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I sold automobiles back in the 70s and 80s when two major items impacted sales to consumers, gas prices ( and therefore the swing to small, fuel efficient cars ) and extremely high interest rates. Surprisingly similar situations to today though the causes are somewhat different, but one item that is seldom addressed today is the one item pushed heavily back so many decades ago ( when there also were no rebates per se ) --- trade difference. The key component to this part of the equation was to purchase a vehicle with high resale value. Sure it is talked about some today, but it was a heavy part of many buyer's decision on their purchase.
I recently bought a new 2022 Ram 1500 Crew Cab and surprisingly the difference was not atrocious considering I traded in an 8 year old truck to get a new one. The factor I am equating to the past is right now we are all in a position that our used vehicles almost all are carrying extremely high resale values so the difference is not as crazy as some may expect. Since my used vehicle went up over $4,000 in value from two years ago ( the used market has had a higher percentage increase than the new market) I actually got into a 22 for close to the same thing a 20 was going to cost me ---- I had seriously looked into trading in 2020.
I tell my friends that ordering is actually a good thing, as they are not paying the extra 1000 for the sunroof they didn't want or another 1000 for Navigation when the vehicle comes with Apple or Android Car play , so one can actually tailor it to want they want. Because Dealers are all embracing this to acquire Sales , it is actually becoming the norm and reputable Stores will give you a contract, take a deposit , and work with you as it is in both sides interest.
History repeats itself and it is time to think difference and resale , not worry about a 1000 rebate on a vehicle that has 2000 worth of options you don't want - imho.
I can't imagine how anyone could drive a 2WD pickup in slippery conditions (snow, ice, even rain).......I guess if you never had 4WD you never knew what you were missing!......Come to think of it,,,,,,How did I survive all those yrs without my Boss????????Four wheel drive holds resale value.