Despite rising tech integration and ever more complex vehicle interfaces, the general quality of latest vehicles within the U.S. has taken a slight turn for the higher in 2025. In line with the newest J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS), the industry average improved to 192 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), down from 194 last 12 months. But before you rejoice, the main points paint a more nuanced picture — one where premium brands are cleansing up their act, touchscreens are the brand new troublemakers, and plug-in hybrids are the surprise villains.
At the highest of the pack, Lexus reclaims its familiar role as quality champion, registering just 166 PP100. Nissan takes the mass-market crown with a rating of 169. Chevrolet, despite a slight slip from last 12 months, still holds strong within the fourth spot overall with 178. And while Tesla stays excluded from rankings resulting from survey requirements, its internal rating improved dramatically, helping lift the premium segment’s average.
One among the most important storylines is the continued headache that’s infotainment. The category stays essentially the most problematic across the board with 42.6 PP100, and while automakers have made minor improvements, owners are increasingly irritated by the overreliance on touchscreen controls. Climate systems, garage door openers, even glove box releases at the moment are buried in digital menus, forcing drivers to tap and swipe through multiple screens just to administer easy tasks. It’s no surprise that many are calling for a return to physical buttons for essential functions. As Frank Hanley of J.D. Power puts it, the fashionable infotainment screen is popping right into a “catch-all drawer” of frustration.
Beyond screens, the study reveals a surprising reversal in drivetrain quality trends. For the primary time, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) recorded more problems (237 PP100) than fully electric vehicles (212 PP100). Gasoline-powered cars, at 184, and standard hybrids at 196, proceed to supply higher initial reliability. Tesla is essentially credited with narrowing the EV quality gap, cutting its own issues by 62 PP100.
Interestingly, latest model launches have struggled essentially the most this 12 months, averaging 203 PP100 versus 190 for carryover models. Only two of the 18 newly introduced models outperformed their respective segment averages. That said, owners of latest models required fewer trips to the dealership for repairs, hinting that while bugs exist, they might not be catastrophic.
One other unexpected point of frustration? Cupholders. As more drivers bring reusable bottles of all sizes and styles, automakers are scrambling to maintain up. It seems the once-solved cupholder dilemma is back within the highlight, with an increase in complaints about inadequate sizing or poor placement.
On the manufacturer side, General Motors led the best way with five segment-leading models, including the Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado, Tahoe, Buick Encore GX and Cadillac XT5. Ford followed closely with 4 winners, amongst them the Mustang and F-150. Honda landed three segment-toppers with models just like the Acura Integra and Honda Odyssey. Meanwhile, Porsche’s legendary 911 outshined all vehicles with just 116 problems per 100 vehicles, claiming the perfect individual model rating overall.
Plant performance also drew praise. BMW’s Graz, Austria facility, where the Z4 is built, earned the Platinum Plant Quality Award. Toyota dominated the Gold-level honors across its plants in Kentucky, Ontario and Japan — all manufacturing Lexus vehicles.
Still, not all automakers had reason to rejoice. Audi fared the worst amongst qualifying brands with 269 PP100. Domestically, Ram, Chrysler, Lincoln and Cadillac all finished below the industry average. Ford, despite some struggles with warranty-related costs, touted its 4 segment wins as signs of progress. “While now we have to stay laser focused on earning the trust of our customers, we’re headed in the precise direction,” said Josh Halliburton, Ford’s executive director of quality.
The 2025 IQS surveyed nearly 93,000 latest vehicle owners and lessees over a 12-month period. The methodology blended traditional consumer feedback with real-world repair visit data, offering automakers a more dynamic snapshot of where quality stands — and where it falters.
With buyers expecting more tech, more comfort and fewer headaches from their vehicles, the IQS results function a reality check. It’s a reminder that innovation doesn’t at all times mean improvement, and sometimes, a straightforward physical knob can go a great distance in keeping customers blissful.
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Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a automobile enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that transcend the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design along with his skilled precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the location each sharp and forward-thinking.
This Article First Appeared At www.automotiveaddicts.com
