Consumers Guide articles on cars, electronic, shopping, etc...
New GPS navigation devices and ratings (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
The countdown to Black Friday and the holidays is on. The GPS team has watched the calendar closely, as we have felt the pressure to test and rate the latest automotive GPS units that went on sale late summer and early fall. There are a lot of new products now on store shelves, and we have updated our comprehensive Ratings and recommendations to help you make an informed purchase decision. The latest Rated navigators include: Alpine PND-K3 – This new unit is a pleasant surprise, marking a significant improvement over past-tested Alpine units and boasting attractive graphics. Garmin Nuvi 265WT and 500 – Part of the latest 2x5 generation, the widescreen Nuvi 265WT features free real-time traffic. A dual-purpose, the Nuvi 500 unit combines traditional Nuvi car navigation with the ability to serve hiking and geocaching duties, as well. Mio Knight Rider – We couldn’t resist testing this nostalgic homage to the 1980s television show. And yes, it does use the original K.I.T.T. voice. Navigon 2000S, 2200T, and 7200T – An all-new Navigon line sees notable improvements, including easier address entry and quicker calculation times. “T” models include free real-time traffic. Sony Nav-U NV-U44, NV-U74T, and NV94T – Ranging from basic to 4.8-inch premium, the new Sony navigators are quicker than previous models for route calculation and moving through menus. In addition to car navigators, we have also recently posted handheld hiking GPS buying advice and ratings. The road ahead The GPS team has been busy, but we’re not done yet. The handheld hiking GPS buying advice and ratings will go live in a couple days. (View our hiking GPS video.) Plus, we are already at work on the next update, targeting early December for providing ratings on more recently introduced automotive navigators. Check out our redesigned GPS special section. It has pages of buying advice, including information on in-car navigation and cell-phone navigation. Be sure to use the slick, new product selector (available to online subscribers). This dynamic tool lets you sort and filter ratings by the features that matter most to you, and it even includes information on units in testing. —Jeff Bartlett For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Hyundai sings the Blues (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Most major manufacturers who held press conferences used the LA Auto Show to tout their green agendas. Hyundai came out swinging at its press conference, announcing they have a few near-future technologies up their sleeve. "Hyundai aims to be the most fuel-efficient automaker on the planet," said Hyundai Motor America vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, John Krafcik. That is no small goal, and one that Honda won’t make easy to accomplish. (See the Honda Insight concept for proof.) Krafcik continued, saying, "We're aligning our global R&D resources in Michigan, California, Nam Yang, and Frankfurt to develop the Blue Drive technologies we need to achieve our goal - a 35 mpg U.S. fleet average by 2015." This is five years ahead of current federal mandates. They are so green, they are blue Hyundai used the LA show to launch its Blue Drive initiative—a technology-fueled effort to bolster mileage across its product range. The fired-up company will do this through separate strategies, including direct-injection gasoline engines, full hybrid powertrains, six-speed transmissions, and eventually fuel cells. Shortly, Hyundai will offer Blue editions of the Accent and Elantra focused on bang for the mpg buck. These are conceived as low-cost models with fuel economy gains from low-rolling-resistance tires, enhanced aerodynamics, revised engine calibrations, and reduced final drive ratios. The HED-5 i-Mode crossover concept on display showcased the Theta Turbo GDI. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine uses direct-injection to improve fuel efficiency, while applying a turbocharger to boost power output. The result is 286 horsepower, reportedly produced with less fuel than a comparable V6 would require. The next-generation Sonata will be offered as a full hybrid in 2010. The hybrid drive system combines a 2.4-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission with a 30kW electric motor. The kicker is that while some manufacturers are focused on lithium-ion batteries as the step beyond current nickel-metal-hydride batteries, Hyundai is leaping to lithium polymer. Hyundai explains: "Compared with nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-polymer batteries deliver the same power with 30 percent less weight, 50 percent less volume and 10 percent greater efficiency over the nickel-metal hydride batteries found in all of today's hybrids." Lithium ion uses a liquid electrolyte, which is commonly sealed in a battery cell a little larger than a AA battery. Hundreds of these batteries are combined in packs. On the other hand, lithium polymer is a gel, and it can be stored in large quanities, avoiding the need for expensive cells. As a result, lithium polymer promises greater packaging flexibility and lower production costs. Hyundai has developed their next-generation battery packs to have maintenance-free operation for at least 10 years and 150,000 miles. Next up is a fuel-cell vehicle. Hyundai plans to begin series production on an FCV in 2012. Hyundai has cast aside an old reputation for poor quality with its impressive current line up. Similarly, the company appears poised to cast aside its legacy of modest fuel economy. In fact, I spent some time in our four-cylinder Sonata last week and observed better...
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Blackberry Storm: First Impressions (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
After many delays and much speculation—most of it wrong—BlackBerry has joined the rest of the cell-phone world by introducing its first touch-screen model, the Storm, available Friday from Verizon for $200 with a two-year contract (minus a $50 rebate). (Click on image at right for a closer look.) Besides a touch screen, the phone packs a 3.2 megapixel camera with flash; a full HTML Web browser that supports streaming; GPS navigation capability with audible, turn-by-turn directions; and you the ability to edit and create Office documents—something only two other BlackBerrys allow you to do: the Bold and Pearl Flip. It's also a dual-band phone, which makes it one of the very few Verizon phones that will work outside the U.S. Like the iPhone, the Storm presents voicemails as an e-mail-like list, enabling you listen to your messages in any order you choose with just a poke of your finger. The smart-phone arrives in our labs tomorrow (Friday), so we should have information about the Storm's actual performance soon. (Like all the products Consumer Reports tests, we're buying our own Storm—just as you would—for testing.) But we did have a chance to try it out at a recent press preview, and our first impressions are generally positive. The details: Firm, yet responsive, touch screen. With cell-phone touch screens—including the iPhone's—it's too easy to inadvertently launch a program or hit the wrong key on their virtual keyboards. The Storm remedies this with a touch-screen that demands that you press down on it firmly, as you would a real button, before it executes a command. (The screen actually sits on top of a large button that clicks when you depress the screen surface.) While quirky to use at first, we found this unique technology very effective in minimizing time-wasting mistakes. A word of caution: The display won't work with a stylus or long fingernails.
