Top 15 Best Quality Car Manufacturers in the World
Breakdowns and trips to a mechanic are inevitable parts of owning a car. When
you buy a car and even if its brand new, the time you will spend joy riding
around without anything mechanically wrong with it is a very short time period. Soon you will need to take the car in
to a professional mechanic for repairs. Typically repairs beyond routine
maintenance like oil changes or flat tires, and could be as serious as busted
air conditioners or issues with the catalytic converter. These are real problems
that cost real money, and sometimes serious car maintenance can cost a few
thousand dollars.
During the car buying experience, consumers should spend a great deal of time
conducting research before they finally commit to their purchase. Never buy the
first vehicle you see, without looking elsewhere and then coming back to it once
you have done your due diligence.
Potential car purchasers should spend time going on test drives and in essence,
"shopping around." Cars are a serious financial commitment and they should be
shopped for accordingly. This is especially true for used cars, where the term
"buyer beware" takes on a much more literal meaning.
The key to picking a great used vehicle for a great price over
a dressed-up lemon is knowing a thing or two about the car's manufacturer (who
made the vehicle). Generally speaking, if
it's a good manufacturer, then you've increased the odds of finding a good set
of wheels. Check out these top quality car manufactures below.
15) Mazda
Also known as the fifteenth biggest automaker in the world, Mazda has a
relatively interesting history. What started as a company that made cars and
weapons for the Japanese government, eventually streamlined their operations and
Mazda only makes automobiles now. Mazda first made trucks and eventually
transitioned into making cars. The majority of the cars that have been made
throughout Mazda’s history have been sporty in nature. In order to create a car
that would be completely different from the competition, Mazda even concentrated
on developing a rotary engine as opposed to the standard piston engine that is
used in many more modern vehicles.
Mazda Concept
The rotary engine technology has been perfected and is currently being used
in the RX series vehicles such as the RX-2, RX-3 and RX-4. These are some of the
most popular of the Mazda vehicles that are exported from Japan because they
produce similar power to a V6 or V8 engine without the need to make the car
extremely heavy and bulky in the process. The cars tended to be on the smaller
side, but recently a line of sedans has been introduced, along with the sports
cars, to bring in a larger portion of the population to enjoy driving these
highly reliable and fun-to-drive cars.
Typical Mazda Interior
14) Porsche
Porsche would actually rank higher in the list if it were not for the high price
of Porsche vehicles. Fun to drive and extremely sporty in every way, there
is nothing like driving a Porsche for those who have had the pleasure. The only
problem is that the price tag puts even the basic models far out of reach for
the general public. However, those who have owned a Porsche can attest to just
how reliable these vehicles are. Some of the original 911 models are still on
the road today and bringing a grin to the happy owners that are fortunate enough
to have them in their garage.
Porsche 906 Concept
The current models have started to branch out into the SUV and Crossover
categories with the Cayenne and the Panamera. The Boxster is the most popular of
the models that Porsche currently offers. It provides sporty driving, but is
only intended for two people to enjoy the driving experience. The classic 911
model has been updated and is even sportier than ever before. The 918 Spyder is
one of the fastest cars that Porsche sells to the public and doubles as a race
car. Looking at any of these models can make your heart race, but unless you
have a big fat wallet, they are probably out of your price range.
Porsche 918 Sypder
13) Nissan
A much more affordable option is Nissan. This affordable Japanese
manufacturer is actually the sixth largest producer of quality vehicles in the
world. They are popular for their wide range of model options from compact cars
all the way to massive Titan trucks. The only issue that drivers have with these
cars is a slight problem with reliability. Underperforming engines, and the
inability to stay out of the garage for too long make these cars less desirable
for those looking for a car they can rely on all the time. However, any repairs
that do need to be made can be made inexpensively, and for the driver who uses
their car infrequently, this is a good option.
Nissan IDx Nismo Concept
Nissan was originally manufactured under the name Datsun, and they were
mostly trucks. As the manufacturer grew in popularity, they started making cars
as well to grab a wider range of the population. In recent years, Nissan is
better known for their cars than their trucks, even with models like the Xterra
and the Titan rolling around. The biggest sellers for Nissan to date have been
between the Sentra, Maxima and Pathfinder. These three models have gone through
several changes over the year and remain the flagship vehicles for Nissan.
