Toyota and Honda are both synonymous with quality and reliability, but new quality surveys show that Ford is not too far behind their lofty standards. According to the Automotive Leasing Guide, their Perceived Quality Study has shown Ford to impress consumers with improved quality.
Perceived quality is an excellent indicator of just how satisfied consumers are with a brand’s products according to Ithaca Auto Finance. However, there is certainly a distinction between perceived quality and actual quality, as seen by Volkswagen products that offer good looks and impeccable road manners, but fall short in many overall quality studies.
Japanese automakers have typically done well in these types of studies compared with their domestic and even European competitors. Honda, for example, has long focused on engines and engineering. While this focus has not produced the most stellar looking cars, it has yielded reliable and long-lasting vehicles that consumers know will provide long-term value. Regular lifecycle management at Honda and Toyota has led to new products and updates on a regular basis, helping to keep aging products out of showrooms.
Perceived quality at Chrysler and General Motors has not improved, but Ford Service San Antonio remains proud that perceived Ford quality conversely has surged. This trend has plenty to do with the success of recent new products, such as the Ford F-150, Flex, and Taurus. Even the Ford Fiesta, which Kansas Ford dealers say won’t be available until late next year, has generated substantial anticipation.
Hyundai is also going strong after successful sales during Cash for Clunkers and the demand for the Genesis lineup. Ultimately these studies may not play a role in the buying decisions and most consumers, but they are important for assessing residual and resale value.
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