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 an effort to thank all the men and women of the U.S. military Scion is offering military care packages as a way to show their appreciation for the service and dedication these individuals have given to defend this country.

This military care package is exclusively for U.S. military personnel only and is limited to only one package per person every 12 months.  Availability is limited.

The package includes some choice Scion swag like beanies, a deck of cards, and a complimentary hour of internet access. All you have to do is fill out the request form and Scion will send the package on its way.  This package is available for military personnel currently serving statewide of overseas.

Visit Scion’s promotions page here for more information and to request your free care package.

Scion has unveiled the 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car, which will go on sale in the spring of 2012.  This high-performance model is the fifth model to join the Scion family.
The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion’s definition of an authentic rear-wheel drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility, and surprising MPG.

The FR-S is lightweight and well-balanced making it a solid choice for driving enthusiast. The FR-S is designed around the core goal of achieving, “Pure Balance.” The balance begins with the strategic use of the world’s only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration.  The engine’s compact size and flat shape give the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio and a low-center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars.

The idea of “Pure Balance” is further realized by the FR-S’s lightweight design and compact size.  The combination allows the car to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. 

The FR-S’s interior features a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind.  The front seats are mounted extremely low and are comfortable, yet assertive, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space. 

“The FR-S will serve as the halo car, expanding Scion into a new dimension of driving performance,” said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president.