Experts like to think that their opinions matter quite a lot, especially for reviews of big-ticket items like cars. But consumers have been showing lately that, if the price is right, they’re more than willing to disregard those expert opinions.
Consumer Reports
Will the EPA Change the Way It Measures M.P.G. Ratings? Maybe Just for Hybrids?
It’s widely believed that the mileage ratings of many hybrid cars are inflated. Is it time for the ratings system to change?
More Reason to Be Skeptical About New-Car MPG Claims
By now, drivers should know that auto mpg claims can be exaggerated. If you buy a car that’s listed as getting 47 mpg, you might be satisfied with, say, an average of 45 mpg. But 37 mpg?
America’s Grouchiest, Dirtiest Family Restaurants
Few diners head to Friendly’s or Waffle House expecting top-of-the-line cuisine, service or ambience. The results of a new survey indicate that these chains seem to live up to their expectations.
Car Shoppers’ Decisions Most Influenced by … Person Trying to Sell Them Cars?
When figuring out which car to buy, consumers consult the advice of family and friends, as well as shopping guides from Consumer Reports and the like. But the info that’s most influential in the buying decision tends to come from an individual who has obvious self-interest in how that decision plays out.
The Automaker with a Problem Most Businesses Would Envy
Not long ago, Hyundai had a less-than-stellar reputation for quality and had to resort to gimmicks to sell cars. During the Great Recession, the South Korean automaker’s fleet included the cheapest car sold in the U.S., and it …
Introducing the $60 Light Bulb
The Associated Press reports that the Phillips LED light bulb that won the government’s L Prize—a $10 million contest to replace the traditional incandescent bulb—will go on sale as of Earth Day with a full retail price of …
Walmart Wipes Up Competition in Toilet Paper Showdown
Consumers tend to be pretty particular when it comes to an item that ultimately gets flushed away. Survey results published last summer indicate that we’re more brand-sensitive regarding toilet paper than with banks, motor oil, …
Survey: Costco Given Retail Crown for Best Shopping Experience
American consumers don’t just like buying in bulk—they like the shopping experience at one bulk-buying warehouse store a lot more compared to other retailers. Based on the results of a new survey, Costco has been named the …
Is That a Ford? Fiat? U.S. Consumers See Fewer Differences Between Car Brands
I’ve never been a car guy. I can’t tell you the difference between Honda and Hyundai. I don’t see a classic speedster (that’s the term, right?) on the road and say, “There goes the ’69 Camaro SS 396 4-Speed. Boy, listen …
King of the Road: The 2012 Cars With the Most Bang for the Buck
Two major news organizations known for their rankings and ratings—Consumer Reports and U.S. News—have just released their latest lists of the automobiles offering the most value for the money. Which cars represent the wisest, …
Billions Wasted: Do Gift Cards Make Sense When So Many Go Unused?
Retailers and restaurants love gift cards—so much so that they load them with bonus cash in order to sell more cards. This makes total sense once you realize how often gift cards aren’t used at all, and how all those cards add …
