posted on Oct, 13 2003 @ 01:32 AM
Neo, i agree with you, esp about marketing being where sociology and psyche intersect.
But, I think its not about a perception of quality. For americans it's about status. I know that if I get an Audi A4 its about the same as a well
appointed Passat. But I love driving that Audi around. The same holds true for a Navigator. Its not really about the quality of the 4 wheel drive
in that SUV (sometimes it is, and those people have old Landcruisers and Bad ass Broncos) its about people at a stoplight saying to themselves "damn
thats a good looking machine"
People want the status. Thats why some many people make the choices they make. To be fair, status is deminishing somewhat, which can be seen in the
popularity of some 'lesser' brands.(or store brands, formerly known as generics)
In days gone by, the quality of established brands far exceeded the generics or lesser brands. Now the line is smudged. The quality is there. The
major brands are running on fumes, provided by status. Japan gave us an eye opener on quality in the last few decades.
So to contradict myself, Americans do love quality. Domestic manufacturers had to step up the quality, design and performance to match.
But if you can afford the status to go with the quality, most americans will choose the status. If all i need is a station wagon, but I can afford an
Excurursion, I'll buy the Excursion. If I NEED 4 wheel drive, and can't afford too terribly much, I'll get a subaru with leather and CD. American
like performance, and theyt like quality, but they love status. Its still about beating the Jones's.