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| ], a modern high-end automobile]] | |||
| '''Luxury vehicle''' is a ] term for a vehicle that provides luxury — pleasant or desirable features beyond strict necessity — at increased expense (see ]). | |||
| The term suggests a vehicle with higher quality equipment, better performance, more precise construction, comfort, higher design, technologically innovative modern, or features that convey an image, brand, ], or prestige, or any other 'discretionary' feature or combination of them. The term is also broad, highly variable and relative. It is a perceptual, conditional and subjective attribute that may be understood differently by different people; "what may be luxury for one may be premium for another."<ref>{{cite book|url= http://books.google.com/books?id=YLuoXQ2NKmsC&pg=PA46&dq=We+know+that+luxury+is+relative+what+may+be+luxury+for+one+may+be+premium+for+another |page=46 |title=The Luxury Strategy: Break the Rules of Marketing to Build Luxury Brands |first=Jean-Noël |last=Kapferer |first2=Vincent |last2=Bastien |publisher=Kogan Page |year=2009 |isbn=9780749454777 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| In contemporary usage, the term may be applied to any vehicle type— including ], ], ], ], and ] body styles, as well as to ]s,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/08/06/057385.html |title=The Original Luxury Minivan Adds Fresh Ideas for 2008 |publisher=The Auto Channel News |date=2007-08-06 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.forbes.com/2008/01/22/cars-minivan-luxury-forbeslife-cx_jm_0122cars.html |last=Mitchell |first=Jacqueline |title=Nine Minivans You'll Beg To Drive |journal=Forbes |date=2008-01-22 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> ]s, or ]s and to any size vehicle, from small to large—in any price range.<ref name="consumer">{{cite web|title=Consumer Behaviour of Luxury Automobiles: A Comparative Study between Thai and UK Customers’ Perceptions |first= Jakrapan |last=Anurit |first2=Karin |last2=Newman |first3=Bal |last3=Chansarkar |url= http://economicswebinstitute.org/essays/carthai.pdf |publisher=Economics Web Institute |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Moreover, there is a convergence in the markets and a resulting confusion of luxury with high price: where there may have been a clear difference in price between luxury and others, there is no longer an absolute separation between premium and luxury, with what may be premium brands now more expensive than the equivalent so-called luxury ones.<ref>Kapferer & Bastien, p. 43.</ref> | |||
| ==Definition== | |||
| ], "one of the greatest luxury cars"<ref>{{cite book|last=Roe |first=Fred |title=Duesenberg - The Pursuit of Perfection |publisher=Dalton Watson |year=1986 |isbn=978-0-901564-37-5 }}</ref> with custom body by Willoughby]] | |||
| Automobile manufacturers market specific makes and models that are targeted at particular socio-economic classes, and thus "social status came to be associated more with a particular vehicle than ownership of a car per se."<ref name=berger>{{cite book|last=Berger |first=Michael L. |title=The automobile in American history and culture: a reference guide |publisher=Greenwood |year=2001 |page=160 |isbn=978-0-313-24558-9 |url= http://books.google.com/books?id=oRwMv8iNP-MC&pg=PA160&dq=%22a+group+of+car+marques+and+models+that+have+been+expensive+to+purchase |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Therefore, automakers differentiate among their product lines in "collusion" with the car-buying public.<ref name=berger/> While a high price is the most frequent factor, it is "styling, engineering, and even public opinion which cars had the highest and lowest status associated with them."<ref name=berger/> | |||
| Every era in automobile history has had "a group of car marques and models that have been expensive to purchase, due to their alleged superiority of their design and engineering".<ref name=berger/> Aimed at wealthy buyers, such automobiles might be generically termed ''luxury cars''.<ref name=berger/> This term is also used for unique vehicles produced during "an era when luxury was individualistic consideration, and coachwork could be tailored to an owner like a bespoke suit."<ref>{{cite book|last=Alder |first=Dennis |title=Speed and Luxury: The Great Cars |publisher=MBI Publishing |year=2007 |page=138 |isbn=978-0-7603-2960-3 }}</ref> Although there is considerable literature about specific marques, there is a lack of systematic and scholarly work that "analyzes the luxury car phenomenon itself."<ref name=berger/> | |||
| Luxury vehicle makers may either be stand-alone companies in their own right, such as BMW and Mercedes, or a division/subsidiary of a ] automaker (e.g., Lexus is part of Toyota). ] is often used for cost savings, for example, the Lincoln vehicles that are based on Ford ] or Acura models derived from Honda.<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2013-acura-ilx-concept-photos-and-info-news |title=2013 Acura ILX Concept - This concept previews a production Civic-based compact for Honda's luxury brand |journal=Car and Driver |date=January 2012 |first=Andrew |last=Wendler |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Though widely used, the term luxury is broad and highly variable. It is a perceptual, conditional and subjective attribute and may be understood differently by different people: "What is a luxury car to some... may be 'ordinary' to others."<ref name="consumer"/> | |||
| ==Global references== | |||
| ] Tipo 8A S LeBaron Boattail Roadster was a 1930s luxury car<ref name="conceptcarz.com">{{cite web|url= http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z6808/Isotta-Fraschini-Tipo-8A.aspx |title=1930 Isotta Fraschini Tipo 8A news, pictures, and information |publisher=conceptcarz.com |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref>]] | |||
| According to the ], the "luxury vehicle" segment is classified as F-segment. However, the boundaries between the traditional segments are increasingly becoming blurred and diluted as features once exclusive to luxury vehicles become standard equipment on even small cars.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1406_en.pdf |title=Case No COMP/M.1406 - Hyundai/Kia - Regulation (EEC) No 4064/89 Merger Procedure |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |date=1999-03-17 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m1326_en.pdf |title=Case No IV/M.1326 - Toyota/Daihatsu - Merger Decision IV/M.1326|date=1998-11-06 |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/decisions/m5219_20080925_20310_en.pdf |title=Case No COMP/M.5219 - VWAG/OFH/VWGI - Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 Merger Procedure |publisher=Office for Official Publications of the European Communities |date=2008-11-25 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| * ] is a code system used by many ] companies in the US for classifying vehicles (but not brands or marques). The system includes '''Luxury''' and '''Premium''' categories. | |||
| * '''Australia:''' In Australia, for taxation purposes a luxury car is defined as a passenger car whose value exceeds a certain threshold, (see: ]).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?c=2348 |title=Tax Laws Amendment (Luxury Car Tax) Bill 2008 |date=2008-06-13 |accessdate=2014-03-17}}</ref> | |||
| * '''France:''' In France the term "voiture de luxe" is used.<ref name="grandes"/> | |||
| * '''Germany:''' In Germany the term "Upper class" ({{lang-de|Oberklasse}}) is used.<ref name="obere"/> | |||
