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Release date 11/02/2009
CR also tested two versions of the Mazda3. Among small sedans, the freshened Mazda3 received a Very Good road test score of 74.
“With its redesign, the Legacy goes from a decent but small family sedan to one in the top of its class,” said Rik Paul, automotive editor for Consumer Reports.
Relatedly, Consumer Reports also released reliability findings from its latest Car Reliability Survey. The survey found that front-wheel-drive versions of the Fusion have reliability that is better than that of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, two models that many consider to be paradigms of reliability. The all-wheel-drive version’s reliability is just average, because of problems with its drive system.
Prices ranged from $22,850 for the Toyota Camry LE to $30,094 for the Subaru Legacy 3.6R. All the cars in this test group are Recommended. CR only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR’s Annual Auto Survey of its more than seven million print and Web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.
Full tests and ratings of the family sedans test group appear in the December issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale November 3. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org. Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to site for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information.
The redesigned Subaru Legacy is now significantly roomier and quieter, with an impressive ride and responsive handling. The Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited, ($30,094, Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price as tested), is powered by a 240-hp, 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that delivers strong performance and gets 22 mpg overall in CR’s own fuel economy tests. The continuously variable transmission in four-cylinder versions is smooth and pleasant in leisurely driving, but when merging or climbing hills, it keeps the engine revving high. That version attained a commendable 25 mpg overall. Braking is Very Good. Although the plastics are hard, the Legacy’s interior is attractive, with tight fits and well-finished edges. Folding down the 60/40-split rear seatbacks expands the already good-sized trunk.
Overall, the 2010 Fusion is refined and agile, and the AWD version doesn’t drive any differently. But it loses 2 mpg in fuel economy compared with the front-wheel-drive. The ride is steady and calm, with good isolation and handling is responsive. The Ford Fusion SEL AWD, ($29,425 MSRP), is powered by a 240-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers responsive performance and gets 20 mpg overall, but the AWD Fusion takes almost a second longer to reach 60 mph. Braking is Very Good. The interior is well finished. The trunk is nicely finished and holds four large suitcases and a small duffel. The rear seat folds 60/40.
A freshening for 2010 helped the Camry improve its standing as one of CR’s top-rated family sedans. It has a comfortable ride and a quiet, spacious cabin. Handling is sound, but the Camry is not particularly agile or fun to drive. The Toyota Camry LE, ($22,850 MSRP), is powered by a 169-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers decent acceleration and above-average fuel economy at 26 mpg overall. The new six-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. Braking is Very Good. Most of the interior materials are nicely finished, including a soft-touch dashboard. Folding down the 60/40-split rear seat-backs expands the good sized trunk.
The Mazda3 has been freshened for 2010 and is distinguished by agile handling and a nice interior that’s laid out well. The interior has been upgraded, but the rear seat remains tight and road noise is pronounced. The car is fun to drive, remaining composed while hustling around corners. CR tested both five-speed manual- and five-speed automatic-transmission versions of the Mazda3. Stability control is standard except for the two base trimlines of the sedan. The Mazda3 i Touring with automatic transmission, ($19,070 MSRP), is powered by a 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers good performance and 30 mpg overall. The five-speed-automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Braking was Good. The trunk, while not huge, is tall and well-shaped.
With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site and owns and operates a 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut. The organization’s auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645 or visit www.ConsumerReports.org.
Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education, and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.
© 2009 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports® magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.
Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education, and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.
© 2009 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports® magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.