Stiftung Warentest (the German equivalent to CR) did some new tests in September. Their tests are a little more detailed than CR's and include a durability test where they run 1840 loads in three washers of each model.

They tested 6 to 7 kg FLs with spin speeds of up to 1400 rpm.

The highest rated washer is a Miele, closely followed by Bosch and Siemens. Blomberg, Privileg, and Zanker also got good results. The Whirlpool washer was downgraded slightly because of the limited leak protection.

In the durability tests, Samsung,LG and Bauknecht washers showed some technical problems. On all three Samsung washers one or more of the springs of the suspension broke after approx. 900 loads.(Supposedly, Samsung uses improved springs on the newer models.) The LG's showed problems with the program controller after approx. 900 loads. The Bauknecht washers also had problems with the control switch after approx. 900-1200 loads.

In a separate test, they took a closer look at LG's steam function. Surprisingly, their conclusion was that the steam refresh was not effective and the steam wash showed a very slight improvement in stain removal.

Even though these washer models are not the same as the ones available here, I felt that these results are pretty interesting. I wish CR would also do some durability testing and publish more detailed test results.