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Originally Posted by mkoesel
That and you can't hope to compete against four door sedans with a two door coupe and convertible. Sales figured prove this out in every segment of the market. The vast majority of people who want a practical daily car have no interest in a two door. And as you point out, they especially have no interest in paying thousands more for you to take away those rear doors.
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I think you are spot on here. When we visit my wife's home country, I see tons of new 118i and 120i models driving around. Heck, they even have the 318i everywhere. That car is quite something. That 3cyl engine is still putting out nearly 140hp and pushing it from 0-60mph in around 7.9sec. That is more than quick enough for most Americans. I really think they could capitalize on that here in the States.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mkoesel
Unfortunately for Ford, the bottom has fallen out on non-premium passenger cars and they're now axing those very competent Focus and Fiesta offerings from the US lineup in favor of putting all resources into SUVs (including hybrid and electric). The move has some risks, and there are naysayers, but at least they are trying to be proactive and get out in front of it.
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I was not aware of this, as I have been out of the automotive business for quite some time now. I would worry if this means they are attempting to put all the eggs into one basket. Time will tell. I spent nearly 2 decades in automotive executive management and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that there is no shortage of stupid strategic decisions coming out of all the major marquees.