Kia is the first non-luxury brand in nearly thirty years to score the highest on J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study(IQS). The annual survey polls new car buyers’ complaints during the first 90 days of ownership.
Out of all thirty-three makes in the US, J.D. Power recognised the South Korean brand as the highest scoring nameplate in 2016. KIA’s rise to the top was driven by segment-leading performances from the Sportage and Soul, while Rio, Cerato and Sorento all ranked in the top three of their respective categories.
“Ranking number one in the entire industry for initial quality is the result of KIA’s decade-long focus on craftsmanship and continuous improvement, and reflects the voice of our customers, which is the ultimate affirmation,” said Michael Sprague, chief operating officer and EVP, KIA Motors America. “As the highest ranked brand in the industry, there is no doubt KIA is a world-class automaker.”
Porsche followed behind Kia in second place, with Hyundai, Toyota and BMW completing the top five.
Fiat Chrysler’s Jeep and Chrysler nameplates reduced problems significantly from 2015 to become the most improved brands overall, however the Fiat brand came second last ahead of Daimler AG’s Smart cars.