American options or lack thereof...

[Phontsolo]

I think a good strategy would be to offer more options as Dealer Accessory Upgrades and not factory options. That way, some people could be as barebones as they want and others could get whatever accessories they would like; And even if people couldn't afford the options at time of purchase, they would have an ability to purchase the accessories and have them installed after the sale. Sadly, Mazda has relied on the non-OEM approach and is letting third parties make any accessories for North America (so far).

While I wasnt able to afford it at first, I would pay $1000 for a factory set of HIDs or a Good Stock Nav Unit (both of which are made, but would need to be slightly adjusted for North America). Heck, I'd likely be willing to put out $3k for a "Mazdaspeed Upgrade package", even if it was just tuned suspension, brakes, exhaust and a 25hp upgrade!

As long as there are options people will be happy. And like you said. You can buy it or not. Your choice. And i would love a Mazdaspeed Upgrade package.

 

[Phontsolo]

.
"The 500 is offered in 14 exterior colors and numerous options that allow for 500,000 different combinations."

To reiterate my point and to show that American car buyers do seem to want small premium hatches with options. Here is a little article on how the American car buyer likes to personalize their new Fiat 500's with you guest it..... factory options. As well as how sales are going because of it. Fiat is following Mini's approach and it seems to be working just as it has for Mini.

To me this shows that there are car buyers that like having options and that car manufactures should let the buyer decide. I hope Mazda is watching closely...

http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/08/most-us-buyers-of-fiat-500-prefer-their.html

 

[cojsl]

People are stupid remember?

Kay: "A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky dangerous animals and you know it"

 

[Phontsolo]

Kay: "A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky dangerous animals and you know it"

True dat.

 

[luluxiu]

Mini and BMW for that matter, in fact, you can pick your choice of a la carte is unique. It would be nice if other companies offer so much customization, CAM, from them to purchase new vehicles.