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Consumer Reports Poll: More Consumers to Hit Stores This Year Despite Economy (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
YONKERS, NY (November 19, 2008) – Despite the expected cutbacks in holiday spending, more shoppers will hit the malls this Black Friday than last, according to Consumer Reports latest holiday shopping poll. More than a quarter (26%) of consumers plan to go shopping the day after Thanksgiving—up 5 percentage points from the 21 percent that shopped on Black Friday in 2007. Store owners and merchants may find comfort in the fact that consumers say they still have a lot of shopping to do. Consumer Reports ’ holiday poll, conducted in late October and early November, found that only about 3 percent of consumers have completed their holiday shopping and only 38 percent have started—compared with 43 percent who had begun this time two years ago.Black Friday is known for crowds, lines and blockbuster sales, but bargain hunting with the masses may appeal more to younger shoppers— the biggest percentage of shoppers who plan to head out to stores on Black Friday are between the ages of 18 and 34. While an earlier Consumer Reports poll indicated that consumers on average were less likely to give electronics as a gift this year, many may be looking for Black Friday bargains. Some 85 percent of shoppers plan on buying electronics on Black Friday, up more than 15 percentage points from last season. Within the electronics category video-game systems (46%) and iPods or other MP3 players (43%) top the list. “Black Friday is the quintessential American shopping day,” said Tod Marks, senior project editor, Consumer Reports Tightwad Tod Blog. “And no matter how dismal the economy, you can count on the stores being filled to capacity. The big question this year, however, is how much are consumers going to cut back. Retailers are holding their collective breath and keeping their fingers crossed.” Holiday Gifts: Women’s prerogative or a curse?Women continue to bear the burden when it comes fulfilling the wish lists in 2008. Forty-five percent of women have already begun their holiday shopping, while men (30%) lag far behind. Among married couples, 72 percent of the women said they completed three-quarters or more of the household’s holiday shopping last year. In comparison, only 13 percent of men said they were as heavily engaged in gift giving. Adults will spend on average 11 hours shopping for the holidays, with women leading the charge. Forty-four percent or women plan to spend at least 10 hours shopping, while only 30 percent of men plan to log that much time. Buying gifts is only half the battle; they still have to get wrapped. Consumers will spend on average two hours fiddling with paper and bows. Not surprising, women put more into the process than men. Just over half (52%) of women plan to spend three hours or more wrapping gifts. Only 22 percent of men expect to invest that much time. Click Clock: More online shopping time in 2008 Online shopping will continue to play an important role this season. Forty-four percent of adults expect to shop online this year, which is roughly the same as in 2007. However, among consumers who plan to shop online, 20 percent plan to do more and only 8 percent plan to do less than last season. Convenience (41%) continues to be the primary reason for shopping online, followed by avoiding holiday crowds (15%), and seeking better selection (15%) and better prices (11%). Only 27 percent of consumers employed full-time admit that they shop online from work, while the majority of online shoppers say they do their online shopping from home. Men are bit more likely to shop while on the job. Big Ticket Gifts: Consumers scale down on flat-panel TVs The leading big ticket gift item will once again be flat-panel televisions, nearly one-quarter (23%) of consumers plan to by a flat-panel TV before or after the holidays. About 10 percent of consumers plan to wait until after the holidays to buy a set. The primary reason cited for waiting was not because they expect prices to go down (25%), but because they feel it’s too much money to spend right now (44%). However, over one-third (35%) of consumers planning to buy a flat-panel TV intend to take advantage of retailers’ low or zero percent financing offers. This option was particular popular among consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 (48%). While consumers still yearn for larger screens, smaller flat screens are becoming more desirable. Over half (51%) of television shoppers are considering screens under 40 inches. This is up approximately 10 percentage points over last year. Multi-screen households are on the rise. Of those considering a flat-panel for the holidays, 40 percent already have at least one in their home, including 15 percent who already own two or more.Price continues to factor into the buying decision. The average amount consumers plan to spend for their new TV sets has fallen over the past three years from $1,600 in 2006 to about $1,100 this season. Last year, Consumer Reports found that nearly one-quarter of consumers (24%) were planning to spend $1,500 or more on their flat-panel sets. This year, only 19 percent plan to spend that much. In the past men expected to spend more, but in 2008, both genders plan to spend the same on average.Extended Warranties: The pressure is still on Thirty-five percent of consumers said they would consider buying an extended warranty for home electronics gear or major appliances. This percentage is consistent with Consumer Reports’ findings from last season (37%) but marks a decline from two years ago when 42 percent of consumers said they would purchase an extended warranty. Also, consistent with last year’s findings, younger people are more likely to purchase and extended warrantee than older shoppers. In fact, over half (52%) of shoppers age 18 to 34 said they are likely to opt for the additional warranty. Consumers continue to be solicited by salespeople at the same rate as last year. More than half (58%) of respondents indicated that they feel salespeople try to pressure them to buy an extended warranty when purchasing home electronics or appliances. The main reasons consumers cited for buying an extended warranty is they have used them in the past (74%) and because they believe them to be inexpensive compared to repair costs (70%). For those said they would not purchase an extended warranty, the leading reasons cited were the beliefs that they are a waste of money (77%) followed by they are too expensive (68%) and that products are very reliable (65%).Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll Methodology The Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted a random-digit-dialing telephone survey of a nationally representative probability sample of telephone households. In all, 1,003 interviews were completed among adults aged 18+. Interviews took place over October 30 to November 2, 2008. The margin of error is +/- 3.2 % points at a confidence level of 95 percent.
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Garmin Nuvi 265WT GPS: First Look (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
First Look review of the Garmin Nuvi 265WT portable car GPS.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Honda Eco Assist teaches hypermiling (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Honda will make it easier to be green with their new Eco Assist (short for Ecological Drive Assist System). Introduced on the Insight concept car, Eco Assist combines a dash display and an Econ powertrain mode to help maximize fuel economy. To train the driver, the color behind the speedometer changes to indicate current fuel efficiency. By driving smoothly, a driver can shift the hue from blue to green, thereby learning the practices that save fuel and also money. The system also tracks fuel economy over time, serving as part training tool and part video game. The driver’s performance is scored by displaying leaves—more the better. To help the driver further, there is an Econ mode that optimizes engine and transmission performance to save fuel. It also impacts the air conditioning, idle stop, and energy capturing from regenerative braking. When the Insight goes on sale in the spring, the Eco Assist features should have special appeal to hypermilers trying to maximize their performance. —Jeff Bartlett See our complete 2008 LA Auto Show coverage, and read other blogs about the LA Auto Show.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Doors open to somber event (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Major auto shows are typically electric with energy. Manufacturers tout the brighter tomorrow just around the corner, providing ample proof in the form of MTV-grade videos and multi-million dollar concept vehicles. Not so with the 2008 LA Auto Show. From the moment the doors opened for media days, there was a somber mood to the gathering. In an unprecedented move, major automakers Chrysler, General Motors, and Toyota chose not to have press conferences. Such micro-events are opportunities for companies to schedule a time when the automotive and business press gathers to give executives their undivided attention. The days are full of back-to-back press conferences, and the speakers relish their captive audience. Yet, some big players decided to simply park some cars on the floor and leave their management teams at home. Nissan Motor President and CEO Carlos Ghosn, an international leader who has become a turn-around legend, kicked off day one with a keynote speech. He began addressing the context of a post-election America suffering amid tough economic times and the troubles faced by the automotive industry in particular. Ghosn pointed out that "October was the worst month for U.S. auto sales in 25 years." Last year, the industry sold a little more than 16 million passenger vehicles, and last month, sales plunged to an annualized rate of 10.6 million. As Ghosn said, "We are clearly in uncharted territory." He did speak at length about the many global efforts by Nissan to develop and launch electrified cars, balancing his depressing preamble with hopeful messages. Still, the initial mood seemed to hold through the day. Absent from the press conferences were the usual (and often dreadfully boring) graphs and figures that each company presents to show they are experiencing unparalleled growth. It used to amaze how year-on-year sales for the industry hovered between 16 and 17 million, yet every company was selling more than ever. Just as puzzling, every manufacturer focuses their new products on youthful, active lifestylers, leaving aging couch potatoes as a massive, untapped market. Ultimately, the theme that emerged on the first day was "green." Being an LA show, green is a given. California has been a leader for reducing emissions, and environmental concern is downright fashionable in the image-conscious Los Angeles area. Some companies, such as Audi, BMW, and Hyundai, presented serious technology solutions to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Others, not so much. While executives from the Big 3 automakers flew their corporate jets to Washington D.C. to make their case for federal assistance, the presenters in LA avoided hyperbole and simply presented their company’s plans. The automotive market is rapidly changing, and it is clear the industry is struggling to react. As automakers seek to trim budgets, it is expected that this will be a tame auto show season with fewer fanciful concept vehicles. And that means, every speech and show car will carry greater importance. —Jeff Bartlett See our complete 2008 LA Auto Show coverage, and read other blogs about the LA Auto...