Looking to the Future, Nissan's Concept for a Zero Emission
Vehicle
12) General Motors (GM)
General Motors is actually the brand name that encompasses several different
makes of vehicles. GM has under its umbrella such reliable and recognizable
brands as Cadillac, GMC, Buick, Chevrolet, Isuzu, Holden, Wuling, Vauxhall, and
Opel. While some of these brands are more recognizable to the American public
than others, it is important to keep in mind that GM exports vehicles to 157
countries and manufacturers in more than 37 countries. Some of the vehicles that
are produced will never be seen in the origin country.
Cadillac Concept
Reliability is a very important part of what GM is all about. They are very
much aware of the dying dependence on Detroit-built vehicles. Even with the
difficulty American manufacturers have been facing, GM still produces one of the
longest-lived nameplates in production, the Chevrolet Suburban. Though the
vehicle has gone through a few evolutions in terms of design, the concept is the
same; it is a vehicle designed for families to counter the minivan. The rest of
the GM models range from sporty to luxury to affordable. People from all walks
of life take pride in their GM vehicles, and are happy with the quality that
they have purchased as a result.
Opel Concept from GM Design Department
11) Ford
One of the most recognizable names in automobiles throughout the world is
Ford. This is not only because of the quality that the company is dedicated to,
but also because of the way in which the manufacturer changed the way that
automobiles were manufactured forever. Before Ford started making the model-T,
every vehicle was made by hand, one at a time. The Ford Motor Company decided to
try making a production line in which different workers would have different
tasks in the overall production of the vehicle. In this way, production was
increased and the price of manufacturing cars dropped significantly, in turn
making automobiles more affordable to the general public.
Ford GT90 Concept
Ford has kept on with their tradition of bringing affordable quality cars to
the public with a wide range of vehicles for every budget. Vehicle models range
from compact and sporty, all the way to the mammoth Ford Expedition. The
industrial F series trucks also provide the working class with a vehicle they
can rely on to get the job done. The Mustang is the sportiest model that Ford
sells, and garners the majority of the attention right now for its recent
overhaul of its interior and exterior design, catching the eye of a variety of
car buyers.
10) Hyundai
Hyundai is ranked number five in the world in terms of the number of cars it
produces. The brand itself does not get a lot of attention from the American
public being outshone by brands like Toyota and Honda on the Asian import scene,
but this manufacturer is known for providing high quality and affordable
vehicles that are looking better every day. The initial offerings from Hyundai
offered little in the way of aesthetics because the car manufacturer was more
interested in creating a vehicle that worked well and was extremely affordable.
Hyundai Genesis - Named 2009 North American Car of the Year
By mbaylor
via Wikimedia Commons
As Hyundai has grown in popularity, the Korean manufacturer has started to
design new models and improve on the existing line. Some of the newest models
have the same look and body style as some of the biggest names in the automotive
industry. Car buyers are surprised to find themselves putting a Hyundai on their
list of cars to consider, but this is becoming more common every day. The Sonata
is one of the most popular models offered by Hyundai at this time with new
models in the works.
Assembly Line at Hyundai's Factory in Ulsan, South Korea
By Taneli Rajala
via Wikimedia Commons
9) Toyota
Despite the recent hiccups in the market relating to Toyota, it is still
among the most reliable vehicles sold throughout the world. This manufacturer
has been producing quality cars and trucks ever since 1937. As a way to show
just how popular this manufacturer is, it is the number three producer of
vehicles in the world. It boasts vehicles that range from completely electric to
hybrid to SUVs. Car buyers are delighted to find that they are able to turn to
this affordable and reliable manufacturer for any kind of vehicle they are
looking to purchase.
To ensure that the vehicles are not degraded in quality through the shipping
process, Toyota tries to manufacture all vehicles as close to their point of
sale as possible. This is why Toyota has manufacturing facilities throughout the
world, including the United States and Canada. By keeping the manufacturing
facilities closer to the dealerships, it is also less expensive to manufacture
and ship the cars, meaning Toyota can keep their prices low enough to be
affordable. Even with the Corolla and Camry as the flagship cars for the past
decades, the current most popular vehicle Toyota makes is the Prius, a hybrid
compact vehicle.