| * '''Russia:''' Russian markets use the term "representative class vehicle" ({{lang|ru|''автомобиль представительского класса''}}, also translated as "luxury vehicle").<ref> {{Ru icon}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> | |||
| * '''United States''' Consumer Guide's categorization which sorts luxury vehicles by size acknowledges that there can be considerable price variations within a class; for instance the ] has a relatively low MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) compared to the ], ], ], or ].<ref name="howstuffworks1">{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2009-premium-large-car-buying-guide.htm |title=The Consumer Guide to 2009 Premium Large Cars |publisher=Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com |date=2008-10-30 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> | |||
| {{-}} | |||
| {| class="toccolours" style="margin:auto;" | |||
| |- | |||
| | style="text-align:center;" colspan="81"|'''US Luxury Car Segments, according to MSRP (in {{USD}})''' | |||
| |- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0; background:#f0f0f0;" | |||
| | rowspan="2"|'''Price''' | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$15k — $20k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$20k — $30k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$30k — $40k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$40k — $50k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$50k — $60k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$60k — $70k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$70k — $80k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$80k — $90k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$90k — $100k | |||
| | colspan="10" style="width:10%; "|$100k or more | |||
| |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | |||
| ||||||||||||||||||| | |||
| |||||||||||||||||| | |||
| ||$29k|||||||||||||||||$38k|| | |||
| |||$40k|||||||||||||||| | |||
| ||||||||||||||||||| | |||
| |$60k|||||||||||||||||| | |||
| ||||||||||||||||||| | |||
| ||||||||||||||||||| | |||
| ||||||||||||||||||| | |||
| |$100k| | |||
| |- align=center | |||
| | style="background:#f0f0f0;"| Luxury car manufacturers | |||
| | colspan="19" style="background:silver;"| | |||
| | colspan="11" style="background:silver;"| Entry-level | |||
| | colspan="20" style="background:silver;"| Mid-level | |||
| | colspan="40" style="background:silver;"| High-end | |||
| | style="background:silver;"| Ultra | |||
| |} | |||
| ==Luxury market segments== | |||
| ===Premium compact segment=== | |||
| The ] segment or premium compact class<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/05/automobiles/autoreviews/05WHEEL.html?_r=1&hp=&pagewanted=all |newspaper=The New York Times |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |title=Lexus Makes a Hipper Hybrid by Gilding the Prius |date=2011-06-03 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> is relatively new, having been initiated by several European brands in the mid-2000s, and have displaced their compact executive cars to constitute the least expensive offerings in their lineups. The classification varies, for instance Consumer Guide Automotive in the U.S. considers the ] and ] as part of the premium compact segment due to similar size and MSRP, though these are known in Europe as a small family car and a compact executive car, respectively.<ref name="consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com">{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2009-premium-compact-car-buying-guide.htm |title=The Consumer Guide to 2009 Premium Compact Cars |publisher=Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com |date=2008-10-30 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> Adding to some confusion, ] has positioned Buick as a "premium" nameplate to compete with Lincoln and front-wheel drive Acura and Lexus models, while ] is aimed at the "luxury" segment which generally encompasses the performance-oriented ] and ] marques.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.cars.com/buick/regal/2011/expert-reviews |title=2011 Buick Regal |first=David |last=Thomas |publisher=Cars.com |date=2010-06-01 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://autos.aol.com/cars-Buick-LaCrosse-2010/expert-review/ |title=2010 Buick LaCrosse Expert Review |publisher=AOL autos |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q4/2010_acura_tsx_v6_vs._2011_buick_regal_cxl_turbo_2010_volkswagen_cc_2.0t_r-line-comparison_tests|title=2010 Acura TSX V6 vs. 2011 Buick Regal CXL Turbo, 2010 Volkswagen CC 2.0T R-Line - Comparison Tests |journal=Car and Driver |first=John |last=Phillips |date=October 2010 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| The premium compact segment is targeted at a niche market of consumers who found the existing entry-level luxury offerings (mostly consisting of compact executive cars - see below) to be too expensive.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/cla-class/2014/ |title=2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Review |publisher=Edmunds.com |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> By offering a smaller, lighter, more fuel-efficient, and less expensive vehicle, premium compacts introduces younger buyers to the luxury marque, in hopes of retaining the coveted customer loyalty. This includes the ], ], ], ], ], ], and the ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.webcitation.org/68dIr87ah |title=Premium-Compacts - Audi A3, BMW 1 series, Volvo C30, MINI |publisher=Squidoo |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="theglobeandmail.com">{{cite news|first=Dan |last=Proudfoot |url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/new-cars/new-car-reviews/audi-luxury-compact-is-ready-for-the-future/article4316959/ |title=Audi luxury compact is ready for the future |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |date=2012-09-10 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Premium compacts compete with well-equipped midsize (non-luxury) cars, and with options they overlap much with compact executive cars (entry-level luxury cars).<ref>{{cite web|first=Jeremy |last=Cato |url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/new-cars/auto-news/uptown-goes-downtown-with-cheaper-cars/article15577491/ |title=Uptown goes downtown with cheaper cars |publisher=The Globe and Mail |date=2013-11-29 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Premium compacts may share components with mass market cars from the marque's parent company (the Audi A3 for example, shares much of its engineering with the cheaper ]), and/or have less sophisticated platforms compared to upmarket vehicles in the lineup (such as the Mercedes-Benz B-Class which is front-wheel drive compared to the other marque's more expensive cars that are rear-wheel drive). However, the BMW 1 Series retains the front-engine longitudinal-engine rear-wheel drive configuration of more expensive BMWs.<ref name="theglobeandmail.com"/><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2010-audi-a3-tdi/ |title=Test Drive: 2010 Audi A3 TDI |publisher=Autos Canada |first=Gerry |last=Frechette |date=2010-06-21 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.cars.com/audi/a3/2006/reviews/ |title=2006 Audi A3 Reviews by Cars.com Experts and Consumers |publisher=Cars.com |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| The body style tends to be a ] or compact wagon, previously associated with economy cars but regaining popularity in the United States for its afforded utility, although as of 2013 there are sedans such as the ] and ]. The luxury branding and style, high-quality interior materials, wide range of convenience features, and performance powertrains are key to distinguishing them from mass market equivalents (one mistake made by the ]) and making these appeal to consumers.<ref name="theglobeandmail.com"/><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2010-audi-a3-tdi/ |title=Test Drive: 2010 Audi A3 TDI |publisher=Autos Canada |first=Gerry |last=Frechette |date=2010-06-21 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.cars.com/audi/a3/2006/reviews/ |title=2006 Audi A3 Reviews by Cars.com Experts and Consumers |publisher=Cars.com |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| ===Entry-level luxury/compact executive cars=== | |||
