Consumer Reports recently unveiled its latest predicted reliability results, from the 2012 Annual Auto Survey, which found Japanese brands claimed the top seven spots in our rankings (Scion, Toyota, Lexxus, Mazda, Subaru, Honda, Acura, Audi as per Video).

However, it's not all bad for the domestic brands and within some vehicle segments there are standouts.
Below is a list of American vehicles with the highest predicted reliability within their respective segments. (We have only listed models whose predicted reliability is average or better, and scored high enough in CR tests to be recommended.):

Small cars: Chevrolet Sonic
Fuel-efficient hatchbacks: Chevrolet Volt
Compact sports sedans: Cadillac CTS
Upscale cars: Chrysler 300 (V6)
Sporty cars: Ford Mustang (V6)
Large SUVs: Chevrolet Traverse
Midsized SUVs: Chevrolet Equinox (V6)/GMC Terrain (V6)
Luxury SUVs: Buick Enclave
Full-sized pickups: Chevrolet Avalanche

Other models, such as the Lincoln MKS luxury sedan and Jeep Patriot small SUV, have average or better reliability but did not do well in Consumer Reports' tests. Hence, they are not recommended. CR only recommends models that have performed well in tests conducted at its 327-acre Auto Test Center in Connecticut, have average or better predicted reliability based on the annual survey, and perform at least adequately in government or insurance-industry crash and rollover tests, if tested.

Our reliability data are based on responses on 1.2 million vehicles owned or leased by subscribers to Consumer Reports or ConsumerReports.org.

For Overall Cars: Video

 

Interesting list, even if many of the cars are not that desirable to own. Many of the cars listed were below average in reliability for several earlier years, but are now mature products.

 

They really put FORD down. especially remake of Focus and Fiesta.
Mustang is still hot though!

 

Sounds like the new Ford Escape is on path for significant number of recalls. I have my doubts about it showing good reliabilty by CR once data is collected for the year.