AP-GfK Poll: Americans say US cars top Asian autos

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP

By ALAN FRAM

WASHINGTON (AP) - After a long romance with foreign rivals, America's love affair with the automobile is returning to its roots with a revived affection for U.S.-made cars.

Slightly more Americans now say the United States makes better-quality vehicles than Asia does, with 38 percent saying U.S. cars are best and 33 percent preferring autos made by Asian companies, according to an Associated Press-GfK Poll.

The survey suggests those numbers are largely fueled by a plunge in Toyota's reputation and an upsurge in Ford's. The poll was conducted in March, as Toyota was being roiled by nightmarish publicity over its recall of more than 8 million vehicles around the globe and allegations that it responded sluggishly to safety concerns.

Though the U.S. advantage is modest, it marks a significant turnabout for American automakers battered by recession and relentless competition from foreign manufacturers. When the same question was asked in a December 2006 AP-AOL poll, 46 percent said Asian countries made superior cars, while just 29 percent preferred American vehicles, reflecting a perception of U.S. automotive inferiority that began taking hold about three decades ago.

Read more: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20100421/D9F7D47G0.html

[liberal N proud]

1. I pointed that out to a co-worker yesterday they replied that all...

American cars were essentially Japanese cars anyway.

He pointed to a really old agreement between Ford and Mazda where they shared technology and designs. Didn't know they no longer were partners.

I would still buy American brand over an Asian brand any day.

[MannyGoldstein]

2. I Have Two Fords After Being A Long-Time Honda/Subaru/VW Owner

Bought a Focus wagon five years ago - has needed nothing in 105k miles other than maintenance. Stupendous reliability.

Based on the Focus experience, we just picked up a Fusion a month or so ago. Amazing performance, good looks, good gas mileage, and great price.

[roscoeroscoe]

3. thank you, toyota!

people seem to realize that corporate douchbaggery isn't just american anymore... and the quick succession of recalls, lies revealed and embarassing testimony (along with cars that go out of control) have changed the game.

american carmakers have really dug in and competed. i like the slogan "may the best car win," wasn't that from gm?

i bought my wife a chrysler sebring convertable for her anniversary a couple years ago, and she loves it to death.