| This category is known as the ] in Britain where it specifies both the price range and vehicle dimensions. In the U.S., there is a broader category called entry-level luxury, which includes the bottom vehicles in the line-up of luxury brands as well as the top-of-the-line models of some non-luxury brands.<ref name="consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com"/> | |||
| Dimensionally, compact executive cars are smaller than ]s and sometimes even smaller than ]/]. Mass market compact cars typically use the economical ] ] ], well suited to the inline-4 engine, which also maximizes interior room.<ref name="rearwheeldrive.org">{{cite web|url= http://www.rearwheeldrive.org/rwd/rwdbenefits.htm |title=Benefits of Rear Wheel Drive |publisher=Rearwheeldrive.org |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Several compact executive cars are ] with ]s, for improved stability and handling,<ref name="rearwheeldrive.org"/> and in order to accommodate the larger size of higher-performance engines (straight-6, V6, rarely V8), with ] often being available.<ref name="howstuffworks1">{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2008-premium-compact-car-buying-guide.htm |title=The Consumer Guide to 2008 Premium Compact Cars |publisher=Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com |date=2008-10-30 |accessdate=2009-10-20}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> Compact executive cars also tend to have more complicated ]s, sportier transmissions, and ] that may require premium gasoline. The more complex powertrain and mechanical layouts of compact executive cars comes at increased cost and reduced interior passenger and trunk space.<ref name="howstuffworks1"/> | |||
| Compact executive cars include the ], ], ], ]/], ], ], ], and ] which particularly emphasize ]. In the United States and Canada these vehicles are known as entry-level luxury cars.<ref name="Edmunds.com">{{cite web|url= http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=156106 |title=2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS vs. 2009 Lexus ES 350 Comparison Test and Video on Inside Line |publisher=Edmunds.com |date=2009-08-30 |accessdate=2009-09-14}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref><ref name="Chase-BMW">{{cite web|url= http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2009-bmw-328i-xdrive/ |title=Test Drive: 2009 BMW 328i xDrive |first=Chris |last=Chase |publisher=Autos Canada |date=2009-09-09 |accessdate=2009-09-14}}</ref> | |||
| The American and Canadian classification of entry-level luxury includes is a broad category which includes not only compact executive cars, but also midsize cars such as the ], ], ], being similar in price to the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.<ref name="caranddriver1">{{cite web| |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/09q2/2009_infiniti_g37_vs._bmw_328i_audi_a4_and_acura_tl-comparison_tests |title=2009 Infiniti G37 vs. BMW 328i, Audi A4, and Acura TL - Comparison Tests |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date= |accessdate=2009-11-05}}</ref> However, the ES, TL, and LaCrosse do not fall under the European luxury classification of compact executive car nor are they sold in Europe. The ES and TL actually began as ] versions of the mid-size ] and ], respectively, retaining the ] ] ], whereas Toyota's current ] does not share a ] with mass market Toyota cars. The ES and TL are not considered ]s either (that slot is filled by the ] and ], respectively), despite similar dimensions, since executive cars usually emphasize higher performance, often being ] with ]s.<ref name="Edmunds.com"/><ref name="Chase-BMW"/> The present iterations of the ES and LaCrosse emphasize "comfortable, reasonably priced luxury",<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=156106 |title=2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS vs. 2009 Lexus ES 350 Comparison Test and Video on Inside Line |publisher=Edmunds.com |date=2009-08-30 |accessdate=2009-10-20}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> while the TL has recently been targeted at the ] due to its SH-AWD.<ref name="caranddriver1"/> | |||
| Recently, the entry-level luxury has been very competitive, and there has been price-overlapping with well-equipped non-luxury cars.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.financialpost.com/story.html?id=1668551 |title=How Mercedes got its groove back |publisher=Financialpost.com |date=2009-06-06 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref><ref name="ottawacitizen1">{{cite web|last=Van |first=Nicolas |url= http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |title=Luxury makers smash August sales records in Canada |publisher=Ottawacitizen.com |date=2009-06-04 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> The bestselling vehicles of the marque are frequently compact executive cars, such as the BMW 3 Series that makes up 40% of the vehicles that BMW sells worldwide.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.canadiandriver.com/2005/02/17/retrospective-bmw-3-series.htm |title=History and AutoShows » Retrospective: BMW 3 Series |publisher=CanadianDriver |date=2005-02-17 |accessdate=2009-11-05}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=March 2014}}<ref name="cars.com Neil">{{cite web|url= http://www.cars.com/bmw/535/2011/expert-reviews/?review=2&reviewId=56202 |title=2011 BMW 535 |first=Dan |last=Neil |publisher=Cars.com |date=2013-01-29 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| ===Mid-luxury/executive cars=== | |||
| The mid-luxury segment is commonly referred to as ]s in Britain, ''Obere Mittelklasse'' in German, and ''Grandes Routières'' in French.<ref name="grandes">{{cite web|url= http://www.autonews.fr/Ecologie/Actualite/CO2-classement-bonus-malus-302439/ |title=Ecologie: les reines du CO2 |first=Leo |last=Mingot |publisher=Auto News Fr |language=French |date=2012-09-14 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="obere">{{cite web|url= http://www.oeamtc.at/?id=2500%2C1139059%2C%2C |title=Crashtest: Obere Mittelklasse Übersicht A - Z |language=German |publisher=ÖAMTC |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/driver_power/265642/best_executive_car.html |title=Best executive car |publisher=Auto Express |date=April 2011 |archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20120214073724/http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/driver_power/265642/best_executive_car.html |archivedate=2012-02-14 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Examples of models in this category include ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite journal|title=Mid-luxury sedans: The money class |journal=Consumer Reports |url= http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/past-road-test/luxury-sedans-11-07/overview/luxury-sedans-ov.htm |date=November 2007 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=TopSpeed’s 10 Best Mid-Level Luxury Cars| url= http://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/topspeed-s-10-best-mid-level-luxury-cars-ar93725.html |author=Brian |date=2010-07-26 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="AsianLuxury">{{cite web|url= http://www.car.com/content/shared/articles/templates/index.cfm/article_page_order_int/2/article_id_int/773 |title=Asian Luxury Comparison Test |publisher=Car.com |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Although Maserati vehicles have traditionally been priced as ultra-luxury cars, the new ] is intended to compete with high-spec executive cars, such as the ]/S7, BMW 550i and Mercedes-Benz E550/CLS550. | |||
