Dealer opinion on the introduction of the Dacia brand is an even split over whether it can gain a foothold and shake up the new car market in the UK.
The poll showed 50.9% said No with 49.1% answering Yes.
CAP believes the “no frills” brand will be a hit with cash-strapped customers and will also slow down the introduction of Chinese rivals.
Comments from the poll
YES “We have taken 40 orders with deposits without having a demonstrator. Renault UK dealers have taken 900 new orders in January.”
“Most sales so far have been of the mid or top of the range.
The range has so far this year sold more than our other two franchises put together. Without doubt it will shake up both the new and used car markets.”
“As a Dacia retailer we have taken orders for 15 Dusters before anyone has even driven them all conquest customers.”
“Buyers considering a used car purchase could be swayed into buying new cars if the price is right.
"Benefits such as manufacturer warranty, fuel efficiency, no MoT requirement could sway the balance for some consumers.”
“Just what we need, a no-frills car with proven parts and highly regarded in Europe.”
“In recent years we have seen ever-increasing vehicle specs and prices creating a void just waiting to be filled.
"Dacia are poised to capitalise on that market, good luck to them.”
“A very clear, competitive and transparent pricing and model structure will no doubt appeal to people buying volume brands in the current economic climate.”
NO “It’s just another brand coming in with a low price point
(for basic models... not a first).
"There may be a new niche for a few ‘budget brands’, but most of us will take a while before determining that Dacia is mainstream and move our buying thoughts away from the establishment.
“It’s just another brand that will attract some followers but leave the rest disinterested.
"The success will be in the effort of the distributor and dealers. It will be interesting to see if they have the heart for it.”
“Not until they have a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating.”
Author:
Tom Seymour
Freelance writer
Freelance writer for AM, Tom Seymour has been a specialist B2B journalist covering the automotive sector for over 14 years. He started his freelance career in 2015 and currently writes for a variety of automotive, business and technology publications.
martin.blackaby - 05/04/2013 14:15
It depends whether Renault can make profit from these very well priced cars, if they continue as they start it will be a great success, my guess is that prices will slide upwards thus stalling progress?