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LCD and plasma TVs: Consumers scale down their buying plans (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
The leading big-ticket item this holiday season will once again be the flat-panel television, according to the latest national poll of U.S. consumers by Consumer Reports, conducted October 30 to November 2. Nearly one-quarter of consumers (23 %) plan to buy an LCD or plasma TV before or after the holidays. But the results also reveal the sets bought may not be as big as models purchased last year, or as pricey. About 10 percent of consumers said they have plans to buy a flat panel TV, but will wait until after the holidays to buy. The primary reason cited for waiting: The cost of a TV is too much to spend right now (43%). That suggests the economic downturn is putting a damper on TV-buying plans. One quarter of consumers said they were delaying their TV purchase because they expected TV prices to go down. Indeed, steady price drops for TVs may help explain the lower prices survey respondents planned to pay this year compared to the last few—though the economy may of course also play a role.
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Six Windows netbooks rated (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
Find out which is best for you Netbooks, highly portable mini-laptops that are smaller, cheaper, and weigh less than regular laptops, are on track to be one of this holiday season's hot sellers. The cheapest netbooks, priced well under $400, run the Linux operating system, which limits which application software you can run on them and may require learning how to use Linux. Models with Windows XP installed start at around $400 and have nine- or ten-inch screens. We tested six of the least expensive Windows models now on the market: Acer Aspire One A150X Asus EeePC 904HA Dell mini 9 (8 GB) HP Mini 1000 Lenovo ideapad S10 MSI Wind U100-016 None of these offered the best of everything. We found plenty of trade-offs between weight, battery life, size, storage capacity, and ergonomics. (Check our computer buying guide for more information on important computer features. And watch our online Laptop buying guide video by clicking on the embedded player on the right.) Still, if you're considering an inexpensive, super portable computer for the holidays, we found the following tested netbooks had some particular advantages:
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Money-saving tip: Good performance can run in the family (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
Searching for a product by its model number in the store can be an eye-rubbing experience. The slight differences in the number (TH-46PZ80U vs. TH-50PZ800U) and frequency with which they are changed makes shopping for a specific model a task that often requires a magnifying glass and detective's attention to detail. Responding to our post from last Monday ("Don't overspend on electronics"), one commenter, Gary, vented his frustration with the ever-shifting alphanumerics. I've found myself on more than one occasion ready to buy an item that we've rated well only to find that one particular model missing from store shelves. That might be one reason many consumers prefer to shop online, where you can enter a specific brand and model number into a search bar and where a discontinued model we've rated might still be found. If it's no longer available new, you might find it as a refurbished or open-box item, since products typically remain available "pre-owned" for long after stock has left stores. There's no substitute for buying a product that's been fully tested and included in our Ratings. However, when faced in stores with what appears to be a sibling to a tested model, keep in mind one of another of the smart-shopping tips from our December issue: Good performance often runs in the family. Our tests over the long term have shown that untested products in the same brand line as well-rated models are often fine performers. Additionally, comprehensive reader surveys allow us to compare the reliability of brands for popular, big-ticket items like TVs (available to subscribers). If you're eyeing a well-priced product you don’t see in our Ratings, check it against tested models of the same brand. It also couldn't hurt to run the model number by the community in the Consumer Reports Forums. Fellow shoppers might have some insight about your intended purchase. —Nick K. Mandle
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Online shopping tools (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on using online shopping tools to find bargains. Also included are tips on e-mail sale alerts, retailer web site specials, rss feeds, widgets, cell-phone sale alerts, and browser plug ins and add ons.
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Consumer Reports Unveils New Application for Iphone and Ipod Touch (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
New App Helps Users with New Tech Gadgets Make Better Purchasing Decisions YONKERS, NY — Just in time for the holiday shopping season, Consumer Reports released a new application for iPhone and iPod Touch users today. Available for free at iTunes, the ConsumerReports.org application features expert tips and buying advice aimed at helping shoppers make better purchasing decisions. Once downloaded onto an iPhone or iPod Touch, consumers will have instant access to consumer news, advice, and best buy information from the testers and editors at Consumer Reports. ConsumerReports.org for the iPhone and iPod Touch provides the latest news from the Consumer Reports’ blogs in the following consumer product areas: Cars Electronics Money Home & Garden Babies & Kids Safety Health “Consumer Reports continues its mission of providing expert, independent, buying advice to consumers in different forms of media,” said Jerry Steinbrink, vice president of publishing for Consumer Reports. “From print, to online, to mobile phones, and now on iPhones and the iPod Touch, putting Consumer Reports in the hands of consumers at the point of purchase will help them make better purchasing decisions.”
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Claim Check: Olympus Stylus 1050SW (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
This camera taps a new technology to help you shoot in the cold. We know cameras can freeze action shots. But which one do you reach for when it's freezing outside and you've got mittens or gloves on? According to Olympus, it's new, 10-megapixel subcompact, the Stylus 1050SW, $300, is "great for extremely cold temperatures where gloves are a must." That's because the 1050SW lets you operate various functions by simply tapping the camera body. (The feature is also said to be useful for underwater photography.) Here's how it works: To access various functions, you tap different sides of the body—left, right, top or back. For example, striking the right side of the 1050SW once lets you access several flash options. Then, tapping the right or left side scrolls through four flash options: auto, red-eye, flash on or flash off. In shooting mode, you can tap the camera to control, among other things, flash settings and a shadow adjustment feature. In playback mode, tapping the camera lets you scroll through images.
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Preview: 2008 LA Auto Show (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
The 2008 LA Auto Show opens its doors to the automotive media and industry this week, on November 19. As the first major event of the new-car show season, LA provides a sneak-peek at 2010 models coming down the road as well as concepts for the cars of tomorrow. Over two media days, there will be nearly 40 world and North American debuts from Buick, Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lincoln, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Nissan, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Announced models include the 2010 Ford Mustang, electric-powered Mini E, Mazda3, Nissan 370Z, and Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid. We also think there will be some surprises. We will be on hand to cover the event, sharing first impressions, insights, and photos of the most significant models in the Consumer Reports Cars blog and in the special 2008 LA Auto Show section. The show coverage will be updated continuously throughout the week as information and images become available, so check back regularly to catch the latest. —Jeff Bartlett Learn more about the LA Auto Show. See our 2008 LA Auto Show coverage.
