Owners love certain cars no matter how problematic. Despite poor reliability ratings, expensive repairs, or other red flags, some models have earned devotion to point that owners would buy them again. According to Consumer Reports, two well-known convertibles fit this category. The Chevy Corvette and Ford Mustang both received poor reliability ratings but high owner satisfaction scores.
Consumer Reports analyzes vehicles meticulously, with clear guidelines for each category in which it evaluates them. One area that’ll likely interest new-car shoppers is the “predicted owner satisfaction” category. CR uses its annual member surveys to assess how owners feel about each model’s driving experience, comfort, value, and styling.
The publication also asks members whether they would buy the specific model again. These results help CR develop a reasonably clear picture of how new-car buyers might feel if they purchased that model. And though CR’s predicted owner satisfaction rating is not accurate every time for every buyer, it’s a good gauge for would-be buyers to consider before they drive off a dealership lot in a new car.
Another important criterion is reliability. To assess a new model’s reliability, Consumer Reports evaluates previous model years. Their assessment covers various vehicle components, such as the engine, transmission, and brakes. CR also takes vehicle recalls into account. Using that information, reviewers come up with a predicted reliability score, which every prospective buyer should consider. A low predicted reliability score could leave drivers with expensive repairs or in dangerous situations.
Nearly half of all 2022 Chevy Corvette buyers went for the convertible: https://t.co/OlcbAnC4JZ pic.twitter.com/oRslNqvaIS
The Chevrolet Corvette is one of many vehicles with passionate fans, most of whom overlook its many flaws. When you look at Consumer Reports‘ reliability assessment of the 2022 model, you’ll see that prior year models suffered serious problems with major components. For example, the 2020 model had major engine and transmission problems, while the 2021 model suffered significant problems with its transmission and drive system.
In fact, the 2021 and 2022 models even have an active recall stemming from a defect in their rear half-shaft assembly that can cause a sudden loss of power. Despite these deficiencies, the Chevy Corvette remains a popular convertible with consumers. Though Consumer Reports reviewers note they can’t, in good conscience, recommend the 2022 Chevy Corvette, they predict it will meet or exceed many owners’ expectations. So CR gave it a perfect predicted owner satisfaction score.
Reviewers praise its power, generated by a 495-hp naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine. They also note its fast acceleration — 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.4 seconds — and relatively good fuel economy of 19 mph.
The 2022 Corvette also boasts agile handling, responsive steering, and a comfortable ride. Though CR’s reviewers were less enthusiastic about the trunk size, accessibility, and visibility, the Corvette provided enough thrills in other areas to support its high predicted owner satisfaction score.
The Ford Mustang also has questionable reliability. Though Consumer Reports testers haven’t evaluated the 2021 model’s reliability, they found significant engine problems in its 2018 models, transmission issues in its 2018 and 2019 models, suspension problems with its 2019 and 2020 models, and braking issues with its 2020 model. Those are serious concerns that can necessitate costly repairs.
In addition, the 2022 model already has two active recalls, one from a defect that shuts down advanced safety features and another from flawed airbags.
But again, despite those problems, owners love the Ford Mustang. CR reviewers also like the 2022 Ford Mustang’s powertrain options, especially the 460-hp 5.0-liter V8, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The base model has a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that reviewers also enjoyed (though a bit less than the V8). Reviewers also praised the 2022 model’s ability to function as a daily driver while providing sportscar-like performance.
Other pluses include ride comfort, braking, interior quality, easy-to-use controls, and a clear backup camera display.
2022 Ford Mustang Debuts First-Ever Stealth Edition, Adds GT Performance Package Option to California Special: https://t.co/fJbgC91xUU pic.twitter.com/eDO514ZeLX
However, CR reviewers knocked the 2022 Ford Mustang for its rear seat comfort and access, as well as a small infotainment screen on lower trims level trims.
But despite noting those drawbacks and giving the car the worst predicted reliability rating, CR reviewers predict owners will find a lot to like about the 2022 Ford Mustang. Accordingly, it received a perfect predicted owner satisfaction score.
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