10 40 50 3 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 2 0 20 20 20 3 0 20 50 50 4 0 50 40 50 4 0 20 40 20 5 0 40 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 4 0 50 30 40 4 0 20 20 10 2
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 30 30 50 1
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
196
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
0 50 50 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Chevrolet Bolt
Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet Colorado
Chevrolet Corvette
Chevrolet Cruze
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 3 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 10 5
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 4 0 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 1 0 50 50 50 50 3 0 50 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 2 0 30 50 40 40 1 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 30 5 0 10 20 10 30 2
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 5
0 50 30 50 40 1
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 30 40 50 50 5
0 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 5 0 40 30 40 3 0 40 40 30 5 0 20 30 30 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 5 0 10 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 4 0 10 20 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 30 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 4 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 20 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 20 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 4 0 40 20 40 50 20 5 0 40 10 40 40 50 5
0 10 10 50 40 50 5 0 20 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 20 50 5 0 20 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 10 10 30 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 40 40 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 40 5 0 10 20 10 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 10 40 40 5 0 50 50 20 30 40 5
0 20 30 10 1
0 50 50 40 20 30 1
0 10 10 30 30 30 5
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Chevrolet Equinox
Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 40 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 4
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 40 40 5 0 20 30 30 20 40 4
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 10 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 30 40 5 0 10 30 40 50 50 5 0 10 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 20 20 20 40 5 0 50 30 30 30 50 5
0 30 50 50 30 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 40 5 0 30 40 50 30 40 4 0 20 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 40 5 0 30 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 50 40 10 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 20 40 5 0 50 50 40 20 40 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 30 30 5 0 40 30 30 40 40 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 30 40 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 50 30 30 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 30 30 40 40 5 0 40 40 20 30 40 5
0 50 20 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 30 5 0 40 30 50 30 20 5 0 10 10 10 40 10 4 0 50 30 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 20 50 10 50 2 0 20 40 50 40 30 5 0 40 20 30 50 50 4 0 40 40 40 50 40 4 0 50 20 30 20 30 1 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 30 30 4 0 50 40 20 40 30 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 30 40 50 50 3
0 20 30 40 30 40 4
0 20 40 50 10 20 3
0 30 20 30 20 10 3
0 30 10 30 10 10 1
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
197
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Chevrolet Suburban
Chevrolet Tahoe
Chevrolet Traverse
Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet Volt
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 20 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 10 40 50 5 0 30 30 20 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 10 30 40 5 0 30 40 10 40 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 50 40 3 0 50 40 40 30 50 4 0 50 40 50 40 40 5 0 50 40 10 10 40 5 0 40 50 10 20 40 2
0 50 40 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 10 50 50 5 0 40 50 10 40 40 5 0 40 50 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 10 40 50 5 0 30 50 20 40 40 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 40 50 5 0 20 30 20 30 30 3 0 20 10 40 50 50 5 0 40 10 20 20 50 5 0 50 40 30 10 30 5
0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 40 4 0 40 50 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 10 40 5 0 10 30 40 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 30 50 5 0 10 40 40 30 50 4 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 40 30 40 40 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 4
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 10 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 10 5 0 50 50 1 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 40 1 0 40 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 30 50 5 0 30 50 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 30 10 20 30 5
0 40 20 10 30 30 5
0 20 40 20 30 40 1
0 30 20 1
Chrysler 300
Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Challenger
Dodge Charger
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 30 20 30 5 0 50 50 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 30 30 40 5 0 50 30 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 20 50 50 5 0 40 40 20 50 50 5 0 20 30 10 40 40 4 0 20 50 20 20 20 5 0 40 30 10 30 10 3
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS Engine, Major
0 40 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 30 3 0 10 30 50 40 4 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 50 40 3 0 40 20 50 40 5 0 20 20 10 50 3 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 30 50 3 0 50 50 40 50 4 0 10 10 50 30 3 0 10 10 20 50 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 10 50 30 1
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 30 4 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 30 4 0 20 1
0 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 4 0 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 10 4 0 40 50 40 4 0 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 4 0 20 30 20 3 0 50 50 50 4 0 20 10 30 2 0 40 40 30 3
0 10 1
0 30 30 30 3
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
198
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 5
* * 50 50 5* *0 30 50 1* *0 50 20 5* *0 20 20 3* *0 20 50 3* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 1* *0 50 50 5* *0 20 50 3* *0 50 40 5* *0 50 50 1* *0 30 50 1* *0 10 50 1* *0 0 20 40 1
5*0 50 5* *0 5*0 50 3* *0 5*0 30 5* *0 5*0 50 5* *0 5*0 50 3* *0 5*0 50 3* *0 5*0 40 3* *0 5*0 50 5* *0 2*0 50 5* *0 2*0 50 3* *0 2*0 50 3* *0 5*0 50 5* *0 5*0 10 5* *0 5*0 50 5* *0 5*0 40 5* *0 2*0 40 1* *0 2*0 20 1* *0 0 3
0 30 1
Dodge Durango
Dodge Grand Caravan
Ford C-MAX
Ford Edge
Ford Escape
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 40 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 10 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 10 20 20 50 5 0 30 40 50 10 50 4 0 30 40 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 30 50 50 5 0 10 40 30 10 50 3 0 30 50 30 50 50 5 0 10 20 10 10 30 5 0 10 10 40 30 40 2
0 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 40 4 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 10 40 4 0 40 50 40 40 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 40 5 0 20 30 20 30 3 0 50 50 50 40 4 0 20 10 30 20 4 0 40 40 30 30 4
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 20 40 50 2 0 50 40 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 2 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 2 0 40 50 10 30 50 4 0 40 30 10 30 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 2 0 30 20 30 30 40 5 0 10 10 10 20 40 5
0 50 50 30 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 10 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 20 50 5 0 10 30 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 40 30 4 0 40 50 40 40 50 5 0 20 20 40 20 40 5 0 30 20 30 10 50 4
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 30 40 30 40 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 30 40 40 5 0 10 30 30 20 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 20 20 10 10 20 4
0 30 30 30 30 3
0 30 30 30 30 50 1
0 30 30 30 20 40 3
0 20 20 40 40 30 4
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Ford Expedition
Ford Explorer
Ford F-150
Ford F-250
Ford Fiesta ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 30 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 40 20 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 30 40 50 5 0 30 40 50 10 40 5 0 40 20 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 10 30 50 50 5 0 30 30 30 10 40 5 0 10 20 10 50 50 5 0 20 50 30 50 30 4 0 10 30 30 30 20 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 30 50 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 30 40 40 5 0 20 20 20 30 50 5 0 20 20 40 50 50 5 0 20 10 10 30 40 5 0 10 20 10 20 40 5 0 10 20 30 30 50 3 0 20 40 20 30 40 5 0 30 30 30 30 40 5 0 10 10 30 30 40 4
