Despite rising vehicle costs and gas prices, consumers are giving the auto industry its highest perceived quality rating in a decade, according to a report by the American Society for Quality (ASQ, Milwaukee). Specifically, the society's most recent "Quarterly Quality Report," gives the auto industry a score of 87out of 100, based on data from the society's American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).
According to the report, Japanese brands continue to enjoy a reputation for higher quality among consumers. But, U.S. automakers continue to close the gap, especially among higher-end models. For example, General Motors' Buick and Cadillac brands now occupy the society's "top quality" category, along with Honda and Toyota.