OREANDA-NEWS. Lexus ranked highest in vehicle dependability among all nameplates for a second consecutive year in the 2013 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS).  The study tracks the number and type of problems owners have with their three-year-old vehicles.  In the study, Lexus RX had the fewest reported problems in the industry, which is the first time in the history of VDS that a crossover or SUV has achieved this accolade.   

“There are many analyses conducted throughout the year, but VDS remains one of the most significant gauges of long-term vehicle quality and reliability,” said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager.  “This award not only reflects real-world, long-term quality and dependability, it shows Lexus’ dedication and commitment to our customers.”

In addition, Lexus received two segment awards.  The Lexus ES 350 entry luxury sedan ranked highest in the Entry Luxury Car segment.  Other Lexus models to lead their respective segments include the Lexus RX luxury utility vehicle, which ranked highest in the Midsize Premium Crossover/SUV segment with a score of 57 PP100.  The Lexus RX had the fewest PP100 of any crossover or SUV in the study.  The Lexus GS 350/GS 460 finished in the top three of the Midsize Premium Car segment.

J.D. Power and Associates’ VDS finds long-term durability continues to be important consumer factor.  The number of problems an owner experiences affects their repurchase intent and vehicle’s retained value.