0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 4 0 30 40 40 40 40 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 30 40 40 5 0 40 50 30 40 50 5 0 30 30 30 30 40 4 0 30 30 30 20 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 20 20 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 30 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 30 50 30 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 20 5 0 50 50 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 40 40 5 0 10 40 40 30 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 20 20 30 30 4
0 20 20 10 10 30 5
0 20 30 30 30 30 1
0 30 40 30 30 30 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
30 5* *0 30 5* *0 40 2* *0 10 1* *0 10 1* *0 10 4* *0 40 2* *0 40 5* *0 10 1* *0 40 4* *0 20 4* *0 50 4* *0 10 5* *0 50 1* *0 40 5* *0 10 5* *0 10 1* *0 0 10 1*
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
199
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Ford Flex
Ford Focus
Ford Fusion
Ford Mustang
Ford Taurus
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 40 20 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 40 5
0 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 20 40 5 0 20 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 40 20 3 0 10 30 30 40 4 0 10 30 40 20 5 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 20 50 5 0 20 50 30 10 1 0 40 30 20 50 5 0 30 10 50 30 5 0 10 20 50 50 3
0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 10 30 5 0 10 10 10 10 20 5 0 10 10 30 50 40 5 0 30 50 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 2 0 40 30 30 40 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 40 40 50 40 5 0 30 30 20 40 40 5 0 50 30 20 50 50 5 0 10 30 30 40 40 5 0 30 10 30 30 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 10 10 10 10 3 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 50 10 5 0 10 30 20 40 20 5
0 50 30 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 10 50 50 30 40 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 10 10 30 5 0 10 40 40 30 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 30 20 20 5 0 10 20 40 40 30 5 0 40 50 40 10 40 5 0 40 40 20 10 40 5 0 40 50 20 30 30 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 40 5 0 20 50 30 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 5 0 20 50 10 3 0 40 30 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 20 3 0 30 20 20 3 0 20 30 50 5 0 30 10 40 4 0 10 10 50 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 20 30 30 20 4
0 10 10 10 10 10 3
0 30 20 30 40 10 2
0 20 30 10 10 10 5
0 30 40 30 5
Genesis G80
Genesis G90
GMC Acadia
GMC Canyon
GMC Sierra 1500
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS Engine, Major
0 50 5
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 1
0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 40 5 0 50 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 40 5 0 20 50 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 30 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 20 40 5 0 10 20 30 40 50 5 0 30 30 20 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 30 50 4 0 10 30 30 40 20 2 0 10 50 50 40 50 5 0 10 10 10 10 20 5 0 10 20 30 10 20 5
0 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 5 0 40 30 40 3 0 40 40 30 5 0 20 30 30 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 5 0 10 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 4 0 10 20 40 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 30 30 5 0 40 30 30 40 40 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 30 40 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 50 30 30 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 30 30 40 40 5 0 40 40 20 30 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 5
0 20 5
0 10 10 10 10 20 4
0 20 30 10 1
0 30 20 30 20 10 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
200
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
GMC Sierra 2500HD
GMC Terrain
GMC Yukon
GMC Yukon XL
Honda Accord
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 40 50 50 50 4
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 20 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 30 5 0 40 30 50 30 20 5 0 10 10 10 40 10 4 0 50 30 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 20 50 10 50 2 0 20 40 50 40 30 5 0 40 20 30 50 50 4 0 40 40 40 50 40 4 0 50 20 30 20 30 1 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 30 30 4 0 50 40 20 40 30 5
0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 40 40 5 0 20 30 30 20 40 4
0 50 40 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 10 50 50 5 0 40 50 10 40 40 5 0 40 50 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 10 40 50 5 0 30 50 20 40 40 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 10 40 50 5 0 20 30 20 30 30 3 0 20 10 40 50 50 5 0 40 10 20 20 50 5 0 50 40 30 10 30 5
0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 10 40 50 5 0 30 30 20 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 10 30 40 5 0 30 40 10 40 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 50 40 3 0 50 40 40 30 50 4 0 50 40 50 40 40 5 0 50 40 10 10 40 5 0 40 50 10 20 40 2
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 30 30 50 5 0 30 30 30 20 30 4
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 10 30 10 10 1
0 30 30 40 50 50 3
0 40 20 10 30 30 5
0 40 30 10 20 30 5
0 50 40 40 40 50 3
Honda Civic
Honda Crosstour
Honda CR-V
Honda Fit
Honda HR-V ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 4
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 30 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 30 40 5 0 40 40 50 10 20 4
0 50 4 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 20 4 0 50 5 0 20 4 0 10 5 0 40 5 0 10 4 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 5 0 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 30 5 0 40 50 40 40 20 4
0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 4 0 30 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 5
0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 50 4 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 40 5 0 40 40 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 50 5 0 40 50 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 50 50 50 30 30 5
0 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 40 4
0 4
0 30 40 50 5
0 40 50 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
201
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Honda Odyssey
Honda Pilot
Honda Ridgeline
Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai Genesis
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 20 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 5
0 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 20 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 10 10 30 50 30 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 40 30 50 5 0 40 30 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 40 40 30 3 0 40 40 40 40 30 1
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 40 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 10 20 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 30 40 5 0 30 50 30 40 40 5 0 50 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 40 5 0 40 30 30 10 30 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 30 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 40 5 0 40 5 0 30 5 0 50 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 3 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 30 5 0 40 5 0 30 5 0 30 4
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 40 50 5 0 20 10 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 20 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 50 30 50 50 4
0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 5 0 1 0 1 0 1
50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 4 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 30 5 *0 40 2 *0 40 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 2 *0 20 2 *0 40 5 *0 10 3 *0 20 3 *0
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 30 50 40 30 1
0 30 50 40 30 30 4
0 50 5
0 30 1
0 30 40 40 40 50 2
0 3
0 30 3
Hyundai Ioniq
Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Tucson
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 20 40 40 50 50 5
0 30 30 40 50 50 5
0 40 30 30 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 5
0 50 50 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 20 20 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 40 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 40 40 5
0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 40 50 50 4 0 30 30 40 40 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 10 20 5 0 50 40 50 10 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 20 10 20 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 20 20 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 30 30 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 10 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 40 4
