Team-BHP - Consumer Report: BMW tops brand rankings for the second year in a row

According to the latest Consumer Report study, BMW has topped the brand rankings for the second year in a row.

The German carmaker ranked at the top of the list, consisting of 34 car manufacturers, with the highest average score of 82 points. Subaru came in second on the list with 80 points. The CR study stated that the key reasons for the success of the two brands were a "consistent combination of high road test scores" and a "very good predicted reliability".

Third on the list was Porsche, which moved up an impressive 10 positions due to its improved reliability. Honda & Lexus completed the top 5 rankings, both with 78 points.

The overall average score of each carmaker is a combination of road-test scores, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction data and safety for all the models from each brand. Also, to be included in the brand ranking, CR has to test at least two current models from a company.

Also, CR states that of the 34 car brands it tested, consumers can purchase any model from 7 companies with confidence. These 7 companies include BMW, Porsche, Honda, Mini, Kia, Mazda and Acura. On the other hand, CR also has nine brands that don't have a single model recommended for purchase. These include Dodge, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, GMC, Jaguar Land Rover & Jeep.

Source: Consumer Reports

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Very interesting!!
I am, however, unable to fathom what it is that the BMW is doing (and the other german's are not) to make their reputation.
Funny case that i recall from my recent visit to JLR when I asked about the breakdowns/reliability issues etc. of their vehicles and the sales-person said - "These are reliable if maintained correctly but still, you cannot expect the reliability of a Merc from a Range Rover".
Seeing the position of the Merc on the list makes me wonder what reliability means to JLRs any more :sadface