Fall/Winter 2007 & 2008

Now that winter is upon us, I felt it was time to update the market report – a long overdue task. 

Significant changes have come about since the summer of 2007.  First and foremost is the move towards fuel efficiency.  With oil hovering near the $100/bbl mark and the new Federally mandated fuel efficiency requirements, the buying public is now more aware of fuel economy issues than in the past two decades!  Of course, the demand for lighter, more fuel efficient vehicles is expected to rise -- Oddly however, the demand for SUVs remains surprisingly high! 

Good news on the fuel-efficiency front is a significant drop in the price of diesel-powered vehicles.  While the gasoline shortages during spring and summer of 2007 caused the value of diesels to skyrocket, the recent availability of gasoline has reduced emphasis on diesels. Diesels are now among the “affordable” vehicles on the market.  Remember – don’t buy a diesel if you change your vehicles every two years.  Diesels do carry a premium price and often times it takes an extra year or so before the fuel savings is paying you back.  Always buy a diesel with long term ownership commitment in mind.

This model year saw the competition rise in terms of performance from the imports markets.  BMW introduced a V8 M3; Audi woos customers with its RS-4 cars and Mercedes-Benz counter-punched with an AMG, hand-built C63.  SAAB remained true to its mantra of “performance for everyone” by keeping its entire lineup with turbo charged engines.  While M3s, C63s, and RS4s are legendary, they are for a privileged few.  What remains important is these manufactures continue to build fantastic automobiles designed for people focused on value, performance, and economy.

Now for the quandary…since the US Dollar is taking a beating against the Euro, European import manufacturers have reduced content (i.e., less standard features) or have raised prices.  This makes the desirability for pre-owned European imports increase, especially those well-equipped, and in exceptional condition.  When springtime rolls around, there will be an increase in demand, and along with demand, comes price.  As a result, this makes wintertime (January and February) a better time to look into replacing your transportation.  While this has been true for years, this season will be especially promising for those who act sooner, rather than later.

Value in the marketplace resides in two key areas: 1) selecting a vehicle that suits your lifestyle that won't disrupt your budget every time you visit a fuel station, and 2) sourcing a pre-owned, nicely equipped automobile which is in exceptional condition.   Of course, these are the fortes of a Benchmark Import.

Please stop by and experience the Benchmark Imports difference. Unlike our competitors who lure you in the door with a dizzying array of undeliverable offers, we sell our automobiles based on fact and detail. It is a different experience. And it's true. Benchmark Imports is

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