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 5
0 30 20 40 50 40 5
0 30 30 40 50 40 5
0 30 20 40 40 30 4
0 40 40 30 10 10 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
202
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Infiniti JX, QX60
Infiniti M, Q70
Infiniti Q50
Jaguar F-Pace
Jeep Cherokee
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 40 50 50 50 5
0 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 30 50 40 5 0 50 40 40 40 5 0 10 10 30 40 5 0 50 10 20 50 5 0 50 30 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 30 50 5 0 50 20 40 40 5 0 10 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 20 10 5 0 10 10 10 10 3 0 30 10 50 10 5 0 20 20 30 50 4 0 10 30 40 10 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 10 20 20 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 5
0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 1 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 5 0 1
* * 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 5* *0 2* *0 2* *0 5* *0 5* *0 1* *0 1* *0 2* *0 2* *0 2* *0 2* *0 2* *0 5* *0
0 4
0 1
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 20 50 5
0 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 20 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 30 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 10 30 3 0 40 40 30 40 5 0 40 10 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 4 0 30 40 50 40 5 0 40 40 20 40 5 0 10 20 10 30 4
0 50 4 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 20 2 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 40 4 0 40 4 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 20 5 0 10 4 0 30 5 0 10 5 0 10 1
0 40 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 10 30 50 50 5 0 10 10 20 40 5 0 10 20 20 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 50 5 0 10 50 50 40 5 0 30 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 5 0 10 40 20 40 5 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 10 20 20 30 5 0 20 20 40 30 5
0 20 30 20 10 4
0 10 1
0 10 10 10 20 5
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Renegade
Jeep Wrangler
Kia Cadenza
Kia Forte
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 50 40 40 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 4
0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 20 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 30 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 50 50 5 0 10 30 40 50 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 10 10 20 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 40 50 5 0 20 30 30 20 50 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 3 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 4 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 3 0 40 50 50 4 0 30 10 40 3 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 10 50 5 0 10 30 50 4 0 50 40 50 5 0 40 10 50 4 0 20 10 50 5
0 10 30 20 50 40 2
0 30 30 50 1
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 30 20 50 40 5 0 10 30 40 40 40 5 0 30 20 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 30 50 50 5 0 10 30 40 50 50 5 0 10 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 30 40 40 40 5 0 10 40 30 30 30 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 10 10 30 30 40 5 0 40 10 20 30 40 3
0 50 50 5 0 10 10 4 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 4 0 20 20 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 40 5 0 50 50 5 0 10 40 5 0 30 50 5 0 10 50 5 0 10 10 3 0 20 30 5 0 10 10 1 0 10 30 2
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 10 10 30 20 2
0 10 10 2
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 40 50 5 *0 40 50 40 50 5 *0 50 50 50 40 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 40 5 *0 30 50 50 40 5 *0 40 40 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 40 40 50 40 5 *0 30 50 50 50 3 *0 40 50 40 50 5 *0 20 50 30 20 5 *0 10 40 30 40 5 *0 0 40 50 40 20 5
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
203
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Kia Niro
Kia Optima
Kia Sedona
Kia Sorento
Kia Soul
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 50 50 40 50 50 5
Engine, Major
0 50 5
0 20 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 20 40 30 50 5 0 50 10 30 30 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 40 40 5 0 20 20 30 30 40 5
* * 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 40 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 40 5* *0 20 20 5* *0 40 20 5* *0 10 20 5* *0 50 40 5* *0
0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 50 40 50 5 0 30 40 30 40 50 5 0 10 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 50 5 0 10 10 30 30 50 5 0 40 10 30 40 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 4 0 50 30 50 40 50 5 0 20 30 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 40 30 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 10 30 40 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 30 5
0 30 40 40 30 30 5
0 40 40 5
0 20 20 30 40 40 5
0 40 30 30 50 30 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 50 50 5
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Kia Sportage
Lexus CT 200h
Lexus ES
Lexus GS
Lexus GX ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 5 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 2
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 30 40 5
0 50 50 50 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 30 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 20 50 4 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 20 40 5 0 50 50 40 30 50 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
* 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 40 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 40 30 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 40 50 5 *0 40 10 40 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0
0 50 50 5
40 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 20 20 50 50 3 *0 50 30 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 40 50 50 5 *0 40 40 40 50 3 *0 50 50 30 50 4 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 40 40 50 50 5 *0
0 3
0 50 50 30 5
0 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 30 50 4
0 50 50 50 50 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 4 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 4 0 50 50 5 0 30 30 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 4 0 30 40 3 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 1
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
204
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Lexus IS
Lexus LS
Lexus NX
Lexus RX
Lincoln MKC
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 4 0 10 40 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 10 4 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 20 5 0 50 50 50 40 5 0 40 10 50 30 4 0 40 20 10 20 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 50 50 50 40 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 4 0 20 40 50 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 4 0 20 50 30 50 4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 3 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 40 5
0 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 10 5 0 20 50 50 5 0 10 10 40 5 0 30 20 20 5
0 50 50 50 4
0 50 50 50 40 40 5
0 20 40 20 4
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Lincoln MKX
Lincoln MKZ
Mazda 3
Mazda 5
Mazda 6 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 3 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 30 3 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 50 5 0 30 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 20 5 0 40 5 0 30 3 0 30 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 30 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 40 40 5 0 10 10 10 10 50 5 0 30 30 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 40 30 5 0 40 30 30 50 50 5 0 50 20 10 30 10 5 0 10 30 30 30 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 20 20 10 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 30 5 0 40 10 20 20 30 5
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 30 40 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 10 4 0 50 40 5 0 50 50 2 0 50 50 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
* 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 40 50 5 *0 40 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 4 *0 40 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 20 10 5 *0 30 50 5 *0 30 30 5 *0 20 40 5 *0
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 50 5 *0 10 20 40 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 30 30 30 50 5 *0 30 40 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 50 5 *0 40 40 50 50 5 *0 20 40 20 30 5 *0
0 40 5
0 30 20 4
