CHICAGO — In its inaugural study of third-party websites, J.D. Power and Associates reported this week that Cars.com ranked highest in for key measures.

Conducted with more than 4,000 used- and new-car purchase intenders, the study measured the usefulness of third-party automotive websites during the new- and used-vehicle shopping process. The four key measures (in order of importance) were: information/content, navigation, appearance, and speed. Among the 21 sites evaluated, Cars.com ranked highest overall and also led in areas of navigation, information/content and speed.

"Delivering the very best consumer shopping experience has always been our No. 1 priority at Cars.com, so I'm thrilled to see shoppers in this study recognize the experience we've worked so hard to create," said Mitch Golub, president of Cars.com. "With the number of choices and considerations, buying a car can be overwhelming. Our goal is to help shoppers easily navigate all aspects of the research process and equip them with the content and information they need to confidently move toward purchase.

Golub said the study evaluated areas the vehicle information site has improved at the start of 2013. “While we are constantly evolving the site, we started the year with a major refresh, including an updated look and feel, easier browsing and faster load times," he said.

According to J.D. Power and Associates, sites with higher satisfaction saw corresponding advocacy and loyalty rates, indicating a connection between satisfaction and the likelihood visitors will return to a site throughout their shopping process — ultimately translating into increased exposure for advertisers. 

More details about the study can be accessed here.