However, historically and generally speaking, within the GM portfolio, the perception of quality has often been presented (though again, this fluctuates) in an order somewhat like this, from generally higher to lower *perceived* quality:
* Cadillac: Often considered GM's luxury brand, aiming for higher quality and features.
* Buick: Positioned as a more upscale brand than Chevrolet, typically associated with a slightly higher level of perceived quality.
* GMC: Focuses on trucks and SUVs, with a reputation for ruggedness and durability, sometimes seen as having a higher perceived build quality than Chevrolet in their respective segments.
* Chevrolet: GM's mass-market brand; quality can vary greatly depending on the specific model.
* Saturn (defunct): While Saturn attempted a different approach to quality, it ultimately wasn't consistently ranked higher than Chevrolet in reliability.
* Oldsmobile (defunct): Once part of GM, Oldsmobile is no longer in production.
Important Considerations:
* Model Year Matters: The quality of any GM brand can fluctuate significantly from year to year, depending on the models produced and any design or manufacturing changes.
* Specific Model: Even within a brand, some models are known for better reliability and quality than others.
* Subjectivity: "Quality" itself can be subjective. Some may prioritize reliability, others features, and still others luxury.
Instead of relying on a general ranking, it's best to consult specific reliability reports (like those from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, or others) for the *specific make, model, and year* you are interested in. These reports offer data-driven insights into reliability and owner satisfaction, which are better indicators of quality than generalized brand rankings.