0 30 30 20 20 10 5
0 50 50 40 40 50 5
0 50 50 5
0 40 40 40 50 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
0 50 50 5
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
205
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Mazda CX-3
Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-9
Mazda MX-5 Miata
MercedesBenz C-Class
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 30 50 50 4
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 40 40 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 40 5 0 10 10 5 0 50 30 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 40 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 20 4 0 30 30 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 20 30 20 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 40 5 0 20 10 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 40 5 0 30 20 50 20 50 5 0 10 50 10 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 30 40 30 40 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 30 4 0 50 30 40 10 30 4
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 2 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 30 10 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 5 0 50 10 50 50 1 0 50 50 50 50 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 20 10 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 30 30 50 30 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 3
MercedesBenz E-Class
MercedesBenz GLA
Mercedes-Benz GLK, GLC
Mercedes-Benz M-Class, GLE
MercedesBenz S-Class
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 30 50 30 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 30 50 50 4 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 50 4 0 40 40 20 30 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 30 20 20 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 4 0 40 30 10 30 50 3 0 40 50 10 20 30 4 0 40 50 10 40 30 1
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 40 40 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 40 4 0 30 30 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 20 2 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 20 40 40 20 4 0 40 40 40 40 10 4
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 5 0 50 30 30 5 0 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 4 0 10 50 50 5 0 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 10 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 5 0 40 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 20 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 40 5 0 50 30 20 10 10 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 10 20 5 0 50 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 30 30 20 50 4 0 40 40 50 30 20 4
0 20 40 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 40 5 0 40 20 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 30 5 0 50 40 50 20 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 30 40 20 5 0 20 40 30 30 10 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 30 50 50 20 1
0 30 20 40 5
0 30 30 40 10 10 3
0 40 30 50 40 20 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
206
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 40 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 30 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 40 5 *0 10 30 50 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 10 30 50 3 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 10 50 40 1 *0 0 30 10 50 5
Mini Cooper
Mini Cooper Countryman
Mitsubishi Outlander
Nissan Altima
Nissan Frontier
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
* 30 40 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 30 50 50 5 *0 10 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 30 50 50 5 *0 50 50 10 5 *0 10 10 50 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 40 10 50 5 *0 10 50 50 5 *0 40 10 50 5 *0 10 50 50 5 *0 20 30 50 5 *0
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 50 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 30 30 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 30 50 40 5 0 30 10 20 50 20 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 30 50 50 5 0 40 20 40 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 20 50 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 10 40 30 30 20 5 0 50 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 40 30 50 5
0 10 30 50 5
0 30 30 30 40 50 5
0 50 30 50 30 30 3
Engine, Major
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 10 30 50 30 50 5 0 20 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 50 5 0 10 20 50 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 30 40 5 0 40 50 40 30 50 5 0 40 10 40 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 40 20 30 5 0 40 30 50 50 40 5 0 10 10 40 40 40 5 0 40 50 50 40 40 4
* 20 50 50 50 4 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 10 40 50 50 5 *0 20 50 40 40 5 *0 30 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 50 4 *0 40 50 50 50 5 *0 20 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 50 5 *0 30 40 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 50 5 *0 50 40 50 50 5 *0 50 50 40 50 5 *0 30 40 10 50 5 *0 40 50 40 50 2 *0
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 10 40 10 30 5
0 10 50 40 40 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 50 50 50 50 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 50 5
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Nissan Juke
Nissan Leaf
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Murano
Nissan Pathfinder
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 5
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 10 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 10 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 4 0 50 50 50 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 10 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 30 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 4 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 20 2 0 10 5 0 50 5 0 20 4 0 50 4 0 50 3 0 10 1 0 50 2
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 4 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 2
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 40 5 0 30 40 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 40 5 0 30 40 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 30 40 40 5 0 30 30 30 50 40 5 0 40 50 40 40 40 5
0 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 20 10 20 40 5 0 40 10 30 10 4 0 40 40 20 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 10 40 4 0 40 30 50 50 4 0 20 40 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 20 10 30 4 0 30 20 10 10 5 0 20 30 40 40 5 0 10 30 40 30 5 0 10 50 30 50 2
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 5
0 50 40 40 10 50 3
0 30 3
0 40 4
0 50 40 30 50 30 5
0 20 10 10 20 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
207
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Nissan Rogue
Nissan Sentra
Porsche 911
Porsche Macan
Ram 1500
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 40 50 5
0 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 10 30 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 20 40 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 40 5 0 40 10 20 20 50 4 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 40 50 5 0 50 10 30 40 40 4
0 40 50 50 30 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 20 40 5 0 10 40 30 50 5 0 10 50 30 30 5 0 30 50 30 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 30 50 5 0 30 50 50 30 4 0 10 40 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 5 0 10 20 10 40 5 0 10 40 30 10 5 0 30 50 30 40 5 0 20 50 20 50 5 0 10 50 10 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 40 30 30 30 40 3
0 10 50 10 20 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 20 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 40 4 0 50 5 0 50 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 5
* 50 5 *0 30 4 *0 40 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 30 5 *0
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 40 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 5 0 40 50 50 4 0 40 50 40 2 0 30 30 30 5
0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 40 50 4 0 40 20 20 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 30 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 40 30 30 50 5 0 30 40 30 30 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 40 5 0 10 30 10 20 40 5 0 10 10 40 20 40 3
0 30 3
0 10 30 40 2
0 30 30 20 10 30 1
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Ram 2500
Subaru Forester
Subaru Impreza
Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 10 40 50 50 50 5
0 40 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 40 50 50 30 50 5 0 10 20 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 40 30 20 30 50 5 0 10 40 40 40 40 5 0 10 30 10 20 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 30 40 40 4 0 10 40 50 50 30 4 0 10 20 30 50 50 4 0 20 30 50 30 40 5 0 10 20 50 50 50 4 0 50 30 30 50 50 5 0 50 10 20 20 50 5 0 30 20 40 40 30 3
