Need proof as to what GM's "scorched earth" cash-back, rebate-happy marketing "strategy" has done to the domestic car companies? This from today's USA Today about the upcoming crucial launch of Ford's F-150 pickup: "Ted Lois, 48, of Norfolk, home to one of three F-Series plants, who has been tracking the progress of the new truck on a Web site and says he is poised to buy one. 'But there is no way I'd pay sticker or close to it for a U.S. vehicle. Why should I? I'll wait until early 2004 for the $3,000 rebate.'" GM has singlehandedly poisoned the well for American consumers when it comes to considering domestic-built products. Now, it doesn't matter how good or worthy a new product is from "Detroit" - people will just refuse to pay anything close to sticker for them from now on.

 

I agree, but you can also blame the internet for this as well. Sites such as carsdirect & Autobytel will sell you a vehical well below MSRP. People are more informed now than they ever was. This has changed the new vehical market. I believe the manufacturors have adjusted the retail price to accomodate this. They're still making money, it just looks good on paper,IMO.