29th Apr 2015, 19:47
I recall reading an article a few years ago about the comparison of today's cars versus those made in the past. What stuck with me was the fact that pretty much all middle class, middle of the road family sedans - even the "stripped" models are actually nicer, have more features and standard equipment than the top-of-of-the-line luxury cars from 15 years ago or maybe even less. A V6 Camry is actually faster than just about any 70s muscle car. Back in the 80s and 90s you'd be hard pressed to find any family car that would go 0-60 in 6 seconds plus some change. So the fact that the prices may have gone up is not really a surprise. What you get today for the average price of a family car is the same you used to have to pay 3 times as much for not so long ago.
29th Apr 2015, 18:18
Then you revamp or discontinue a model. Sacrificing quality at the expense of cost savings is unacceptable. Major mechanicals and safety related ABS braking remains foremost. Eliminate luxury options and divert those needs to the high end Lexus models. No cruise, power windows, high end audio, lighting packages, alloy wheels, touring tire packages etc. It's not bread, it's the second highest purchase behind a home that's made. The other factor is slowing the production line to catch mistakes. There's far too many Toyota recalls. Or up the quality and draw back disenchanted former buyers willing to pay more for the improvement.