Warning on turbo mileage claims

Consumer Reports is warning car buyers that turbocharged engines may not deliver the speed or fuel economy they expect.

The magazine said its tests showed turbocharged models from Ford, Hyundai and Kia were less efficient than competitors. It also said the turbocharged Chevrolet Cruze got little extra power or fuel economy over a non-turbocharged engine.

The magazine did praise a turbocharged four-cylinder from BMW.

SUV thefts tracked

The National Insurance Crime Bureau said 19,961 SUVs were reported stolen nationwide from Jan. 1, 2008, through June 30, 2012, and 15 percent of those were unrecovered.

California led the way with 3,003 SUV thefts in the period. Texas followed with 1,826. Florida was next with 1,784.

Mitsubishi recall

Mitsubishi is recalling 14,700 of its i-MiEV electric cars worldwide because a brake pump can fail.

The automaker said the recall affects 2012 models made from Dec. 2, 2011, to Sept. 7, 2012. It covers 1,400 cars in the U.S., including those still on dealer lots.

Mitsubishi will notify owners and replace the pumps free.

Virtual coins

Amazon.com plans to introduce virtual currency that can be used for purchases on the Kindle Fire tablet, a move aimed at enticing more developers to create programs for the device.

Starting in May, consumers will be able to use Amazon Coins to buy apps, as well as to acquire virtual merchandise sold within games, the company said.