US automobile brand Lincoln received the highest score for long-term durability among all vehicle brands in a major vehicle dependability study.

The annual J D Power and Associates’ 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) said the Lincoln MKZ is the second-highest performing model in long-term durability in the entire study.

Ford Motor Company vehicles received awards in four segments:

• Lincoln MKZ, entry premium car

• Ford Fusion, midsize car

• Ford Mustang, midsize sporty

• Lincoln Navigator, large premium crossover/SUV

In total, Ford had nine vehicles ranking in the top three of their respective segments, including Ford Edge, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Ford Taurus, Ford F-150 and Ford Ranger.

The study asks owners about problems they have experienced in the past 12 months with their three-year-old vehicles. Survey respondents were asked to indicate any problems they experienced with their vehicle in the past 12 months, choosing from a list of more than 200 issues in eight diverse categories.

“This is another great testament to Lincoln,” said Scott Tobin, director of Lincoln Product Development.

“Long-term durability is the perfect foundation upon which to build the resurgence of the Lincoln brand. We have the dependability that’s important to consumers, and now we have great new products like the innovative new Lincoln MKX.”

Bennie Fowler, Ford Group vice president, global quality and new model launches, said the results demonstrate the company’s dedication to continually raising the bar on the quality for all Ford customers.

“This study from J D Power is more good news for our customers. It affirms our quality operating system is one of the best in the world,” Fowler said. “Our Lincoln products and our Ford products aren't just the best at low time in service as we've seen year over year, but at higher times in service as well.”

The study also shows a strong link between reliability and purchase. Nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of new-vehicle buyers say reliability /durability is one of the most important factors in choosing a new vehicle.

Additionally, the study found that fuel economy is among the top 10 purchase considerations. Ford offers at least 12 vehicles that lead their sales segments in fuel economy – including four vehicles with EPA-certified 40 mpg or higher fuel economy ratings.

“The results of this study are extremely gratifying,” said Fowler. “We’ve been working hard to develop the products and processes that allow us to be best-in-class.” – TradeArabia News Service