[dsfyu404ed]

Toyota has NEVER been inexpensive.

They've never been conspicuously or indulgently expensive but they've never been the cheapest option in a given class. And that has been a key part of their success in the North American market.

The parallel to the furniture market isn't so cut and clear but Ikea does not generally compete with the big box stores on the lowest end FWIW.

Fine tuning quality, feature and price points for their products to attract or repel various customer demographics is something big brands spend a lot of effort on.

[ramesh31]

>Toyota has NEVER been inexpensive.

They are over the long run. It's a lot like Apple hardware. Slightly more expensive at first, but massively better resale value and durability, resulting in a much lower total cost of ownership. This is basically just the "cheap boots" paradox though, so people instead buy Hyundai/Kia based on the sticker price.

[aidenn0]

The Sienna is often the cheapest minivan available in the US. The Transit Connect Wagon is currently available for cheaper in some regions, but was never really marketed as a family vehicle, and is being discontinued this year, in its 10th year of nearly zero updates.

[JAlexoid]

When it comes to US market, IKEA is only beat by the custom kitchens from the big box stores. Even midrange IKEA is better than Ashley or similar common furniture stores... not to mention that it's drastically cheaper.