0 30 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 30 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 30 30 40 5 0 40 20 20 40 40 5
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 40 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 30 30 30 5 0 40 40 40 20 10 2
0 10 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 4 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 30 50 30 30 40 5 0 50 30 40 30 20 2
0 20 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 40 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 10 20 30 4 0 30 40 30 30 30 1
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 10 10 10 10 20 3
0 30 20 30 40 40 5
0 20 30 40 50 30 4
0 30 50 30 40 50 4
0 30 40 30 40 40 3
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
208
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Subaru XV, Crosstrek
Tesla Model 3
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 10 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 50 40 5 0 20 10 50 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 20 20 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 30 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 30 40 40 2
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 20 20 40 50 50 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 5
Tesla Model S
Tesla Model X
Toyota 4Runner
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
* 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 5 *0 4 *0 5 *0 3 *0 5 *0 4 *0
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 30 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 40 4 0 20 30 40 50 20 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 40 1 0 30 10 40 30 20 5 0 20 20 20 30 20 4 0 10 30 10 20 20 5 0 10 10 30 40 20 1
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 2 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 20 5 0 30 40 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 30 10 1 0 20 10 1 0 10 10 5 0 20 10 5 0 10 10 1
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 10 10 40 50 5
0 2
0 30 20 30 30 10 1
0 10 10 1
0 40 50 50 50 50 3
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Toyota Avalon
Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Highlander
Toyota Prius
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 20 40 40 4
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 50 30 40 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 1
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 40 4 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 40 50 5 0 40 10 10 30 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 4
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 4
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 4
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
209
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
TROUBLE SPOTS
Toyota Prius C
Toyota Prius Prime
Toyota Prius V
Toyota RAV4
Toyota Sequoia
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 3 0 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 5 0 30 50 40 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 50 50 50 5
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 5 0 40 40 10 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 20 30 40 40 5
0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 3
50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 50 5* *0 50 30 5* *0 40 40 4* *0 50 50 5* *0 40 40 5* *0 40 50 5* *0 50 20 5* *0 10 40 5* *0 20 50 1* *0
0 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 5
0 50 40 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Toyota Sienna
Toyota Tacoma
Toyota Tundra
Toyota Venza
Volkswagen Beetle
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 50 5
0 20 50 50 50 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 40 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 20 40 30 4 0 40 30 20 40 50 5 0 40 30 20 30 40 5 0 40 40 30 40 40 5
0 50 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 30 30 5 0 40 50 50 30 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 30 50 40 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 40 50 40 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 40 40 4 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 40 50 5 0 50 40 50 40 40 5
0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 40 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 40 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 40 50 40 40 5 0 40 10 30 40 40 4
0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 40 40 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 5 0 50 50 4 0 50 50 5 0 50 40 5 0 40 40 2
0 50 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 50 20 50 50 5 0 40 10 40 40 5 0 40 50 30 50 5 0 10 50 40 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 10 10 50 10 5 0 10 50 40 10 5 0 50 20 20 10 5 0 50 50 30 50 1 0 30 50 50 10 4
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 50 40 40 50 30 5
0 50 50 50 30 20 3
0 50 50 50 50 40 5
0 50 50 5
0 20 30 30 30 4
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
210
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Volkswagen Golf
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Volkswagen GTI
Volkswagen Jetta
Volkswagen Passat
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
* 50 40 50 5 *0 40 40 50 5 *0 50 40 50 5 *0 50 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 20 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 30 40 50 1 *0 50 40 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 30 10 20 5 *0 40 40 50 5 *0 20 20 30 5 *0 40 50 40 5 *0
0 50 50 50 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 30 10 40 1
0 10 30 40 40 5
Engine, Major
0 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4
* 50 50 40 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 40 30 50 5 *0 30 50 50 3 *0 30 30 50 3 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 20 50 40 3 *0 40 30 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 40 50 50 5 *0 50 50 50 5 *0 40 10 40 5 *0 40 40 50 5 *0 20 30 50 5 *0 40 50 40 5 *0
0 50 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
0 4
0 20 20 40 1
0 40 4
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
0 50 50 50 5
0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 50 4 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 50 5 0 50 5 0 30 4 0 50 5 0 40 5 0 40 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 50 50 5
0 10 50 40 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 20 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 5 0 10 40 50 50 5 0 10 50 40 40 4 0 40 10 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 30 5 0 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 40 40 5 0 40 50 50 40 5 0 10 30 50 40 5 0 30 50 40 30 4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 4 0 10 10 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 10 20 20 50 50 5 0 20 40 40 40 50 3 0 30 40 30 40 50 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 30 30 40 5 0 40 20 40 50 50 5 0 10 10 40 30 40 5 0 20 10 30 40 50 5 0 20 10 30 40 50 1
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
TROUBLE SPOTS
Volkswagen Tiguan
Volvo S60
Volvo XC60
Volvo XC70
Volvo XC90 ‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
‘13 ‘14 ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18
Engine, Major
0 10 50 50 40 50 5
0 50 50 30 50 5
0 50 40 50 50 50 5
0 5
Engine, Minor
In-Car Elec.
0 30 30 50 50 30 5 0 30 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 40 50 5 0 10 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 20 20 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 50 50 50 5 0 10 50 50 30 20 4 0 50 40 50 40 50 5 0 30 30 50 20 50 3 0 20 50 50 40 20 4
0 50 10 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 40 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 5 0 50 10 50 50 5 0 50 10 40 40 4 0 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 50 40 50 4 0 40 50 40 50 4 0 30 50 50 50 4 0 30 10 20 40 4 0 40 20 20 20 2
0 50 30 40 50 50 5 0 50 50 40 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 50 50 5 0 40 30 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 30 40 50 4 0 40 30 40 40 50 5 0 30 30 30 50 50 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 50 40 40 40 20 5 0 50 50 50 50 50 5 0 40 40 50 40 50 5 0 20 40 50 50 40 5 0 30 40 40 50 50 5 0 30 30 20 10 50 5 0 20 40 20 50 50 5
0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 2 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5
USED-CAR VERDICTS
* 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 40 5 *0 50 4 *0 50 4 *0 40 5 *0 50 4 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 2 *0 30 5 *0 50 5 *0 50 5 *0 20 5 *0
0 10 40 50 30 40 2
0 40 20 30 40 4
0 40 30 20 30 50 3
0 3
0 30 4
Engine Cooling Trans., Major Trans., Minor Drive System Fuel System Electrical Climate System Suspension Brakes Exhaust Paint/Trim Noises/Leaks Body Hardware Power Equip.