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Consumer Reports Money Adviser News — November 2008 (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
WHERE TO FIND EMERGENGY CASH GUIDELINES FOR TAPPING ASSETS WITHOUT PAYING TOO MUCH IN PENALTIES In a financial or medical emergency, family crisis, or a natural disaster, it can be challenging and costly to get the money you need to cope. Cashing in assets in a 401 (k), bank certificates of deposit, stocks, bonds, or an insurance policy comes at a price — in the form of taxes, penalties, or lost investment opportunities. The editors of CRMA show how to put a strategy in place before a crisis hits. It might include some of the following steps: Cash in CDs first. If you need to get cash out of a CD before its maturity date, you’ll probably pay an early-withdrawal penalty, which can vary widely among financial institutions. Many banks charge about six months’ interest for taking your money out of a one-year CD early. But with interest rates as low as 3.6 percent, a 1.8 percent penalty is pretty low. That’s particularly true if you’ve held the CD for a half-year or more. Sell bonds, then stocks. Bonds are among the simplest and least-expensive investments to part with because you shouldn’t have much in the way of capital gains or losses to worry about. As a result, the tax consequences of the sale are usually minimal. Stock sales are a bit more complex, but you can derive some tax benefits from selling stocks while you raise the cash to meet your needs. For example, if you’re holding shares that are worth less than you paid for them, you can sell them and claim a tax deduction for your losses. Look to your life-insurance policy. If you have an insurance policy that includes a savings or investment component, its cash value grows with each premium you pay. After a few years, most insurers will allow you to borrow up to 95 percent of the policy’s cash value at reasonable interest rates. Because you are borrowing against your own policy, the loan needn’t be paid back, although if the interest isn’t covered, the insurer will take it out of the money left in your account. WEB-BASED SHOPPING TOOLS FOR HOLIDAY BARGAINS Buying gifts on the Internet has its advantages: You can quickly comparison shop for anything, any time of day, without leaving home. CRMA looked at some helpful tools on the Web sites of the 100 largest retailers: RSS Feeds- RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, allows retailers to send Web pages with news about sales and promotions directly to your PC. Wal-Mart, for example, has multiple feeds, including price rollbacks, clearance, and upcoming music and video release dates. To use feeds, you need an RSS reader. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser has one built in. So do personal home pages like My Yahoo, My AOL, and iGoogle. They can be found at Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Overstock.com, RadioShack, Sears, and Target. Widgets- These are store icons that you place on your computer desktop or embed on your personal Web page. Click on them to access the stores’ specials. You can download a widget from the retailer’s Web site, and some widgets can be installed on your iGoogle or Yahoo home page. They can be found at Charlotte Russe and Sears. Cell phone sale alerts- If you’re always on the go, you can have text messages about sales sent to your cell phone. Or you can shop online with a Web-enabled cell phone by signing up at the retailer Web site. Century 21 Department Store, Sears, and Urban Outfitters offer cell-phone alerts. Amazon.com and Overstock.com let you shop by Web phone. And while you’re shopping in one store, FruCall.com lets you check prices at many others before you buy. ENJOY A VACATION ON THE CHEAP BY HOME SWAPPING The slumping U.S. dollar and rising gas prices may have put a crimp in your travel plans. But according to CRMA’s editors, you can cut out the hotel bill by swapping homes with a family that lives where you want to go. You don’t necessarily have to own a home in a resort town or in the heart of a big city to successfully swap, either. The right match makes all the difference. Start with the basics: Does the home meet your needs? Is it in the right area? Read listings on online home-exchange services including Digsville, HomeExchange, and Intervac in detail and look for house dos and don’ts, including pets, children, and smoking. To create a listing, write a description of your home, area, and lifestyle and include photos. Before agreeing to a swap, ask for referrals and read member comments. Firm up plans by e-mail and phone calls. The only costs are exchange membership fees and perhaps a housecleaning service for before and/or after the swap. — 30 — Consumer Reports Money Adviser is a monthly newsletter that answers tough money questions and provides expert financial advice. Its proven information and successful strategies make any financial decision an easy one. Each month, CRMA provides feature articles and helpful investment, savings, and spending advice that will prepare consumers for anything life may bring them.
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Jumbo HDTVs with budget price tags (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
If you're hankering for a 60-inch or larger HDTV but want to spend less than $2,000, forget about buying a plasma or LCD set. But don't give up hope—a value-priced rear-projection TV (RPTV) might be just the ticket, as we noted in an earlier post, "Bigger screens for less bucks." The new microdisplay sets are much thinner than the bulky projection TVs of old, so you don't have to sacrifice floor space in the interests of frugality. Mitsubishi, one of only two TV makers still offering RPTVs, recently introduced its new 735 Series of DLP TVs (click on the image for a closer look). The 60-inch WD-60735 ($1,500) and the 65-inch WD-65735 ($1,700) offer true 1920x1080 resolution as well as the ability to produce "3D video." Both sets use a proprietary "six-color light processor" designed to boost on-screen color fidelity. In preliminary tests, our engineers found that both sets offered fine picture and sound. Here are some of their findings. For more on the pros and cons of rear-projection TVs, check out our free online HDTV Buying Guide.
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SEMA 2008 Wrap up (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
Consumer Reports Autos staff were in Las Vegas all of last week at SEMA, wearing out our shoe leather. What happens in Vegas, may stay in Vegas, but in this case, our Autos team is talking: they've been blogging away all week at a furious pace. Here's a breakdown of their posts by category of interest: Cool cars From new green machines to go-go revving monsters, SEMA is known for breaking out the wild, wacky and weird. This year was no exception: Rolls-Royce - Pass the mustard and step on it Tjin Pontiac G8 - SEMA-worthy family sedan Sleepers and creepers Grilling the Ford Transit Connect Kia Soul primed for customizing Ford still making vehicles Dodge Challenger – Belle of the hall Supercharged Hyundai Genesis boasts more horsepower GM – Subdued at SEMA show? Gear and gadgets From the very latest in GPS to coolers you can drive, check out these innovative items: Navigon 8100T GPS with 3D maps New GPS - Motorola Motonav TN20, TN30 Nextar K4, I4-BC, Q4-MD - Budget navigation AT&T CruiseCast - TV to go Car mounts for gadgets Azentek SmartMirror SM-450 with GPS navigation GPS Buddy adds two-way interactivity Cargo Sock protects SUV cargo area Cruzin Cooler Going green Would you use animal fat for your engine? For the hottest in green, read on: Aftermarket fuel economy gauges to help mind your mileage Smart meets John Deere? Green motor oil, or is it moo-ter oil? Favorites Consumer Reports staff picks their favorites: Personal Picks --Desiree Calamari
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Consumer Reports statement on emergency aid for U.S. automakers (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
Consumer Reports magazine today issued the following statement on Congress' proposed emergency aid for U.S. automakers: "Consumer Reports has concerns about letting domestic automakers fail. The loss of any major auto manufacturer would leave consumers with fewer choices and the industry with less competition and innovation, particularly at a transitional time when the industry is pursuing alternative energy technology. Moreover, the impact of losing a domestic automaker on the U.S. economy and jobs could be severe. In Consumer Reports testing and surveys, we've seen some progress among the domestic automakers lately, with improved reliability and performance in certain models. But sustained progress is long overdue. If the government is going to come to the rescue of the automakers, it shouldn't be a bailout without any strings attached. There need to be strict conditions so taxpayers are protected, and the automakers are held accountable to make the necessary changes to become more economically viable and energy efficient."
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Where to find emergency cash (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on where to find emergency cash without paying too much in penalties, bank fees, and interest. Also included are tips on which assets to tap first, borrowing against life insurance, protecting your retirement, tax saving tips, and selling personal belongings.
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Where to find emergency cash, raising cash by selling your stuff (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on where to find emergency cash without paying too much in penalties, bank fees, and interest. Also included are tips on which assets to tap first, borrowing against life insurance, protecting your retirement, tax saving tips, and selling personal belongings.
