Found this over on Autolies:

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Infiniti M35 retained its spot as the class leader in Consumer Reports' tests of six luxury sedans for the November issue. But two versions of the freshened Mercedes-Benz E- Class, the diesel-powered E320 BlueTec and the gasoline-powered E350, are close behind the M35, with "Excellent," overall scores.

The other luxury cars tested in this group were the freshened BMW 535i, "Very Good" overall; the gasoline/electric hybrid Lexus GS 450h, "Very Good"; and the redesigned Volvo S80, "Very Good". Prices for this group range from $45,305 for the Volvo to $60,172 for the Lexus.

The diesel-powered E320 delivered excellent fuel economy, 29 mpg overall in CR's own fuel economy tests-comparable to that of a small sedan such as the Toyota Corolla. Fuel economy for the other vehicles in the group ranged from a high of 23 mpg for the GS 450h to a low of 19 for the M35.

Consumer Reports tested the rear-wheel-drive M35 as an update to the all- wheel-drive M35X that was previously tested; the M35X was CR's 2007 Top Pick in the luxury car category. The previously-tested M35X garnered an overall score of 97 points in CR's tests. The newly-tested M35 was close behind, with an overall score of 95 points.

The November issue also includes tests and ratings of two $70,000-plus ultra-luxury sedans, the $76,572 Lexus LS 460L and the $90,200 Mercedes-Benz S550. The LS 460L easily outdistanced the Mercedes in that group, achieving a 99-point overall test score; the maximum score is 100. The S550 received an 86-point score, considerably lower than the Lexus but still in the "Excellent" category.

"Both versions of the Infiniti M35 are well-rounded, nimble cars that successfully blend sportiness with comfort," said David Champion, Senior Director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "The M35s are as capable handling a twisty road as they are cruising the highway."

Four of the vehicles rated for this issue are recommended by Consumer Reports -- the BMW 535i, the Infiniti M35, Lexus GS 450h and the Lexus LS 460L. The Mercedes E-Class and S-Class have subpar reliability in CR's subscriber surveys, while the Volvo S80 is too new for CR to have sufficient reliability data.

Consumer Reports only recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Car Reliability Survey of its own print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test. Full tests and ratings of the test group appear in the November issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale October 2. The reports are also available to subscribers of - ONLY REGISTERED AND ACTIVATED USERS CAN SEE ALL LINKS - CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

The M35 successfully blends comfort, luxury, and agility. It provides nimble handling, a smooth engine, and tenacious tire grip. While the ride is firm, it is never punishing. The M35 ($47,650 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 275-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers excellent acceleration. It is paired to an excellent and quick-shifting five- speed automatic transmission. The M35 delivered 19 mpg overall in CR's own tests, just 1 mpg better than the all-wheel-driver version that was previously tested. The brakes are excellent overall.

The diesel-powered E320 scored among the best luxury cars that Consumer Reports has tested. It provides all the refinement and comfort of the other E- Class models while delivering an excellent 29 mpg overall. And, it delivers very good performance without the traditional diesel trade-offs in noise, vibration, slow acceleration, or odor. The E320 BlueTec ($55,415 MSRP as tested) is powered by a turbocharged, 208-hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Responsive, quick, and remarkably quiet for a diesel it delivers strong midrange torque but isn't as quick as most gas-powered cars in this month's test group. Braking distances were a bit long for the E320.

The 2008 freshening of the BMW 5 Series is a mixed blessing. CR's engineers and editors really liked the new twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, the agile handling, compliant ride and the interior craftsmanship. But the car's overcomplicated controls made it frustrating to live with. In addition, marginal side-impact crash-test results from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety are also not up to par for this group. The highlight of the new 535i ($55,520 MSRP as tested) is its 300-hp, 3.0-liter V6 that delivers smooth and effortless acceleration. The powerplant makes the BMW one of the quickest cars in this class, with a zero-to-60 time of just 5.8 seconds-a tenth of a second quicker than the Lexus GS 450h. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. The brakes are very good overall.