NEW-CAR PREDICTION
1
2
WORSE
3
4
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
0 20 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
40 50 5 *0 40 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 40 30 5 *0 50 20 5 *0 40 10 5 *0 10 30 5 *0 20 40 5 *0 10 30 5 *0 50 50 5 *0 40 30 5 *0 10 40 5 *0 50 40 5 *0 10 10 5 *0 10 10 3 *0 0 10 10 3
5
BET TER
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
211
USED C A R REL I A B IL I T Y
TROUBLE SPOTS
Buying Tires
Tires have a direct impact on your car’s handling, braking, ride comfort, and fuel economy. More important, their cornering grip, braking distances, and resistance to hydroplaning all affect your safety on the road.
CONSUMER REPORTS TESTS 50 or more tire models each year, with each going through as many as 14 rigorous tests. We’ve found that you generally get what you pay for. No matter the type, tires that combine the best grip with the longest tread life may cost a little more but will probably be worth it in the long run. For example, a $130 tire that will last twice as long as an $87 tire is a better buy, assuming all other factors are equal. Still, the cheaper tire may be just fine if you won’t be keeping your car for long. When buying new tires, we recommend sticking to the same type and size tire that originally came on your car. First, check the ratings for models that provide good braking and handling capabilities, as well as good resistance to hydroplaning (when there is too much water between your tire and the pavement), which can help you avoid an accident. After that, look for those rated highly in areas important to you, such as winter grip, tread life, ride comfort, and rolling resistance. We have found that some tires with lower rolling resistance allowed our test cars to get 1 or 2 more mpg than tires
212
with the highest rolling resistance. But the mileage you get with brandnew, low-rolling resistance tires may initially be worse than the old tires you are replacing. This is because tires with tens of thousands of miles of wear have less tread and behave more like low-rolling resistance tires. Our latest tests include the projected wear-out mileage of a tire. To determine longevity, we test tread life at a contract lab in Texas, where each tire is driven at least 16,000 miles or more on public roads. We’ve been conducting this test for several years. Our tread-life estimates let you compare the expected miles-to-wear-out for the specific tires we tested, but your actual experience will vary by how and where you drive, and what vehicle you use, among other factors. Many tires have a pro-rated treadwear warranty, but the tread-life mileage in the following charts will give you a direct comparison. Remember that if you buy tires online, you may have to pay for shipping and for mounting and balancing when the tires arrive.
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
ALL-SEASON CAR These are the tires that come standard on many cars, minivans, and SUVs.
Best for: Year-round traction, long tread life, and a comfortable ride. But they may lack the precise handling and grip of performance tires. Speed rating: Most are S (112 mph), T (118 mph), or H (130 mph). Treadwear warranty: Typically 65,000 to 90,000 miles. PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON CAR They come standard on many newer cars.
Best for: Improved handling and grip over allseason tires on wet roads, but often have shorter treadwear than many allseason tires. Speed rating: Typically V (149 mph). Treadwear warranty: Typically 40,000 to 75,000 miles. ULTRA-HIGHPERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON CAR Found on sports cars, sports sedans, and some lower-priced sporty models.
Best for: Wet and dry braking and handling. But they trade some winter performance for ultimate warm-weather grip. Speed rating: Z (more than 149 mph), W (168 mph), or Y (186 mph). Treadwear warranty: None or 40,000 to 60,000 miles. ALL-WEATHER CAR Designed for year-round use. Better snow traction than all-season tires, but may wear out faster.
Best for: Year-round use, and where snow and ice are common challenges. Speed rating: W (168 mph) or V (149 mph). Treadwear warranty: Typically 55,000 to 60,000 miles. WINTER/SNOW AND PERFORMANCE WINTER/SNOW CAR Specially made for use in freezing temperatures and on snow and ice.
Best for: Maintaining traction on snow and ice. But fast wear and so-so wet and dry braking make them most suitable only for cold-weather use. Speed rating: Q (99 mph and higher). Treadwear warranty: Usually none.
T IRE S
Types and Features ALL-SEASON SUV These tires deliver the ride comfort, quietness, and long tread life of a car allseason tire but in the sizes to fit crossover SUVs.
Best for: Year-round traction, long tread life, and a comfortable ride. Speed rating: H (130 mph). Treadwear warranty: Typically 60,000 to 75,000 miles. ALL-SEASON AND ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK Designed for the rigors of truck use.
Best for: All-terrain models are designed for on-road and light-duty off-pavement use; allseason models are made primarily for on-road use. Speed rating: ALL-TERRAIN: S (112 mph) or T (118 mph). ALL-SEASON: S (112 mph), T (118 mph), H (130 mph), or V (149 mph). Treadwear warranty: ALL-TERRAIN: Typically 50,000 to 60,000 miles. ALL-SEASON: Typically 50,000 to 80,000 miles.
BUYING GUIDE 2020 CONSUMER REPORTS
213
Best balance of long tread life and mostly good all-weather performance:
All-Season Tires
General Altimax RT43 Michelin Defender T+H
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
H
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
90,000
66
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
95,000
66
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
80,000
66
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
80,000
Nexen Aria AH7
66
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
90,000
Yokohama Avid Ascend BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport Hankook Kinergy PT
65
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
100,000
63
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2
75,000
63
T
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
80,000
Kumho Solus TA11 61
T
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5
75,000
60
T
4 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
85,000
60
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5
70,000
60
H
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
75,000
58
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
60,000
58
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
60,000
Tested tread life (miles)
80,000
Noise
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
Ride
T
67
Ice braking
70
Handling
General Altimax RT43 Michelin Defender T+H Continental TrueContact Tour Falken Sincera SN201 A/S Falken Sincera SN250 A/S
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Hydroplaning resistance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ALL-SEASON
! 0 ! 0
Pirelli P4 Four Seasons Plus Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus Toyo Versado Noir Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter Firestone All Season
214
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
T IRE S
Best balance of long tread life and year-round performance:
Performance All-Season Tires
Michelin CrossClimate +* Continental PureContact LS
Tested products in performance order.
