Europeans suffer decline

At least the likes of Ford, DaimlerChrysler and General Motors don't have to worry much about the Europeans. Europeans once again came in last in the Consumer Reports reliability index, rising to 21 problems per 100 vehicles. The lone European automaker that fared well in the survey was Audi, with a problem report of 12 per 100 vehicles. Combined, Japanese and Korean automakers led the way with a trouble rating of 12 per 100 vehicles, followed by the domestic automakers with a score of 17 out of 100. The newest darling of the automotive set - hybrid cars - are proving to be quite dependable. The Honda Civic Hybrid and the Toyota Prius registered a trouble rating of just 5 problems per 100 cars.

By far the worst automakers were the ones that are supposed to be the best: luxury makers such as BMW (21 problems out of 100), Mercedes-Benz (25 out of 100) and Lincoln (26 out of 100). That means that for those who bought luxury, a 25 percent will suffer from problems.

At least they'll get a groovy loaner car from the dealer.