Mazda is the Most-Improved Brand in 2008 J. D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study

SEE ALSO: Mazda Specs, Pics, Prices - Mazda Buyers Guide

- MX-5 ranks highest in class -

IRVINE, Calif., June 4 -- Among other quality findings in the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study(SM) (IQS) released today, Mazda was noted as the most-improved brand, improving an impressive 22 percent, or 36 fewer problems-per-100 vehicles compared to 2007, while ranking 22nd in the 2008 IQS. Across the entire North American auto industry, quality has improved by six percent, or seven problems-per-100 vehicles.

"Today's J.D. Power and Associates IQS results demonstrate the considerable hard work and deep dedication from the entire Mazda organization, from engineering and manufacturing in the U.S. and Japan to our dealer network across the country," said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, Research, Development and Quality for Mazda North American Operations. "In a marketplace characterized by ever-expanding vehicle choices and diversity, the companies that prioritize quality and customer satisfaction are the ones that will be rewarded with increased dealer traffic and sales performance, both of which Mazda has seen this year."

According to the study, every vehicle in the Mazda portfolio improved over the 2007 Study, with the exception of the MX-5 Miata which still ranked highest in its segment (Compact Sporty Car). Particularly noteworthy is the launch of the CX-9 three-row crossover SUV, scoring at segment-average quality.

The Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV improved substantially in this year's study. After launching as an entirely new vehicle in 2007, considerable effort was placed on addressing customer concerns noted in the 2007 IQS, and this effort was noted in the vehicle's 2008 IQS performance.

For the third year in a row, the MX-5 Miata was named the highest ranked vehicle in initial quality in the Compact Sporty Car segment.

Additionally, the best-selling MAZDA3 sub-compact, in both four-door and five-door body styles, improved by 42 points.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan.