Chrysler Group LLC, operated by Italy's Fiat SpA, has improved its vehicle lineup, but five of the U.S. auto maker's eight models tested by Consumer Reports remained "mediocre," the magazine said Tuesday.
The Dodge Durango SUV and Charger sedan improved the most and both vehicles received "very good" marks. Both models were redesigned under Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne.
Testers were unimpressed with the Chrysler 200 sedan, the Dodge Avenger and Journey, and the Jeep Compass and Patriot, Consumer Reports said, adding that they scored at or near the bottom of their respective categories.
The Chrysler Town & Country scored well, but fell short of the best minivans, the magazine said.
"It's clear that Chrysler is on the right path, but they still have a long way to go," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' auto test centre.
Chrysler's turnaround hinges on the improved quality and success of its new vehicles as it weighs a possible initial public offering next year.
But quality has long been one of Chrysler's sore points. Consumer Reports has only recommended one Chrysler vehicle in the last three years - the Dodge Ram 1500 pickup.
The company launched 16 new and improved models last year and has revamped its quality testing procedures under Marchionne in hopes of improving its track record.