The J.D. Power 2022 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) ranks Kia as the overall leader among all major automotive brands (mainstream and luxury) in the U.S. In addition, Kia’s popular Sorento has taken the top spot in the study’s Upper Midsize SUV category.
The industry-wide study examines problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles (2019 model year). Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100).
Thus, a lower score reflects a higher level of quality. Kia claimed top Overall Nameplate honors with a score of 145 PP100. This latest achievement comes on the heels of Kia earning the highest number of J.D. Power Initial Quality awards in the industry in 2021.
Related: Is Kia Sorento in Trouble?
Commenting on the achievement, Sean Yoon, president and CEO of Kia North America said:
“The results of this year’s J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study substantiate Kia’s unrelenting commitment to the quality, durability and craftsmanship of our award-winning vehicle line. Furthermore, the Sorento’s category win speaks to the world-class ownership experience we deliver to our customers.”
The study was comprised of 29,487 completed surveys and measured the quality of today’s vehicles, particularly related to new technologies and features currently available to buyers. It included 32 nameplates, covering specific problem symptoms grouped into five major vehicle areas: PP100, component replacement, software updates, vehicle appeal, and deterioration.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com