Autobytel and AutoPacific have announced the winners of their 16th annual Vehicle Satisfaction Awards. The awards are made to help consumers make informed vehicle purchase decisions with the assistance of a true “word of mouth” survey.

“In today’s market, it’s difficult to find a low-quality vehicle,” according to AutoPacific president George Peterson. “The quality of vehicles from all manufacturers has risen to the highest level in history and what delineates a car or truck is owner satisfaction.

“Consumer purchases are often influenced by objective awards especially when they are based on consumer sentiment. It was our goal to get the input from as many consumers as possible because ultimately, it’s the consumer’s opinion that counts.”

Autobytel and AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction survey measures how satisfied an owner is with his or her new vehicle. New vehicle owners provide input on 48 individual attributes that objectively measure the ownership experience such as driver’s seat comfort, power and acceleration, interior styling, exterior styling, cargo space/capacity, ease of getting in and out, and quietness inside the vehicle. This year’s study included more than 75,000 owners of vehicles from all major manufacturers.

“With hundreds of 2012 model year vehicles available, consumers need assistance to find a vehicle that’s right for them,” said Autobytel CEO Jeffrey Coats. “The 48 vehicle attributes we survey is detailed information that only a vehicle owner can provide, and that most consumers would want to know. Cars that score highest in the Vehicle Satisfaction survey appear to be delivering the highest value and consumer satisfaction across a wide range of attributes.” He added, “We are pleased to announce this year’s winners and congratulate them on their ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction.”

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