Toyota Concept Interior
8) Lexus
Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, and, as such, is able to enjoy the
same degree of reliability. While these cars are a bit more expensive than their
counterparts, they also offer more options to make them more fun to drive. Some
of the upgrades in the engine also make the Lexus a more reliable quality
vehicle. Lexus is well known for their luxury sedans, but the modern SUVs being
produced are quickly taking over as the most popular models produced by Lexus.
This is due in large part to the fact that you can purchase a large SUV, and
still afford the gas by purchasing a hybrid model.
Lexus vehicles are commonly made in the same manufacturing facilities as
Toyotas. This was not always the case as Toyota wanted to keep the project as
secret as possible, for as long as possible. The biggest market for Lexus is in
the United States, and they only just recently started to make these models
available in other parts of the world. It looks as if the brand is expected to
expand their lineup of models to include even more reliable quality luxury
vehicles.
Lexus IS
7) Acura
Acura is the luxury division of Honda. These models were once sold in Japan
just as Hondas. Today, they are available for purchase throughout the world just
as Acura, because there has been enough of a division between the two branches
of the company. What started as a sporty alternative to Honda models has started
to lean more toward the luxury aspect of the brand, Offering multiple styles of
sedans and SUVs, Acura is quickly becoming a city and suburb vehicle beloved by
those who work in executive offices. Carrying a higher price tag than a Honda,
these are out of reach from many car enthusiasts, but for those who can afford
them, they are a great purchase because of their extreme reliability.
Acura NSX Concept
The hybrid models of the Acura are one way in which many who purchase these
higher dollar vehicles make the justification for doing so. Saving money at the
pump through a more efficient motor can be a good argument, but the realistic
argument for buying these is the high reliability factor and the posh luxury
interior.
Acura TL
6) Honda
Those looking for a reliable, quality, affordable vehicle will most likely
find themselves looking at a Honda. This car company has been rated among the
top manufacturers in the world for producing high quality, reliable cars that
are extremely safe. Even though the manufacturer is only ranked eighth in terms
of world manufacturers, it is still one of the most recognized brands on the
road in countries like America. This is not only because Hondas are popular to
purchase, but because they have been known to last a long time. General
maintenance is enough to keep a Honda on the road for up to 20 years. Other than
the reliability, the main reason Honda is among the top quality cars is because
of its safety ratings. This car has been one of the most reliable vehicles when
put through crash tests, and the company is continuously trying to improve on
their safety standards.
Honda Insight Hybrid
On top of the ability to purchase a reliable and affordable vehicle, car
buyers also appreciate the ability to purchase the style of car they want. The
Crosstour, Accord, Civic, Pilot and Ridgeline are all good examples of how Honda
is making different models to suit the lifestyles of those who purchase them.
Every vehicle comes with an efficient aluminum engine, and the hybrid engines
provide even more efficiency to make your gas budget go even further. It is no
surprise that Honda is on the top ten lists for just about every category of
ranking cars.
5) Fiat
Those who are just becoming aware of Fiat may be shocked to learn that these
quality vehicles have been made since 1899. It is true, however, that the
manufacturer did not set out to make vehicles for the public, they started
laying the groundwork by producing railway engines, vehicles for the military,
tractors for farms, and aircraft. The Italian manufacturer has grown over the
years and has taken over several companies, including Alpha Romeo. It is the
fourth largest vehicle manufacturer in Europe behind the likes of Volkswagen.
Even though these vehicles are made throughout the world, Italy and Brazil are
the two biggest manufacturers of the brand.
Fiat has continued to grow in popularity throughout Europe and the world, and
is making inroads with the American car buying public. While the smaller cars
are distinctly European in nature, their reputation for being reliable, and
their efficient motors that help to save on gas have helped to make the case for
purchasing these smaller vehicles. The sporty nature of the newer models has
made them even more tantalizing to the Western car buyer.
1970 Fiat 500
4) Audi
In 1909, the world was given Audi by August Horch. This German automobile
manufacturing company is known as a luxury brand with models that are sporty in
nature. Every car has a symbol that has not changed. It is four overlapping
circles that represent the four car companies that came together to create the
Audi brand. These cars are known for being extremely reliable and corrosion
resistant, which means that even at a higher price point, these quality cars are
a good buy. The money spent on the vehicle today will mean it will not be
necessary to purchase another car for quite a long time down the road.
