OK Now Tell The Truth: Are You Loyal To Your Brand?

OK Now Tell The Truth: Are You Loyal To Your Brand?
Automotive customer loyalty at the manufacturer level has dropped by 9.2 percentage points, from 49.1 percent in 1998, to 39.9 percent in 2008. This is costing some automakers more than $3 billion in annual sales, according to Scott Waldron, president of Experian Automotive, a part of global information services company Experian.

    Waldron released these findings during a presentation to a collection of leading manufacturers and marketing agencies at the ENG Automotive Customer Relationship Management Summit here today.

    "The current struggles in the auto industry make it more important than ever for automakers to keep the customers they have coming back to purchase another vehicle," Waldron said. "However, the increased number of available manufacturers and models make engendering customer loyalty a bigger challenge than ever before. Automakers who have a firm understanding of what drives their customers to remain loyal will have a significant competitive advantage in this challenging market."

    Even a small rise in customer loyalty can lead to significant increases in revenue. As an example, a manufacturer with 10 million current customers will have approximately 1.5 million of those customers return to market in a given year. A one-percentage-point rise in customer loyalty would produce 15,000 additional annual sales, or approximately $405 million in additional revenue, based on an average vehicle sale price of $27,000.00. If this same
manufacturer could improve loyalty performance by the 9.2 percentage points lost since 1998, they would generate an additional $3.726 billion in annual sales.

    Waldron cautioned that traditional customer satisfaction scores are not always a reliable indicator of overall loyalty performance. He said automakers need to understand how customer loyalty is influenced by several other factors, such as financing, warranty work and customer satisfaction with all dealership interactions.

    "Generating customer loyalty is a far more complex process than simply scoring high on initial customer satisfaction surveys or just tracking whether a customer bought another vehicle of the same make," Waldron said. "Automakers need to factor in all of their customer touch points across the ownership lifecycle to understand the definition of loyalty that is specifically meaningful to their brands and their customers."



DexDiamondsDexDiamonds - 8/13/2008 3:13:13 PM
+3 Boost
I am indeed loyal to my brand until they steer me wrong. That'll be when their reliability and service starts to slack off or they just start offering crap. And it seem they are inching ever so closer to the later.

Family Rundown- 1993 Civic 120k, 1995 Civic 180k (mine still have), 1998 Accord 80k, 2002 Civic 48k (mother's), 2006 Accord Sedan, 2007 Accord Coupe (sisters), 2005 Acura TL (mine)


DexDiamondsDexDiamonds - 8/13/2008 3:15:33 PM
+2 Boost
And if Acura doesn't get it together (V8 & RWD, not to mention styling) my next car will probably something European.


09CTSVforMe09CTSVforMe - 8/13/2008 3:21:39 PM
+2 Boost
Just curious...did you shop other brands anywhere in there to see if your brand was keeping up?

I honestly do not mean that to be a leading question. As a purchasing professional, I just am curious if you ever keep your brand on its toes by cross shopping it to the latest competition.


DexDiamondsDexDiamonds - 8/14/2008 9:23:58 AM
+1 Boost
Yes I did. When I purchased the TL I actually was considering the G35 or the IS350.


BlakuraTLSBlakuraTLS - 8/14/2008 10:07:06 AM
+4 Boost
I'm a diehard Honda/Acura fan, although i'm a little worried about what's happening over there. I have had an '84 Honda Civic Sdn, 2000 Accord EX-V6 Sdn, 2004 Accord EX-V6 Sdn, 2005 Acura TL 6-Spd, and currently 2008 TL Type S manual. My brother has a 2005 Acura RL, his wife has a TSX, My cousin has an '07 Acura TL.


0to600to60 - 8/13/2008 3:15:36 PM
+3 Boost
I like alot of different brands. I like to test what is offered and try new things. I do have favorites (Infiniti and BMW respectfully) but I do and have bought from other manufacturers.


09CTSVforMe09CTSVforMe - 8/13/2008 3:18:54 PM
+7 Boost
No.

Build me a better car at a better value, and I will not stay loyal to a brand purely for the brand alone.

I think many here cannot honestly say that.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 3:21:10 PM
-21 Boost
I don't have a favorite brand(well maybe Porsche) but like any real car enthusiast I admire and appreciate the superiority of the German engineering and also the refinement and fun factor European cars in general have over the terribly boring, cheaply made appliances coming from Japan or Korea.

People who are loyal to certain car brand are idiots and the fact that most of these people are Japanese car fans comes as no surprise to me. I am talking about the repeat customers of econo trash brands like Honda and Toyota in America especially. These are people who are clueless when it comes to cars, people who's only reason for satisfaction with their purchase is the fact that they never dared to try SOMETHING ELSE for a change.


