Lower the prices of today's cars, and more folks will buy. ;)
In 2005, when I was still working, I bought a new Toyota RAV4. I recall thinking back then, "this is the last -new car- I'm probably going to buy", half serious.
Good car, gave it to my sister 2 years ago when the Ford Explorer she had (which was also given to her) was gettin' ready to give up the ghost.
I again went shopping for another RAV.
But this time, I didn't feel like paying the price for the privilege of something new any longer (being on retirement income has something to do with it).
So I chose to go with a used "Toyota certified" vehicle. The one I bought was less than 2 years old with 7,500 miles, and comes with a 7-year or 100,000 mile warranty on the power train. Looked almost new, for $4,000+ less than a new one (which would have a shorter warranty).
My days of buying new cars are past.
I'm wondering if the one I have now could be the "last car I'll own"... ;)