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The countdown to Black Friday and the holidays is on. The GPS team has watched the calendar closely, as we have felt the pressure to test and rate the latest automotive GPS units that went on sale late summer and early fall. There are a lot of new products now on store shelves, and we have updated our comprehensive Ratings and recommendations to help you make an informed purchase decision. The latest Rated navigators include: Alpine PND-K3 – This new unit is a pleasant surprise, marking a significant improvement over past-tested Alpine units and boasting attractive graphics. Garmin Nuvi 265WT and 500 – Part of the latest 2x5 generation, the widescreen Nuvi 265WT features free real-time traffic. A dual-purpose, the Nuvi 500 unit combines traditional Nuvi car navigation with the ability to serve hiking and geocaching duties, as well. Mio Knight Rider – We couldn’t resist testing this nostalgic homage to the 1980s television show. And yes, it does use the original K.I.T.T. voice. Navigon 2000S, 2200T, and 7200T – An all-new Navigon line sees notable improvements, including easier address entry and quicker calculation times. “T” models include free real-time traffic. Sony Nav-U NV-U44, NV-U74T, and NV94T – Ranging from basic to 4.8-inch premium, the new Sony navigators are quicker than previous models for route calculation and moving through menus. In addition to car navigators, we have also recently posted handheld hiking GPS buying advice and ratings. The road ahead The GPS team has been busy, but we’re not done yet. The handheld hiking GPS buying advice and ratings will go live in a couple days. (View our hiking GPS video.) Plus, we are already at work on the next update, targeting early December for providing ratings on more recently introduced automotive navigators. Check out our redesigned GPS special section. It has pages of buying advice, including information on in-car navigation and cell-phone navigation. Be sure to use the slick, new product selector (available to online subscribers). This dynamic tool lets you sort and filter ratings by the features that matter most to you, and it even includes information on units in testing. —Jeff Bartlett For more information on portable automotive GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Hyundai sings the Blues (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Most major manufacturers who held press conferences used the LA Auto Show to tout their green agendas. Hyundai came out swinging at its press conference, announcing they have a few near-future technologies up their sleeve. "Hyundai aims to be the most fuel-efficient automaker on the planet," said Hyundai Motor America vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, John Krafcik. That is no small goal, and one that Honda won’t make easy to accomplish. (See the Honda Insight concept for proof.) Krafcik continued, saying, "We're aligning our global R&D resources in Michigan, California, Nam Yang, and Frankfurt to develop the Blue Drive technologies we need to achieve our goal - a 35 mpg U.S. fleet average by 2015." This is five years ahead of current federal mandates. They are so green, they are blue Hyundai used the LA show to launch its Blue Drive initiative—a technology-fueled effort to bolster mileage across its product range. The fired-up company will do this through separate strategies, including direct-injection gasoline engines, full hybrid powertrains, six-speed transmissions, and eventually fuel cells. Shortly, Hyundai will offer Blue editions of the Accent and Elantra focused on bang for the mpg buck. These are conceived as low-cost models with fuel economy gains from low-rolling-resistance tires, enhanced aerodynamics, revised engine calibrations, and reduced final drive ratios. The HED-5 i-Mode crossover concept on display showcased the Theta Turbo GDI. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine uses direct-injection to improve fuel efficiency, while applying a turbocharger to boost power output. The result is 286 horsepower, reportedly produced with less fuel than a comparable V6 would require. The next-generation Sonata will be offered as a full hybrid in 2010. The hybrid drive system combines a 2.4-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission with a 30kW electric motor. The kicker is that while some manufacturers are focused on lithium-ion batteries as the step beyond current nickel-metal-hydride batteries, Hyundai is leaping to lithium polymer. Hyundai explains: "Compared with nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-polymer batteries deliver the same power with 30 percent less weight, 50 percent less volume and 10 percent greater efficiency over the nickel-metal hydride batteries found in all of today's hybrids." Lithium ion uses a liquid electrolyte, which is commonly sealed in a battery cell a little larger than a AA battery. Hundreds of these batteries are combined in packs. On the other hand, lithium polymer is a gel, and it can be stored in large quanities, avoiding the need for expensive cells. As a result, lithium polymer promises greater packaging flexibility and lower production costs. Hyundai has developed their next-generation battery packs to have maintenance-free operation for at least 10 years and 150,000 miles. Next up is a fuel-cell vehicle. Hyundai plans to begin series production on an FCV in 2012. Hyundai has cast aside an old reputation for poor quality with its impressive current line up. Similarly, the company appears poised to cast aside its legacy of modest fuel economy. In fact, I spent some time in our four-cylinder Sonata last week and observed better...
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Blackberry Storm: First Impressions (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
After many delays and much speculation—most of it wrong—BlackBerry has joined the rest of the cell-phone world by introducing its first touch-screen model, the Storm, available Friday from Verizon for $200 with a two-year contract (minus a $50 rebate). (Click on image at right for a closer look.) Besides a touch screen, the phone packs a 3.2 megapixel camera with flash; a full HTML Web browser that supports streaming; GPS navigation capability with audible, turn-by-turn directions; and you the ability to edit and create Office documents—something only two other BlackBerrys allow you to do: the Bold and Pearl Flip. It's also a dual-band phone, which makes it one of the very few Verizon phones that will work outside the U.S. Like the iPhone, the Storm presents voicemails as an e-mail-like list, enabling you listen to your messages in any order you choose with just a poke of your finger. The smart-phone arrives in our labs tomorrow (Friday), so we should have information about the Storm's actual performance soon. (Like all the products Consumer Reports tests, we're buying our own Storm—just as you would—for testing.) But we did have a chance to try it out at a recent press preview, and our first impressions are generally positive. The details: Firm, yet responsive, touch screen. With cell-phone touch screens—including the iPhone's—it's too easy to inadvertently launch a program or hit the wrong key on their virtual keyboards. The Storm remedies this with a touch-screen that demands that you press down on it firmly, as you would a real button, before it executes a command. (The screen actually sits on top of a large button that clicks when you depress the screen surface.) While quirky to use at first, we found this unique technology very effective in minimizing time-wasting mistakes. A word of caution: The display won't work with a stylus or long fingernails.
