Mazda Miata and Truck are Tops in Quality Study

- Mazda Number One in J.D. Power Associates' IQS -

IRVINE, Calif., May 8 -- Two Mazda vehicles -- the Miata two- seat sportscar and compact pickup Truck -- were awarded Highest Initial Quality in their respective categories in yesterday's announcement of J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality Study. The study measures problems per 100 vehicles as reported by vehicle owners over the first 90 days of ownership.

Also judged well by customers in the Study was the MAZDA6 sport sedan. The all-new car, which has been reporting month-over-month sales increases since arriving at dealers in November of last year, and has launched to strong media acclaim, registered the highest initial quality of any Mazda vehicle in its launch year. As part of a new generation of Mazdas, the MAZDA6 outscored some of its competitors traditionally known for their product quality.

"We're proud that our customers have recognized the quality that Mazda builds into every one of our vehicles," said John Mendel, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Mazda North American Operations. "Today's cars and trucks are the very best the world has ever seen, and the quality gap between brands will continue to shrink."

Company-wide, Mazda's initial quality ratings increased 21 points.

All Mazda vehicles are covered by a comprehensive four-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. In addition, all Mazdas are covered by a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.