In order to determine what new-vehicle owners like the most and least about their new cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans, J.D. Power conducts the annual Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study. The market research firm surveys people who have owned their new vehicles for at least 90 days, asking them questions about the performance, design, layout, features, and other factors.
Based on this data, the company creates Power Circle Ratings to visually summarize the results. Consumers can use these ratings during the new-vehicle selection process, helping people to understand which makes and models are the most and least appealing.