Volkswagen Passat Edges out new Toyota Camry in Consumer Reports' Tests of 4-Cylinder Family Sedans Redesigned Nissan Altima posts strong showing in CR's side-by-side testing
In unusually close competition, the Volkswagen Passat squeaked past the newly redesigned Toyota Camry to retain its title as Consumer Reports'® top pick for 4-cylinder family sedans. The Passat has been a CR top pick for family sedans since 1999; the Camry held the same title between 1992 and 1998.
The Passat and Camry posted virtually identical overall test scores in performance tests on four midpriced, four-cylinder family sedans conducted at Consumer Reports' Auto Test Facility in East Haddam, Connecticut by the magazine's auto engineers.
"The Passat and Camry are both excellent choices for consumers looking for a midpriced family sedan. They differ more in character than performance," said David Champion, the director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test facility. "The Passat offers the driving experience of a well-balanced sports sedan while the camry emphasizes comfort and quietness."
A Honda Accord and Nissan Altima rounded out the test group for the January issue of Consumer Reports. All four vehicles posted "very good" overall scores and are Consumer Reports' "recommended" buys because they performed well in testing and are expected to have at least average reliability. The cost of the tested vehicles ranged from a low $22,154 for the Altima 2.5S to a high of $25,380 for a Passat GLS 1.8T.
Auto test engineers said the redesigned Altima has been transformed from a run-of-the-mill family sedan into a major competitor in that category. The Altima posted a "very good" overall score, and was ranked fourth in this group after the Accord.
Full tests and ratings of the vehicles appear in the January issue of Consumer Reports, which is available wherever magazines are sold, on December 18. (the February issue will feature test and ratings of four six-cylinder family cars. CR will detail how a V6-equipped Camry and Altima compete against competitors from Dodge and Pontiac.)
Mildly restyled last spring, the Volkswagen Passat is a well-rounded vehicle with top-quality fit and finish. The Passat GLS 1.8T ($25,380 as tested) costs more than other cars tested in this group but offers advanced standard safety gear. Ride and handling on the Passat are very good overall, with competent cornering and well-weighted steering. Its interior is comfortable and spacious, and the seats are excellent. The 170-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers lively performance but requires premium fuel. Braking was very good overall. The Passat has had above-average reliability.
The Camry, which received a major redesign for 2002, is roomy and comfortable. The Camry LE ($22,539 as tested) is easy to get into and out of, has an excellent control layout, and serves up a quiet and composed driving experience. It handles well, though not as crisply as the Passat. The Camry's 157-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder is smooth and responsive with good acceleration and fuel economy. Braking was very good, but not as good as that of the precious-generation Camry. Based on previous models, reliability should be above average.
The Honda Accord continues to be one of the top-selling family sedans despite its four-year-old design. The Accord EX ($22,740 as tested) has competent handling, impressive fit and finish, and a well laid-out interior. But its ride was not on par with the other sedans tested. The Accord's 148-hp, 2.3-liter four-cylinder revs smoothly but was the slowest of the group. Braking performance was excellent in all of CR's test. The Accord's reliability has been outstanding.
The Altima, which made its debut in 1993 and was totally redesigned for 2002, now ranks among the top-performing family sedans. The Altima 2.5S ($22,154 as tested) has secure handling, a roomy interior, an extensive list of standard features, and a competitive price. Its 175-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine runs smoothly and responsively. Braking was very good overall. Based on previous Altimas, CR experts to see better-than-average reliability in the new model.
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