All of the models that are produced by Audi are cars. There are no SUV
options and no hybrid options. Instead, the manufacturer concentrates on
providing the best car with the sportiest looks for discerning drivers. The
prices are a little more expensive, because it is considered to be a luxury car
with upgrades already preinstalled.
Multi Media Interface on Audi's new Virtual Cockpit
By Robert Basic
via Wikimedia Commons
3) Mercedes-Benz
When it comes to German cars, Mercedes is at the top of the heap along with
BMW and Audi. This is one of the luxury cars that make many people in America
think they have arrived when they are able to afford driving one around. There
are several different models of the Mercedes-Benz available for purchase.
Everything from compact sports cars to large SUVs are available for purchase by
the public. Along with all of the luxury cars and SUVs, there are also transport
vehicles, vans and semi-trucks available for purchase for professionals to have
a quality, reliable car. These larger vehicles started in Germany and throughout
Europe, and are now gaining in popularity throughout North America.
Among the most popular of all the Mercedes-Benz vehicles are the M-Class,
GL-Class, and the ever popular E-Class. It is considered to be one of the oldest
running auto companies with its founding date being in 1885. This luxury auto
maker still produces the majority of its vehicles in Germany, and distributes
them throughout the world via container ships. Other than the cars, buses, vans
and trucks sold to the public, the car company is also known for its Formula 1
car that comes in among the top placed cars more times than not. It is a
testament to the powerful motor and the quality production the company has to
offer.
2) Volkswagen
Another great German automobile manufacturer for quality cars is Volkswagen.
This car was originally made specifically for the German military to be used as
a light tank and for use in troop transports. As it turned out, the vehicles
were too light and too fast to be used as a tank, and they were repurposed to
create inexpensive vehicles that could be sold to the public at a low cost. The
name of the company actually means “car for the people”. The car company grew
away from the German government, and became its own entity developing and
selling cars to the public.
Volkswagen XL1 and is Rated at 261 Miles Per Gallon and the Most
Fuel-Efficient Car in the World
By Buch-t
via Wikimedia Commons
Among the earliest cars that were available from Volkswagen were the Beetle
and the bus. Today, the line of models has expanded dramatically. While there
are still “Bugs” available for purchase, the company has also expanded into
offering the Touareg, Tiguan, Golf, Eos, Jetta, CC, and GTI. There are even
convertibles available for purchase for those who are looking for a fun car that
is also practical. The efficient motors are available in both regular and diesel
engines. This allows drivers to have a choice of vehicle that will match their
lifestyle.
1) BMW (Bavarian Motor Works)
At the top of the list of quality automobile manufacturers is BMW. This car
company is among the top three luxury German manufacturers and is consistently
one of the favorite driving vehicles throughout the world. The different models
that are available have gone through many changes over the years, but at the
forefront has always been the idea of combining luxury with sporty design and an
efficient engine. Powerful driving, extreme comfort and a reliable vehicle are
all things that drivers have come to expect when owning a BMW.
BMW M5 - Performance Model of 5 Series
The newest models all have a sleek design that allows drivers to feel like
they are driving a sports car even if they are driving a sedan 7 series. Those
truly looking for a sports car experience can opt for any of the vehicles in the
M series. These cars have been tuned to deliver sports handling and power
without the need to alter the body of the car tremendously. The hybrids deliver
performance, and still provide efficient gas mileage drivers appreciate, not
only when taking long rides, but when looking at their budget. The X series
vehicles provide SUV style bodies for those looking for a luxury vehicle that is
just a little more rugged.
The Z series includes sporty two-seat vehicles that
are designed to engage the driver. All of the models are made with quality and
safety in mind, and they deliver on all aspects.
Final Thoughts
These 15 car manufacturers are the best in the world in terms of quality and
standards. If you're looking to buy a sturdy, reliable vehicle, buy from a
manufacturer you trust. And that means, do your homework. That way, you can
hopefully avoid spending more on the repairs of your car than you did for the
actual car itself.