U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) Award Information
Press Release Date: June 26, 2025
Since 1987, the JD Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) has served as the auto industry standard for benchmarking new vehicle quality. In a market full of options, quality can be a significant differentiator.
Automakers that are known for producing quality vehicles can stand out from competitors, attracting customers who prioritize quality when shopping.
The JD Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS)
The study is based on responses from purchasers and lessees of new model-year vehicles who were surveyed early in the ownership period. The study is based on a question battery organized into nine vehicle categories:
- Climate
- Driving Assistance
- Driving Experience
- Exterior
- Features/Controls/Displays (FCD)
- Infotainment
- Interior
- Powertrain
- Seats
In addition to this Voice of the Customer data, vehicle repair visits are integrated into the scoring.
The study is based on responses from purchasers and lessees of new model-year vehicles who were surveyed early in the ownership period. The study is based on a question battery organized into nine vehicle categories:
- Climate
- Driving Assistance
- Driving Experience
- Exterior
- Features/Controls/Displays (FCD)
- Infotainment
- Interior
- Powertrain
- Seats
In addition to this Voice of the Customer data, vehicle repair visits are integrated into the scoring.
Discover the Top-Ranking Vehicles for Initial Quality
The results are in! Discover the brands and models with the highest initial quality, defined as the fewest problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) experienced by new vehicle drivers in the first 3 months of ownership.
Licensing Opportunities
Award Information
Top-ranked brands in each award-eligible study will have the opportunity to enter into a licensing agreement through the JD Power Awards Program.
Top-ranked brands in each award-eligible study will have the opportunity to enter into a licensing agreement through the JD Power Awards Program.
Award Merchandise
Active licensees can purchase a wide array of merchandise including trophies, lapel pins, key chains, apparel and more, to commemorate their achievement.
Active licensees can purchase a wide array of merchandise including trophies, lapel pins, key chains, apparel and more, to commemorate their achievement.
Performance Reports
Brands that perform above the industry average can commission JD Power Performance Reports to highlight their performance with qualified audiences.
Brands that perform above the industry average can commission JD Power Performance Reports to highlight their performance with qualified audiences.
IQS Awards in Action
JD Power Awards provide the highest-performing companies within our benchmarking studies the chance to let consumers know that they put their customers first. As the trusted symbol of the Voice of the Customer, our awards help companies increase consumer consideration and ensure that the top-ranking brands stand out in the crowd.
JD Power Awards provide the highest-performing companies within our benchmarking studies the chance to let consumers know that they put their customers first. As the trusted symbol of the Voice of the Customer, our awards help companies increase consumer consideration and ensure that the top-ranking brands stand out in the crowd.
Featured Insights
Discover the latest insights and thought leadership from JD Power Research
Discover the latest insights and thought leadership from JD Power Research
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JD Power studies, products, and services are available for purchase. If you’re interested in subscribing to a JD Power study or becoming a client, please fill out the form, and we'll be in touch. Questions? Click here to find the answers to frequently asked questions.
If you’ve received a JD Power survey and have questions or comments, please contact us here.
For all other inquiries, you can contact us here.