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Acura should have a single trim line for the MDX. Basically every MDX should come with the naviguation system as standard equipment.
I thought I didn't need it, but after test driving an MDX with a naviguation system, I had to change my order and extend my already long wait. Also, the single trim line will also include some of the Touring package, for example the memory seats and the same wheels/tires. The stereo should be the same, with the CD changer as an accessory, as well as the roof rack (accessory also).
Having a single trim line can only help to cut costs of manufacturing. The price of such an MDX would be 38,000.
I think this is a much better way to go about it than the 4 current trim lines. |
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The trend is back towards MORE trim levels...
Yeah, it sure seems like it makes more sense from a "production efficency" standpoint BUT the real world results show otherwise. More trim levels help to sell more units. Partly it is pyschological -- people like to buy "unique" vehicles (even if it is a Camry that several million identical ones exist...). The other factor is pricing. People need to be able to "get into" a vehicle with a "value" package. The other part of the puzzle is the suppliers. Experience has shown that manufacturers who have multiple suppliers and multiple options can build cars more profitably than those that have strict dependance on each vehicle being identical...
BTW I think NAVI is awesome. It taps into two very powerful "guy things" a) the gadget/remote control thing & b) the I don't need to plan where I'm going/ask directions. |
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| I'll offer a couterpoint even though my MDX will have both the touring package and navigation system. I believe to most people, $4,000 is a significant amount of money which happens to be the difference between the base model and what I purchased. Making the Navigation system standard I believe would be a mistake since it is a $2,000 add on. My wife thinks it is technological fluff while I believe constitutes life support. Since I am paying for the MDX guess who won that argument. Personally, I'd rather see the sunroof as an option because with my follicly challenged head, exposure to the rays is not welcome. Also it's noisy and interfers with the stereo. Making it option would have saved me about $1,000. You ask the next guy and they might say the heck with the navigation system just give me the sunroof and the wind beneath my wings. Options, accessories and colors are very personnel choices. I am not in the Henry Ford I school of marketing where you could have any color you want as long as it was black. As a result I vote for giving people some options and with the relatively few that the MDX has, reducing them would not likely lower manufacturing costs by much if any. |
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The Nav system is kind of cool, kind of useful, kind of expensive.
I can buy a full set of maps every year that I own the MDX for wherever I'm going and still have money left over to buy an American Series Telecaster, Kickass amp and invite some friends to a U2 concert.
It's all a matter of perspective and priorities.
KOT! |
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