Jul 16, 2025

Ford has big news: it’s the most-awarded brand in the latest J.D. Power 2025 Initial Quality Study!

Ford vehicles received more segment-level honors than any other brand, with four Ford models topping their respective segments. These wins span multiple categories:

  • Full‑size Pickup – Ford F‑150
  • Heavy‑Duty Pickup – Ford F‑Series Super Duty 
  • Midsize Sports Car – Ford Mustang 
  • Compact SUV – Ford Escape 

What makes this even more impressive? Half of Ford’s eligible models landed in the top three of their segments. This success proves that Ford can build great vehicles across its entire lineup, not just excel in one category. 

Let’s take a look at how these award winners are determined and what makes these Ford models stand out as winners.

How Does the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS) Evaluate Vehicles?

For almost forty years, the J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) has been the gold standard for measuring how well new cars perform upon initial release. The study gets straight to the point: it surveys actual owners during their first 90 days with their new vehicle and looks at auto repair visits to find out what’s working and what isn’t.

The magic number here is PP100—problems per 100 vehicles—and the lower the number, the better. Whether it’s a mechanical hiccup, a design flaw, or clunky tech, the study captures it all. You can think of it as the automotive world’s report card on which brands and models give you the smoothest, most hassle-free start to your ownership experience.

The study examines 227 problems, which are organized into nine categories:

  • Climate
  • Driving Assistance
  • Driving Experience
  • Exterior
  • Features/Controls/Displays (FCD)
  • Infotainment
  • Interior
  • Powertrain
  • Seats

Discover Award-Winning Quality When You Buy a New Ford in Florence!

At Mike Reichenbach Ford of Florence, we understand that when you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you want something that makes life easier and keeps you connected with the latest technology. That’s why so many drivers choose Ford!

As your go-to Ford dealership in Sumter, SC, we have a great selection of new Ford vehicles for sale. We also have great new car specials available! Just ask our Ford Finance Center team for ways to save.