The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Luxury Institute Survey Rates Porsche as Most Exclusive and Unique Luxury Marque

ATLANTA--April 24, 2006--In the results of an independent, nation-wide survey just released by the New York-based Luxury Institute, America's premium income earners rated Porsche(R) the most prestigious luxury automobile for 2006. Porsche topped an impressive field of thirteen luxury automobile brands including Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes, Saab, and Volvo. Porsche captured the title based on its brand uniqueness and exclusivity, and as a marque most often driven by people who are admired and respected. Porsche was also singled out for making customers feel special throughout the entire ownership experience.

"We are gratified that for the second time in a row, a majority of discriminating, sophisticated owners has rated Porsche the number one luxury brand," said Peter Schwarzenbauer, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. "It reaffirms our belief that by remaining true to our sports car values and history, the Porsche brand maintains its position as one of the world's most respected and desirable names."

An independent research entity, the Luxury Institute serves as the objective voice of the wealthy consumer. It is the creator of the Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI), a proprietary survey methodology developed to measure the value and equity of leading luxury brands, based upon statistical data collected from wealthy consumers. The LBSI incorporates four main pillars of value: consistently superior quality, exclusivity and uniqueness, a measure of enhanced social status, and a measure of the ability of a brand to make a customer feel special across the customer experience with the brand. Using the LBSI, the Luxury Institute surveyed a nationally representative sample of more than 500 households with a $200,000 minimum gross annual income, and a minimum net worth of $750,000.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, GA, and its subsidiary, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., are the exclusive importers of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne(R) sport utility vehicles for the United States and Canada. A wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 300 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 212 U.S. and Canadian dealers. They, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.