Owner Satisfaction Propels Volkswagen to the Top in 2012 Total Quality Index

CANTON, CONN. (09/05/2012)(readMedia)-- Some automotive studies evaluate vehicle quality by measuring the specific problems of each model, while others look at owners' perceptions. The 2012 Strategic Vision Total Quality Index (TQI) has managed to do both, finding that Volkswagen was the top automaker after vehicle issues and customer gratification were simultaneously considered.

The Strategic Vision 2012 TQI also revealed that three Volkswagen brand models topped their individual segments, including the 2012 VW Golf, Eos and Tiguan in the Small Multi-Function, Convertible and Entry Utility categories, respectively. More than 45,000 vehicle owners were surveyed for this year's TQI after they purchased a 2012 model between September and December 2011. Responses were then used to rate each vehicle on a 1,000-point scale, with the Golf reaching a score of 874, the Eos totaling 902 and the Tiguan earning 877 points.

"There are some mass-market automakers that are known for their quality, but their vehicles are viewed as nothing more than a mundane way of getting from point A to point B," said Scott Dell, general sales manager of Canton, CT Volkswagen dealer Mitchell Volkswagen. "On the other hand, Volkswagen provides high-quality, high-performing rides that appeal to the heart as well as the head, and the TQI study reflects that."

While its current generation continues to earn recognition from industry groups like Strategic Vision, the Volkswagen Golf is due for a redesign for the 2014 model year. The 2014 Golf will make its public debut later this month at the Paris Motor Show, but Volkswagen has released some details in advance to the press.

Shedding 220 pounds as it switches over to Volkswagen's new MQB platform, the 2014 VW Golf is expected to be about 14 percent more fuel efficient across its lineup, with some trims improving by up to 23 percent. Even with its lighter weight, the seventh-generation Golf will be slightly longer and wider than the current model, leading to more rear legroom and front and rear shoulder space inside the cabin.

The latest redesign of the Golf is part of Volkswagen's broader strategy to surpass Toyota Motor Corp. and General Motors Co. to become the leader in global auto sales by 2018. Beyond the added buyer appeal that comes along with increased passenger space and fuel efficiency, the lighter 2014 Golf will be less expensive to make, allowing Volkswagen to invest those savings into upgraded infotainment systems and other next-generation models.

"We've already witnessed part of Volkswagen's new sales strategy with the roomy redesigns of the Jetta and Passat during the past couple years, and we expect the Golf to experience similar success," added Dell. "The current Golf is the most versatile, fun-to-drive compact on the market for its price, and the next generation should broaden the vehicle's appeal with increased gas mileage and space."

About Mitchell VW:

Driven by a customer-first mantra, Mitchell Volkswagen is a Canton, Connecticut Volkswagen dealership specializing in new and used Volkswagen sales, service and parts. With a wide selection of fuel-efficient VW models like the Passat and Golf TDI, the dealership has become a favorite stop for Hartford-area commuters. Mitchell VW's relationship with customers extends well beyond each sale as well, with a state-of-the-art service facility run by expert technicians. Visit their dealership at 51 Albany Turnpike (Route 44) in Canton or call them at 800-763-5616. They can also be found online at www.mitchellvw.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MitchellVolkswagen.