Americans view the U.S. as making higher-quality cars than its Asian counterparts, with 38% preferring American-made vehicles compared to 33% preferring cars built by Asian manufacturers, according to an AP-GfK poll.
Compare this to a 2006 AP-AOL poll that found 46% of Americans saying Asian companies made the best cars, with just 29% favoring American automakers. European brands such as Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz moved little in the four years, from 17% calling them superior in 2006 to 15% in 2010.
Data from the survey of more than 1,000 car owners shows the perception gap has been driven by Toyota’s much-publicized recalls of 8 million vehicles. Ford’s winning streak also appears to have bolstered the case for American automakers, while GM’s return to basic fiscal health has given it new life.
Only 15% said Toyota makes the best cars — down from 25% in 2006 — while Ford improved from 9% to 18% in the same four-year period. GM remained steady, with 18% calling its products tops.
What the poll makes clear, though, is people are loyal to their brands. At least nine in 10 owners of a Ford, GM, Toyota or Honda vehicle expressed satisfaction with their car.