| Although having similar dimensions to ]s and ]s, executive cars are engineered and positioned as premium vehicles with better performance and technology amenities. There are also higher development and production costs, as many well-known mid-luxury cars use the longitudinal (usually front engine rear wheel drive layout) engine mounting which affords space for powerful engines such as a V8, instead of the more economical ] of mass market cars which are restricted to inline-4 or V6. Executive cars usually have lower sales and production volumes compared to ]s, as base trims with less equipment and smaller engines are not sold in U.S. and Canadian markets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goodwin |first=Antuan |url= http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-10291117-48.html |title=Mercedes debuts new, efficient, four-cylinder E-Class models |publisher=Reviews.cnet.com |date=2009-07-20 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Also due to the problem of steep depreciation, especially concerning cars from less prestigious brands, most executive cars are produced by marques that specialize in larger/more expensive vehicles. Particularly in the United States, the mid-luxury segment is dominated by ] and ], as executive cars from lesser-known manufacturers such as ] and ] have not had much success.<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/26/automobiles/26AUTO.html?ex=1277438400&en=1337af6a5dedd2d5&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss |newspaper=The New York Times|first=Michelle |last=Krebs |title=2006 Infiniti M35 and M45: The Japanese Take the Driver's Seat |date=2005-06-26 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/20/automobiles/autoreviews/20WHEEL.html?pagewanted=all |newspaper=The New York Times |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |title=Zen and the Art of Image Maintenance |date=2010-06-18 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Vehicles in this segment include the mid-range models of several luxury car manufacturers.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2009-premium-midsize-car-buying-guide.htm |title=The Consumer Guide to 2009 Premium Midsize Cars |publisher=Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com |date=2008-10-30 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> Executive cars such as the BMW 5 Series are crucial to a luxury automaker's bottom line, and although not the highest-selling model, they generate a significant amount of profits due to the lucrative technology options.<ref name="cars.com Neil"/> | |||
| ===High-end luxury/full-size luxury cars=== | |||
| Also known as ], or premium large cars, while "Oberklasse" is used in Germany. Many of these are the marque's showcases for the newest automotive technology.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2010-mercedes-benz-s-class.htm |title=2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class - Consumer Guide Automotive |publisher=Consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com |date= |accessdate=2010-08-06}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> Several nameplates also offer long-wheelbase versions that offer additional rear legroom and amenities.<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/07q1/2006_jaguar_super_v-8_vs._2007_m-b_s550_2006_audi_a8l_2007_lexus_ls460l_2006_bmw_750li-comparison_tests |title=2006 Jaguar Super V-8 vs. 2007 M-B S550, 2006 Audi A8L, 2007 Lexus LS460L, 2006 BMW 750Li - Comparison Tests |journal=Car and Driver |date=January 2007 |first=Barry |last=Winfield |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Full-size luxury cars sold in Canada and the U.S. typically have mid-displacement V8 engines, though recently some marques have offered six cylinder powerplants but without much success.<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/11q3/2012_mercedes-benz_s350_bluetec_4matic-short_take_road_test |first=Eddie |last=Alterman |title=2012 Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTec 4MATIC |journal=Car and Driver |date=August 2011 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="nytimes1">{{cite news|url= http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/automobiles/15LUXO.html?_r=1&ref=automobiles |newspaper=The New York Times |title=In Some Classes, Buyers Are Not Ready to Give Up Their V-8s |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |date=2010-08-13 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="nationalpost1">{{cite web|url= http://www.nationalpost.com/cars/story.html?id=2237320 |title=First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid |first=David |last=Booth |publisher=Nationalpost.com |date=2009-11-20 |archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20091126203830/http://www.nationalpost.com/cars/story.html?id=2237320 |archivedate=2009-11-26 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Vehicles in this category include some of the models from the flagship lines of luxury car brands. Examples include the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and in the US, the ], ], and ].<ref name="howstuffworks1" /><ref name="AsianLuxury"/> In the ] in 2004, the bestselling full-size luxury nameplates were the ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.forbes.com/2004/03/15/cx_dl_0315mondaymatchup.html |publisher=Forbes |title=Mercedes-Benz S-Class Vs. BMW 7-Series |date=2004-04-15 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| ===Ultra-luxury cars=== | |||
| R.L. Polk and Company, a global automotive information and marketing firm that provides services<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.polk.com/company/history |title=Polk Company History-More than 140 years of intelligence |publisher=R.L. Polk |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> to automotive and related industries, has defined the term "super luxury" segment for luxury cars costing more than {{USD|100,000}}. | |||
| This bracket includes the lineup of ] and ], as these marques do not offer lower-priced offerings in the entry-level luxury or mid-luxury segments like more mainstream luxury brands like ], ], ], and ].<ref name="editorial.autos.msn.com"/> As of late 2011, super luxury automakers have been "pledging higher sales and offering ever sexier models" despite the economic uncertainty.<ref>{{cite news|first=Colleen |last=Barry |url=http://www.csmonitor.com/Business/Latest-News-Wires/2011/0915/Maserati-Kubang-SUV-Super-luxury-vehicles-belie-gloomy-outlook |title=Maserati Kubang SUV: Super luxury vehicles belie gloomy outlook |newspaper=The Christian Science Monitor |agency=AP |date=2011-09-15 |accessdate=2011-12-28}}</ref> | |||