Tested tread life (miles)
Other Rolling resistance
Noise
Ride
Ice braking
Snow traction
Hydroplaning resistance
Handling
Dry braking
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Wet braking
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON (INCL. ALL-WEATHER, NOTED WITH *)
! 0 ! 0
1
Michelin CrossClimate +* Continental PureContact LS General Altimax RT43 Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady* Michelin Premier A/S Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus Vredestein Quatrac 5*
75
W
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
75,000
71
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
90,000
66
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4
70,000
64
V
3 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
75,000
64
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
80,000
64
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
70,000
62
V
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5
50,000
Atlas Force HP
61
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
65,000
Falken Sincera SN250 A/S BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport Firestone Firehawk AS
61
V
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
75,000
60
V
4 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
80,000
60
V
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 2
60,000
Nokian WRG4*
59
V
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3
60,000
Yokohama Avid Ascend Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus
59
V
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3
75,000
59
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
65,000
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
! RECOMMENDED
215
Tested tread life (miles)
Other Rolling resistance
Noise
Ride
Ice braking
Snow traction
Hydroplaning resistance
Handling
Wet braking
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Dry braking
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON (INCL. ALL-WEATHER, NOTED WITH *) Continued
216
Goodyear Eagle Sport All-Season Bridgestone DriveGuard Uniroyal Tiger Paw AWP3
58
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4
80,000
56
V
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
55,000
56
V
4 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4
65,000
Nokian Entyre 2.0
55
V
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
70,000
Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring
55
V
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 2
60,000
Kumho Solus TA71
54
V
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3
50,000
Toyo Extensa HP II Sumitomo HTR Enhance L/X
54
V
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4
55,000
53
V
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3
65,000
Toyo Celsius*
53
V
3 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3
60,000
Falken Ziex ZE950 A/S Maxxis Bravo HP-M3
51
V
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 3
55,000
46
V
3 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 4
65,000
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Tested products in performance order.
Tested tread life (miles)
Other Rolling resistance
Noise
Ride
Ice braking
Snow traction
Hydroplaning
Handling
Wet braking
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Dry braking
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ULTRA-HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON
! 0 ! 0 ! 0
1
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+ General G-MAX AS-05 BFGoodrich g-Force COMP-2 A/S Vredestein Quatrac Pro Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS
66
Y
5 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0 2
55,000
66
W
5 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 2
65,000
66
W
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 1 0 2
65,000
66
Y
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2
60,000
64
Y
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 2
55,000
64
Y
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 2
50,000
63
W
5 0 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 1
40,000
Kumho Ecsta PA51
62
W
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 1
50,000
Cooper Zeon RS3-G1 Yokohama ADVAN Sport A/S Hankook Ventus S1 noble 2
61
Y
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 2
55,000
60
Y
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 3
75,000
57
W
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 3
55,000
Nexen Nfera AU7
56
W
Nitto Motivo
54
W
Atlas Force UHP
54
Y
Nokian zLine A/S
50
W
Laufenn S Fit AS
50
W
0 4 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0
45,000
Vogue Tyre Signature V
49
W
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
0 3 2 0 3 0 2 0 1 0
0 3 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0
0 5 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0
0 3 3 0 1 0 1 0 3 0
0 3 3 0 2 0 2 0 3 0
0 2 2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0
0 4 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0
0 3 2 0 2 0 3 0 4 0
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 4 0 2
60,000 40,000 55,000 60,000 45,000
! RECOMMENDED
217
T IRE S
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+ General G-MAX AS-05 Vredestein Quatrac Pro
Best balance of long tread life and mostly good all-weather performance
Ultra-HighPerformance All-Season Tires
Winter/Snow Tires
Best balance of winter and three-season performance: Cooper Discoverer True North Hankook Winter I*cept iZ2
Continental WinterContact SI Michelin X-Ice XI3 Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 5
NA
69
H
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4
NA
! 0
Michelin X-Ice XI3 68
H
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5
NA
! 0
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 General Altimax Arctic 12 Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 Falken HS449 Eurowinter Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 Toyo Observe G3-Ice Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3 BFGoodrich Winter T/A KSI Yokohama Ice Guard iG52c Falken Espia EPZ II
68
R
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4
NA
67
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 3
NA
67
H
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 4
NA
64
H
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3
NA
63
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 1 0 3
NA
62
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 1 0 5
NA
61
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3
NA
61
T
2 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 4
NA
60
T
2 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 1 0 4
NA
60
T
2 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3
NA
Tested tread life (miles)
70
Noise
NA
Ride
2 0 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3
Ice braking
H
Handling
70
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Hydroplaning resistance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
WINTER/SNOW CAR
! 0 ! 0 ! 0
218
Cooper Discoverer True North Hankook Winter I*cept iZ2 Continental WinterContact SI
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
T IRE S
Performance Winter/Snow Tires
Best balance of winter performance and dry grip: Vredestein Wintrac Pro Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
V
4 0 0 4 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 2
NA
71
V
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 5 0 2
NA
70
W
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 3
NA
70
V
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 3
NA
67
V
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
NA
66
V
3 0 0 1 0 2 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3
NA
66
V
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3
NA
Tested tread life (miles)
72
Noise
NA
Ride
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 2
Ice braking
W
Handling
78
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving Hydroplaning
Overall Score
Brand & Model
PERFORMANCE WINTER/SNOW
! 0 ! 0
Vredestein Wintrac Pro Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 Nexen Winguard Sport 2 Yokohama Blue Earth Winter V905 Hankook Winter i*cept evo2 Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 Toyo Observe GSi-6 HP Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
GUIDE TO THE R ATINGS:
Overall Score is based on more than a dozen tests, with braking, handling, and hydroplaning resistance more heavily weighted for many tires. Braking tests on ice are from 10 mph; on dry and wet pavement, from 60 to
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
0 mph. Handling combines how well a tire performed in the wet-handling test, steering feel, and an emergency handling maneuver. Hydroplaning denotes a tire’s ability to resist skimming along the surface of standing water. Snow Traction tests denote how far a vehicle
has to travel to accelerate from 5 to 20 mph on moderately, packed snow. Ride and Noise are evaluated subjectively on rough and smooth roads. Rolling Resistance, as measured by a dynamometer, is a factor in fuel economy.
