The final analysis went something like: I could get one of these cars which look quite nice, or I could get this car with immeasurably greater practicality, more room, more comfort, more seats, faster, better drive, better economy, and a lifetime warranty, which would normally cost 50% more than either of these cars, but all for the same price.
Keep drinking the salesman's Kool-Aid. If you take one midsize hatchback and compare it to a comparable offering from a rival you will find that practicality, room, comfort, number of seats, speed, drive quality, fuel economy have very little variance. Manufacturers share platforms, engines and buy in many of their components from external suppliers. eg the Toyota Aygo, Citroen C1 and Peugeot 107 are the same car!
But I bet you'll find a moron who claims that the Toyota has better handling and reliability than the rubbish French Citroen.
Warranties have a list of terms, conditions and exemptions as long as your arm. They are there to make money for the dealership, not save money for the buyer.
If one car was demonstably better than its rivals in every respect-including price-then the rivals would quickly disappear.
I'm glad you're happy with your purchase, but don't fall into the trap of thinking you've beaten the system; it leads to crushing disappointment.
Edited by unthrottled on 15/05/2011 at 22:23
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