Jan. 5--WASHINGTON -- Consumer Reports magazine says Detroit automakers are "heading in the right direction," but warns in its most recent issue that Chrysler LLC appears to be falling behind General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co.

The magazine says its review of recent road tests and reliability reports on new models finds that Ford has matched the quality of foreign automakers on several models, while GM's newer models have performed far better than predecessors.

"But they still lack the high level of consistency of the best automakers, such as Honda and Toyota," the magazine adds.

The magazine also criticizes Chrysler's lineup, saying many of its models rank toward the bottom of their categories, and none come recommended.

While Consumer Reports' opinions are closely watched by the industry, it doesn't always sway consumer choices.

Among the magazine's pick for best Detroit models is the Ford Taurus X and Mercury Sable, two vehicles Ford plans to stop building in a matter of weeks due to slow sales. Its lowest-rated model from Detroit is the Jeep Wrangler, which is Chrysler's fourth best-selling vehicle behind minivans and the Dodge Ram.

Contact JUSTIN HYDE at 202-906-8204 or jhyde@freepress.com.

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