10 Best 2015 Models For Initial Vehicle Quality

The Kia Cadenza, introduced for the 2014 model year as the automaker's top-of-the-line sedan, is a large car that offers comfort and lots of features, including voice-controlled UVO eServices infotainment and Bluetooth connectivity. Considered by some to be an unpretentious front-wheel-drive (FWD) sedan, the initial quality of the Kia Cadenza outpaces higher-volume models in its segment, including the Chevrolet Impala and Toyota Avalon. Its overall score in the 2015 IQS improves by 3 PP100, compared with last year.

This boxy multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) earns an initial quality award in the Compact MPV segment for a fourth straight year and is among the 10 models with the lowest PP100 scores in the 2015 IQS. Additionally, the Kia Soul improved by a significant 20 PP100 from 2014. Redesigned for the 2014 model year, the 2015 Soul is equipped with a telematics package that allows the owner to monitor vehicle activity when another driver is at the wheel.

BMW's premium 5 Series, which includes a host of body styles and powertrains, receives the Midsize Premium Car segment award in the 2015 IQS. The German luxury car's score improves by a significant 28 PP100 from the 2014 IQS. Loaded with safety and convenience technology systems, the 2015 5 Series is equipped with a BMW iDrive infotainment system with touchpad control, HD Radio, navigation, and BMW Online and Apps technology.

Although the Mercedes SL-Class 2-seat retractable-hardtop convertible ranks second in the Midsize Premium Sporty Car segment in the 2015 IQS, it is still one of the 10 highest-quality models in this year's study. Options for this premium touring car include a Bang & Olufsen audio system, adaptive cruise control, rearview camera, and Magic Sky Control, which adjusts the light level that comes in through the SL's glass roof panel.

BMW's flagship large premium 7 Series sedan reflects the highest level of the German automaker's engineering advances and technology and also manages to improve its score in the 2015 IQS by a significant 34 PP100 compared with last year. Offered in five different varieties with several powertrain choices — including conventional gasoline, hybrid, and turbo-diesel — the 7 Series was refreshed for the 2013 model year with an upgraded premium audio system and a new iDrive menu, along with a voice-command system and an improved navigation system. A redesigned 2016 BMW 7 Series was recently announced.

The Infiniti QX70, formerly the Infiniti FX, is the only crossover utility to make the top 10 list in initial quality. The QX70 receives the Midsize Premium SUV segment award this year and also improves its score by 5 PP100 from the 2014 IQS. Offered in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, the QX70 offers a Technology package that includes intelligent cruise control, lane-departure and forward-collision warning systems, adaptive and auto-leveling headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Bluetooth connectivity and iPod connectivity are also available.

Positioned between non-premium and luxury brands, the Chrysler 300 is built on a modified Mercedes platform and was last redesigned in 2011, although it features freshened styling and new exterior colors for 2015. Highest-ranked in the Large Car segment of the 2015 IQS, the 300 improves its score this year by a whopping 48 PP100. A new 300C Platinum trim level features a standard, next-generation Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system with 8.4-in. color touch screen and offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and voice-texting capability.

Porsche ranks highest in initial quality for a third consecutive year and boasts two of the 10 models with the lowest PP100 scores. The Porsche Boxster 2-door roadster, which ranks highest in the Compact Premium Sporty Car segment of the 2015 IQS, offers three engine choices and comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and also features Bluetooth connectivity. Interestingly, its brand-mate, the Porsche Cayman, while not among the top 10 models in initial quality, does rank second in the same vehicle segment.

Highest-ranked in the Midsize Premium Sporty Car segment of the IQS for four consecutive years, the iconic Porsche 911 improves its score by 9 PP100 in the 2015 Initial Quality Study. Offered in three body styles, the current-generation, 2-door, 4-seat Porsche 911 will likely be redesigned for 2016. The 911 offers enthusiasts style and performance, even at the base level. Its initial quality surpasses all but one model.

The brand's flagship luxury sedan, the Lexus LS, was the only model introduced by Lexus in 1989. More than 25 years later, it is the industry's most problem-free model, according to the 2015 IQS, improving its score by 13 PP100 to record an industry-leading 61 PP100 overall. Since 2006, the Lexus LS, currently available in standard, long-wheelbase, and hybrid versions, has ranked highest in the Large Premium Car segment in the IQS in eight of the last 10 years. A host of convenience, comfort, and safety features — including pre-collision and lighting and visibility systems — are standard on the fourth-generation LS, which also features Bluetooth connectivity, a 10-speaker audio system, MP3 decoder, turn-by-turn navigation, and 12.3-in. LCD monitor.