Stellantis Brands Bring Home Top Three Spots in J.D. Power Study
Photo Source: Ram
J.D. Power’s annual Initial Quality Study measures the number of consumer-reported problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in the first 90 days of ownership in a variety of categories – nine, to be exact – ranging from exterior to infotainment; controls, features, and displays; interior; seats; driving assistance; climate; powertrain; and driving experience. Lower PP100 scores are better.
That said, Stellantis is celebrating an extraordinary accomplishment as its brands Dodge, Ram, and Alfa Romeo dominate the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) rankings. Dodge secures the top spot among 33 brands, followed closely by Ram and Alfa Romeo. This impressive performance marks the fourth consecutive year that Dodge has been ranked among the top two brands, displaying Stellantis’ commitment to delivering customer satisfaction and excellence.
A Shift in the Right Direction
It is a redemption story for the automaker’s brands, which all posted improved scores that bucked the industry trend after the 2022 model year indicated a significant drop in quality for the automotive industry. It is worth noting, however, that the higher scores in 2022 were mainly due to new technologies and supply-chain issues rather than actual build quality problems.
It is unsurprising that Dodge reaches the top spot, given its pattern of landing in first or second place for four consecutive years. On the other hand, Ram, Stellantis’ renowned truck manufacturer, has made substantial strides in the Initial Quality Study rankings. Climbing a staggering 16 places, Ram secures the second position in the study.
This demonstrates Ram’s third time among the top three brands since 2020, reflecting its commitment to delivering performance and impeccable quality. With the flagship Ram 1500 leading the large light-duty pickup truck segment, Ram continues to make a lasting impression on buyers.
Mark Stewart, COO for Stellantis in North America, is readily aware of this year’s results regarding customer satisfaction: “We are clearly finding our rhythm. While that bodes well for our team, more importantly, it’s a signal to our customers that we are aligned with their concerns and responding in real time. Expect the team to focus even more intently on delivering excellence in customer experience. Not just because it’s a hallmark of our Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, but because it’s the right thing to do.”
Reaching New Heights
Alfa Romeo and Ram were two of the most-improved brands for this year (2023), and each has a segment-leading vehicle, with the Stelvio the highest-ranking compact premium SUV and the Ram 1500 the highest-ranking large light-duty pickup. Maserati – this year’s most-improved automaker – and Jeep are also above average for 2023. As a matter of fact, the Jeep Gladiator tied the Ford Ranger for the highest ranking in the midsize pickup segment.
Dare Forward 2030
The COO for Stellantis in North America referred to the Dare Forward 2030 initiative, meaning the IQS rankings are crucial to moving forth with the plan. The idea is to transform Stellantis into a mobility tech company, with core targets including 100 percent of passenger car sales in Europe and 50 percent of passenger car and light-duty truck sales in the United States to be battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by the end of the decade.
In addition, the venture calls for doubling net revenues by 2030 and sustaining double-digit adjusted operating income margins throughout the decade. Most importantly, perhaps, is the aim to become number one in customer satisfaction for its products and services in every market by 2030.
If you support Stellantis’ priorities, please come visit Cape Coral Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. We have a host of new vehicles that you could be interested in. Our sales team is passionate about making you feel comfortable and informed when buying, leasing, or selling any vehicle. Please stop by today.