Kicked the tires on a new car yesterday. Not really in the market but there's a newer model out that looks cool to me and I wanted to check it out.
Called the dealership, they have one - yes, exactly one - of this model. Just got it in and they said to get there quick because it won't last long.
Drove it, liked it, price seems OK. Not exactly all the features I would want, but I might be interested. But then I see a 'Market Price Adjustment' (MPA) sticker on the window, next to the window sticker. They are adding $9,500 to the MSRP, just because they can. Supply and demand. I tell the sales guy that I like the vehicle, but won't pay any MPA. If I make a custom order, I can avoid the MPA, but will have to wait. 'How long will it take to receive the vehicle if I make a custom order?' Well, the manufacturer is no longer taking custom orders, and we don't expect them to allow any custom orders UNTIL SEPTEMBER OF NEXT YEAR!! Meaning I wouldn't receive until spring of '24.
Unreal. Bizarro world. Used to be dealers fought for your business, now they don't even need to make an effort. This doesn't seem sustainable.
The source of all this is the pandemic and subsequent supply chain problems. Not bitching, just making an observation.