CR's staff found the GS 450h Hybrid disappointing in its price range. The Hybrid is intended to be a powerful sport/luxury sedan that couples a hybrid electric motor with a V6 engine to provide quick acceleration. But the GS doesn't live up to its "sport" or "luxury" billing. Handling is secure but lacks the agility of its competitors, and it suffers from numb steering. The ride is very stiff. And, for its size, the cockpit is tight and has insufficient head room. The GS 450h ($60,172 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a smooth and responsive 3.5-liter V6 hybrid engine that delivers 340 hp. It's mated to an excellent continuously variable transmission. Brakes on the Lexus are very good overall.

The redesigned S80 is slightly improved in ride and quietness compared with the previous model, but it lost rear-seat room and access. It has some innovative safety systems, such as side blind-spot and forward-collision warning systems. But overall, the Volvo doesn't offer the levels of performance or luxury that are expected in this price range. The S80 3.2 ($45,305 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 235-hp, 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine that feels outclassed in this category; a turbocharged 285-hp six became available after CR bought its test car. The 235-hp engine tested sounds a bit raspy and needs to be revved for decent performance. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. Brakes on the Volvo are very good overall.

Ultra-Lux Face-Off

The Lexus LS 460h easily outscored the Mercedes S550 in CR's tests of the ultra-luxury cruisers. Both cars provide the highest levels of comfort, quietness, roominess, and luxury features. The Mercedes had more agile handling, better steering feel, and a slight edge in ride comfort and acceleration. But its score was hurt by its much lower fuel economy (21 mpg in the Lexus vs. 17 mpg in the Mercedes) and complicated controls that can be frustrating to use.

Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To subscribe to Consumer Reports, call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at - ONLY REGISTERED AND ACTIVATED USERS CAN SEE ALL LINKS - CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

NOVEMBER 2007

(C) Consumers Union 2007. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.


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M

The Mercedes E-Class and S-Class have subpar reliability in CR's subscriber surveys...

Is this according to old or current data? Because I've heard nothing but praise for the new E-Class and S-Class from various owners, especially on German forums and magazines (Leserbriefe section). Reliability wise, both cars seem to be good - and now this?




The Lexus LS 460h easily outscored the Mercedes S550 in CR's tests of the ultra-luxury cruisers. Both cars provide the highest levels of comfort, quietness, roominess, and luxury features. The Mercedes had more agile handling, better steering feel, and a slight edge in ride comfort and acceleration. But its score was hurt by its much lower fuel economy (21 mpg in the Lexus vs. 17 mpg in the Mercedes) and complicated controls that can be frustrating to use.

The poorer fuel economy of the S550 can be attributed to different final gear ratios than the European version. They're geared for acceleration rather than fuel economy to please the average American consumer.

The Lexus LS interior, according to what I have read, is not exactly the most ergonomic or easy to use. In fact several reviews have complained about "too many buttons" and "confusing controls".

Looks like Consumer Reports still kisses Toyota's ass.

Is this the 1st time we hear complains about COMMAND?

I thought I'd post this one to make things "interesting". Consumer Reports has released a survey yet on the 2007 models so they're talking about "predicted reliability" based on the previous S-Class and pre-FL E-Class. The real results will be next year after they get all the data from 2007 model year buyers.

They might like the LS, but the dogged the GS so CR isn't always on Toyota's side. Once Mercedes proves to CR that they are reliable they'll be recommended because as you can see they clearly liked driving the S more than the LS. What really says superiority in favor the S-Class IMO is that they found it to not only outhandle the LS, but at the same time ride better. That is real engineering prowess right there.

M

It's quite ironic that such American 'reports' put such a heavy focus on fuel economy. The country has one of the lowest fuel prices when compared to other nations... and the majority of American vehicles are far from fuel efficient.

Ah well, congrats to the Toyota guys, their sales numbers are sure matching up with their consumer ratings ... too bad the Infiniti M35 ain't hustling along in sales.

What logic?...[silence]...

Nah, it has got some whining from car journalists. For them the best system seems to be Audi's MMI.

Yeah, i understand. Even if it was perfect, some would always find the reasons(s) to complain...