[prng2021]

That’s definitely a big part, but the other major reasons are: 1. Companies are focusing on selling higher profit margin vehicles (more expensive models vs high volume budget models) 2. Companies are focusing on SUVs and trucks since bigger cars are in demand. 3. To a small extent, the focus on inherently more expensive EV models

[jeffwask]

And even in a subgroup like trucks, try buying a basic stripped down pickup like you could 15-20 years ago. Just two doors and an 8 foot bed, a truck... they don't make them anymore. Instead you get one of these giant penis extensions they sell now and call trucks. I don't want 4 doors and leather, it doesn't need to be 8 feet off the ground, it doesn't need to the the size and weight of a semi... I just want a utility vehicle to haul crap between home depot, the dump, and my house. Even what used to be cheap, practical cars are now draped in "optional" bullshit you can't opt out of.

And now they want to gate features in my car behind yearly subscriptions, they can fuck right off. I'm not even tempted to buy new. I'm more likely to start buying older I don't want my car getting random software bugs and phoning home to turn of my heated seats.

[babelthuap]

True. I recently inherited a small 2016 truck. It's so stripped down my nephew didn't know what the crank was on the door. He had never seen a manual window crank ha! It does however have one nice feature; bluetooth. I could easily afford a nice car but this little truck is perfect. I don't drive that much so I could see having it the rest of my days barring gasoline is still made. I have no desire for a new car.