Did These SIX Cars Really Get WORSE Since Their Update?

If you didn't see earlier today, Consumer Reports issued a list of cars that -- according to their rankings --, fell behind over the last generation vehicle. Considering manufacturers spend a pretty penny updating their new offerings, I'd say that this wouldn't be a good thing.

However, when you take a closer look at the reasons it seems that some of these testing scores went down in areas that are subjective. Take, for example: steering, handling, controls and ride.

To me these areas just seem a bit too sticky to really say that these aspects changed for better or worse without being subjective.

Am I right or wrong?

**Take a look at the models in question down below


- Volkswagen Jetta SE 2.5

- Toyota Sienna FWD/AWD

- Toyota 4Runner

- BMW X5 3.0

- Mercedes-Benz E350

- Honda Odyssey

[Source: Consumer Reports]


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motor1 - 3/17/2011 4:03:55 AM

+1 Boost

The reason for the new E350 to be marked down in 'fuel economy' I think is quite questionable. Reliable independent site, redbook Australia, when comparing the E350 (2008) and the E350 (2010), shows that the 2010 model has a fuel cycle of 9.4L per 100km versus 10.2L/100km, and also emits 25 grams less C02.

But really, for the remainder, the reasons for the marking down are unfortunately quite true. One I can definitely vouch for is the visibility in the new X5 over the last gen E53.

speed123 - 3/17/2011 1:08:32 PM

+2 Boost

Yes.

tango - 3/18/2011 10:33:49 AM

0 Boost

I totally agree with that list. Except that some of them weren't that great before the update anyway.

The_FNG - 3/19/2011 11:02:35 AM

+1 Boost

The worst example of "updating" in one sense has to be the new Jetta. In order to produce more sales (and they've done so successfully), VW de-contented the crap outta this car. We've gone from an Audi-like interior to that similar to a Chevette. Soft, pliant dashboards have given way to hard plastic. Thicker cloth has been replaced with "Leatherette", or as we called it years ago: vinyl. Thank god they didn't screw up the Golf/Rabbit.