Proton Car Surpasses Luxury Brands in Reliability Survey

Strategic Insights -

A recent survey of 28,000 members of the Consumers' Association (CA) has revealed that the modest Proton car is more reliable than its expensive luxury counterparts. The survey, which evaluated the reliability of various car makes, found that Proton, along with Honda, Mazda, and Toyota, was rated as one of the least likely to develop a fault or break down. In contrast, high-end brands like Ford, Vauxhall, and Rover were deemed "poor" in terms of reliability.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Proton car, a budget-friendly brand, was found to be more reliable than luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, despite being rated only average for reliability.
  • A six to eight-year-old Honda was more reliable than a one to two-year-old Rover, according to Which? Car editor Andrew McIlwraith.
  • The Vauxhall Vectra, Rover 200 and 400, and Ford Escort were among the least-liked vehicles among CA members.
  • The best super-minis were the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta, while the best small family cars were the Volkswagen Golf and Toyota Corolla.
  • Toyota's Avensis took the large family car accolade as part of the "best-buy" vehicles list.

Statistics:

  • Proton (80) ranked highest in reliability, followed by Toyota (79), Honda (78), and Mazda (77) in the ranking.
  • The least reliable makes were Land Rover (60), Renault (59), Fiat (54), Ford (53), Vauxhall (50), Citroen (48), and Rover (47).
  • 83% of BMW and Mercedes-Benz owners, as well as Skoda drivers, would recommend their car to a friend.
  • 32 companies were evaluated in the survey.

Sources:

  • Which?
  • Consumers' Association (statistics and ranking)