Two Chevy Models Deemed Most Dependable by J.D. Power and Associates

WARWICK, R.I. (02/18/2013)(readMedia)-- A new J.D. Power and Associates report has found that two very different Chevrolet vehicles have a lot in common when it comes to avoiding the repair shop. The 2010 Chevy Tahoe and 2010 Chevy Camaro both led their segments in the consumer-research firm's 2013 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), topping the Large Crossover SUV and Midsize Sporty categories, respectively. The Camaro bested the Ford Mustang in its segment, while the Tahoe was rated higher than the GMC Yukon and Toyota Sequoia.

Conducted annually, the J.D. Power and Associates VDS is based on responses from more than 37,000 drivers after they've owned their vehicles for three years. This year's survey measured problems reported with 2010-model-year vehicles in the prior 12 months. Scores for each model were then tabulated based on the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles, and the models with the fewest amount of issues emerged as segment winners.

"Whether you need a practical SUV for the family or a fun muscle car for weekend adventures, you can count on Chevy for dependable models that won't quit," said Robert Phillipo, general manager of Balise Chevy of Warwick, a Chevy dealership in Rhode Island. "The Tahoe and the Camaro may be polar opposites in terms of how they are used by their owners, but they both come standard with the reliability that buyers expect from a Chevy."

J.D. Power's latest VDS study also ran contrary to the perception that all-new or significantly updated vehicles are less reliable than those that have been on the market for longer. This year marked the first time since the study was redesigned in 2009 that new or updated models experienced fewer problems than their unchanged counterparts. Among the new vehicles was the fifth-generation Camaro, which was introduced for the 2010 model year with a standard 312-horsepower V6 or an optional 426-horsepower V8. The performance car has outsold its competitors for the past three years, and it continues to bring new buyers to the Chevrolet brand.

While the Camaro is popular for its dynamic performance and speed, the Chevy Tahoe, the best-selling full-size SUV in the United States, appeals to families who value passenger space and towing capacity. The Tahoe's 5.3-liter V8 engine produces 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque, allowing the nine-passenger vehicle to tow up to 8,500 pounds. Four-wheel drive is also available for treks off the pavement or commutes on snowy or slippery roads.

"The Tahoe's rugged reputation might make it an obvious choice to be named most dependable, but with so much advanced technology packed inside, like an available rearview camera and a DVD entertainment system, it's impressive that so few drivers have experienced problems," noted Phillipo. "Rhode Island families will find the Tahoe to be an incredibly versatile option, whether they're looking to tow their boats and campers or just run errands around town."

About Balise Chevrolet of Warwick:

Balise Chevrolet of Warwick is committed to helping Rhode Island Chevy fans find the vehicle they need at the right price. A member of the Balise Auto Group, the Warwick, R.I. Chevy dealer has a large inventory of new and used Chevrolet vehicles, including the Chevy Silverado, Cruze and Camaro. Plus, their team of factory-trained technicians performs expert Chevy repairs and maintenance at the dealership's state-of-the-art service center to keep their customers' vehicles running in top condition. Visit Balise Chevrolet at their showroom at 1338 Post Rd. in Warwick, browse their online inventory at www.balisechevroletofwarwick.com, or call them at 877-214-6563. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/balisechevroletwarwick.