This year, a range of Japanese brands are cleaning up and taking the top spots on the Consumer Reports and Auto Reliability Survey. Toyota’s three brands - Scion, Toyota, and Lexus - swept the top spots. When it comes to car reliability, no manufacturer can compare to Toyota. The Toyota Prius C earned Consumer Reports’ top overall score.

The Toyota brands were followed by Mazda, Subaru, Honda, and Acura - all Japanese brands. Of the 90 Japanese models reflected in the Consumer Reports Survey, 86 scored average or better, with 35 earning the highest rating.

Of European cars, Audi is by far taking the lead, moving up 18 spots from last year into eighth place. This makes Audi the most reliable European make and the top non-Japanese brand.

Wondering about domestic brands? While they aren’t topping the list this year, there are some U.S. brands that are standing out. Cadillac is currently the top U.S. brand, moving up 14 spots from last year. The CTS Coupe was rated the most reliable domestic car. Several other GM brands moved up in ranking as well, including Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC.

Next time you are in the market for a new vehicle, make sure you check out the latest Consumer Reports Auto Reliability Survey for a complete vehicle ranking.

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, individuals and organizations alike are coming together to help support relief efforts. We took special notice when we saw just how many car manufacturers are doing the same - and making a big impact while they are at it. Here are just a few examples: 

BMW Group, whose North American sales headquarters is in New Jersey, has donated $1 million to the Red Cross in an effort to aid the many who are in need in affected areas. In addition to such a large donation, BMW is encouraging their employees across the nation to volunteer their time and money to relief efforts.

Mazda has contributed $100,000 to the American Red Cross towards Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Additionally, The Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. Board of Trustees have approved grants of $5,000 each to be donated to two food banks in the impacted area surrounding Mazda’s North East Region office.

Chevrolet got creative and has donated 50 Silverado full-size pickup trucks and express cargo vans to the American Red Cross for use in relief and recovery in the affected areas. Each of these vehicles will come with 300 OnStar Hands-Free Calling Minutes and three months of its directions and connections plan, which includes turn-by-turn navigation services. Additionally, the GM Foundation donated $250,000 to the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program.

Ford Motor Company and its employees have contributed $50,000 to the American Red Cross relief efforts. They are an active partner in the 2012 Red Cross Disaster Program, and have been partners with the Red Cross for more than 30 years!

Hyundai  Motor America is set to donate $500,000 to the Red Cross. Additionally, Hyundai is encouraging their employees, dealer network, and vendor partners to volunteer or provide support in any way they can.

In a time of devastation across our Eastern Seaboard, it is both hopeful and encouraging to see car makers pulling together and giving back to the community in a very big way.

All good things must come to an end, right? Well the same goes for cars - they can’t go on forever. We are highlighting some goodies you might want to get your hands on before they are gone for good!

Chevrolet Avalanche:  It’s possible that GM will release a 2013 version of this SUV-pick-up truck combination, but it will certainly be the last model year we will see. For the truck’s many loyal buyers, this is bad news. The Avalanche is the only vehicle of its kind, uniquely combining a 4-door SUV with a truck bed.  

Mitsubishi Eclipse: The Eclipse has been in production for more than 20 years, but it’s time is coming to a close. This sweet little car has seen better days in sales, partially due to consumer demand for a true rear-wheel drive sports car. Have you been eyeing one of these bad boys? Time to take the plunge before it’s too late!

Dodge Caliber: As Dodge rolls out the new Dodge Dart, they are doing away with the Caliber to make room. The Caliber’s sales have been less than satisfactory for the automaker, but the car certainly has some features worth a second look. An available all-wheel drive, the unique body style, and cargo area make the Caliber a practical car you can feel good about driving around town. Grab one before its too late… and if you miss out, try the Dart on for size!

Lexus HS 250: Looking for something a little more high-end that you might be able to catch a good deal on? The HS 250 might be for you. This is an upscale sedan that certainly doesn’t lack in style or features. Lexus will be replacing this model with the ES 300h, just in case you miss your opportunity to get the HS 250 before it’s gone!

Mazda CX-7: The CX-7 is another unique car we are not ready to see go. With an interior much like a minivan and an aerodynamic exterior more like an SUV, it’s the perfect combination of practical and stylish.

Don’t let some potentially great deals on these cars pass you by. Get looking before these cars are in your rearview!