This is how both Hundai and Kia started (in USA) Then both moved up-market. And Ford and GMC can't figure how to step back.
Edit: my first truck (1986 Toyota) was $6k. Manual everything and didn't even come with a radio. Most of the stuff was fixable at home (if you're handy). Didn't even have EFI. I feel like Honda used to have some of these simpler models - not just cause it was the 70/80s but also because that was a longer lasting/simpler product.
We've replaced longevity with bells/whistles as the key-feature.
You used to be able to shop for a "work truck" or van from Ford or GM which would be bare-bones. Manual transmission, manual windows, no AC, no carpet, simple vinyl floor and upholstery.
Similar features may be available in an SUV or sedan but I've never seen one; would probably be a special order or maybe only available to fleet purchasers.
I haven't bought a brand new car in over 20 years so I don't know if you can still get cars like this. Rear cameras are now mandatory, so all new cars will have a screen. And if they have a screen anyway, adding more features to it is likely to happen.
You can still buy a work truck, yes. Heck, even my F250 XLT has a vinyl floor (and I like it!). But even so, they're 30K.
> Rear cameras are now mandatory, so all new cars will have a screen.
Nah, the cheap ones just put a tiny little screen in the rear view camera. Nice because it requires no other changes to the dash, and is universal across models.
Just re-read what I wrote. Had camera on the mind, meant to say 'rear view mirror'. How anyone could upvote my nonsensical comment, I'll never know. ;-)
Edit: my first truck (1986 Toyota) was $6k. Manual everything and didn't even come with a radio. Most of the stuff was fixable at home (if you're handy). Didn't even have EFI. I feel like Honda used to have some of these simpler models - not just cause it was the 70/80s but also because that was a longer lasting/simpler product.
We've replaced longevity with bells/whistles as the key-feature.