| Bentley and Rolls Royce have recently moved into more affordable price brackets with new models priced considerably lower than their traditional offerings (] and ] and ]). These new cars, the ] and ] sister cars and ],<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.economist.com/node/13611109?story_id=13611109 |work=The Economist |title=Keep on rolling |date=2009-05-07 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> created what '']'' described as the "entry-opulent segment".<ref>{{cite journal|first=Jared |last=Gall |url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/10q3/2010_bentley_continental_flying_spur_speed_vs._2011_rolls-royce_ghost-comparison_tests |title=2010 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed vs. 2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost |journal=Car and Driver |date=August 2010 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Bentley, Maybach, and Rolls-Royce vehicles share platforms and derivatives of engines with other luxury brands from their parent auto company, however ] and ] are assembled in England (separate from the rest of ] and ]'s production plants) and this 'exclusivity' has helped to make these British marques a sales success. By comparison, Maybachs were built alongside the ] which partly explains why they have not fared well in the market and were discontinued in 2012. Furthermore the Maybach's brand pedigree was virtually unknown outside of Germany unlike its British rivals which have long enjoyed fame worldwide.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903885604576486064192002334.html |newspaper=The Wall Street Journal |first=Vanessa |last=Fuhrmans |title=A Handful of Maybachs Isn't Enough |date=8 August 2011 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url= http://money.cnn.com/2006/03/22/Autos/carreviews/rolls_maybach/index.htm |work=CNN |first=Peter |last=Valdes-Dapena |title=Rolls-Royce vs. Maybach |date=2006-04-04 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> A Bentley executive was quoted as saying "that the brand’s exclusivity, history and obsessive luxury help to convince customers that a Bentley is worth the price" which is at least twice that of a flagship luxury car from BMW or Mercedes-Benz.<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/02/automobiles/autoreviews/a-threat-to-the-job-security-of-chauffeurs.html |newspaper=The New York Times |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |title=A Threat to the Job Security of Chauffeurs |date=2011-09-30 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Although Rolls-Royce and Bentley have traditionally been considered "as a purveyor of boxy British land yachts", newer offerings such as the ] and ] have "upended the super-premium auto segment, making Bentley for the first time a plausible choice for younger Hollywood and music stars". | |||
| Maserati vehicles such as the ] have traditionally been priced as ultra-luxury cars, although the new ] is intended to compete with high-spec executive cars, such as the ]/S7, BMW 550i and Mercedes-Benz E550/CLS550. | |||
| The most expensive variants of flagship cars from ], ], and ] are often included here as well. They often feature a longer wheelbase and have ] engines for great refinement and smoothness,<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/the-lexus-ls-600h-l-not-just-another-production-car |title=The Lexus LS 600H L: Not Just Another Production Car |first=Gary S. |last=Vasilash |date=2007-06-06 |publisher=Automotive Design and Production |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> even though contemporary V8 engines can make similar output while being less expensive.<ref>{{cite journal|first=Frank |last=Markus |url= http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2003-bmw-760li-vs-m-b-s600-comparison-tests |title=2003 BMW 760Li vs. M-B S600 - Comparison Tests |journal=Car and Driver |date=July 2003 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|first=Georg |last=Kacher |url= http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/sedans/0302_mercedes_s600_bmw_760li/index.html |title=2002-2006 BMW 760Li and 2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz S600 |journal=Automobile |date=April 2009 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> While BMW sells far fewer V12-engined 7-Series vehicles than V8 versions, the V12 retains popularity in the US, China, and Russia, as well as maintaining the marque's prestige in the luxury vehicle market segment.<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/09q3/2010_bmw_760i_760li-first_drive_review |first=Jens |last=Meiners |title=2010 BMW 760i / 760Li - First Drive Review |journal=Car and Driver |date=July 2009 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.nationalpost.com/cars/story.html?id=2237320 |title=First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid|publisher=Nationalpost.com|accessdate=2010-07-01}} {{Dead link|date=April 2012|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> These trims also feature standard luxury and technology features that would be considered optional on their V8 siblings.<ref name="nationalpost1"/><ref name="editorial.autos.msn.com">{{cite web|url= http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=434553 |title=Ultra-Luxury Cars - MSN Autos |publisher=Editorial.autos.msn.com |date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref name="AsianLuxury"/> | |||
| There are ultra-high performance cars from "exotic brands" that also exceed {{USD|100,000}}, but would not necessarily be categorized as luxury automobiles, such as the sports cars from ], ], and ], although the ] does compete in the high-end luxury/full-size luxury category.<ref name="editorial.autos.msn.com"/><ref>{{cite journal|first=Frank |last=Markus |url=http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/1103_entry_level_fullsize_luxury_sedan_comparison/ |title=Comparison: Entry-Level Fullsize Luxury Sedans |journal=Motor Trend |date=March 2011 |accessdate=2011-12-28}}</ref> | |||
| ===Luxury SUV/Crossover=== | |||
| This category was created with ]'s 1966 ] as the first true luxury ] (4x4) vehicle.<ref>{{cite book|last=Gunnell |first=John |title=American Cars of the 1960s: A Decade of Diversity |publisher=Krause Publications|year=2005 |page=213 |isbn=978-0-89689-131-9 }}</ref> It was the first SUV to offer a ], ], and luxury car trim and equipment in a serious off-road model.<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.4wdandsportutility.com/features/jeep/0801_4wd_1963_jeep_wagoneer/index.html |last=Foster |first=Patrick |title=1963 Jeep Wagoneer - Landmark Vehicle |journal=4 Wheel Drive & Sport Utility Magazine |date=January 2008 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> The Super Wagoneer was "a pioneer that blazed a trail for today's luxury SUVs".<ref name="stuff66">{{cite web| url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1963-1992-jeep-wagoneer-and-grand-wagoneer3.htm |author=Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'' |title=1966 Jeep Wagoneer |date=2007-08-29 |publisher=HowStuffWorks.com |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> It came with long list of standard equipment that included ] with center console, ], seven-position tilt steering wheel, a ], as well as "Antique Gold" trim panels on the body sides and tailgate.<ref name="stuff66"/> After ] (AMC) purchased Jeep, the vehicles were upgraded and refined, including features such as an optional electric sliding steel ], "possibly the first offered on an SUV".<ref>{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1963-1992-jeep-wagoneer-and-grand-wagoneer4.htm |author=Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide''|title=1967-1977 Jeep Wagoneer |date=2007-09-29 |publisher=HowStuffWorks.com |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> The late-1970s Jeep Wagoneer Limited "set the sport-utility market on its ear ... was the most luxurious four-wheeler anyone had ever seen."<ref>{{cite web| url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1963-1992-jeep-wagoneer-and-grand-wagoneer5.htm |author=Auto Editors of''Consumer Guide'' |title=1978-1979 Jeep Wagoneer Limited |date=2007-08-19 |publisher=HowStuffWorks.com |accessdate=2014-03-14}}</ref> | |||
