CR has some true flaws in their reviews, and I would say their import bias over a couple of decades was blatant. To echo the Mopar complaints, they had published similar reports in the past concerning GM where they would suggest one model had a better record than another where the parts in question were the same, and sourced from the same factory. But overall, they really are a decent guide. They give an accurate review for used cars, and what is a risk from maintenance and resale. They were pretty up front in recognizing Ford's uptick in quality control and design. But as noted perception is reality. I think people just adopted the idea that something like a Tercel was a better car than an Escort, or a Corolla will give you more for your money. It just isn't reality although it once was years ago. I have driven a Kia. It was a very nice car. I drove a Prius. Nice car. I drove a Malibu. Nice car. It is hard to find a bad car.
I did drive a Russian thing in Canada that was kind of like a jeep. It was HORRIBLE.
Funny thing about the Avalon oil issue - the VWs made over the last decade had the same issue. Seems that to fit the 4 cyl in the Passat they just created a smaller oil pan. The turbo then "cooked" the oil into sludge which cycled through the engine more due to less capacity, and then, if you are not a big maintenance person, BANG - your engine goes south. Mine didn't seize, but VW got up front about it and rebuilt the entire top end of my motor for me. Nice Volk, those VW volk. For now, I stick to my VW.
