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Originally Posted by Mirage77  Rob, do you think if VW marketed itself from now on as a semi-luxurious brand rather than a utilitarian brand, the Phaeton would work? I have optimism for this, especially so since the rest of their products aren't exactly cheap nowadays. The Golf, the Passat and the Treg have all become 'upmarket' of their segments IMO. A change in marketing strategy would bold well for the brand as a whole, not just for the Phaeton. |
I think this could work James. I think consumers are becoming more sophisticated and will be able to accept that brands can be multi-faceted. It is well accepted that Mercedes makes cars like the S600 but also public transport busses, ambulances, vans, and small city cars -- I don't think this tarnishes the prestige image of Mercedes at the luxury end of the market.
I seriously can't see why VW could not be accepted in the US market as a premium car manufacturer who also produce high quality 'affordable' vehicles. I believe it really comes down to a clever marketing strategy ...there's nothing wrong with the products.