Toyota's woes and competitors' efforts to capitalize on them are creating sweet deals for new car buyers.
As Toyota tries to reverse a 12.4% sales decline through February, it is offering 0% financing, cash rebates and low-priced lease deals on several of its models, as well as free maintenance for existing customers.
"Most people are caught off-guard with how good of a deal you can get right now," said Craig Muran, general manager at McInerney Toyota in Clinton Township.
Through early March, Toyota's incentives helped boost sales 41% from a year earlier. GM, Chrysler and Ford have been offering 0% loans on many models to sustain sales momentum and lure disaffected Toyota owners.
Analysts warn the Detroit Three must be disciplined in their discount offers. Incentives eat at the bottom line, erode brand value and lead customers to expect bigger discounts, all contributing factors to last year's bankruptcies at GM and Chrysler.
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