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Consumer Reports Poll: More Consumers to Hit Stores This Year Despite Economy (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
YONKERS, NY (November 19, 2008) – Despite the expected cutbacks in holiday spending, more shoppers will hit the malls this Black Friday than last, according to Consumer Reports latest holiday shopping poll. More than a quarter (26%) of consumers plan to go shopping the day after Thanksgiving—up 5 percentage points from the 21 percent that shopped on Black Friday in 2007. Store owners and merchants may find comfort in the fact that consumers say they still have a lot of shopping to do. Consumer Reports ’ holiday poll, conducted in late October and early November, found that only about 3 percent of consumers have completed their holiday shopping and only 38 percent have started—compared with 43 percent who had begun this time two years ago.Black Friday is known for crowds, lines and blockbuster sales, but bargain hunting with the masses may appeal more to younger shoppers— the biggest percentage of shoppers who plan to head out to stores on Black Friday are between the ages of 18 and 34. While an earlier Consumer Reports poll indicated that consumers on average were less likely to give electronics as a gift this year, many may be looking for Black Friday bargains. Some 85 percent of shoppers plan on buying electronics on Black Friday, up more than 15 percentage points from last season. Within the electronics category video-game systems (46%) and iPods or other MP3 players (43%) top the list. “Black Friday is the quintessential American shopping day,” said Tod Marks, senior project editor, Consumer Reports Tightwad Tod Blog. “And no matter how dismal the economy, you can count on the stores being filled to capacity. The big question this year, however, is how much are consumers going to cut back. Retailers are holding their collective breath and keeping their fingers crossed.” Holiday Gifts: Women’s prerogative or a curse?Women continue to bear the burden when it comes fulfilling the wish lists in 2008. Forty-five percent of women have already begun their holiday shopping, while men (30%) lag far behind. Among married couples, 72 percent of the women said they completed three-quarters or more of the household’s holiday shopping last year. In comparison, only 13 percent of men said they were as heavily engaged in gift giving. Adults will spend on average 11 hours shopping for the holidays, with women leading the charge. Forty-four percent or women plan to spend at least 10 hours shopping, while only 30 percent of men plan to log that much time. Buying gifts is only half the battle; they still have to get wrapped. Consumers will spend on average two hours fiddling with paper and bows. Not surprising, women put more into the process than men. Just over half (52%) of women plan to spend three hours or more wrapping gifts. Only 22 percent of men expect to invest that much time. Click Clock: More online shopping time in 2008 Online shopping will continue to play an important role this season. Forty-four percent of adults expect to shop online this year, which is roughly the same as in 2007. However, among consumers who plan to shop online, 20 percent plan to do more and only 8 percent plan to do less than last season. Convenience (41%) continues to be the primary reason for shopping online, followed by avoiding holiday crowds (15%), and seeking better selection (15%) and better prices (11%). Only 27 percent of consumers employed full-time admit that they shop online from work, while the majority of online shoppers say they do their online shopping from home. Men are bit more likely to shop while on the job. Big Ticket Gifts: Consumers scale down on flat-panel TVs The leading big ticket gift item will once again be flat-panel televisions, nearly one-quarter (23%) of consumers plan to by a flat-panel TV before or after the holidays. About 10 percent of consumers plan to wait until after the holidays to buy a set. The primary reason cited for waiting was not because they expect prices to go down (25%), but because they feel it’s too much money to spend right now (44%). However, over one-third (35%) of consumers planning to buy a flat-panel TV intend to take advantage of retailers’ low or zero percent financing offers. This option was particular popular among consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 (48%). While consumers still yearn for larger screens, smaller flat screens are becoming more desirable. Over half (51%) of television shoppers are considering screens under 40 inches. This is up approximately 10 percentage points over last year. Multi-screen households are on the rise. Of those considering a flat-panel for the holidays, 40 percent already have at least one in their home, including 15 percent who already own two or more.Price continues to factor into the buying decision. The average amount consumers plan to spend for their new TV sets has fallen over the past three years from $1,600 in 2006 to about $1,100 this season. Last year, Consumer Reports found that nearly one-quarter of consumers (24%) were planning to spend $1,500 or more on their flat-panel sets. This year, only 19 percent plan to spend that much. In the past men expected to spend more, but in 2008, both genders plan to spend the same on average.Extended Warranties: The pressure is still on Thirty-five percent of consumers said they would consider buying an extended warranty for home electronics gear or major appliances. This percentage is consistent with Consumer Reports’ findings from last season (37%) but marks a decline from two years ago when 42 percent of consumers said they would purchase an extended warranty. Also, consistent with last year’s findings, younger people are more likely to purchase and extended warrantee than older shoppers. In fact, over half (52%) of shoppers age 18 to 34 said they are likely to opt for the additional warranty. Consumers continue to be solicited by salespeople at the same rate as last year. More than half (58%) of respondents indicated that they feel salespeople try to pressure them to buy an extended warranty when purchasing home electronics or appliances. The main reasons consumers cited for buying an extended warranty is they have used them in the past (74%) and because they believe them to be inexpensive compared to repair costs (70%). For those said they would not purchase an extended warranty, the leading reasons cited were the beliefs that they are a waste of money (77%) followed by they are too expensive (68%) and that products are very reliable (65%).Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll Methodology The Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted a random-digit-dialing telephone survey of a nationally representative probability sample of telephone households. In all, 1,003 interviews were completed among adults aged 18+. Interviews took place over October 30 to November 2, 2008. The margin of error is +/- 3.2 % points at a confidence level of 95 percent.
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Garmin Nuvi 265WT GPS: First Look (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
First Look review of the Garmin Nuvi 265WT portable car GPS.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Honda Eco Assist teaches hypermiling (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Honda will make it easier to be green with their new Eco Assist (short for Ecological Drive Assist System). Introduced on the Insight concept car, Eco Assist combines a dash display and an Econ powertrain mode to help maximize fuel economy. To train the driver, the color behind the speedometer changes to indicate current fuel efficiency. By driving smoothly, a driver can shift the hue from blue to green, thereby learning the practices that save fuel and also money. The system also tracks fuel economy over time, serving as part training tool and part video game. The driver’s performance is scored by displaying leaves—more the better. To help the driver further, there is an Econ mode that optimizes engine and transmission performance to save fuel. It also impacts the air conditioning, idle stop, and energy capturing from regenerative braking. When the Insight goes on sale in the spring, the Eco Assist features should have special appeal to hypermilers trying to maximize their performance. —Jeff Bartlett See our complete 2008 LA Auto Show coverage, and read other blogs about the LA Auto Show.
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2008 LA Auto Show: Doors open to somber event (Thu, 20 Nov 2008)
Major auto shows are typically electric with energy. Manufacturers tout the brighter tomorrow just around the corner, providing ample proof in the form of MTV-grade videos and multi-million dollar concept vehicles. Not so with the 2008 LA Auto Show. From the moment the doors opened for media days, there was a somber mood to the gathering. In an unprecedented move, major automakers Chrysler, General Motors, and Toyota chose not to have press conferences. Such micro-events are opportunities for companies to schedule a time when the automotive and business press gathers to give executives their undivided attention. The days are full of back-to-back press conferences, and the speakers relish their captive audience. Yet, some big players decided to simply park some cars on the floor and leave their management teams at home. Nissan Motor President and CEO Carlos Ghosn, an international leader who has become a turn-around legend, kicked off day one with a keynote speech. He began addressing the context of a post-election America suffering amid tough economic times and the troubles faced by the automotive industry in particular. Ghosn pointed out that "October was the worst month for U.S. auto sales in 25 years." Last year, the industry sold a little more than 16 million passenger vehicles, and last month, sales plunged to an annualized rate of 10.6 million. As Ghosn said, "We are clearly in uncharted territory." He did speak at length about the many global efforts by Nissan to develop and launch electrified cars, balancing his depressing preamble with hopeful messages. Still, the initial mood seemed to hold through the day. Absent from the press conferences were the usual (and often dreadfully boring) graphs and figures that each company presents to show they are experiencing unparalleled growth. It used to amaze how year-on-year sales for the industry hovered between 16 and 17 million, yet every company was selling more than ever. Just as puzzling, every manufacturer focuses their new products on youthful, active lifestylers, leaving aging couch potatoes as a massive, untapped market. Ultimately, the theme that emerged on the first day was "green." Being an LA show, green is a given. California has been a leader for reducing emissions, and environmental concern is downright fashionable in the image-conscious Los Angeles area. Some companies, such as Audi, BMW, and Hyundai, presented serious technology solutions to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Others, not so much. While executives from the Big 3 automakers flew their corporate jets to Washington D.C. to make their case for federal assistance, the presenters in LA avoided hyperbole and simply presented their company’s plans. The automotive market is rapidly changing, and it is clear the industry is struggling to react. As automakers seek to trim budgets, it is expected that this will be a tame auto show season with fewer fanciful concept vehicles. And that means, every speech and show car will carry greater importance. —Jeff Bartlett See our complete 2008 LA Auto Show coverage, and read other blogs about the LA Auto...