09CTSVforMe09CTSVforMe - 8/13/2008 3:31:44 PM
+13 Boost
lol...no bias there, Star, huh?

Paragraph 1: "I admire and appreciate the superiority of the German engineering..."

Paragraph 2: "People who are loyal to certain car brands are idiots..."

How about "people who are loyal to a country's brands are idiots?" You cannot logically claim one accurate and deny the other, so which is it?

Thanks for making a logical argument for the complete opposite of what it seems you are trying to say in one fell swoop!

Have you dared try something other than "superior" German products? Would you? If not, then you surely consider yourself an idiot (rightfully so, in my assessment of your post).

Nice touch in adding that "especially" Americans who are loyal to Honda & Toyota are more idiotic than their counterparts in other countries who dare do the same. You have relegated yourself to the bigot bin with amazina$$hole and have qualified your posts as nothing more than rubbish.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 3:49:13 PM
-18 Boost
09CTVforMe,

you don't make too much sense. Who said I'm loyal to a certain country? I like European cars in general, especially German cars but I also like Swiss watches and Japanese electronics. Am I loyal to a brand, country or continent? I don't think so. Am I loyal to QUALITY and getting the best for my money? Oh yeah!


_43LE_43LE - 8/13/2008 4:00:08 PM
+14 Boost
Typical Star response. Lacking logic, completely irrational and biased while putting his foot in his mouth. I like reading his comments, they are quite amusing and an excellent case study.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 4:08:24 PM
-19 Boost
Whatthe,

No, you are an idiot useless punk. There is such thing as the best. Not everything is the same and that b**ls**t doesn't work for me.

Japanese rule when it comes to electronics. Sure you can get electronics from Germany or America but the facts remain. The Japanese are number 1 in that field.
For watches again there is only one number one and that's Switzerland.
For mass marketed cars anybody with a brain knows that Germany is number 1. You can deny all you want and paint your basement as a sign of protest, but the facts still remain.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 4:15:25 PM
-13 Boost
43LE,

I'm sorry my posts are not intended for the special needs school graduates like yourself. Ask somebody who has the time to educate unfortunate people like you. I sincerely don't have the time for that. Good luck with your search.



_43LE_43LE - 8/13/2008 4:35:50 PM
+11 Boost
Observation 1: when backed up against the wall, the specimen attacks with insults much like a cornered animal. Very interesting, one can infer that the specimen has limited resources for defense and/or lacks the ability to form rational thought. Continued research necessary to try to understand this peculiar life form.


sectorsector - 8/13/2008 4:53:36 PM
+7 Boost
Star, I thought you just finished putting a down payment on that scooter you always wanted, with the custom M sport package, and run-flat tires, and leatherette seat cover :)

you have tackle a lot more paper routes if you really want a automobile though.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 5:03:51 PM
-10 Boost
When confronted with the cruel reality 43LE's signs of dementia are even more pronounced. His pathetic attempts to humor are making the things even harder for the spectators of this exhibition of human suffering.
Poor bastard...is so hard to watch him fail again and again...and again.


_43LE_43LE - 8/13/2008 5:15:40 PM
+7 Boost
Observation 2: Specimen continues to attack with more insults revealing more signs of desperation. His previous comments were proven to be wrong, here and on other posts yet he still continues to try to save face. Very interesting indeed. Can any other observers offer explanations at to what it might be?


StarStar - 8/13/2008 5:26:38 PM
-6 Boost
obviously there is no way that something as twisted as 43LE can be redeemed and brought back in the civilised world. He was sadly deemed a... TOTAL LOSS. Rest in peace poor bastard.


_43LE_43LE - 8/13/2008 6:00:18 PM
+3 Boost
Observation 3: The specimen is now delusional as 43LE clearly lives in the civilized world and continues to post. Note the continued verbal attacks. Specimen now showing signs of hypocrisy as it indirectly claims to be from the civilized world yet verbally attacks people, a very uncivilized act.


theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 8/13/2008 3:21:22 PM
+6 Boost
Nope, I believe in buying the best product. By doing this I am loyal to the entire auto industry and encourage them to make the best products available. Awww the joys of a free market.


AgentOrangeAgentOrange - 8/13/2008 3:23:45 PM
+2 Boost
Yes and no.
My vehicle will always be a BMW (just traded my Z4 for a 1-series) - because nothing handles like a bimmer.
Our second car or SUV will be whatever happens to meet our needs and is best value at the time we need to trade - and it could be anything..




beemzbeemz - 8/13/2008 4:28:50 PM
+1 Boost
I agree with you when you say nothing handles like a BMW. When Im coming up to a green light to make a right hand turn, I sometimes never put my foot on the brake when I'm driving in my 3 series. How are you liking your 1series?? 128 or 135? I'm eager to test drive one next time Im by a dealer


430man430man - 8/13/2008 5:16:39 PM
+1 Boost
Yes, nothing handles like a beemer. Maranello's finest handles BETTER.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 8:59:09 AM
+4 Boost
Beemers are motorcycles. Bimmers are cars.



