Ford is ranked top-five in initial quality

Ford broke into the club that imported cars have dominated for the past 24 years, becoming the fifth highest-ranked brand in initial quality by J.D. Power and Associates, according to USA Today.

Meanwhile, Toyota tumbled to 21st on that list, down from sixth in 2009, according to the report.

Porsche topped the list, followed by Acura, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus.

USA Today reports:

“Domestic automakers have made impressive strides in steadily improving vehicle quality, particularly since 2007,” said David Sargent, vice president of global vehicle research at J.D. Power and Associates, in a statement. “This year may mark a key turning point for U.S. brands as they continue to fight the battle against lingering negative perceptions of their quality.