Car buyers want more luxury for less money! Switch to Buick and Hyundai!

Car buyers want more luxury for less money! Switch to Buick and Hyundai!

2012 Buick Regal GS

Even luxury car buyers are migrating to more cost-effective models or brands, according to recent market studies. But while they have made the switch, they still want to have the options they've come to expect in a luxury car. In 2009, about 14% of wealthier car buyers have opted to buy a Buick or the Hyundai Genesis instead of a luxury brand. Meanwhile, some shoppers chose a smaller offering of the same brand they have driven for years. For instance, many have moved from a Mercedes E-class down to a C-class. The number of people who have switched out of a traditional luxury brand is up from 4% of buyers in 2006.

Obviously, the primary cause of the migration is the economic crisis over the last year. Home and portfolio values are down, leading to a low public perception of health. These high-end shoppers require features such as heated leather seats, navigation, and Bluetooth. But then, many of these comforts that were previously found only in ultra-luxury cars have slowly invaded the mainstream vehicles. Buick is ecstatic that its newly designed LaCrosse sedan is a hit among switching consumers.

The LaCrosse has an entry price that starts at $27,835 including $750 for destination. Moreover, Buick will offer a lower-cost model in its sporty Regal, which is expected to be priced around $26,000. On the other hand, Hyundai has had much success with its range-topping Genesis sedan, which can cost up to $15,000 less than a similarly equipped luxury car. In fact, the sales of the Hyundai Genesis grew 52% over November of last year.


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