ShredmoShredmo - 8/14/2008 12:17:59 PM
+5 Boost
Ha ha, I hate it when I run across some idiot talking about a sweet beemer (car). I always called them bimmers too.


PrancingHorsePrancingHorse - 8/13/2008 3:34:03 PM
+4 Boost
My $$$ goes where the best product is.Brand loyalty of for Kool Aid drinkers.


pushrod27pushrod27 - 8/13/2008 9:12:51 PM
+5 Boost
Ice-cold cherry Kool-Aid with a lemon is tasty stuff.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 9:01:04 AM
+5 Boost
I prefer Black Cherry KoolAid. Preferred flavor in Bavaria.


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/14/2008 4:50:38 PM
-1 Boost
^^not to be offensive, but thats disgusting imo.


Maverick2020Maverick2020 - 8/13/2008 3:43:35 PM
+6 Boost
No. I get whatever I want.

When I'm in the market, I will drive everything in the class until I find the right vehicle for me at that time in my life.




NItePhireNItePhire - 8/13/2008 5:27:36 PM
0 Boost
This is the way usually handle car buying as well. I just makes since to do it this way. My next vehicle will be a mid size car or cross over thing and I have driven about everyone that I am interested in so far and will go back to do more comparison once I narrow my list. I do have favorites but I wont let that keep me from turning down a deal on a car that's equal but at 3-4 thousand less.


BlakuraTLSBlakuraTLS - 8/14/2008 11:21:48 PM
+1 Boost
Same here, I always drive most of the cars in my price range, but I honestly end up in a Honda/Acura product everytime so far...well with the exception of that Mercury Mystake (Mystique), that I had years ago in my early twenties.


PerformanceGuyPerformanceGuy - 8/13/2008 3:46:33 PM
0 Boost
I go with who ever I feel offers the things that I look for in a car, which are awesome performance and looks!!


LexSucksLexSucks - 8/13/2008 3:55:20 PM
-9 Boost
No. I am not loyal to any brand. And anyone who is loyal to a brand is a fool.


MadibaPMadibaP - 8/14/2008 3:53:02 AM
+3 Boost
Actually he has a point it is the brand's responsibility to be loyal to and serve the customer, not the other way round. When customers buy no matter what, you get the quality slump Merc went through for nearly two decades, and the current styling of BMW.

(I saw Merc were still less reliable than the industry average in the latest DJ survey, how premium an they be?)


_43LE_43LE - 8/13/2008 4:03:13 PM
+2 Boost
For a consumer, loyalty is for those who do not open their eyes.


answeranswer - 8/13/2008 4:04:50 PM
+3 Boost
Yes, but not blindly.

Too many good cars today from too many good companies to limit yourself with bias.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 4:30:26 PM
-16 Boost
"Too many good cars today from too many good companies"

That is the typical opinion of a non-enthusiast.

The reality is that today is VERY difficult to find a good car.


nozferatunozferatu - 8/13/2008 4:45:52 PM
+3 Boost
And what exactly is an "enthusiast?" A douchebag sitting in an A4 racing from light to light? Well...then I guess there are ALOT of enthusiasts.

I crack up when I read people say this..."we enthusiasts..."

WTF do you exactly do that makes you such an enthusiast over say some guy who drives a Honda CRX who enjoys driving? Or a Fit? Or whatever?

I used to know a douche guy who owned an Audi TT. He wasn't an "enthusiast" until he bought that car and began drinking prodigious amounts of latte.




StarStar - 8/13/2008 5:21:50 PM
-8 Boost
"WTF do you exactly do that makes you such an enthusiast over say some guy who drives a Honda CRX who enjoys driving? Or a Fit? Or whatever?"

First sign is the fact that the enthusiast will stay away from the cars you just mentioned. He has the incredible ability to separate himself from the heard.
Second, he has the necessary skill to observe and analyse the differences between levels of engineering in cars, something that the average sheep is unable to do.
Then comes the fact that the enthusiast has also unusually good skills as a driver and that "forces" him to choose cars that respond to the most demanding type of driving.
In a few words the enthusiast has a high level of maturity, skill and intelligence that enables him to appreciate cars at a whole different level than say...Japanese car fans.


answeranswer - 8/13/2008 5:38:09 PM
+4 Boost
Sorry Star, but who the F do you think you are?

