Highlights from Consumer Reports' November issue

Highlights from Consumer Reports' November issue, the first issue as part of the revamp, will feature: 

COVER STORY: How America Shops Now (pg. 26): After seven years of cutting back, consumers are finally opening their wallets again. But the recession has changed the country's buying habits—big-time. Consumer Reports recently asked shoppers from around the country for insights on how they spend in the new normal. And many of the answers were surprising.

The Debut of Your ADVOCATE (pg. 7): This eight-page section contains new and expanded editorial features, including:

• CEO Q&A: Features the head of a major brand answering readers' questions. This month, General Motors CEO Mary Barra covers topics ranging from the recent GM recalls to the future of the Cadillac.
• Problem Solver: Each month, Consumer Reports solves an individual reader's problem, with a takeaway that all readers can benefit from. The November issue reports on how a recent Verizon service "bargain" really wasn't such a great deal—until Consumer Reports stepped in.
• Reader Roundtable: Consumer Reports experts chat live on Facebook with readers. The best tips appear in the magazine. In the November issue, senior electronics editor Jim Wilcox offers advice on upgrading your TV this holiday season.
• Gripe-O-Meter: Consumer Reports' exclusive polls take America's temperature on everything from travel to TV—and Gripe-O-Meter displays the findings in a compelling, full-page graphic. In November, Gripe-O-Meter tackles the topic of holiday travel, and why it's so awful.
• The Empowered Consumer: Offers insider tips on a specific industry. This month, the report reveals the inside secrets of frequent flyer programs.
• Heroes and Watchdogs: Highlights ordinary people who have done extraordinary acts.
• Get Involved: Provides specific, practical ways that consumers can take action.

The issue also debuts the expanded Road Report, Consumer Reports' auto coverage that now includes monthly articles on how to maintain your car, and improved product reviews which include easier-to-read ratings charts and buying information tailored to different buyers' needs. There's also the useful and fun-to-readBest and Worst of 2014, as well as in-depth look at the outrageous costs of healthcare—and what you can do about it.

"The November issue is the start of a new conversation with our readers. Based on the feedback we get from them, we'll be making more changes in the coming months," said Ms. Kampinsky. But despite how the magazine changes, she says, "we'll remain unbiased and unbought. And we promise never, ever to put the Kardashians on the cover."

SOURCE: Consumer Reports