Elite i20, Vento and XUV500 Have the Best Designs: J.D. Power Study

According to the J.D. Power 2015 India Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study findings, Hyundai Elite i20/ i20 Active, along with Eon and i10 hatchbacks have received accolades among the eight model-level segment awards. Cars from Toyota that include Innova, Etios Liva/ Cross and Etios were also awarded in their respective segment. Other notable cars in the study included, XUV500, which ranked highest in the SUV segment and Volkswagen Vento that managed to take the pole position in the midsize car segment. The study concludes that the aesthetics of the car and overall styling garners more importance in the overall vehicle appeal for the Indian consumer.

Mohit Arora, executive director at J.D. Power, Singapore said, “New-vehicle buyers in India have a much wider range of vehicles to choose from than in the past. Automakers launch several models across segments each year, refining exterior styling and offering more safety, security and convenience features to keep customers engaged and excited.”

The study also revealed that the vitality concerning aesthetics of the vehicle has increased for the SUV, midsize and small car segments and has made its way into the top three categories that contribute to the overall APEAL score. The exterior design has become an important factor that motivates a consumer’s purchase decision. Consumers are also more inclined towards purchasing new models with fresh designs, than they are to purchasing carry-over models.

Other features and creature comforts like steering wheel-mounted controls, alloy wheels, reverse parking assist, hands-free communication, airbags and anti-lock braking system have also gained more importance. The study also revealed that one of two cars on Indian roads feature USB connectivity and one of three cars has steering mounted controls.  

Shantanu Nandi Majumdar, director, JD Power, Singapore said, “While feature fitment rates are increasing in newer vehicles, car manufacturers need to regularly track evolving customer preferences and feature options to determine which ones can maximize the cost-to-benefit ratio.”

Also Read:

• J.D Power 2015 Study Reveals Latest Indian Car Buyer Trends
• A Look at the Best Premium Hatches in India
• Trending Now: Hot Launches- Mahindra XUV500 AT @ Rs. 15.36 lacs

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