I'll agree that American cars have gotten better. However, its a bit of a stretch to say they are equal to those produced across the pond.
A women who rents from me purchased a 2006 Mercury Milian (FORD) and it has been in-and-out of the repair shop since she purchased it new. By the time it had 16,000 miles it had been taken to the repair shop at least 4 times. (Engine once, Suspension twice, Electrical once)
I also own a 2000 Toyota Celica that has 154,000 miles on the clock. Other than an oil change and brakes, I have never made any repairs to the car ever. The car is still very tight and drive's really well.
I'll keep my Tahoe for a long time, but if I had to go out and purchase a new vehicle today, Toyota would be my first choice. (I've always wanted a Toyota Sequoia)
My buddy has a 2003 Sequoia with over 200,000 miles and he beats that thing. No major repairs, no nickle and dime incidents too date, They make a dam good rig IMO.