So you are saying that with great cars from Ferrari, Mercedes, Bentley, Aston Martin, Audi, Lotus, Infiniti, Lexus, Lamborghini, Acura, BMW, Porsche, Maserati, and the many other makes that an "enthusiast" doesn't have a crap load of choices in today's market?

You call yourself an "enthusiast", but you sound like more of an idiot.


nozferatunozferatu - 8/13/2008 5:43:18 PM
+4 Boost
Star:

Why would a person who's looking for a fun car to drive stay away from a CRX or Fit? Have you seen the "enthusiast" following out there regarding these two cars alone?

What's the matter? Too much of an arrogant elitist to admit sitting in a fat, overweight douchemobile that has a uber sticker on it has nothing to do with being a car enthusiast? More like an cheap cologne and cafe latter enthusiast if you ask me.

Hmmm...so I guess all those rally drivers who are in EVO's, STI's, Clio's, Suzuki Swifts, etc are all losers right? Not real enthusiasts.

You're blowing so much hot air out your ass right now I'm surprised you're not already in low earth orbit.


cdokecdoke - 8/13/2008 5:48:23 PM
+2 Boost
"Second, he has the necessary skill to observe and analyse the differences between levels of engineering in cars"

Recommended reading: "Definition of the Engineering Method" by Koen.


nozferatunozferatu - 8/13/2008 5:52:26 PM
-1 Boost
Star obviously has never driven a Renault 5 Turbo to understand what it means to be an enthusiast.



StarStar - 8/13/2008 7:02:22 PM
+3 Boost
nozferatu,

ha, ha...how funny. Not only that I drove a Renault 5 Turbo but I actually owned one. That car was wicked fun. Thanks for reminding me.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 7:13:22 PM
0 Boost
"so I guess all those rally drivers who are in EVO's, STI's, Clio's, Suzuki Swifts, etc are all losers right? Not real enthusiasts"

What does a rally driver or rally cars have to do with fun to drive street cars and enthusiasts.
A rally driver is more than just an enthusiast...is a professional racer. He actually gets paid for driving a car.
Second, rally cars, like any other race cars are designed to be fast. Those cars are not designed to offer a pleasurable driving experience to the driver, they are designed to go fast. Period.
Your comparison makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/14/2008 4:40:38 PM
-1 Boost
" Second, rally cars, like any other race cars are designed to be fast. Those cars are not designed to offer a pleasurable driving experience to the driver, they are designed to go fast. Period."

Unlike any other race cars, it goes off road. Unlike any other race cars, they require more modifications to make it run on treacherous conditions. Unlike any other race cars, they require more skill and concentration when cornering through a forest at high speeds.


nozferatunozferatu - 8/14/2008 6:50:53 PM
-2 Boost
Star:


Sure you did...I believe you.


1dott81dott8 - 8/13/2008 4:10:24 PM
+3 Boost
i don't think that i can be loyal for the simple fact that every car company is trying to out do the other. i drive an audi right now and am considering a bmw or the new jaguar xf.


B7FANB7FAN - 8/14/2008 8:39:09 AM
+3 Boost
I feel the same way its hard to stay loyal because their is always the next best thing and thats how it always been


beemzbeemz - 8/13/2008 4:25:09 PM
-3 Boost
I've had probably 10-15 cars in the last 5 years....everything from an M class to a G35, and i keep going back to BMWs. My first BMW was a 99 740iL, then an 01 X5 4.4i, then an 04 X3, and currently i drive an 06 325i. I tried seeing what was out there, but can't escape the magic "feel" that I experience when I'm behind the wheel of a bimmer. I would say that I am loyal to my brand, and my next car will hopefully be the 1 series!!


CRS2112CRS2112 - 8/13/2008 4:35:21 PM
+4 Boost
That is 2-3 cars per year. I would be divorced at that rate. lol

I was loyal to Honda for several years. They gave me no issues and were affordable. However - that is where it stops. They didn't give me performance nor the handling. I find that the German cars offer me that. The reliability is no where near Honda in my experience - but that is not what I am always looking for. I want a car that gives something back to me and that has been BMW/Audi/VW. I am open to any car whenever I purchase my next car.


w209w114w209w114 - 8/13/2008 4:42:16 PM
-1 Boost
I am loyal to my brand. From my vintage 1973 showcar to my 2008 daily driver. I do recognize that although my brand is not the best at everything it certainly does strike the right balance that I look for in a vehicle.

I am an enthusiast also in part because of the heritage (incl. racing) and role the brand has played over the last 100 years and in my life.

