Consumer Reports ratings are not double-blinded studies; I wouldn't be surprised if there was a correlation between product price and satisfaction ratings without blinding.
They are awful with cars. If it's a Honda or Toyota, it's awesome, period. They'll list negatives like "road noise" or poor OEM tire choices.
I own two Hondas, one a 2006 Odyssey minivan -- it's a decent car. If you know anyone who owns a 2005-2010 model of this car, ask them about trouble with the sliding power door. I betcha 5/10 times, they'll start spewing about a ridiculous $500-800 repair to replace a broken door hinge, because of a defective $0.50 plastic wheel that breaks.
When I read my CR review back in 2009/2010, not a single mention of this issue.
Tide does not "subsist on brand recognition".
"Tide is a perennial powerhouse in Consumer Reports' laundry detergent Ratings." [1] (although as of 2013, other brands are catching up in quality)
[1]http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2013/06/wisk-kirklan...