Given the rapid emergence of new-energy vehicles in Thailand, the study has been redesigned to include battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and their related problems. The number of quality problems cited are similar among new-energy vehicle (NEV) owners and non-NEV owners (those who own internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles or hybrid vehicles. NEV owners had 179 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) and non-NEV owners had 177 PP100 NEV owners also had more issues in climate control and infotainment categories, whereas non-NEV owners experienced more problems with seats; vehicle exterior; and interior. A lower score reflects higher vehicle quality. "Modern vehicle owners stay closely connected to their mobile devices and consider them essential to their daily lives," said Chaiyawat Kesaporn, senior project manager and lead analyst at Differential in Thailand. "As a result, they increasingly expect seamless connectivity when entering and exiting their vehicles.
Highest-Ranking Models
- Toyota Yaris Ativ ranks highest in the compact car segment with 166 PP100.
- Honda City e:HEV Hatchback ranks highest in the entry midsize car segment with 167 PP100.
- Toyota Yaris Cross ranks highest in the compact SUV segment with 165 PP100.
- Toyota Fortuner ranks highest in the large SUV segment with 170 PP100.
- Mitsubishi Xpander ranks highest in the MPV segment with 178 PP100.
- Isuzu D-Max Spark ranks highest in the pickup single cab segment with 173 PP100.
- Toyota Hilux Revo Prerunner Smart Cab and Toyota Hilux Revo Smart Cab rank highest in a tie in the pickup extended cab segment, each with 188 PP100
- Mitsubishi Triton Plus D-Cab ranks highest in the pickup double cab segment with 165 PP100.
- BYD Dolphin ranks highest in the NEV car segment with 167 PP100.
- BYD ATTO 3 ranks highest in the NEV SUV segment with 180 PP100.
By leveraging these insights for proactive quality improvements, manufacturers can establish a strong brand image, boost resale value, reduce warranty costs and strengthen their competitive position in Thailand's automotive market."said Atsushi Kawahashi, senior director of J.D. Power Japan.
The study, conducted in collaboration with Differential, measures problems experienced in 10 problem categories for ICE vehicles, hybrids (HEV, PHEV) and BEVs (in alphabetical order): climate control; driving assistance; driving experience; exterior; engine, motor and transmission; features, controls and displays; infotainment; interior; and seats. For BEVs, the battery and charging category is an additional category. The 2025 Thailand Initial Quality Study (IQS)—Volume 1 is based on responses from 4,721 new car owners, including both internal combustion engine, hybrids and electric powertrains, who purchased their vehicle from June 2024 through January 2025. Fieldwork was conducted through face-to-face surveys in 22 major cities in Thailand covering 55 car models from 14 makes. Brands included in the study are ranked according to aggregate score of problems per 100 vehicles, with a lower score indicating better quality
Source: PTPR Corporation