The newly released 2011 U.S. J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) shows that Toyota, the Japanese automaker, is at the top of its game.
The J.D. Power and Associates IQS is based on a 228-question survey taken by more than 73,000 car buyers and lessees of the 2011 model year that were surveyed between February and May of 2011 after having their vehicle for 90 days. After an abnormally low ranking in the 2010 IQS that, according to J.D. Power and Associates, was driven entirely by its recalls, Toyota rebounded to rise up 14 spots and place seventh overall in the 2011 IQS. Several Toyota models scored in the top three in their segment, including the 2011 Toyota Camry, Prius, FJ Cruiser and Tundra pickup truck.
"Toyota has battened down the hatches and gone to work to ensure that their cars live up to the reputation they've earned over the years," said Bob McKenna, general manager of Upstate New York dealer New Country Toyota of Saratoga Springs. "It has been a lot of hard work, but Toyota's recovery has come full circle with the same IQS score they achieved in 2009 before the recalls, and now Toyota quality can only be expected to rise further."
The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling car in America for 13 of the last 14 years and has helped propel Toyota to the top of the automotive world in sales. The 2011 Camry placed third in the IQS Midsize Car segment, and is currently available at Toyota dealers with three different engines, including a 169-horsepower 2.5-liter engine that gets 22 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway when paired with a 6-speed manual. There is also a 3.5-liter V6 option with 268 horsepower that returns 20 mpg during city use and 29 mpg on the highway. Those looking for the most value at the pump can opt for the Camry Hybrid, which uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor to get 31 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
The 2011 Camry Hybrid also comes with an acoustic noise-reducing windshield to keep the interior quiet, and all 2011 Camry models come with High Solar Energy-Absorbing glass, so the summer months won't cook the car's contents. Heated leather seats are an option, as are sport fabric-trimmed seats. There is also a full complement of airbags that come standard to keep passengers safe, including front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and a driver knee airbag.
"Toyota drivers have loved the Camry for years," McKenna added. "It's the kind of car that becomes part of your family and lasts long enough to be driven by the next generation. The Camry really is an investment towards the future."
Speaking of the future, the next generation of the Toyota Camry is due to debut this fall. Toyota says the 2012 Camry will feature improved ride and handling, as well as new exterior and interior designs.
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