I admire and have considered and owned other cars, but there is always something that keeps me coming back. Plain and simple, it makes me happy and satisfies my needs and wants.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 9:04:58 AM
+1 Boost
Because people here are ridiculous.


nozferatunozferatu - 8/13/2008 4:42:21 PM
-2 Boost
Variety is the spice of life....there's no need to stick to one make just because your ego is too big to move on.

I'd get sick of driving the same brand over and over again anyway. There's only so much Honda, Audi, or VW I can take.


ThierryHenry14ThierryHenry14 - 8/13/2008 5:00:10 PM
+4 Boost
I am very loyal to my two brands.


AudiNewEnglandAudiNewEngland - 8/13/2008 5:00:55 PM
-5 Boost
Been with Audi for over 10 years and wouldn't have it any other way. Maybe a VW, or a Benz if they'd improve quality, but I have no plans of leaving Germany. I would never consider buying Japanese or American, crap, and you couldn't get me into a BMW either.


sectorsector - 8/13/2008 5:02:54 PM
+2 Boost
You all are liars, especially the BMW jock sniffers. You know you'll never touch another marque, and certainly not if it's Asian. Common, admit it, sticking only with the German brand is not what I would call "brand neutral"


enthusiastx11enthusiastx11 - 8/13/2008 10:02:06 PM
+3 Boost
you're right. if you have wonderful experience, why change?


NISSANINFINITINISSANINFINITI - 8/13/2008 5:09:52 PM
+4 Boost
I am pretty much loyal to Nissan / Infiniti brand. i would but something else if it were prices right , styled right, and gave me what i was looking for at the that time. used to be a big Acura fan, had a 2003 TL, and the more i drove the car I realized it was to much like a Honda Accord. Then they redesigned it in 2004 and wow what a big difference. I would drive around in my 2003 TL looking at Infiniti I35's, Lexus ES300 -350'S, Mercedes Benz C & E class and BMW 5 series and think im in the most boring "Luxury car" out of the bunch....and i really am not feeling Acura anymore so Id buy anything but i tend to steer more to the look of the Infiniti more than the others.


PerformanceGuyPerformanceGuy - 8/13/2008 5:34:11 PM
+5 Boost
I don't own either, but I will admit that Nissan/Infiniti has some amazing cars, that perform and look great. Everytime I see a G37 driver by, I can't help but stare!!


Bmw8terBmw8ter - 8/13/2008 6:52:33 PM
+1 Boost
Lately, I've really been wanting an 2008 Acura TL type S. Even though they're riddled with torquesteer, and are FWD, they just look so good IMO. I'm ready to lose the RWD in favor of something a little more suitable for all environments.


theoptimisticpessimisttheoptimisticpessimist - 8/13/2008 9:01:32 PM
+1 Boost
Bmw8ter,

This is a honest questions. As a person considering a 08 TL, whats you opinion of the next TL?


Bmw8terBmw8ter - 8/14/2008 6:40:35 AM
+2 Boost
I really don't like the next gen TL. It's dimensions are so close to the RL, you'd think Honda rebodied an RL, and decided to call it a TL. It really isn't all that good looking in my opinion. I'm not a big fan of the 'big-n-bulbous' look. Considering the next gen will be heavier and will probably use the same engine as the outgoing RL, I really don't see the advantage to owning one, unless you're in the market for a $50k+ TL.




430man430man - 8/13/2008 5:11:49 PM
-1 Boost
Yes I am. And I think anyone who has driven a Ferrari would understand.


StarStar - 8/13/2008 7:29:57 PM
-2 Boost
Hey pussycat, you understand that we are talking about cars here, right?



enthusiastx11enthusiastx11 - 8/13/2008 10:00:36 PM
-1 Boost
very loyal.

i have had SOOOO much fun driving BWMs. i get so much joy every time i get in one. such a blast.

furthermore, i haven't had a single problem with any of the several BMWs i've owned. just routine maintenance--which didn't cost me anything beyond the payment.

so why would i drive anything else?


CLK63BlackSeriesCLK63BlackSeries - 8/14/2008 2:15:57 AM
0 Boost
4 cars deep... so yeah, pretty loyal i'd say.


ktu01ktu01 - 8/14/2008 2:26:20 AM
+3 Boost
I was... I had a 97 Nissan Maxima SE, and really loved it. I really liked maximas, and back then wanted to upgrade to the 02/03 Maxima SE again, but I ended waiting to see what the 04 would be like. I'm glad I didn't get it, because Maximas have lost their way. Even the new 09 Maxima doesn't excite as much as the older ones did.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 9:11:09 AM
+1 Boost
I have loved Maximas since Datsun renamed the 510. The second generation square-bodied Maximas were very quick for their day. My ex-wife got our 4th-generation Max in the divorce (she still has it and it looks and drives great). The series has lost is sporting luster -- hopefully the sport package on the new Max will bring it back. One of my favorite drives was blasting across Arizona and New Mexico at 100+ mph in my ex's 99 Max. I love that VQ motor.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 9:15:06 AM
+1 Boost
I am ferociously loyal to cars that drive well. BMWs top that list for me. Volkswagen GTIs are up there as well. I love Maxima SEs. And I loved my two Ford Probe GTs. So while I am not loyal to one particular brand, I am loyal to cars that drive well. If I was forced to say what car I'm going to get next, I would probably say "E46 BMW M3."


