The Fiat 500 took top honors in its class in the JD Power's APEAL Awards. The J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) test study examines what owners like about their new vehicles after 90 days of ownership. APEAL is based on eight categories of vehicle performance and design: engine/transmission; ride, handling and braking; comfort/convenience; seats; cockpit/instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; sound system; and styling/exterior.
The Fiat 500 was scored as having the best overall performance and design; features and instrument panel, and style in its class. Competitors in the City Car category soundly beaten by the Fiat 500 included the Chevrolet Spark, Scion IQ and Smart FourTwo.
JD Powers APEAL Ratings by Category - City Car
Overall Performance and Design | Performance | Comfort | Features and Instrument Panel | Style | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fiat 500 | ***** | **** | *** | ***** | ***** |
Chevrolet Spark | *** | *** | *** | *** | *** |
Scion IQ | ** | ** | ** | ** | ** |
Smart FourTwo | ** | ** | ***** | ** | ** |
***** Among the best **** Better than most *** About average **The rest
The Fiat 500 has won many awards, but this JD Power award is particularly important because it shows that Fiat owners are happy with the design and performance of their car, which is what ultimately matters the most.
Source:JD Power