| The venerable Grand Wagoneer was still the leader in the luxury SUV market in 1986, and continued to be produced virtually unchanged through 1991, long after Chrysler bought out American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1987.<ref>{{cite book |url= http://books.google.com/books?id=ZpdUEVGU2toC&pg=PA202&dq=The+venerable+Grand+Wagoneer+was+still+the+leader+in+the+luxury+SUV+market+in+1986 |title=The Story of Jeep |page=202 |first=Patrick R. |last=Foster |publisher=Krause Publications |year=2004 |isbn=978-0-87349-735-0 |accessdate=2012-09-14}}</ref> The SUV market soon expanded with new entrants. By the mid-1990s, the U.S. Big Three automakers, "especially with Ford's Explorer and Jeep's Grand Cherokee, dominate the market for the red-hot sport/utilities."<ref>{{cite journal |url= http://books.google.com/books?id=MWUEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA58&lpg=PA58&dq=The+Big+Three,+especially+with+Ford+Explorer+and+Jeep+Grand+Cherokee,+dominate+the+market+for+the+red-hot+sport/utilities |journal=Popular Mechanics |date= May 1996 |title=Happy 100th! |first=Scott |last=Oldham |first2=Michael |last2=Lamm |volume=173 |issue=5 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> The fastest growing sector of this market was for the so-called luxury SUVs, which included the Jeep Grand Cherokee ... the Grand Cherokee's allure: "This vehicle is proof you can have a true off-road vehicle without giving up luxuries and amenities" with the Jeep providing a crucial new intangible factor for buyers — image.<ref>{{cite book|title=Encyclopedia of major marketing campaigns |volume=2 |first=Thomas |last=Riggs |page=390 |publisher=Gale Group |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-7876-7356-7 |url= http://books.google.com/books?id=BKhWAAAAYAAJ&q=the+fastest+growing+sector+of+this+market+was+for+the+so-called+luxury+SUVs,+which+included+the+Jeep+Grand+Cherokee.+The+company's+website+explained+the+allure:+%22This+vehicle+is+proof+you+can+have |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| The SUV models generated higher-profit-margins than ordinary automobiles, and automakers introduced new luxury models during the late 1990s.<ref name="Frankel 2006 35">{{cite book |last=Frankel |first=Ernst G.|title=Challenging American Leadership: Impact of National Quality on Risk of Losing Leadership |publisher=Springer-Verlag |year=2006 |page=35 |isbn=978-1-4020-4892-0}}</ref> For some manufacturers such as Porsche and BMW, luxury SUVs were the first SUV models they produced. Luxury SUVs catered particularly to the U.S. market where station wagons were unpopular, often being produced in North America (such as ]) instead of the luxury marque's home country. Some of these models were not traditional SUVs based on light trucks, rather they are classified as ] using unibody constructions. SUVs from non-luxury brands had experienced a surge in popularity through early 2000s, causing the traditional luxury marques to follow.<ref>{{cite web|last=Magrath |first=Mike |url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=152306 |title=Inside Line: News, Road Tests, Auto Shows, Car Photos and Videos |publisher=Edmunds.com |date= |accessdate=2011-12-28}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=December 2011}} | |||
| SUVs from the luxury marques grew at almost 40 percent to more than 430,000 vehicles, excluding SUV-only brands like ] and ], while luxury car sales in the U.S. during 2003 suffered a 1% decline, and non-luxury SUV sales were flat. By 2004, 30 percent of major luxury brands' U.S. sales are now SUVs. Luxury brands in particular led the development of ] (as opposed to ] SUVs), making it one of the fastest growing segments in the market, as the forecast for 2002 was approximately 240,000 vehicles and that could double by 2006.<ref name="findarticles1">{{cite news|url= http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3012/is_3_183/ai_99048983/ |title=Infiniti's 'Bionic Cheetah' chases Porsches and BMWs |publisher=Automotive Industries |accessdate=2010-12-07 |first=John |last=Peter |date=March 2003}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> Research data showed luxury SUV buyers are compared those vehicles to SUVs of mass market brands, and not shopping around luxury cars, thus the SUV is becoming the key to bringing new customers to the luxury dealerships.<ref>{{cite web|last=Isidore |first=Chris |url= http://money.cnn.com/2004/01/06/news/companies/detroit_luxury_suv/ |title=Luxury SUVs: key to growth for luxury brands, SUV segment |publisher=Money.cnn.com |date=2004-01-07 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Certain luxury SUVs use ] underpinnings, often being ] of their non-luxury counterparts, and retaining the rugged off-road and towing capabilities. Examples include the ] and ], which are the premium versions of the ] (itself a luxurious SUV in the United States) and ], respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Lexus_LX/ |title=2014 Lexus LX Reviews, Pictures and Prices |publisher=U.S. News Rankings and Reviews|date= |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Other luxury SUVs are ] using ] construction, often sharing the platform with compact executive and executive cars. For example, the ] is based upon the ] that also underpins other Infiniti cars. ] and ] developed crossovers to compete in the SUV segment as they did not have an existing ] vehicle in their lineup.<ref name="findarticles1"/><ref>{{cite news|first=Ted |last=Laturnus |url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/used-cars/used-cars-archive/bionic-cheetah-married-performance-practicality/article1145752/ |title=‘Bionic cheetah' married performance, practicality |publisher=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> The ] was the earliest luxury crossover on the market, and it has since been the best-selling luxury vehicle in the US, so it has inspired similar competitors from rival marques.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.allbusiness.com/transportation/motor-vehicle-manufacturing/635959-1.html|title=Lexus The Truckmaker|date=2000-09-01 |publisher=Automotive Industries|last=Gross|first=Ken|accessdate=2008-11-15}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> While early luxury crossovers released in the late 1990s have resembled traditional boxy SUVs, recent offerings have prioritized ] over utility — such as the Infiniti FX and ].<ref name="edmunds 2010 FX35">{{cite web|url= http://www.edmunds.com/infiniti/fx35/review.html|title=Inifiti FX35 Review (MY 2010)|accessdate=2010-01-21 |publisher=Edmunds.com|year=2009}}{{dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref><ref name="cars.com 2009 FX35">{{cite web|url= http://www.cars.com/infiniti/fx35/2009/expert-reviews/ |title=2009 Infiniti FX35 |publisher=cars.com |date=2008-09-15 |first=David |last=Thomas |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/22/automobiles/autoreviews/22AUTO.html |newspaper=The New York Times |title=New-Age Mutant Ninja Wagons |first=Ezra |last=Dyer |date=2008-06=22 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| ==Characteristics== | |||
| ], here is twelve cylinder J12]] | |||
| {{Globalize/Northern|date=September 2010}} | |||
| ===Features=== | |||