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LCD and plasma TVs: Consumers scale down their buying plans (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
The leading big-ticket item this holiday season will once again be the flat-panel television, according to the latest national poll of U.S. consumers by Consumer Reports, conducted October 30 to November 2. Nearly one-quarter of consumers (23 %) plan to buy an LCD or plasma TV before or after the holidays. But the results also reveal the sets bought may not be as big as models purchased last year, or as pricey. About 10 percent of consumers said they have plans to buy a flat panel TV, but will wait until after the holidays to buy. The primary reason cited for waiting: The cost of a TV is too much to spend right now (43%). That suggests the economic downturn is putting a damper on TV-buying plans. One quarter of consumers said they were delaying their TV purchase because they expected TV prices to go down. Indeed, steady price drops for TVs may help explain the lower prices survey respondents planned to pay this year compared to the last few—though the economy may of course also play a role.
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Six Windows netbooks rated (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
Find out which is best for you Netbooks, highly portable mini-laptops that are smaller, cheaper, and weigh less than regular laptops, are on track to be one of this holiday season's hot sellers. The cheapest netbooks, priced well under $400, run the Linux operating system, which limits which application software you can run on them and may require learning how to use Linux. Models with Windows XP installed start at around $400 and have nine- or ten-inch screens. We tested six of the least expensive Windows models now on the market: Acer Aspire One A150X Asus EeePC 904HA Dell mini 9 (8 GB) HP Mini 1000 Lenovo ideapad S10 MSI Wind U100-016 None of these offered the best of everything. We found plenty of trade-offs between weight, battery life, size, storage capacity, and ergonomics. (Check our computer buying guide for more information on important computer features. And watch our online Laptop buying guide video by clicking on the embedded player on the right.) Still, if you're considering an inexpensive, super portable computer for the holidays, we found the following tested netbooks had some particular advantages:
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Money-saving tip: Good performance can run in the family (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
Searching for a product by its model number in the store can be an eye-rubbing experience. The slight differences in the number (TH-46PZ80U vs. TH-50PZ800U) and frequency with which they are changed makes shopping for a specific model a task that often requires a magnifying glass and detective's attention to detail. Responding to our post from last Monday ("Don't overspend on electronics"), one commenter, Gary, vented his frustration with the ever-shifting alphanumerics. I've found myself on more than one occasion ready to buy an item that we've rated well only to find that one particular model missing from store shelves. That might be one reason many consumers prefer to shop online, where you can enter a specific brand and model number into a search bar and where a discontinued model we've rated might still be found. If it's no longer available new, you might find it as a refurbished or open-box item, since products typically remain available "pre-owned" for long after stock has left stores. There's no substitute for buying a product that's been fully tested and included in our Ratings. However, when faced in stores with what appears to be a sibling to a tested model, keep in mind one of another of the smart-shopping tips from our December issue: Good performance often runs in the family. Our tests over the long term have shown that untested products in the same brand line as well-rated models are often fine performers. Additionally, comprehensive reader surveys allow us to compare the reliability of brands for popular, big-ticket items like TVs (available to subscribers). If you're eyeing a well-priced product you don’t see in our Ratings, check it against tested models of the same brand. It also couldn't hurt to run the model number by the community in the Consumer Reports Forums. Fellow shoppers might have some insight about your intended purchase. —Nick K. Mandle
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Online shopping tools (Wed, 19 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on using online shopping tools to find bargains. Also included are tips on e-mail sale alerts, retailer web site specials, rss feeds, widgets, cell-phone sale alerts, and browser plug ins and add ons.
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Consumer Reports Unveils New Application for Iphone and Ipod Touch (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
New App Helps Users with New Tech Gadgets Make Better Purchasing Decisions YONKERS, NY — Just in time for the holiday shopping season, Consumer Reports released a new application for iPhone and iPod Touch users today. Available for free at iTunes, the ConsumerReports.org application features expert tips and buying advice aimed at helping shoppers make better purchasing decisions. Once downloaded onto an iPhone or iPod Touch, consumers will have instant access to consumer news, advice, and best buy information from the testers and editors at Consumer Reports. ConsumerReports.org for the iPhone and iPod Touch provides the latest news from the Consumer Reports’ blogs in the following consumer product areas: Cars Electronics Money Home & Garden Babies & Kids Safety Health “Consumer Reports continues its mission of providing expert, independent, buying advice to consumers in different forms of media,” said Jerry Steinbrink, vice president of publishing for Consumer Reports. “From print, to online, to mobile phones, and now on iPhones and the iPod Touch, putting Consumer Reports in the hands of consumers at the point of purchase will help them make better purchasing decisions.”
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Claim Check: Olympus Stylus 1050SW (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
This camera taps a new technology to help you shoot in the cold. We know cameras can freeze action shots. But which one do you reach for when it's freezing outside and you've got mittens or gloves on? According to Olympus, it's new, 10-megapixel subcompact, the Stylus 1050SW, $300, is "great for extremely cold temperatures where gloves are a must." That's because the 1050SW lets you operate various functions by simply tapping the camera body. (The feature is also said to be useful for underwater photography.) Here's how it works: To access various functions, you tap different sides of the body—left, right, top or back. For example, striking the right side of the 1050SW once lets you access several flash options. Then, tapping the right or left side scrolls through four flash options: auto, red-eye, flash on or flash off. In shooting mode, you can tap the camera to control, among other things, flash settings and a shadow adjustment feature. In playback mode, tapping the camera lets you scroll through images.
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Preview: 2008 LA Auto Show (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
The 2008 LA Auto Show opens its doors to the automotive media and industry this week, on November 19. As the first major event of the new-car show season, LA provides a sneak-peek at 2010 models coming down the road as well as concepts for the cars of tomorrow. Over two media days, there will be nearly 40 world and North American debuts from Buick, Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lincoln, Lexus, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Nissan, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Announced models include the 2010 Ford Mustang, electric-powered Mini E, Mazda3, Nissan 370Z, and Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid. We also think there will be some surprises. We will be on hand to cover the event, sharing first impressions, insights, and photos of the most significant models in the Consumer Reports Cars blog and in the special 2008 LA Auto Show section. The show coverage will be updated continuously throughout the week as information and images become available, so check back regularly to catch the latest. —Jeff Bartlett Learn more about the LA Auto Show. See our 2008 LA Auto Show coverage.
