JD Power Survey 2005 - Small cars

There’s a huge range of results here, but some very familiar names at either end of the table.

Again, two Japanese cars top the class, but there are signs that the Europeans are regaining some ground. Half of the top 10 are from Europe – up from just three last year.

The Europeans continue to dominate the wrong end of the table, however, France and Italy in particular.

The Alfa 147 sits alongside the Fiat Stilo at the bottom with a big gap between it and the next-placed Peugeot 307.

The Italians have a lot of work to do just to match the next best, let alone the very best.

Toyota Corolla CLASS WINNER
Rating 83.9% Overall Ranking 8th=
Rated at least above average in every respect, and excellent in two, there’s no surprise that the Corolla reclaims the class crown it lost last year. It finishes eighth overall and is one of two Toyotas in the top 10.

It scores consistently in every department, with high marks for its quality, reliability and appeal. However, what really sets the Corolla apart from its rivals are the scores for the dealers and running costs. Indeed, it’s the only car in this class rated as excellent in both respects, and owners of this car were among the top 10 most satisfied with the dealers’ service overall.

Honda Civic Second in class
Rating 83.2% Overall Ranking 12th=
This is another strong showing from a Japanese car, second only to the Corolla in this class, and with clear daylight between it and the third-placed car.

Most impressive was its score for the dealership experience, second only to the Corolla, and rated excellent overall. In every other respect, owners rated it as above-average. Problems with any part of the car, particularly the engine and transmission, were rare, and owners were impressed with its good drive and fine practicality.

Audi A2 Third in class
Rating 81.3% Overall Ranking 30th=
The Audi A2 appeals to its owners’ hearts. The exterior and interior picked up very high marks for their appeal, and the A2 was the only car in this class rated as excellent for both. Owners also loved its excellent fuel economy but were less impressed with the servicing costs, although the dealers rated above average.

What drags the A2 down is a high number of complaints about its reliability: the engine and suspension are the weakest links.

Click here for the small cars results table

Click here for the model league table

Click here for the manufacturer league table