I too am considering a Rabbit because I want a hatchback and no other car on the market fits my long legs comfortably. I have been behind the wheel of a Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, Toyota Yaris and every Subaru (left my knees way above my waist and knocking the dash). The only other small cars I could even sit in were the Honda Civic (jerks won’t sell a hatchback here) and the Mini (too small and pricey). The Matrix and Mazda3 were close but still the seat was too low and short. Sol unless the new Scion XB fits (and it probably won’t) I may have to chance a Rabbit. At least it’s made in Germany not Mexico.
As to No. 1, I have no alternative to CR except other testing/survey organizations that work under the same guidelines.
As to No. 2, it is very possible that some cars will get ripped up more than others due to demographics and - perception.
Someone has 3 complaints on the VW and it’s junk in their eyes. Someone else has the exact same complaints on their Honda and they’re perfectly willing to look the other way - based on perception. It’s a Honda so this must be an anomaly is the prevailing attitude.
Now my question, and not totally off-topic.
What do you think of George Soros?
Additional reading about an unbiased, never-fail CR.
http://www.drugwonks.com/2007/04/consumer_reports_releases_slanted_survey_yawn.html
http://redtape.msnbc.com/2006/08/consumer_report.html
http://kdka.com/business/finance_story_020172314.html
Just a few highlights there. 