Ford Motor Company has earned top distinction in the 2025 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS), securing more honors than any other automaker. This year’s recognition reinforces Ford’s long-term commitment to improving the quality and reliability of its vehicles. With the IQS widely regarded as one of the most trusted measures of new vehicle quality, this achievement solidifies Ford’s position as an industry leader.
Nine Awards Across Core Brands
In total, Ford received nine segment-level awards, leading the industry. Among the winners were several nameplates across both Ford and Lincoln brands, which outperformed competitors in a wide range of vehicle categories. The strong performance not only highlights Ford’s engineering excellence but also the success of its internal quality improvement initiatives.
Ford’s Top-Performing Models
Several individual Ford vehicles earned the top ranking in their respective segments. The Ford Maverick was recognized as the highest-ranked compact pickup in initial quality, reinforcing its growing popularity among customers looking for efficiency, capability, and value. The Ford Mustang—an icon in American performance—also received a top ranking in the midsize sporty car category. These wins emphasize Ford’s ability to balance innovation with customer satisfaction, especially in competitive segments.
The Ford Ranger and Ford Bronco were also among the top scorers, showing strong results in the midsize pickup and midsize SUV categories, respectively. These vehicles reflect Ford’s emphasis on durability, versatility, and off-road capability, traits that continue to resonate with both long-time enthusiasts and new customers.
Lincoln Earns Distinction for Quality
On the luxury front, the Lincoln brand had a strong showing in the 2025 IQS. The Lincoln Nautilus emerged as the top-ranked midsize premium SUV, while the Lincoln Corsair also performed well in its category. These accolades signal that Lincoln’s focus on delivering refined, tech-forward vehicles is paying off in terms of customer satisfaction and quality perception.
Manufacturing Facilities Also Earn Recognition
Ford’s success in the 2025 IQS wasn’t limited to vehicle models alone. The company also received two plant quality awards, which recognize manufacturing locations that produce vehicles with the fewest defects or malfunctions. The Hermosillo Assembly Plant in Mexico, where the Ford Maverick is built, earned a bronze award in the Americas region. These honors reflect Ford’s high standards in manufacturing and its commitment to consistent production quality.
Customer-Driven Results
The J.D. Power IQS is based on responses from thousands of new vehicle owners during the first 90 days of ownership. It measures problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score indicating higher quality. Ford’s leading results in the 2025 study are a direct reflection of its customers’ experiences. The findings validate Ford’s continued investment in product development, craftsmanship, and customer-focused improvements.
A Milestone in Ford’s Quality Journey
Ford’s industry-leading performance in the 2025 IQS is the result of years of focused quality enhancements, including new testing procedures, expanded use of analytics, and attention to detail across its product lines. The company has prioritized reducing early ownership issues, which often impact customer satisfaction and long-term brand loyalty. With this year’s results, Ford demonstrates that these efforts are translating into real-world success.
Looking Ahead
Ford’s standout performance in the 2025 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study sets a strong foundation for its future vehicle launches and continued emphasis on quality. With numerous models earning top marks and manufacturing facilities receiving global recognition, Ford is poised to continue its leadership in both innovation and dependability. These results not only reflect well on Ford’s current lineup but also signal a positive trajectory as the brand evolves to meet future mobility needs.