! RECOMMENDED
219
Best balance of long tread life and mostly good all-weather performance:
All-Season SUV Tires
Goodyear Assurance CS Fuel Max Kumho Crugen Premium
Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia Sumitomo HTR Enhance C/X
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
V
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4
60,000
68
H
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
65,000
68
T
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 3
60,000
66
H
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4
75,000
Nitto NT 421Q
66
H
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2
65,000
Toyo Open Country Q/T Yokohama Geolandar G055
66
H
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
65,000
64
H
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4
75,000
Toyo Celsius CUV
64
H
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2 0 3
75,000
Tested tread life (miles)
68
Noise
40,000
Ride
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 5
Ice braking
H
Handling
70
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Hydroplaning resistance
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ALL-SEASON SUV
! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
220
Goodyear Assurance CS Fuel Max Kumho Crugen Premium Bridgestone Dueler H/L 422 Ecopia Sumitomo HTR Enhance C/X Hankook Dynapro HP2
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
Continental Cross Contact LX20 EcoPlus Michelin Premier LTX
Firestone Destination LE 2 Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus Michelin Defender LTX M/S
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
H
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 5
40,000
72
S
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
65,000
72
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4
65,000
72
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
85,000
70
T
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4
55,000
70
T
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 3
65,000
68
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5
60,000
68
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 5 0 4
70,000
68
H
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
70,000
Laufenn X Fit HT
68
T
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4
70,000
Bridgestone Dueler LTH
66
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 3
75,000
Nokian WR G3 SUV 66
Tested tread life (miles)
74
Noise
65,000
Ride
4 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 4
Ice braking
T
Handling
74
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Hydroplaning
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ALL-SEASON TRUCK
! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Continental Cross Contact LX20 EcoPlus Michelin Premier LTX Firestone Destination LE 2 Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus Michelin Defender LTX M/S Cooper Discoverer SRX General Grabber HTS60 Kumho Crugen HT51 Hankook Dynapro HT Nexen Roadian HTX RH5
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus GT Radial Savero HT2 Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country Tour Maxxis 770 Bravo H/T
1
2
WORSE
3
4
5
BET TER
V
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 5
55,000
66
T
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
65,000
66
S
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 5 0 5
65,000
64
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
65,000
64
T
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 5 0 4
60,000
! RECOMMENDED
221
T IRE S
Best balance of long tread life and mostly good all-weather performance:
All-Season Truck Tires
Best balance of long tread life and good on- and off-road performance:
All-Terrain Truck Tires
Continental TerrainContact A/T Michelin LTX A/T 2
Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT Yokohama Geolander A/T G015 Nexen Roadian AT Pro RA8 Falken WildPeak A/T AT3W
Tested products in performance order.
Rolling resistance
Michelin LTX A/T 2
72
S
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 5
85,000
! 0
Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 Nexen Roadian AT Pro RA8 Falken WildPeak A/T AT3W
68
T
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
50,000
68
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 2
60,000
68
S
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 3
75,000
68
T
3 0 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 2 0 3
70,000
Nokian Rotiiva AT
66
T
66
T
0 2 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 5 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 4 4 0
60,000
Laufenn X Fit AT Hankook Dynapro AT-M
66
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 2 0 3 0 4
85,000
Pirelli Scorpion ATR 66
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3
60,000
64
T
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3
60,000
64
S
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3
55,000
64
S
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
55,000
62
S
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 2 0 3
75,000
62
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 3
55,000
60
S
4 0 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 3
65,000
58
T
3 0 0 2 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3
45,000
Tested tread life (miles)
! 0
Noise
65,000
Ride
4 0 0 3 0 4 0 4 0 3 0 3 0 3 0 4 0 2
Ice braking
S
Handling
! 0
Continental 72 TerrainContact A/T
Wet braking
Dry braking
Snow traction
Other
Speed rating
Recommended
Three-Season Winter Comfort Driving Driving
Hydroplaning
Overall Score
Brand & Model
ALL-TERRAIN TRUCK
! 0 ! 0 ! 0
Cooper Discoverer A/ T3 Cooper Discoverer A/TW Firestone Destination A/T Toyo Open Country A/T II GT Radial Adventuro AT3 Maxxis 771 Bravo A/T Kumho Road Venture AT51 222
CONSUMER REPORTS BUYING GUIDE 2020
75,000
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Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher: Consumer Reports Inc., 101 Truman Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10703-1044. President and CEO: Marta L. Tellado; Editorin-Chief: Diane Salvatore; Managing Editor: Kevin Doyle. 10. Owner: (If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, its name and address must be stated.) Full Name: Consumer Reports Inc., a nonprofit organization. Complete Mailing Address: 101 Truman Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10703-1044. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees,
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15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Print Magazine, U.S. and Canada
Average no. copies each issue during past 12 mo.
No. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date
a. Total no. of copies (net press run) b. Paid circulation 1. Mailed outside-county paid subscriptions stated on Form 3541 2. Mailed in-county paid subscriptions stated on Form 3541 3. Sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors, counter sales, and other non-USPS paid distribution 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS c. Total paid distribution (sum of 15b(1), (2), (3), and (4)) d. 1. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541 2. Free or Nominal Rate In-County included on PS form 3541 3. Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) 4. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) e. Total free distribution (sum of 15d(1) and (4)) f. Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e) g. Copies not distributed h. TOTAL (sum of 15f and 15g) i. Percent paid and/or requested circulation
3,776,624
3,618,922
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3,187,873 0
36,355 0
35,000 0
3,404,482
3,222,873
1,411 0 0
1,312 0 0
9,508 10,920 3,415,401 361,223 3,776,624 99.68%
6,990 8,302 3,231,175 387,747 3,618,922 99.74%
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1
2
POOR
3
4
5
EXCELLENT
!
$
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