The latest study from J.D. Power reveals that some automakers are outperforming others when it comes to integrating advanced technology into their vehicles. The 2024 Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study polled new car owners about the technology features they value most, as well as those that cause the most frustration.
Using a “problems per 100 vehicles” (PP100) scale, J.D. Power evaluated the tech features in vehicles and assigned automakers a total score out of 1,000. Genesis emerged as the top brand in the premium category, while Hyundai led among mass-market brands. Lexus and BMW followed closely behind Genesis in the premium segment, while Kia and GMC ranked second and third in the mass-market category.
According to J.D. Power’s director of user experience benchmarking and technology, “A strong advanced tech strategy is crucial for all vehicle manufacturers, and many innovative technologies are answering customer needs. At the same time, this year’s study makes it clear that owners find some technologies of little use and/or are continually annoying.”
The study divided 40 technologies into four categories: Convenience, emerging automation, energy and sustainability, and infotainment and connectivity. Certain vehicles excelled in specific areas. For example, the Toyota Sequoia won an award in the convenience category for its rearview mirror camera system.
In the premium brand segment, the Genesis GV70 earned an award for its front cross-traffic warning system, while the Kia Carnival took the same honor among mass-market brands. BMW stood out in the energy and sustainability category, with the BMW iX earning accolades for its one-pedal driving system. In the infotainment and connectivity segment, the BMW X6 and Hyundai Santa Fe were recognized for their phone-based key systems.
J.D. Power conducted the survey with 81,296 new vehicle owners who had purchased their cars within the last 90 days. The organization also runs several other studies each year, including the U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout Study (APEAL) and the U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS).
With tech playing an increasingly critical role in car-buying decisions, the 2024 TXI Study highlights the importance of automakers not only embracing innovation but ensuring that these technologies enhance the driving experience without adding frustration for consumers.
