Led by Maruti Suzuki, Japanese cars stole the limelight at JD Power Asia Pacific 2004 award function with only the Tata Motors [Get Quote] holding fort among Indian car markers with Safari, it's sports utility vehicle, being declared the most appealing vehicle in the category.

At the function on Thursday Maruti Udyog Ltd [Get Quote] managing director Jagdish Khattar was presented five awards in different categories with its premium compact car Alto being recognised as the most appealing vehicle as per a quality study.

The Maruti Saga: Complete Coverage

The second compact car from Maruti stable, Wagon R also won in JD Power's 2004 appeal study. The company was also ranked highest in both automotive sales satisfaction and customer satisfaction with its mid sized car Esteem being awarded for being the best entry level midsize car.

Other awardees at the function included president and CEO of Honda Siel Cars India H Yamada for City and Atsushi Toyoshima, managing director of Toyota Kirloskar Motor for the premium midsize car Corolla.