| Luxury cars tend to offer a higher degree of comfort than their mainstream counterparts, common amenities include genuine leather upholstery and polished "woodgrain-look" dashboards.<ref name="AsianLuxury"/> Compared to mainstream vehicles, luxury cars have traditionally emphasized comfort and safety.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.forbes.com/vehicles/2007/05/11/car-safe-vehicle-forbeslife-cx_dl_0514safecars_slide_12.html?thisSpeed=15000 |last=Lienert |first=D. |date=2007-03-11 |title=Safest Cars 2007 |publisher=Forbes |accessdate=2007-08-15 |deadurl=yes}} {{Dead link|date=April 2011|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}</ref> Luxury vehicles are also a status symbol for ].<ref name="forbes1">{{cite web|url= http://www.forbes.com/2009/02/27/luxury-expensive-cars-lifestyle-vehicles_luxury_cars.html |title=Ten Reasons To Buy A Luxury Car |publisher=Forbes.com |date=2009-02-27 |first=Hannah |last=Elliott |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| Contemporary luxury cars also offer higher performance and better handling, which is often known as ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=156106 |title=2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS vs. 2009 Lexus ES 350 Comparison Test and Video on Inside Line |publisher=Edmunds.com |date=2009-08-30 |accessdate=2009-09-14}}{{dead link|date=January 2011}}</ref><ref name="Chase-BMW"/> However in Europe, where large-displacement engines are often heavily taxed and many luxury buyers shy away from conspicuous consumption, brands offer buyers the option of removing exterior engine-identifying badges.<ref name="nytimes1"/> | |||
| Forbes noted that the reputation of luxury marques enables them to continually introduce many new safety technologies and comfort amenities, such as ], ] and ] entertainment systems, before they trickle down to mass market cars. Numerous "]" features are largely only found on luxury cars as of 2009.<ref name="forbes1"/> | |||
| ===Layout and powertrain=== | |||
| The ] with ]s (FR) is a common layout of luxury cars. European marques like ], ], and ] have almost never adopted ] and retained a lineup mostly or entirely made up of FR cars. Japanese brands such as ] and ] also have predominantly FR lineups. The FR layout, while more expensive than the FF, has been retained by these luxury manufacturers as it allows for higher performance engines (particularly the ], ], and other engine configurations with more cylinders), better handling, and a smoother ride. | |||
| <ref name="nytimes1"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rearwheeldrive.org/rwd/rwdrate.htm |title=Automaker Ratings |publisher=Rearwheeldrive.org |date= |accessdate=2009-09-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Stewart |first=Ben |url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/1266931.html |title=Comparison Test: Front-Wheel Drive Vs. Rear-Wheel Drive |journal=Popular Mechanics |date= |accessdate=2009-09-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-66027126.html |title=U.S. luxury car manufacturers are rethinking rear wheel drive]. (Auto Weekend) |newspaper=The Washington Times |location=Washington, D.C. |publisher=Highbeam.com |date=2009-10-13 |accessdate=2011-01-17}}</ref> | |||
| American manufacturers also largely followed the FR for their luxury brands (as well as their mass-market cars of the time). However, due to the ] of 1973 and the 1979 fuel crises, began eliminating their FR platforms in favor of the more economical ] ] ] (FF). Chrysler went 100% FF by 1990 and ]'s ] and ] brands for the US were entirely FF by 1997. One of the few notable holdouts was Ford's ] and ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0501phr_2005_ford_mustang/index.html |title=2005 Ford Mustang |publisher=Popularhotrodding.com |date= |accessdate=2009-09-29}}</ref> | |||
| In the 21st century, as part of the revamp of its design and image,<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.nytimes.com/1999/11/12/business/media-business-advertising-cadillac-redesigning-its-image-before-its-retooled.html|title=The media: Advertising: Cadillac is redesigning its image before its retooled cars appear |first=Robyn |last=Meredith |newspaper=The New York Times |date=1999-11-12 |accessdate=2012-09-14}}</ref> Cadillac returned most of its lineup (sedans, roadsters, crossovers and SUVs) to rear- or all-wheel-drive, the only exceptions being the front-wheel drive ] (which is not sold in North America)<ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2006-cadillac-bls-car-news |title=2006 Cadillac BLS |journal=Car and Driver |date=June 2006 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> and the ]. ] returned its ] cars to this layout with the ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Kaus |first=Mickey |url= http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/gearbox/2003/05/advance_to_the_rear_2.html |title=Chrysler brings back rear-wheel drive |publisher=Slate |date=2003-05-09 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.leftlanenews.com/2011-chrysler-300-dodge-charger-to-remain-rear-wheel-drive.html |title=2011 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger to remain rear-wheel drive |publisher=Leftlanenews |first=Drew |last=Johnson |date=2008-02-14 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Ford's Lincoln retained the longtime FR platform for the Town Car, intended for use as a ] and ]ed car.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.speroforum.com/site/article.asp?id=5487 |publisher=Spero News |title=Lincoln Town Car wins stay of execution |date=2006-09-19 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> However, newer offerings such as the ] and ] use newer FF platforms shared with mainstream Ford vehicles, the ] and ], respectively, with all-wheel drive as an option.<ref> {{dead link|date=September 2012}}</ref> | |||
| ==History and sales== | |||
| ] | |||
| In the United States luxury market, Cadillac and Lincoln had long been the best-selling and second best-selling luxury brands until 1998, when they were overtaken by Japanese and German brands.<ref>{{cite news|first=John |last=O'Dell|title=Cadillac Apologizes to Lincoln for Inflating Sales Numbers|url= http://articles.latimes.com/1999/may/06/business/fi-34467 |newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=1999-05-06 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Since the 2000s, with the ], the marque has seen a resurgence in sales and brand value.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.forbes.com/2005/12/09/luxury-cars-sales-cx_dl_1212feat_ls.html |title=Best-Selling Luxury Cars 2005 |publisher=Forbes.com |date=2005-12-12 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Ford's Lincoln, which had seen sales fall as a result of an aging lineup, has attempted to return that luxury marque to competitiveness, by releasing new models such as the ], as well as divesting itself of its other ] brands.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/incoming/lincoln-measures-up-to-stiff-competition/article1199326/ |title=Lincoln measures up to stiff competition |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |date=2009-06-24 |location=Toronto |first=Bob |last=English |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Mercedes-Benz and BMW were the top-selling luxury import until 1991, when they were overtaken by Lexus.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.absolutefacts.com/automotive/lexus-relentless-pursuit.htm |title=Lexus: The relentless pursuit |publisher=Absolutefacts.com |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Since 2000, Lexus has been the number-one-selling luxury car marque in the U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601100&sid=aE7P22QvyOuI |title=BMW, Mercedes, Lexus Car Sales May Drop to 13-Year Low in U.S. |date=2009-01-09 |publisher=Bloomberg|last=Green |first=Jeff|last2=Ramsey |first2=Mike |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{citation|last=Van Loon |first=Jeremy |date=2007-05-04 |title=BMW Luxury Lead Threatened by Lexus, Stagnant Margins |publisher=Bloomberg}}{{failed verification|date=March 2014}}</ref> | |||