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/14/2008 9:55:28 AM
+2 Boost
because you sound very jealous and can't accept the fact that w/o them, domestics would've gone their way.


schinboneschinbone - 8/14/2008 8:02:07 AM
0 Boost
Ok Star sure we understand you have owned or driven ever great car known to man, jesus dude get back on the meds the doctor prescribed. You must be bipolar or schizophrenic, one minute you go crazy about something, the next you are logical and say something interesting. STAY ON THE MEDS!!!!!


StarStar - 8/14/2008 12:16:13 PM
+1 Boost
Don't blame me for what my evil twin(user name)"Staar" is doing.


CadgeekCadgeek - 8/14/2008 8:02:47 AM
+3 Boost
I'm brand loyal. I have owned nothing but Nissan for the past 20 years. Just bought a 350Z as well.


snatchandgrabsnatchandgrab - 8/14/2008 8:43:14 AM
0 Boost
When I was younger, I bought a Mazda Mx-6 and I loved it and then bought a 626 and then a Mazda Millenia S. I loved all of those cars and considered getting another one, but I bought a Infiniti (love), BMW (love) and a Merc (like). It's very possible that I'd buy another Infiniti or a Bimmer because i like them, but I'm a true enthusiast and not a fan boy (like so many of you on this site)so I don't rule out anything.


WhelanWhelan - 8/14/2008 9:14:22 AM
+1 Boost
I'm not. I've owned a Ford Escort, two Saturn SL1's, a Honda Civic EX Coupe, and now a Toyota Matrix XR AWD. I've been allover the map. And come the next 6 months I will either be in a pre-owned BMW 330Ci or Infiniti G35 coupe 6MT.

I don't see the point in loyalty, you never get a broad sense of other manufacturers and what they offer. It's fun to drive different cars instead of just upgrading to the new model everytime. How can you have an honest opinion of other vehicles if you have only driven one your entire life.


goochgooch - 8/14/2008 9:16:35 AM
+1 Boost
Either way you go (Bimmer or Infiniti), within the next six months you're going to be a happy dude.


StarStar - 8/14/2008 12:51:09 PM
-4 Boost
BMW or ....Infiniti??? One is a masterpiece the other one is a rebadged Japanese economy car. How can he possibly be happy with both choices? What is wrong with you...


sectorsector - 8/14/2008 11:09:37 PM
0 Boost
Whelan, I'd be careful researching those two you mentioned. G35 MT had some "oil consumption" issues, especially with '05 and '06 models that Nissan hasn't been able to address, get the G37.

With the Bimmer, you're playing Russian roulette. As you know, BMWs are "lease and return" vehicles as such the previous owner probably only did 15k mile oil changes.. and this is no good even with synthetic oil that BMW uses. What this means is that you'll probably have to deal with some issues down the line if you're unlucky.


goochgooch - 8/15/2008 9:14:16 AM
+2 Boost
Rebadged economy car? The FM chassis was not used for any economy car I know of, and the VQ engine is one of the world's finest. The styling of the first G35 coupe is classic, and the sound is sexy. The car drives well -- not like the Bimmer but it is still good nonetheless. You can be biased, but at least make sense.


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/14/2008 10:21:28 AM
-1 Boost
Relying on one country for their cars or brand for that particular reason is pure, blind patriotism and narrow-mindedness, which is an epic failure because that brand or country won't always have what you'll need. thats the case for some people here apparently. Usually I stay away from mainstream brands and go for the unique offerings, but I'll buy whatever product best suits me and my money, regardless of where its from or who makes it. Next, I'll be called an idiot for being open-minded...


StarStar - 8/14/2008 12:44:35 PM
+1 Boost
Htay7500,

claiming that everybody makes good cars is not open minded, is plain stupid. Somebody is always the leader in whatever field we choose to look at. When it comes to car making the Germans are the leaders and anybody who knows cars will agree with that.

Sure the poor sap who cannot afford a real car is going to tell himself that there is no difference between his Japanese or Korean econobox and a German masterpiece other than the badge but that doesn't mean what he believes is real.

