Lexus ranks highest for new-car quality in J.D. Power survey

J.D. Power's 2025 Initial Quality Survey, based on responses from more than 92,000 buyers, named Lexus the top brand with 166 reported problems per 100 vehicles in the first 90 days.

Lexus topped J.D. Power's 2025 Initial Quality Survey, which measures problems reported in the first 90 days of ownership. The survey collected responses to a 227-question questionnaire from more than 92,000 people who bought or leased 2025 model-year vehicles. Models were scored by reported issues per 100 vehicles (PP100), and lower scores indicate fewer problems. The results compare initial ownership experiences across brands and models. Key findings: - The survey was based on a 227-question questionnaire answered by over 92,000 recent buyers and lessees and measured problems reported during the first 90 days. - Lexus ranked first with 166 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100); lower scores indicate fewer reported issues. - Jaguar and Genesis followed with 175 PP100 and 183 PP100, respectively. - The top three mass-market brands were reported as Nissan (169 PP100), Hyundai (173 PP100), and Chevrolet (178 PP100). - The Porsche 911 had the lowest model-level problem score at 116 PP100, and General Motors earned the most model-level awards (five), followed by Ford (four) and Honda (three). - Owners frequently complained about complex touchscreen systems; J.D. Power's senior director of auto benchmarking, Frank Hanley, said owners find these interfaces overly complicated and distracting and recommended a return to physical controls. Summary: The study highlights measurable differences across brands and within segments during the first 90 days of ownership and flags infotainment complexity as a common source of complaints. Undetermined at this time.