Some car questions seem designed to cause heated conversations. One of those questions is, "Should I buy a foreign or domestic car?" Why is it, that this question produces such emotional responses?
The Multinational Nature of Cars
Cars are expensive "big ticket" items and, as a result, they can have a great impact on the areas where they are built. However, in recent years, determining whether to or not to buy a car from North America has become extremely complicated. Ownership in car brands has become surprisingly multinational in nature. As a result, car company ownership is far less clear-cut than it was decades ago. Add to this the fact that cars are often made in more than one location then assembled in a final location. Clearly, in this day and age, answering the question about whether to go "foreign or domestic" is trickier.
Beyond issues of economic impact, there are the issues of reliability and preference. Reliability ratings, fuel efficiency, reputation and what you want out of a car, ranging from performance to color, all further serve to complicate the issue.
The Importance of Determining Your Needs
In order to determine which is better for your needs, a foreign made car or a domestic option, you must first begin with an assessment of your requirements, personal preferences and goals. Knowing what you want out of a car is step one. Once you've thought through what you want, the more quickly you can begin building your list, mental or otherwise, of what kind of car will satisfy your needs. You may discover that your list will help you decide on the make and model you need.
Opting for Working with Your Local Car Dealership
This process can be quite involved and time consuming. It is important to keep in mind that there is another way. If you visit your car dealership and let them know what your needs are and what kind of car you prefer, they may be able to quickly direct you to the kind of car that will work for you. After all, they are experts and matching people with the best cars for them. Car dealerships know that if they match you with the perfect car that you will return again and again, and every business loves repeat customers!
Among the top cars made in North America are the following:
- Toyota Camry
- Chevrolet Cobalt
- Ford F-150
- Toyota Tundra
- Honda Odyssey
- Chrysler Sebring
- Toyota Sienna
