Wrong.
I disagree.
While domestics have caught up when “quality” is used as a metric, they still lag when measured using more subjective criteria.
Design and “feel” drive the emotional part of the purchase decision and domestics are seriously outclassed.
I disagree with you on this. I have a Ford Fusion that I purchased after trying Toyota, Honda, Volvo and Subaru and am glad I did. It gets great gas mileage, rides better and is quieter than all the rest. Ford has done a great job on this car.
I can't agree with that statement today. It was the case just a few years ago, but not anymore. I drive a lot of rentals of all makes. The U.S brands have improved drastically recently.
“While domestics have caught up when “quality” is used as a metric, they still lag when measured using more subjective criteria.”
I agree, and think that in order for US car manufacturers to recover market share they need to dump all the old and familiar name brands. No more Chevy, no more Pontiac, no more Buick, etc. Fresh, new, different. It will cost a fair amount to retool and redesign, but it will be worth it in the end. And these changes need to be more than just cosmetic. They need to incorporate innovations into their new designs that aren’t available elsewhere.
Wrong.
“Design and “feel” drive the emotional part of the purchase decision and domestics are seriously outclassed.”
I would tend to agree, as far as interior design, materials, and fit and finish are concerned, but IMO the big 3 have some models with much more interesting exterior styling. Chrysler may actually be the leader in that area, but they have some of the weakest interiors.