Tesla Model S, Ram 1500 win top marks from Consumer Reports
The Tesla (TSLA) Model S and Ram 1500 scored top grades in the annual Consumer Reports new-car rankings released today. The Tesla electric car took the "best overall" vehicle honor, while the Ram topped the competitive pickup class.
The Ram truck was the first Chrysler-built vehicle in 16 years to win the influential magazine’s Top Pick
designation as best in its category. The other two Detroit-based auto companies, General
Motors (GM) and Ford (F), failed to place a model in the Top Picks list, which has historically been
dominated by Japanese brands.
In separate overall rankings of luxury, Lexus, Acura and Audi topped the list, followed by Subaru, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Infiniti, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Ford and Jeep tied for last place on this list.
Ford vehicles got strong road test scores but were dragged down by reliability, especially with the MyFord Touch music, phone and navigation system. Similar problems with electronic dashboard controls hurt the score of GM’s Cadillac, which ranked No. 21 among 23 brands.
Chrysler Group got kind words for its Ram 1500 pickup, which Consumer Reports described as "surprisingly refined and inviting" in its ride and as offering "effortless power" for hauling and towing.
In picking the Tesla Model S electric car as the overall best model, the magazine describes it as "a technological tour de force with "blistering acceleration, razor-sharp handling, compliant ride and versatile cabin."
In addition to the Tesla and the Ram pickup, here are Consumer Reports' other Top Pick choices in various categories:
Midsized sedan: Honda Accord four-cylinder
Compact car: Subaru Impreza
Green car: Toyota Prius
Luxury Car: Audi A6
Sports sedan: BMW 328i
Small SUV: Subaru Forester
Midsized SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe
Minivan: Honda Odyssey
