"Affinity Pricing"... good deal or not?

[atomicbob]

I recently picked up a new 2011 4Runner (cost of repairs > value of my 2000 4Runner SR5).

While investigating what my new insurance rates would be if I picked up a new T4R I noticed a link to a "car buying service." I filled out the form which stated... guaranteed pricing of $600 below invoice... I had 5 dealer's calling me within 30 minutes. I started the negotiation at $600 below invoice and went down from there.

I picked up a [what I think is a] sweet deal... MSRP/Sticker of $38,947, Invoice of $35,014.... My Price... $34,014. No Trade.

Should I have haggled more (time is money) for a few more bucks.. or did I make out?

 

[Will733]

Congrats!

What model and options did it have to achieve such a large MSRP?

My SR5 is a 4x4, but didn't have leather or a 3rd row seat (MSRP was $35k).

Just hoping they didn't stick a Limited or Trail MSRP on your SR5 by mistake, but maybe with all the added options (Leather, 3rd Row Seat, Nav) it could get up there in price.

 

[atomicbob]

No Sticker Tricks

Just hoping they didn't stick a Limited or Trail MSRP on your SR5 by mistake

MSRP Base was $31,265
DJ - $585 (Stereo)
EC - $525 (Backup Camera in Mirror)
CP - $1,050 (Convenience Package)
TI - $3,570 (Leather w/Third Row)
3T - $185 (Roof Rack)
5A - $154 (Cargo Cover)
CF - $204 (Mats)
R6 - $599 (Running Boards)
Destination - $810

 

[Shamish]

If you really got $600 below invoice. I'd say you got a good deal. I'd even be happy with invoice, knowin that there is some profit built into that!!

Enjoy your new ride!!

 

[Shamish]

Ran the numbers. You did A-OK!!

 

[westwind77]

MSRP Base was $31,265
DJ - $585 (Stereo)
EC - $525 (Backup Camera in Mirror)
CP - $1,050 (Convenience Package)
TI - $3,570 (Leather w/Third Row)
3T - $185 (Roof Rack)
5A - $154 (Cargo Cover)
CF - $204 (Mats)
R6 - $599 (Running Boards)
Destination - $810

I thought the same thing with the high MSRP, but then again mine was 37k+ minus his third row and running boards, but add wheel locks, so that about right. I just did a quick price out of an SR5 with leather on Toyota's site and it seems the price did jump a couple hundred from when I got mine, but I would have to double check. Either way, you did get a good deal! Congrats & Enjoy!

 

[Will733]

I guess that MSRP is right an par then...

Just suprised that getting it equiped with the leather package, 3rd row and running boards has a $4,000 higher MSRP than getting it with 4wd.

 

[westwind77]

I guess that MSRP is right an par then...

Just suprised that getting it equiped with the leather package, 3rd row and running boards has a $4,000 higher MSRP than getting it with 4wd.

Everything is done is 'packages' these days. Currenly the leather package with the 3rd row in my area will set you back $5,730... but you also get...

(CP) Convenience Package - Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade and front and rear 120V AC power outlets
(DJ) AM/FM/MP3 CD player with eight speakers, integrated XM Satellite Radio [5] with 3-month trial subscription, USB port [6] with iPod® [7] connectivity, and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® [8] wireless technology and steering wheel audio controls
(EC) Backup camera linked to an electrochromic mirror with integrated backup camera monitor [13]
(FE) 50 state emissions
(TI) Premium Package: Leather-trimmed and heated 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat, leather-trimmed second row, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and courtesy lamps. 50/50 split fold-flat-into-floor third-row seating and sliding second row with passenger-side one-touch walk-in function.

They figure if you are going to spend a little extra why not a lot extra!

 

[Will733]

Everything is done is 'packages' these days. Currenly the leather package with the 3rd row in my area will set you back $5,730... but you also get...

(CP) Convenience Package - Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade and front and rear 120V AC power outlets
(DJ) AM/FM/MP3 CD player with eight speakers, integrated XM Satellite Radio [5] with 3-month trial subscription, USB port [6] with iPod® [7] connectivity, and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® [8] wireless technology and steering wheel audio controls
(EC) Backup camera linked to an electrochromic mirror with integrated backup camera monitor [13]
(FE) 50 state emissions
(TI) Premium Package: Leather-trimmed and heated 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and 4-way power-adjustable passenger seat, leather-trimmed second row, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and courtesy lamps. 50/50 split fold-flat-into-floor third-row seating and sliding second row with passenger-side one-touch walk-in function.

They figure if you are going to spend a little extra why not a lot extra!

The SR5 4x4 with an MSRP of $35k comes with all of those options except the (TI) package so that is quite a bit extra [2wd + (TI) Package = 4wd + $4,000].

Just didn't realize the leather and (TI) package was so pricey since I was only looking for a 4x4 and not leather.

 

[westwind77]

The SR5 4x4 with an MSRP of $35k comes with all of those options except the (TI) package so that is quite a bit extra [2wd + (TI) Package = 4wd + $4,000].

Just didn't realize the leather and (TI) package was so pricey since I was only looking for a 4x4 and not leather.

