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Top-Ranked Cars, Trucks and SUVs in the J.D. Power 2014 Initial Quality Study
Based on the results of the J.D. Power 2014 Initial Quality StudySM (IQS), which measures the quality of new vehicles after 90 days of ownership, the following models receive an award for ranking highest in their respective vehicle segments. The award recipients are displayed in alphabetical order by make and model.
This year, the Buick Encore, Kia Sportage, and Nissan Juke top the initial quality rankings in the Small SUV segment in a three-way tie. For 2014, the Encore's IntelliLink connectivity system was enhanced with Siri Eyes Free and text-messaging capability, and many versions of the small crossover SUV included a side blind-zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert system.
When it comes to initial quality, the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu ranks higher than all other models in the Midsize Car segment, including the second-ranked Hyundai Sonata and third-ranked Toyota Camry. For 2014, Chevrolet made numerous changes to the Malibu in order to improve ride, handling, comfort, refinement, fuel economy, and performance. New safety features, hands-free text-messaging capability, and Siri Eyes Free technology also debuted.
In the Large Heavy Duty Pickup segment, the Chevrolet Silverado HD ranks higher in initial quality than does the GMC Sierra HD, which ranks second (Note: No other model in this segment performs above segment average). This was the final year for the Silverado HD in advance of a redesigned 2015 model, and Chevy increased towing capacity with a new standard 4.10 axle ratio, offered a spray-in bedliner, and added a bi-fuel compressed natural gas engine option.
When it comes to initial quality, the 2014 Chevrolet Suburban ties with the GMC Yukon as the top-ranked model in the Large SUV segment, followed by the similar Chevrolet Tahoe, which ranks third in the segment. This was the final year for the Suburban in advance of a redesigned 2015 model, and Chevrolet added lots of standard equipment to the base trim level while offering the SUV in one new color.
In the Minivan segment of the 2014 IQS, the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country ranks higher in initial quality than do the Toyota Sienna and Dodge Grand Caravan. For 2014, a new 30th Anniversary Edition of the Chrysler minivan debuted.
The 2014 Dodge Challenger ranks higher in initial quality in the Midsize Sporty Car segment than does the Chevrolet Camaro, which ranks second (Note: No other model in this segment performs above segment average). This year Dodge offered new versions of the Challenger called the Rallye Redline, R/T Redline, R/T Shaker, Mopar '14 Challenger, 100th Anniversary Edition, and Core SRT models. The 2014 Challenger also benefitted from new paint colors, optional HID headlights, performance seats, and upgraded handling, and SRT versions gained standard launch control.
In the Midsize SUV segment, the Ford Edge ranks higher in initial quality than do the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Murano, which tied as the second-ranked models in the segment. For 2014, the Edge was offered in new paint colors.
In its final year before a complete redesign, the Ford F-150 is the highest-ranked Large Light Duty Pickup in the 2014 IQS, ranking higher than the Toyota Tundra and Ram 1500. Aside from cosmetic updates, the 2014 Ford F-150 lineup added a performance-tuned Tremor model and a value-priced STX SuperCrew model. Power telescopic trailering mirrors were a new option for 2014.
Ranking higher than the Chevrolet Equinox and the Toyota FJ Cruiser in the Compact SUV segment, the 2014 GMC Terrain receives an award for initial quality. This year, the Terrain offered new wheel designs and a fresh paint color.
In the Large SUV segment, the GMC Yukon ties with the Chevrolet Suburban as the top-ranked model in initial quality. The similar Chevrolet Tahoe ranked third in the segment. For 2014, the entry-level version of the Yukon gained standard equipment and one new paint color debuted.
In the Midsize Pickup segment, the Honda Ridgeline ranks higher than do the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma, which tied for the second-ranked position in the 2014 IQS. A new Ridgeline Special Edition model debuted for 2014.
In terms of initial quality, the Hyundai Accent ranks higher than the Mazda 2 and Kia Rio in the Small Car segment. Hyundai improved the Accent's voice-recognition technology this year, and debuted several new convenience-related features.
