Industry Report Part 1: New J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey Puts Hyundai Above Toyota

While some brands fell backward the majority of nameplates raised their game to an average of 119 problems per 100

Moving from 26th to 29th, Suzuki is one of the only brands to move backwards in placement and problems per 100 vehicles. (Photo: Suzuki Canada)

vehicles, improving the overall rating by 11 percent from last year's IQS. Not only were the 2004 initial quality numbers the lowest since the revised study was initiated in 1998, three additional nameplates broke the 100 PP100 barrier to join number one rated Lexus.

"When we started tracking initial quality more than a dozen years ago, the industry said this level of quality wasn't possible and that it would cost too much," stated Ivers. "Yet, automakers could not ignore the warranty savings due to quality, as well as the impact quality has on consumer buying decisions. Even at this historically low level

GM's Hummer division showed no improvement in placement when compared to last year's survey, place dead last despite reducing the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles from 225 to 173. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

of initial quality problems, the ongoing quality improvements of new vehicles will continue to have a significant impact on the industry--affecting as many as one-third of new-vehicle purchases."

The 2004 Initial Quality Study (IQS) is based on responses from more than 51,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2004 model-year cars and trucks, surveyed after 90 days of ownership.

Come back tomorrow to find out what auto group is on top, and how the domestics are faring compared to the imports.