First Post - Changing Inventory and Pricing Trends?

[lazynorse]

Hey, I'm new. Nice forum, I've spent many hours on it already! Longtime Subaru adventurer, want a proper 4x4.

My question - Is a tide turning on inventory and strict MSRP pricing? Easing of supply chain, high gas prices, looming interest rate increases slowing customer demand while inventory catches up? I'd like to time my purchase the best I can. I can swallow my pride about MSRP if my inflated current vehicle value makes up the difference (2010 Subaru Outback, 140,000m).

I've been researching Rangers over the past couple years and am aware of the inventory and pricing woes. I spec'd my ideal Ranger on the Ford website (cactus grey XLT FX4, 301a) and one came up locally, though a little more spec'd out.

I saw it was 'en route' to the dealer but had $2000 worth of cash back discounts (??). It was a blackout package with 18" wheels (I don't want 18" wheels), tow, adaptive cruise, etc for just under $42,000, minus discounts.

The salesmen called and confirmed the $2000 rebate would come off that price 'but I'd better order it now, given how things are.' When asked about MSRP, he said come in and negotiate (??).. he's called me twice now today.

6 months ago, a different dealer had 1 in stock and said MSRP plus $10,000, no negotiations. While not bursting with new stock, most local dealers have a handful of Rangers on the lot, not sure if they're sold the day they arrive.

From other posts I see ordering from Ford is a misery of patience. Maybe I'll luck out with dealer inventory. Not sure how to proceed.

Not to overstuff my first post, I'm not opposed to a non-FX4 but I'll want AT tires and skids. That could easily exceed the $1500, compared to the FX4 package, though I know the Hankook ATMs aren't the end-all ATs. Anyone upgrade their non FX4 to meet or exceed FX4 specs and come out ahead? My roughest use will be offgrid camping, rock strewn desert track, worse than forest road but not purposely rock crawling.

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[DukeCanBuildit]

Have you considered a Tremor? Better suspension, bigger, better tires, slight level (not 100%), locker (I think), some interior goodies. Would certainly meet your off-road needs.

Did you mean Cactus Grey?

Coyote Grey sounds like something I’d make up. ?

 

[lazynorse]

Have you considered a Tremor? Better suspension, bigger, better tires, slight level (not 100%), locker (I think), some interior goodies. Would certainly meet your off-road needs.

Did you mean Cactus Grey?

Coyote Grey sounds like something I’d make up. ?

Ha! Meant Cactus, not Coyote, not sure why my brain told my fingers that! Edited, thanks!

Tremor is more than I want to spend. I'm really hoping to get into something at or under $40,000. That may or may not be rational right this moment, but that is my aim, and to drive off the lot with 4 wheel drive, rear locker, decent AT tires and skid plates.

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

Ha! Meant Cactus, not Coyote, not sure why my brain told my fingers that! Edited, thanks!

Tremor is more than I want to spend. I'm really hoping to get into something at or under $40,000. That may or may not be rational right this moment, but that is my aim, and to drive off the lot with 4 wheel drive, rear locker, decent AT tires and skid plates.

Then FX4 sounds about right - comes with some skids, but I’m pretty sure the locker’s an option. The suspension is better than non-FX4 but still lacking for some folks. Tires will be a thousand dollar upgrade. Although, it sure ends up being a lot like a Tremor in the end. If you can build it for less and within your budget, good on you.

 

[BrassSlinger]

Careful on some of those rebates. You have to qualify to get some or most of them. Like 1st responders military,etc

 

[Blmpkn]

Fuel prices going crazy might have the opposite effect on in-stock rangers as you think it's going to.

People are wanting to ditch their thirsty full size pickups for one that's more efficient.

There are TONS of big obnoxious bro-dozers for sale/trade in my area right now. Tons.

Some of these people may end up with a car.. but most of them will probably try to get into a more efficient truck.

 

[Trigganometry]

I got an XLT sport with 301A. Super cab Blackout package. After rebates was around 34K. Now, I do not have a locker but it is 4X4. If I went with steel wheels when ordering I could have saved some more. I could have done way better getting aftermarket mags and nice tires, upgraded shocks all around and still pocketed some money. Would still be way less than what you’re being quoted

 

[lazynorse]

I got an XLT sport with 301A. Super cab Blackout package. After rebates was around 34K. Now, I do not have a locker but it is 4X4. If I went with steel wheels when ordering I could have saved some more. I could have done way better getting aftermarket mags and nice tires, upgraded shocks all around and still pocketed some money. Would still be way less than what you’re being quoted

Right, that is a consideration, going steel wheels no skids and getting that after.. if aftermarket pencils out.

 

[BiilyJones]

I think ford and gm both told their dealers to not markup over sticker or else.

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