J.D. Power and Associates have released the results of their 2011 APEAL Study, which tracks how gratifying a new car is to drive.
The survey breaks down data by both brand and model. Both BMW and Dodge did well in this year's survey when it came to individual models. The BMW won three segments with its X3, 5-Series and Z4 Roadster. Dodge also took three categories for the Challenger, Charger and Durango.
However, these two companies ultimately did not win in the overall category, which factors in scores for all of a brand's models. That honor went to Porsche, who topped the study for the third year in a row. Jaguar took second place, with BMW in third. When it came to domestic automakers, Ford was the top-ranked brand.
Other brands had strong showings as well, such as Hyundai, which improved the most compared to last year's survey. Some brands struggled mightily - Suzuki is dead last, while Subaru is only second from the bottom.
The news is obviously useful for consumers in the market for a vehicle. However, drivers may also want to look at other J.D. Power surveys as well, such as the dependability study, which tracks problems with parts like wheels and tires, brakes, engines and more.