J. D. Power and Associates Quality Survey (of Automobiles)

PanAsianBiz ^ | June 9, 2006 | Dr. Bill Belew

[G. Stolyarov II]

J.D. Power and Associates Ranked the different classes of cars by quality.

There were 19 classes of cars.

Asian car makers too 14 of the top spots in the 19 classes.

Japan was on top in 12 classes.

11 of those were taken by Toyota alone!

The last Japanese spot was taken by Mazda.

South Korean car makers Kia and Hyundai each took a top spot.

Subcompact: Kia Rio

Compact: Toyota Corolla

Compact Sporty: Mazda MX-5 Miata

Entry Premium: Lexus IS 250/350

Mid-size Premium: Lexus ES 330

Large Premium: Lexus LS430

Premium Sporty: Lexus SC 430

Mid-size sporty: Toyota Solara

Mid-size: Toyota Camry

Large: Pointiac

TRUCKS

Compact multi-activity vehicle (MAV): Hyundai Tucson

Mid-size MAV: Toyota Highlander

Large MAV: Toyota Sequoia

Mid-size Premium MAV: Lexus GX 470

Large Preimum MAV: Lexus LX 470

Large Pickup: Chevrolet Silverado LD

Mid-size Pickup: Ford Ranger

Van: Chrysler Town & Country

What's going to happen to the list when Chinese cars start catching up in quality?

What do you think?

[G. Stolyarov II]

It is interesting to note that the Asian (especially Japanese) cars have the top quality ratings for smaller vehicles - yet all the top-quality larger vehicles (pickups and minivans) are manufactured by American firms. Perhaps this indicates that American car companies have a comparative advantage in larger vehicles - whereas Japanese car companies have a comparative advantage in smaller vehicles. See Dr. Belew's blog at PanAsianBiz

[EagleUSA]

This is the price you pay (hello to the BIG THREE) for a corporate welfare state. The Japs are kicking butt, and have been for quite a few years now.

[sinkspur]

The Koreans are coming on, however. I got a Kia Amanti as a rent car last week, and I would buy that car. Leather seats, sun roof, outstanding sound system and fantastic ride. I hear it has a 100,000 mile warranty or ten years, whichever comes first. A new one costs less than my Honda Odyssey.

[Niteranger68]

Unlike the rest of the world, I am not really that impressed with Toyotas products. I'm not saying they are junk, but IMO, they are not superior either.