Just out of curiousity, how would having a car with NAV reduce its resale value? Every used car that I've looked at with NAV has a higher price tag than its non-NAV counterpart. NAV systems can be updated very simply and quickly. I'm not quite sure that I understand your thinking. In this case, the dealership is correct- a car WITH NAV will have a higher resale value than a car without NAV.

 

My goodness! You guys are evil!! I love it!! Evil points for everyone!!

To address the nav systems being a hindrance on resale value, check out this and this.

It's about technological obsolescence and the fact that no, it would not be easy to upgrade such systems, especially those that integrated and embedded into a car, and considering aftermarket systems are way better in terms of functionality. But of course, that's another topic in another thread.

I'll get to work tomorrow to see what I can come up with. As always, stay tuned.

 

Due to advancements in techonlogy, it is actually very easy to update them these days. I wouldn't be surprised if the G's nav is updated through the Compact Flash slot. i can see it being a problem with the old navs but not newer models.

I also disagree with the first article in only people who travel to new places really get their money's worth from the integrated nav. Countless times I have used the nave on my parent's lexus just to find a place nearby to grab a bite to eat. Also, it is extremely helpful that I just find the place, hit the info button, hit send, and it calls the place so i can get reservations. Also, when going to a new place not on your usual route, you just need an address.

Yes, I concede the point that portable systems are MUCH cheaper and as a nav, will get you where you need to go and has POI in there, but the integrated nave just allows you to talk to it, sounds nice and clear, and doesn't need to be taken down after every drive.

Considering that the Nav pack on the G gives you nav, compact flash slot, a hard drive for storing music and a rearview camera, i think its worth it.

just my two cents.

 

$1000 over invoice is pretty steep. I am curious about how you could custom order a car and not be on the hook for at least a non-refundable deposit?

Just a persepctive, but from Los Angeles where we got dealers galore:

Get the best deal. Period! Don't fret stepping on people's toes. There is a good chance they won't be there by the time you want to buy your next car. Dealerships are setup to extract money from you. Everything about buying a car is designed to a little more money out of you. I think it probably ranks number 2 in terms of where most people get their eyes gouged out . (#1 being the ridiculous markup for anything related to getting married).

As for getting a better deal next time... the dealer will never change it's practices unless enough people take the time to do what you did. If the money you are saving by going out of state is > then the extra time it takes, then stick to your guns unless the local dealer matches the deal. Then you at least have a better offer by virtue of how much of your own time you save.

Just my 0.02... or some might consider it less...

 

I see your point. The question here then, is whether Infiniti planned for *system* updatability instead of just the map updates. Anytime there's new technology, it risks becoming obsolete and useless. Perhaps in two years (a lease term), it would still be useful, but depending on how fast developments in GPS - if they significantly offer more and Infiniti doesn't have, it would be less useful.

This resale value systems seems to be based more on what the original purchase price is and its options. With the amount of technology a GPS unit has, it sounds like more about what certain users are looking for. I think automatically paying more just because of an OEM GPS doesn't necessarily mean you're paying for a better car.

But I digress.

 

Well said, cartman13.


I'm guessing the dealer did it by allocation and that he could order anything he wanted anyway. I did give him a deposit via CC but he didn't charge it. I'm sure he took my ordering in faith.

 

Well, I emailed yesterday and I haven't received a reply yet. It's almost end of day. I wonder why?

He must be plopping out big ones!

 

How much snow is on the ground up there?

 

It's starting to melt a bit. About 1-2 inches but it has accumulated. There are snow walls up to four feet or more.

Still no email.

 

Last day of the month tomorrow, I'd be very surprised if they didn't take you seriously.

 

I'm in no hurry. And he knows I'm not closing the deal until April.

 

i thought you would've been driving already too

 

Nope. Not yet. I'm patient.


Well, no email has come yet, so it might look like my local dealer is not willing to play anymore. My guess is that the car will still be on the lot even after I get mine.

 

How are they going to maintain their high level of customer service if they don't sell any cars?
It amazes me that a dealer will allow a customer, who gives a firm offer at invoice, to walk away at this time of the year.
Especially when there is still snow on the ground as well as in the forecast, for a car that is sitting on the lot and better suited for the warmer seasons.

 

Perhaps I insulted him by knowing too much?

Of course, I made every effort to read and re-read my emails before sending them to make sure I say what I want to say in the most professional and direct manner.

I have a feeling that since that car is a dealer trade from Nashua, it might go back to NH.