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E-mail this ArticleChrysler, General Motors and Ford have kept the price increases on their 2003 models to a minimum—less than 1 percent, on average. That sounds like a good deal until you look at the equipment lists.
According to Automotive News, a leading industry publication, many automakers have shrunk their standard equipment lists. The practice, known as “de-contenting,” allows manufacturers to advertise low sticker prices, but forces consumers to pay extra for popular options.
For instance, Chrysler, Dodge, GM, Ford and Toyota have made anti-lock brakes an extra-cost option on many models. The trade publication notes the Buick Regal as one example. The sticker price of a Regal GS is only $55 higher in ’03 than in ’02. But the ’03 lacks standard anti-lock brakes, a satellite navigation and communications system and side airbags. With these extra-cost options, the ’03 Regal is actually priced $2,005 above a comparably equipped ’02 model.
