-
New here? Register here now for access to all the forums, download game torrents, private messages, polls, Sportsbook, etc. Plus, stay connected and follow BP on Instagram @buckeyeplanet and Facebook.
- Thread starter peta-sucks.com
- Start date
BigWoof31
"Barkin' up the wrong tree"
Wife and I are buying a new car and I experienced something totally unfamiliar. I placed a $1,000.00 down to hold a vehicle that isn't even built yet.
We're getting a Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and they essentially don't exist on any dealership in Metro 513.
Things I've learned as I've begun researching the delays and what might be the issue:
1). In a quiet move, Toyota has shifted production; making fewer of the "middle of the road" trim, the XLE. Everything is base or PLATINUM version. Or at least those percentages are greater than XLE's
2). Demand and resale for Hybrids is through the roof
3). Toyota doesn't take custom orders. Dealers "get what they get" and it has no bearing on how quickly they sell them. Toyota has some grand algorithm they drop into different regions in order to balance out the number of vehicles are in a certain region to stabilize parts and service costs.
There was one Grand Highlander on the lot when I went to test drive and they have 11 vehicles in "sale pending" pre-sales status (12 now, including mine)
Overall, it's not the worst thing in the world. Gives me time to shop around with financing. Just curious if anyone else has experienced this with Toyota or any other manufacturer.
We're getting a Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and they essentially don't exist on any dealership in Metro 513.
Things I've learned as I've begun researching the delays and what might be the issue:
1). In a quiet move, Toyota has shifted production; making fewer of the "middle of the road" trim, the XLE. Everything is base or PLATINUM version. Or at least those percentages are greater than XLE's
2). Demand and resale for Hybrids is through the roof
3). Toyota doesn't take custom orders. Dealers "get what they get" and it has no bearing on how quickly they sell them. Toyota has some grand algorithm they drop into different regions in order to balance out the number of vehicles are in a certain region to stabilize parts and service costs.
There was one Grand Highlander on the lot when I went to test drive and they have 11 vehicles in "sale pending" pre-sales status (12 now, including mine)
Overall, it's not the worst thing in the world. Gives me time to shop around with financing. Just curious if anyone else has experienced this with Toyota or any other manufacturer.
Upvote
0
calibuck
Too soon old, too late smart
Woof, my experience with Toyota is that if they don't have exactly what you want, they'll send out a request, and other dealerships will respond with what your specs are. Not sure whether they trade, or just pay for vehicle. But they will work with you to accommodate your requests, though might take a little time. In a fevered market, that won't apply, as too hard to keep cars in stock to sell, but in a quieter market, they'll work with you. PS, wifey has a 2015 Highlander Hybrid, and she has refused a new car several times. Just turned 75,000 miles, but she won't part with it. But you're spot on, dealerships are selling the premium version, as they make more money on the 'extras', and won't stock the 'poor boy' models if they can help it. Good luck. PSS, am not convinced that hybrids get all that better of gas mileage. And when your 'battery deck' needs replacing, will cost you upwards of $15-20,000 to replace it. You might want to get that number before you plunk down your cash.
Upvote
0
Just picked up a new '26 Honda Pilot Elite trim and had a hard time finding it available in the color and interior I wanted. Heard similar things about limited production, dealer allotments, etc. Took a few weeks and ultimately found one just under an hour away. But, had to pay full sticker plus cost for a hitch and crossbars I had the dealer add. I wanted to consider the Grand Highlander and the Lexus TX but the lack of availability was frustrating and I couldn't get comfortable with a turbo 4-cylinder in that size vehicle. Hybrid was a bit more enticing but the mileage didn't seem to cover the premium cost. After a week of driving I'm really pleased with the selection.
Upvote
0
calibuck
Too soon old, too late smart
A final thought. You might/will be able to strike a better deal if your choice is on the lot. If it is, and it sells, the carrying costs (interest expense, being able to get a new car for that spot) etc will let them collect the cash instead of paying interest on the invested money. But if they have to order it, from either factory or another dealership, then it'll be a straight cash in, cash out transaction. Ergo, not as much wiggle room to strike a deal. Hope this helps.
Upvote
0
Almost identical situation I was in 2 years ago.. bought the 2025 Pilot Black Edition... paid full sticker.. There was no bartering on any of the comparables from Toyota, Lexis, etc... Hell, couldn't even find vehicles to test drive including the Pilot. Was told at numerous dealerships, if we ordered they had no idea when it would come and not sure it'd be exactly what we ordered. They had to take whatever came. Just happened to be there when the smoke colored Black Edition came in.. Was told, it'll be gone by tomorrow. Gotta admit, great car.. every bell and whistle I ever knew of and then some.
Upvote
0