Enthusiasts don't buy German cars because they are made in Germany. They buy German cars because German cars happen to be the best. Why would the enthusiasts(including Japanese citizens) care more about Germany than they care about Japan? They simply don't. I don't. I don't have any reason since I'm not German. We enthusiasts love German cars because the German cars are simply the best. If India would build cars with the same quality as the Germans all the enthusiasts will be fans of Indian cars. Is just that simple.


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/14/2008 4:30:36 PM
0 Boost
"You're an idiot."

Thanks. It definitely shows your immaturity.


"We enthusiasts"

I laugh when I see this. You don't even sound like one. You already make most enthusiasts here look bad, even German car fans. Everyone has a different taste and respects them. You don't seem to do that because you make fanboy statements saying that if its not a german car, its trash. I'm sure Germany has a full-size truck that I can use to haul cars that are ready for the track. Are they the best at that? Oh thats right, THEY DON'T HAVE ONE. I guess that makes Germany superior in the automotive market? All companies have certain cars for certain needs. Again, one country isn't always going to have every car that you'll want or need.




Ab311Ab311 - 8/14/2008 12:32:32 PM
+1 Boost
It’s interesting how the discussion on this site turn to childish name-calling, teasing, and immature behavior. The actual point of these posts should be a civilized discussion based on the specific topic. Some people have a reason for not being brand loyal and others have reasons to be.

I myself, no matter what jokes may come, am loyal to Volvo. I'm in my early 30's and have had 6 of them since I began driving. I don't think their products are superior to all products, but I have a connection with the cars. They look nice, have great engines, handle well, and are extremely comfortable. I don't shy away from looking at other brands when I'm in the market...but I always go back to Volvo. Since I've driven them for so long, when I look at other cars, stuff just isn't in the right place...or they don't have the same feel.

It's all a matter of taste and personal preference. Either way, no one should be ridiculed for his or her opinion.


09CTSVforMe09CTSVforMe - 8/14/2008 3:07:42 PM
0 Boost
Man, you're such a soccer-mom punk! You should drive a CTS-V or a Pontiac Solstice or a Ford Focus! Watch the reaction this one gets. lol


jayr1jayr1 - 8/14/2008 1:00:55 PM
0 Boost
Like most kids, while growing-up I dreamed of owning a sports car, Corvette, Porsche, Jaguar, etc. I have been very fortunate to have owned Jags, MBenz's and of course Porsches. My first was a used `89 944 which I restored, then I bought a new Cayman and last year a new `07 911 Carrera 2. It is a fantastic car, great fun to drive - beautiful to look at. But it's rattles have driven me crazy. For a $90K car I am very disappointed only with the rattles most of which IO have worked with the dealer to remedy. If I ever sell my car (and it pains me to say this) I probably will not buy another Porsche.


montyz81montyz81 - 8/14/2008 1:34:40 PM
0 Boost
I am pretty much a fan of Nissan. I have tried other brands but have been largely disappointed. I have owned a Honda,Dodge,Toyota. The Honda(94 Accd Cp) was grate reliability wise, but didn't energize me. The Dodge (95 Neon) was just down right horrible. The Toyota (2k Tundra) was also great reliability wise, but was boring to drive. Now I have owned 1981 and 82 200SX. The 81 was in bad shape when I got it so I didn't drive it much, but the 82 was fantastic. 33 mpg and it felt more invigorating then the 94 Acrd. 1997 Nissan Pickup, that truck was slow, but it went everywhere and would never die. 2000 Maxima, all around fantastic car. Great perf, great quality, great looks. 2004 Armada, if it were not for gas prices, I would still have it. 2006 G35, Is an amazing car. 2009 Murano, only has 4k miles on it but so far it is fantastic. And the best car of all these, 1981 Datsun 280zx Turbo. Just simply put, the best car I have ever owned!


JanizaryJanizary - 8/14/2008 1:52:20 PM
+1 Boost
By and large, yes.

For DDs I've had a run of Hondas since about 1985'ish. I own quite a few 'other' vehicles (Jeeps, F350, GMC1500) over time for specific applications (towing, 4x4, etc.) that Honda simply does not make vehicles in the category to support my needs.

That said, when I decided to get something a bit more luxurious, Acura did not have what I wanted (300HP RWD), so I shopped BMW, Infiniti and Lexus and ended up getting an IS350.

Had the 'new' SH-AWD 3.7L TL that is coming out been on the table at the time, it might have been a different story. Though, that grill would still be a put off. WTH are they thinking?


vman1013vman1013 - 8/14/2008 4:21:59 PM
+2 Boost
I'm loyal to performance!


PerformanceGuyPerformanceGuy - 8/14/2008 5:02:21 PM
0 Boost
Could not have said it better myself!!