The lowest offered 4wd SR5 is $33,145 (in my zip) but they force you into getting the optional sunroof and immobilizer included in that price ($1,070). Technically if you back out that $1,070 from the $33,145 you get a true base SR5 with 4wd for $32,075 vs a base 2wd SR5 for $30,335. So, that tells me the 4wd is worth $1,740 when all done.

Of course that is what they have listed for prices in my area, and since they 'force' you into certain options you still end up paying the additional costs. You can get a pretty stripped out 4wd SR5, I saw one on-line at one of my local dealers a while back.

Personally I love the look of the 4 cylinder SR5, essentially the same exterior/trim as the TE but painted to match (except the wheel well trim, damn) couple that with leather and the v6 (or a v8 haha) and it would be perfect!

 

[atomicbob]

The SR5 4x4 with an MSRP of $35k comes with all of those options except the (TI) package so that is quite a bit extra [2wd + (TI) Package = 4wd + $4,000].

Just didn't realize the leather and (TI) package was so pricey since I was only looking for a 4x4 and not leather.

Just for clarification... This is not a 2WD + Leather. This is a V6 4WD + Leather. If I wanted 2WD in the size of a 4Runner I would have bought the minivan.

 

[LongBallLarry]

I think a lot of people are interested in how exactly to take advantage of this "affinity pricing" and "car buying service". Specific details with company names and websites are appreciated.

 

[atomicbob]

Affinity Pricing Info

I used USAA (http://www.usaa.com/). This is an outstanding company. I use them for my home mortgage, rental mortgage, auto loans, home insurance, auto insurance, online trading, home buying service and now… car buying service). The good news… USAA recently opened its membership to “all those who have served honorably in the US Armed Services” (or to military brats who never gave up their memberships when they moved out of the house). If you are not military or military brat… you are out of luck.

USAA appears to partner with ZAG (ZAG.com). Zag has other partners including American Express, Consumer Reports, Overstock.com, Sallie Mae, NEA (not sure what this is). It has a “Buy-a-Car” link at the top of the home page with an option to choose “Drive Your Dream” if you are not one of the “affinity” groups. I did a quick price check with my deal and it is pretty much the same. I think Costco (http://www.costco.com/”) has a similar program.

Basically, configure the vehicle the way you want it, get “Your Price”… find an associated dealer… and buy a vehicle at a great price (if they have it on the lot or you are patient enough to wait). Effectively the process requires “Zero Haggle”; however, I used the “ZAG” Pricing from 5 dealers to negotiate a better deal at a sixth dealer.

I negotiated the “deal” for $1000 below invoice on any vehicle that met the following minimum requirements (4Runner, Gray or Black, Sunroof, Third Row Seats, V6, 4WD). I got what I asked for and then some.

I live in Boston, MA… not sure how pricing varies around the country.

I hope this helps.

 

[poolzer]

I used USAA to get my 2010. It makes life so much easier when you wheel and deal over the internet then walk into the dealership, its ready to go with the paperwork and the only time consuming part is the finance gnome that tries to get more out of you. No one could touch the USAA price in SOCAL. On the flip side USAA couldnt touch ANY other finance percent, not even close.

invoice for stock LE $ 39800.00

I added damn near every extra I could internally and externally

USAA Price: $ 40391.00

 

[Dispense]

Anyone looking to get a 2010 4Runner can get a quote from USAA from a dealer in the Southeast for $1700 below invoice! Applies to both Limited and Trail Editions. For example, a 2010 TE with KDSS and Navigation is $36,093. Use zipcode 30252 to see the participating dealers!

 

[atomicbob]

Anyone looking to get a 2010 4Runner can get a quote from USAA from a dealer in the Southeast for $1700 below invoice! Applies to both Limited and Trail Editions. For example, a 2010 TE with KDSS and Navigation is $36,093. Use zipcode 30252 to see the participating dealers!

WOW!!! I just ran the same configuration and that's better than Boston. For $1,700 below invoice, I could fly one way to you zip, pick up a new ride and drive home.

 

[Dispense]

It says lowest nationwide price from 238 certified Toyota dealers.

I'm working with that dealership for a 2011 TE at $1050 under invoice, but they have to special order or preference as there aren't any around yet with the options I want. But saving almost another grand is very very tempting, more cash for Shrockworks Slider, OLW suspension and new tires! =))

It's a 400mi drive from where I live but that's an awesome weekend trip in my book!

 

[LongBallLarry]

This thread has really taken off. Thanks for the info.

 

[danielsan127]

Anyone looking to get a 2010 4Runner can get a quote from USAA from a dealer in the Southeast for $1700 below invoice! Applies to both Limited and Trail Editions. For example, a 2010 TE with KDSS and Navigation is $36,093. Use zipcode 30252 to see the participating dealers!

im so jealous...up in the NW for a 2011 TE with just KDSS and floor mats, its getting priced near $36.2k. I've been trying to to see if anyone will drop below this price and haven't had much luck in any dealer going under it.

 

[Ben_Mueller]

Just picked my 2011 TE with KDSS up for $36200. Not a bad price since some dealers were almost 1k higher on the same exact vehicle!