New-Model Launches Are Improving

Those costly glitches and embarrassing hiccups that historically accompany new-model launches are becoming less frequent, says a J.D. Power and Associates researcher.

While it is “still largely true” that problems are associated with new-product introductions, auto makers are becoming more proficient because of improved manufacturing processes and accumulated experience, says Dave Sargent, the consultancy's vice president-research.

“Some models still come out with quality challenges, but as a whole, OEMs are getting better at avoiding those,” he tells Ward's as J.D. Power releases results of its inaugural Vehicle Launch Index.

J.D. Power studied data on 27 all-new or redesigned vehicles launched during the first 10 months of last year. The '09 Hyundai Genesis sedan was judged to have the best launch.