AudiphileAudiphile - 8/14/2008 5:36:27 PM
+2 Boost
I have never owned an Audi before my current car, an Audi A8L, and I love it. The dealer's service has been good too. However, the lease expires in December, and I want to get a smaller car that gets better gas mileage. I will definitely consider the new Audi A4 when it comes out, but I am also considering other cars. If I like the A4 better than the other cars, the happy ownership experience with my current car will make it an easy choice - I buy the Audi. If it is a tossup between the Audi A4 and another vehicle, the happy ownership experience would be a "tiebreaker" in the Audi's favor as far as deciding which car to buy. If I slightly prefer another car, but I am uncertain as to the reliability of the car or the quality of dealer service I would get, the pleasant ownership experience with my current Audi might tip the balance in the Audi's favor.

However, if I am too tall to fit comfortably in the Audi A4, and/or I like another vechicle significantly more than the A4, I will buy that other vehicle.

That is the extent of my brand loyalty.


vwowner1vwowner1 - 8/15/2008 2:57:10 PM
+1 Boost
Audiphile - Where do you live? I purchased the current A4 model in late 2005 and was very disappointed with the Audi dealer service departments in the Washington DC area. So much so that I traded the car in 8 months later for a VW which has been a pleasure to own since. The car looked great, but unfortunately, I had a few issues, the worst of which never got resolved after multiple visits to 2 different Audi dealers the DC area. I'm glad you're having a great experience with Audi. Unfortunately, I didn't. Because of my negative experience with Audi service in DC, it will be a long time before I would consider Audi again, unless I moved somewhere else. The new A4 looks beautiful too. Oh well.


SteveSteve - 8/14/2008 8:27:08 PM
0 Boost
No.

I have 3 BMWs in the garage, and I love 'em all (pre-Bangle). They are reliable, and have reasonably few defects, too. But today's BMWs are not up to snuff with their high defect numbers and "polarizing" styling, inside and out.

Audi looks like they have me in mind with their A5 cabriolet.


QuantumMatrixQuantumMatrix - 8/14/2008 9:52:50 PM
+1 Boost
This forum is for Dudes that are wanna be fight clubs.

You guys trying to prove who has the biggest D_ck???

We all know if someone builds a better product the masses will follow.

Geez enough with the cock fights.


lovecars11lovecars11 - 8/15/2008 3:32:07 AM
+1 Boost
Only fools would be loyal to a brand. Buy the best that is on sale at the time. But for BMW owners, they only buy the logo.


goochgooch - 8/15/2008 9:15:51 AM
-1 Boost
Another one of those people who believe the BMW and porcupines joke. "Best to buy a brand that is on sale at the time." What are you, shopping at WalMart? Get a clue. You love cars about as much as a POW loves getting waterboarded.


truckmentruckmen - 8/15/2008 5:53:33 AM
+2 Boost
My loyalty is to the best vehicle at the given time! Loyalty makes the auto companies slack off and produce crap.Please don't fall victim to there advertising and follow the specs instead of there hype.


truckmentruckmen - 8/15/2008 8:02:05 PM
0 Boost
I bought a civic because it was the best on gas,safest,best handling...best in class by a long shot! What was your point? Please be constructive with a good point as to why you don't think it was the wisest choice.


Htay7500Htay7500 - 8/15/2008 9:59:31 AM
+4 Boost
Wow. garbage? weak? losers? That describes your comments. GM is pretty good at glorifying their cars (i.e. escalade = tahoe) and making half or more of pontiacs line-up a rebadged chevy. =D


ToneeTonee - 8/15/2008 10:36:35 AM
+1 Boost
Kinda sorta. My family has owned many Ford vehicles in the past years but since then have mixed in a few others brands like BMW & Mercedes-Benz but no other American brand. Current line up is '07 Ford Expedition EL Eddie Baurer, '08 Jaguar S-Type, '06 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5, '07 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, '04 Nissan Senta. Honestly dont know how much longer Ford can keep us interested, the only car/suv i would get from Ford now would be the Edge, or Fusion.


supermotosupermoto - 8/15/2008 4:53:35 PM
+1 Boost
Not really. Have owned at least 10 mass-market brands, Euro and Japanese and can't wait to try some of the exotics. Besides, pretty much every car company has times when it has a strong lineup and times when it is weaker.


BMW740Z4BMW740Z4 - 8/15/2008 5:51:48 PM
+2 Boost
Yes..all the way. But considering buying a Land Cruiser over an X5 for off-road capability reasons - certainly nothing to do with the aesthetic.


truckmentruckmen - 8/23/2008 3:59:19 AM
+1 Boost
I have a hard time believing that the new LC can go off road at all but according to some off road rag they said it is capable off road and won some off road shoot out? defiantly better than an X5 for off road.
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