Volvo Cars of North America (VCNA) ranked first among luxury brands at having dealerships that are effective at influencing the purchase, according to Foresight Research's 2013 Dealership Report. Foresight Research provides this yearly report as a comprehensive evaluation of current dealership experiences, buyer expectations, selection criteria and overall purchase influence versus all other marketing efforts.

"We have been surveying recent buyers about the effectiveness of the dealership experience for past four years. In the most recent issue, Volvo dealers moved into first place among all brands as having the dealership experience that was most influential to the purchase," said Steve Bruyn, CEO of Foresight Research.

Foresight's Dealership Report quantifies the purchase influence delivered by the dealership experience. It examines the criteria shoppers use when selecting a dealership as well as what they expect from salespeople and their degree of comfort. Additionally, it examines dealership elements that buyers find influential in their shopping and buying process.

"Everything we do at Volvo is designed around the customer, from product development to the dealer experience," said Greg Swetoha, executive vice president, sales operations and network development, VCNA. "Our recognition as the top luxury brand confirms this consumer-centric commitment our dealer network exemplifies day in and day out."

Buick, Hyundai (non-luxury) and Lincoln (luxury) were also ranked for having an effective dealer experience.