Despite a spike of complaints surrounding unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles, the automaker is still managing to keep consumers in showrooms thanks to substantial incentives.
Toyota’s March Sales Event has reportedly helped boost sales in the first several days of the month according to Don Esmond, senior vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales. Although specific details of this month’s sales haven’t been disclosed, Esmond says the numbers have surpassed expectations in light of Toyota’s current struggles.
Toyota has come a long way in fixing its mistakes. Not only have top executives owned up to their shortcomings during congressional hearings, but faulty pedals and improper floormats have been repaired or replaced in millions of vehicles. Unfortunately, due to Monday’s news of police slowing down a runaway Toyota Prius, new problems aren’t going away and the automakers’ electronics may become the next issue.
According to some experts on consumer psychology, the most recent spike in complaints may partially involve psychological factors rather than the cars themselves. With incessant negative media scrutiny, some may be wondering if there’s a human component behind unintended acceleration events.
“When people expect problems, they’re more likely to find them.” said Lars Perner, a professor of clinical marketing at the University of Southern California.
While new car sales are being fueled by incentives, used cars dealers are still having an easy time of moving pre-owned models. Used Toyota Corolla search in Santa Fe NM, consumers continue to buy Toyotas for their reputation for reliability and value.
Until the media buzz surrounding the Toyota and unintended acceleration simmers down, Toyota aims to make buying a Toyota product as attractive as possible. Not only can consumers take advantage of 0 percent financing on most models, but existing Toyota owners who buy another vehicle from the company will also receive two years of free maintenance. And, as new Toyotas continue to receive awards and accolades, it may very well be the best time for those considering a new car to consider all their options.
Aside from battling the negative buzz, Toyota is facing tough new competition from other Japanese brands and domestics. Even Hyundai is chipping away at Toyota’s marketshare, and Green Bay Hyundai dealers have seen countless Toyota customers switch to the Korean brand in recent months. But among Arlington Toyota dealerships, incentives are expected to help the embattled brand weather the recent storm of scrutiny.
* * *
Read more Toyota news right here. Subscribe now for updates.
{ 3 trackbacks }
{ 0 comments… add one now }
You must log in to post a comment.