Last year at the auto show, the Jeep division of Chrysler set up an exhibit they called Camp Jeep. Visitors could see the SUVs drive over logs or through water in a simulated off-road experience. Chrysler didn’t bother with Camp Jeep this year, as the company navigates its own rough terrain—surviving on federal loans.
On Monday, there appeared to be more Chryslers on the floor than people looking at them. Enthusiastic salespeople made their pitch whether there were people watching or not.
Still, the American automaker’s troubles didn’t phase Randy Hensinger, who’s a loyal Dodge customer.
HENSINGER: I drive one so something treats you good, you stick with it.
REPORTER: So, you’d drive another one then?
HENSINGER: Certainly.
Unlike other auto shows in the country, all the carmakers who exhibited at the I-X center last year, were back this year. Car show organizers say attendance has been in line with last year.
One of the few carmakers holding up in this economy is Subaru. Rick Spieth, a salesman with Waikem Subaru, says customers are starting to think about a car’s future value—not just the price on the window sticker.
SPIETH: Four year later, they’re going to have some value to that car, instead of getting into that negative equity situation that you’re starting to see with some of the domestics unfortunately.
And, there is this silver lining for those actually in the market for a car: sellers say the deals have never been better