I know we have been here before, with sub-standard dealers, but a recent experience bears repeating.
We are thinking of buying a 7-seat car to replace my E-class estate as, although probably the biggest estate around, it still feels cramped compared to a modern 7-seater, and there are times when I need more than 5 seats for the kids.
We need a diesel auto with good economy which leads us to a new Sharan DSG or S-Max/Galaxy with Powershift.
So I'm at a Ford dealer talking S-Max/Galaxy. I asked how different they were on the road, given that they are both based on a Mondeo. "Oh no, sir. The S-Max is based on the Mondeo, but the Galaxy is completely different, sir. It has it's own platform altogether, sir." Yeah, right! Doesn't exactly fill me with confidence. Still he gives me a brochure and price list to peruse at my leisure.
When I get home, I relaise that he has given me the dealer price list with red 'CONFIDENTIAL' stamped all over it. This gives the retail price, together with the dealers net price, margin, etc. for all models and the options. Priceless!
It never ceases to amaze me how manufacturers spend £billions on developing cars, and leave the selling in the hands of such incompetents!
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