Ranking of 2011 Vehicles With Fewest Problems

The report has delivered some low grades to new models, mainly due to advanced technology systems causing confusion among buyers.

Newly introduced models have 10% more problems than they did last year, which is normal since any new design comes with kinks that need to be worked out during production.

This is one reason why we recommend you not purchase a newly redesigned model during its first year.

Conversely, models that haven't been upgraded from previous model years improved five points this year to their lowest mark ever - 103 problems per 100 vehicles.

Ford, which finished fifth in last year's study, fell to 23rd this year, largely thanks to its roll out of new models like the Fiesta, Edge and Explorer which feature advanced multimedia systems.

Lexus, Honda, and Acura were the brands with the fewest reported problems.

Here is the full list along with the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles:

• Lexus 73
• Honda 86
• Acura 89
• Mercedes-Benz 94
• Mazda 100
• Porsche 100
• Toyota 101
• Infiniti 102
• Cadillac 103
• GMC 104
• Industry Average 107
• Hyundai 108
• Subaru 108
• BMW 109
• Chevrolet 109
• Volvo 109
• Chrysler 110
• Lincoln 111
• Audi 113
• Kia 113
• Buick 114
• Jaguar 114
• Ram 114
• Ford 116
• Nissan 117
• Jeep 122
• Land Rover 123
• Scion 123
• MINI 131
• Volkswagen 131
• Mitsubishi 133
• Suzuki 136
• Dodge 137