J.D. Power, one of the world's leading research organizations, annually conducts the J.D. Power IQS (Initial Quality Study), which aims to analyze the satisfaction of new car buyers. For 2021, Ram, Dodge and Jeep, Stellantis Group companies, impressed with their results in a market like the U.S., which is known for its discerning audience. J.D Power surveys new car owners from 32 brands and counts the problems identified per 100 vehicles (PP100).
This year, Ram impressed by winning the 1η position, which is a first for J.D Power IQS, a brand with a purely professional range. The very good image of the Stellantis Group was continued by Dodge, which was in 2nd place in the ranking.η position, while Jeep improved by 3 positions compared to 2020 and was in 8th place in the ranking.η position among 32 brands.
"This performance is not just an indicator, but a trend", said Mark Champine, Head of Customer Experience for Stellantis North America. "For those familiar with the robustness of our products, the improvement of our processes and the commitment of our staff, these results come as no surprise."
The brand's new pick-up, the Gladiator, played a crucial role in Jeep's significant rise to the top of its class. With total production of the model being completed at the Toledo (Ohio, USA) production facility, the Gladiator is already making an impressive global run. For Europe, the model is powered by a 3-litre V6 Turbo-Diesel engine with an output of 264 hp and 600 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful pick-up in its class.
"We see the hard work that the people of Stellantis", said Dave Sargent, vice president of automotive quality for J.D. Power. "The new results attest to the effectiveness of their efforts and are an impressive achievement."
In addition to the processes and quality controls on the production line, the design of the product is a crucial point for achieving a high level of quality from the very beginning. The Gladiator, based on the legendary Wrangler, benefits from a robust chassis, durable mechanical parts and a range of technological elements that allow it to offer high load capacity, top off-road capabilities and civilised behaviour on everyday journeys.