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Consumer Reports Money Adviser News — November 2008 (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
WHERE TO FIND EMERGENGY CASH GUIDELINES FOR TAPPING ASSETS WITHOUT PAYING TOO MUCH IN PENALTIES In a financial or medical emergency, family crisis, or a natural disaster, it can be challenging and costly to get the money you need to cope. Cashing in assets in a 401 (k), bank certificates of deposit, stocks, bonds, or an insurance policy comes at a price — in the form of taxes, penalties, or lost investment opportunities. The editors of CRMA show how to put a strategy in place before a crisis hits. It might include some of the following steps: Cash in CDs first. If you need to get cash out of a CD before its maturity date, you’ll probably pay an early-withdrawal penalty, which can vary widely among financial institutions. Many banks charge about six months’ interest for taking your money out of a one-year CD early. But with interest rates as low as 3.6 percent, a 1.8 percent penalty is pretty low. That’s particularly true if you’ve held the CD for a half-year or more. Sell bonds, then stocks. Bonds are among the simplest and least-expensive investments to part with because you shouldn’t have much in the way of capital gains or losses to worry about. As a result, the tax consequences of the sale are usually minimal. Stock sales are a bit more complex, but you can derive some tax benefits from selling stocks while you raise the cash to meet your needs. For example, if you’re holding shares that are worth less than you paid for them, you can sell them and claim a tax deduction for your losses. Look to your life-insurance policy. If you have an insurance policy that includes a savings or investment component, its cash value grows with each premium you pay. After a few years, most insurers will allow you to borrow up to 95 percent of the policy’s cash value at reasonable interest rates. Because you are borrowing against your own policy, the loan needn’t be paid back, although if the interest isn’t covered, the insurer will take it out of the money left in your account. WEB-BASED SHOPPING TOOLS FOR HOLIDAY BARGAINS Buying gifts on the Internet has its advantages: You can quickly comparison shop for anything, any time of day, without leaving home. CRMA looked at some helpful tools on the Web sites of the 100 largest retailers: RSS Feeds- RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, allows retailers to send Web pages with news about sales and promotions directly to your PC. Wal-Mart, for example, has multiple feeds, including price rollbacks, clearance, and upcoming music and video release dates. To use feeds, you need an RSS reader. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser has one built in. So do personal home pages like My Yahoo, My AOL, and iGoogle. They can be found at Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Overstock.com, RadioShack, Sears, and Target. Widgets- These are store icons that you place on your computer desktop or embed on your personal Web page. Click on them to access the stores’ specials. You can download a widget from the retailer’s Web site, and some widgets can be installed on your iGoogle or Yahoo home page. They can be found at Charlotte Russe and Sears. Cell phone sale alerts- If you’re always on the go, you can have text messages about sales sent to your cell phone. Or you can shop online with a Web-enabled cell phone by signing up at the retailer Web site. Century 21 Department Store, Sears, and Urban Outfitters offer cell-phone alerts. Amazon.com and Overstock.com let you shop by Web phone. And while you’re shopping in one store, FruCall.com lets you check prices at many others before you buy. ENJOY A VACATION ON THE CHEAP BY HOME SWAPPING The slumping U.S. dollar and rising gas prices may have put a crimp in your travel plans. But according to CRMA’s editors, you can cut out the hotel bill by swapping homes with a family that lives where you want to go. You don’t necessarily have to own a home in a resort town or in the heart of a big city to successfully swap, either. The right match makes all the difference. Start with the basics: Does the home meet your needs? Is it in the right area? Read listings on online home-exchange services including Digsville, HomeExchange, and Intervac in detail and look for house dos and don’ts, including pets, children, and smoking. To create a listing, write a description of your home, area, and lifestyle and include photos. Before agreeing to a swap, ask for referrals and read member comments. Firm up plans by e-mail and phone calls. The only costs are exchange membership fees and perhaps a housecleaning service for before and/or after the swap. — 30 — Consumer Reports Money Adviser is a monthly newsletter that answers tough money questions and provides expert financial advice. Its proven information and successful strategies make any financial decision an easy one. Each month, CRMA provides feature articles and helpful investment, savings, and spending advice that will prepare consumers for anything life may bring them.
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Jumbo HDTVs with budget price tags (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
If you're hankering for a 60-inch or larger HDTV but want to spend less than $2,000, forget about buying a plasma or LCD set. But don't give up hope—a value-priced rear-projection TV (RPTV) might be just the ticket, as we noted in an earlier post, "Bigger screens for less bucks." The new microdisplay sets are much thinner than the bulky projection TVs of old, so you don't have to sacrifice floor space in the interests of frugality. Mitsubishi, one of only two TV makers still offering RPTVs, recently introduced its new 735 Series of DLP TVs (click on the image for a closer look). The 60-inch WD-60735 ($1,500) and the 65-inch WD-65735 ($1,700) offer true 1920x1080 resolution as well as the ability to produce "3D video." Both sets use a proprietary "six-color light processor" designed to boost on-screen color fidelity. In preliminary tests, our engineers found that both sets offered fine picture and sound. Here are some of their findings. For more on the pros and cons of rear-projection TVs, check out our free online HDTV Buying Guide.
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SEMA 2008 Wrap up (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
Consumer Reports Autos staff were in Las Vegas all of last week at SEMA, wearing out our shoe leather. What happens in Vegas, may stay in Vegas, but in this case, our Autos team is talking: they've been blogging away all week at a furious pace. Here's a breakdown of their posts by category of interest: Cool cars From new green machines to go-go revving monsters, SEMA is known for breaking out the wild, wacky and weird. This year was no exception: Rolls-Royce - Pass the mustard and step on it Tjin Pontiac G8 - SEMA-worthy family sedan Sleepers and creepers Grilling the Ford Transit Connect Kia Soul primed for customizing Ford still making vehicles Dodge Challenger – Belle of the hall Supercharged Hyundai Genesis boasts more horsepower GM – Subdued at SEMA show? Gear and gadgets From the very latest in GPS to coolers you can drive, check out these innovative items: Navigon 8100T GPS with 3D maps New GPS - Motorola Motonav TN20, TN30 Nextar K4, I4-BC, Q4-MD - Budget navigation AT&T CruiseCast - TV to go Car mounts for gadgets Azentek SmartMirror SM-450 with GPS navigation GPS Buddy adds two-way interactivity Cargo Sock protects SUV cargo area Cruzin Cooler Going green Would you use animal fat for your engine? For the hottest in green, read on: Aftermarket fuel economy gauges to help mind your mileage Smart meets John Deere? Green motor oil, or is it moo-ter oil? Favorites Consumer Reports staff picks their favorites: Personal Picks --Desiree Calamari
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Consumer Reports statement on emergency aid for U.S. automakers (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
Consumer Reports magazine today issued the following statement on Congress' proposed emergency aid for U.S. automakers: "Consumer Reports has concerns about letting domestic automakers fail. The loss of any major auto manufacturer would leave consumers with fewer choices and the industry with less competition and innovation, particularly at a transitional time when the industry is pursuing alternative energy technology. Moreover, the impact of losing a domestic automaker on the U.S. economy and jobs could be severe. In Consumer Reports testing and surveys, we've seen some progress among the domestic automakers lately, with improved reliability and performance in certain models. But sustained progress is long overdue. If the government is going to come to the rescue of the automakers, it shouldn't be a bailout without any strings attached. There need to be strict conditions so taxpayers are protected, and the automakers are held accountable to make the necessary changes to become more economically viable and energy efficient."
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Where to find emergency cash (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on where to find emergency cash without paying too much in penalties, bank fees, and interest. Also included are tips on which assets to tap first, borrowing against life insurance, protecting your retirement, tax saving tips, and selling personal belongings.
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Where to find emergency cash, raising cash by selling your stuff (Tue, 18 Nov 2008)
From Consumer Reports Money Adviser, the following report contains expert consumer advice and recommendations on where to find emergency cash without paying too much in penalties, bank fees, and interest. Also included are tips on which assets to tap first, borrowing against life insurance, protecting your retirement, tax saving tips, and selling personal belongings.
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