Headrest Adjustability: A Key Factor in Seat Comfort and Satisfaction
When it comes to buying a car, many factors can be overlooked or compromised for the right vehicle. However, one aspect that should never be disregarded is seat comfort. After all, seats are the primary point of contact between the driver and the vehicle. Recognizing the significance of this element, automakers have been making strides in improving seat quality and comfort. However, a recent study by J.D. Power reveals that there is still one area that leaves buyers frustrated – headrests.
J.D. Power’s 2024 Seat Quality and Satisfaction Study provides valuable insights into the automotive industry’s progress in addressing seat comfort. The organization rates vehicles based on the number of problems per 100 units experienced, known as PP100. In this study, owners who reported headrest issues also reported several other seat problems, resulting in a higher average of 6.7 PP100 for seat-related issues. Conversely, those who were satisfied with their headrests reported an impressively low average of 1.0 PP100 for seat problems, indicating a significantly higher level of overall satisfaction with their seats.
Ashley Edgar, Senior Director of Automotive Benchmarking at J.D. Power, stresses the importance of prioritizing headrest adjustability for seat manufacturers. According to her, headrest adjustability has a substantial impact on the overall seat experience. While manufacturers may address various other aspects of seat quality, a proper headrest is crucial for ensuring overall comfort. Without it, the seat’s comfort is compromised.
To gauge seat quality and satisfaction, J.D. Power’s rankings are further broken down by vehicle segment. Let’s take a closer look at the winners in each category:
Mass-Market Small/Compact Car:
1. Kia Forte: 6.5 PP100
2. Nissan Versa: 6.9 PP100
3. Subaru Impreza: 9.0 PP100
Mass-Market Midsize/Large Car:
1. Kia K5: 5.5 PP100
2. Toyota Camry: 8.5 PP100
3. Chevrolet Camaro: 8.8 PP100
Mass-Market SUV and Truck/Van:
1. Subaru Forester: 5.4 PP100
2. Chevrolet Equinox: 6.4 PP100
3. Chevrolet Trax: 6.6 PP100
Mass-Market Midsize/Large SUV:
1. Chevrolet Traverse: 6.3 PP100
2. Nissan Murano: 6.6 PP100
3. Ford Explorer: 7.2 PP100
Mass-Market Truck/Van:
1. Ram 1500: 4.1 PP100
2. Chevrolet Silverado: 5.6 PP100
3. Chevrolet Silverado HD: 6.4 PP100
Premium Car:
1. Audi A5: 3.8 PP100
2. Porsche Taycan: 4.5 PP100
3. Porsche 911: 4.7 PP100
Premium SUV:
1. Porsche Cayenne: 4.0 PP100
2. BMW X3: 4.6 PP100
3. Porsche Macan: 5.1 PP100
Interestingly, the study also took into account the seat manufacturers, which were mostly third-party companies separate from the automakers. Adient manufactured the seats for the Kia K5 and Toyota Camry, while Lear Corporation produced the seats for the Chevy Equinox, Ford Explorer, both Chevy trucks, and all models in the Premium Car segment.
In conclusion, seat comfort is a crucial consideration for car buyers, and the quality of headrests plays a significant role in overall satisfaction. J.D. Power’s Seat Quality and Satisfaction Study not only highlights the progress made by automakers in improving seat comfort but also sheds light on an area that still requires attention. Headrest adjustability should be a top priority for seat manufacturers, as it directly affects the overall seat experience. Whether it’s a mass-market car, SUV, or a premium vehicle, buyers can use this study as a guide to make informed choices and prioritize their comfort on the road.