| Since the 1980s, a host of new manufacturers have entered the luxury market to challenge the traditional players.<ref name="eisenstein"/> The three major Japanese auto manufacturers, ], ], and ], created their respective luxury brands particularly for the US. As a result of ]s imposed in 1981, these manufacturers were limited to a number of vehicles they could export. While these companies sidestepped this by establishing US production facilities for mass market vehicles, their home factories soon begun producing higher-priced cars as they carried a greater profit margin per car. ] was launched in 1986, while ] and ] were unveiled in 1989. By 1992, these three divisions had sales of over {{USD|3.5 billion}}, using lower prices and innovation to take market share from both domestic (Cadillac, Lincoln) and the European (Mercedes, Volvo, BMW, Audi and Jaguar) luxury car makers.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ragm.com/books/corp_gov/cases/cs_gm.html |title=General Motors - A Corporate Governance Case Study |publisher=Web.archive.org |archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20080623201420/http://www.ragm.com/books/corp_gov/cases/cs_gm.html |archivedate=2008-07-23 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> ] had recently released the ] and the ], hoping to repeat the same strategy of undercutting their established competitors.<ref name="eisenstein">{{cite web|first=Paul A. |last=Eisenstein |url= http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32860931/ns/business-the_drivers_seat/ |title=Luxury car market may never look the same |publisher=MSNBC |date=2009-09-18 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| The ] was the first time since the ] of the 1930s that the luxury car market suffered considerably, something not seen in previous economic downturns. Many such customers saw their net worth decline following the collapse in ].<ref name="forbes1"/><ref>{{cite news|first=Poornima |last=Gupta |url= http://www.reuters.com/article/2009/09/11/retire-us-bentley-idUSTRE58A5NI20090911 |title=Bentley sees signs of revival in luxury car class |agency=Reuters |date=2009-09-11 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> For example, some of the steepest dropoffs came at the high end, including the ] and ], and ] unexpectedly dropped the starting price of its all-new ]. The unusually sharp decline in luxury car sales have led observers to believe that there is a fundamental shift and reshaping of the luxury automotive market, with one industry official suggesting that the marques no longer command the premiums that they used to, and another saying that conspicuous consumption was no longer attractive in poor economic conditions. | |||
| <ref name="eisenstein"/> Additionally, mainstream brands have been able to offer amenities and devices such as leather, wood, and anti-lock brakes, previously found only on luxury cars, as the costs decline.<ref name="eisenstein"/> | |||
| However, luxury vehicle sales have not collapsed as much as their non-luxury counterparts.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hg7ZPPZIisna-qPbZtGBKr5P0s0g |title=Drop in Germany luxury car sales eases |publisher=AFP |date=2009-09-08 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|url= http://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/stories/2008/12/01/focus1.html |title=Recession not a roadblock for luxury-car sales |journal=Triangle Business Journal |date=2008-12-01 |first=Richard R. |last=Rogoski |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref> Luxury vehicle marques generally benefited from financially healthier dealerships, better leasing and certified pre-owned programs and loyal customers, so sales are expected to rebound more quickly than mass market cars.<ref name="forbes1"/> Others note that there is growing interest in luxury vehicles from emerging markets such as China and Russia.<ref name="eisenstein"/> | |||
| The entry-level luxury segment has been very competitive, and there has been price-overlapping with well-equipped non-luxury cars.<ref>{{cite news|last=Van |first=Nicolas |url= http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |title=Luxury makers smash August sales records in Canada |newspaper=Ottawa Citizen|date=2009-09-08 |archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20120320081039/http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Luxury+makers+smash+August+sales+records/1971773/story.html |archivedate=2012-03-20 |accessdate=2014-03-11}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financialpost.com/story.html?id=1668551 |title=How Mercedes got its groove back |publisher=Financialpost.com |date=2009-06-09 |accessdate=2009-09-10}}</ref> For example, in Canada, several luxury manufacturers set sales records in August 2009, due mostly to aggressive incentives on entry-level luxury vehicles.<ref name="ottawacitizen1"/><ref>{{cite news|first=Michael |last=Vaughan |url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/incentives-are-an-expensive-way-to-sell/article1280912/ |title=Incentives are ‘an expensive way to sell' |newspaper=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto |date=2009-09-09 |accessdate=2012-09-14}}</ref> In September 2009, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Audi all saw their Canadian sales increase by more than 10 per cent compared to a year earlier, despite overall Canadian auto sales being down 3.5 per cent compared to September 2008. The head of Mercedes-Benz Canada suggested that the brand "has been able to attract 'middle-class' consumers even during the recession because of the sense that owning a Mercedes comes with 'membership in a club'." BMW Canada's chief said luxury cars continued to be attractive, "I think due to new product offensives and due to new design and due to the fact that we are the benchmark in all areas when it comes to fuel efficiency... that together stimulates a lot of the market".<ref>{{cite web|last=Owram |first=Kristine |url= http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5iWIblSq0S_nSCxSAcBwbXUX-FlIw |title=The Canadian Press: Luxury brands' product, pricing helps them sell more cars despite economy |publisher=Google.com |date=2009-10-09 |accessdate=2009-10-18}}{{dead link|date=January 2011}}</ref> BMW has managed to remain profitable in 2009 while other competitors were posting losses, by scaling down production quickly to avoid cash burn through bloated inventories.<ref name="online.wsj.com">{{cite news|url= http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100713-708006.html |title=3rd UPDATE: BMW Lifts 2010 Guidance As Demand Improves |publisher=Online.wsj.com |date=2010-06-13 |archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20100728225017/http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20100713-708006.html |archivedate=2010-07-28 |accessdate=2014-03-15}}</ref> | |||
| In 2010, ] was the best-selling luxury vehicle manufacturer by sales, ahead of rivals ] and ]'s Mercedes-Benz marque. | |||
| <ref name="online.wsj.com"/><ref>{{cite web|url= http://living.oneindia.in/automobiles/auto-news/2010/bmw-mercedes-car-140710.html |title=BMW Five Series | Mercedes Benz | Indian Luxury Car - Oneindia Living |publisher=Living.oneindia.in |date=2010-06-14 |accessdate=2010-06-20}}{{Dead link|date=March 2014}}</ref> | |||
| ==See also== | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | |||
| {{Automobile classification}} | |||
| == References == | |||
| {{reflist|colwidth=30em}} | |||
| {{Automobile configuration}} | |||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:Luxury Vehicle}} | |||
| ] | |||
| ] | |||
Revision as of 17:11, 17 March 2014
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