Sign in Subscribe
Automobile industry

Japanese Carmakers Dominate 2009 Vehicle Rankings

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

According to the latest rankings released by Consumer Reports magazine, Japanese carmakers have asserted their dominance in the global automotive industry. For the eighth consecutive year, Japanese manufacturers secured top spots in multiple categories, with Toyota Motor Corp. emerging as a clear leader. The publication's rankings, which evaluate vehicles based on reliability, fuel efficiency, safety, and road test results, saw Toyota claiming the top position in five categories, including overall vehicles. The Toyota Prius hybrid car was also recognized as the best green car, solidifying the brand's commitment to eco-friendly vehicles.

Key Takeaways:

  • Japanese carmakers secured top positions in eight out of 10 categories in the Consumer Reports rankings for 2009.
  • Toyota Motor Corp. won first place in five categories, including overall vehicles, while Honda Motor Co., Nissan Motor Co., and Mazda Motor Corp. each secured one top spot.
  • General Motors Corp. claimed the top spot in pickup trucks, and Hyundai Motor Co. from South Korea came out on top in small sedans.
  • The Toyota Prius hybrid car was recognized as the best green car, and the Lexus LS 460 was named the best overall vehicle.
  • Honda ranked first in family sedans, Nissan led in upscale sedans, and Mazda topped the "fun to drive" category.
  • The Consumers Union, the publisher of Consumer Reports, is an independent, nonprofit organization that compiles annual rankings.
  • Toyota's dominance in multiple categories highlights the brand's commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation.

Statistics:

  • 8 out of 10 categories were won by Japanese carmakers in the Consumer Reports rankings for 2009.
  • Toyota Motor Corp. secured first place in 5 categories.
  • 7 top positions were secured by Japanese carmakers in 2008, after conquering all 10 categories in 2006 and 2007 was not the case, Toyota won top place in every category from 2006 to 2008 but not in 2009.
  • Toyota's Prius hybrid car was recognized as the best green car.
  • 5 categories were won by Toyota Motor Corp. alone in the rankings.
  • Honda ranked first in family sedans, Nissan in upscale sedans, and Mazda in the "fun to drive" category.

Sources:

  • Consumer Reports magazine
  • The Consumers Union (an independent, nonprofit organization that compiles annual rankings)
  • Kyodo News International
  • McClatchy-Tribune Information Services

Read more