Ford SUVs Not Recommended by Consumer Reports Because Technology Distracts

Ford Motor Co.’s high-tech in-car communications systems is too complicated and could distract drivers, Consumer Reports magazine said today.

In an article in the February issue headlined “Ford’s frustrating high-tech controls,” the magazine didn’t recommend redesigned versions of the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX sport- utility vehicles equipped with touch-screen and iPod-style steering wheel controls known as MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch.

Ford has said that its voice-activated “Sync” phone and stereo system is a critical factor in 32 percent of purchases of its models. The newest version debuting in the Edge and MKX has an 8-inch touch-screen in the center of the dashboard and is aimed at enhancing Ford’s high-tech reputation. Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally will speak about it this week at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

“The real killer is the controls and displays,” David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports auto test center, said in an interview. “The improvements they made to the vehicles in interior fit and finish and ride and handling were negated by the radio” and climate controls.

Alan Hall, a spokesman for Dearborn, Michigan-based Ford, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Ford rose 46 cents to $17.25 yesterday in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. That was the highest closing price for the shares since June 3, 2002.

Consumer Reports also didn’t recommend the Chevrolet Tahoe SUV from General Motor Co. The magazine cited “ungainly” handling, “vague” steering, long stopping distances, fuel economy and third-row seating as “lows” on the full-size SUV.

Patrick Morrissey, a spokesman for Detroit-based GM, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

GM rose 20 cents to $37.06 yesterday in New York. That’s the highest closing price since GM began selling shares to the public again on Nov. 18, 2010.

To contact the reporter on this story: Keith Naughton in Southfield, Michigan, at Knaughton3@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Jamie Butters at jbutters@bloomberg.net