Dodge Demon May Not Be a Slam Dunk
In a consumer focus group held by CNW Marketing Research, Dodge’s Demon concept — the automaker’s possible answer to the Miata and Solstice — scored an 8.6 on a scale of 10, and only 20% of those polled said they would consider buying one, maybe as a second car.
If Dodge has hopes of taking on the Miata, Solstice and Sky roadsters, it had better head back to the drawing board.
In the same focus group, the Carver, a two-seat enclosed motorcycle to be manufactured in England and perhaps sold in the U.S., scored a 9.6 out of 10, even after consumers were told it would start at $50,000 if sold here. It’s one major drawback: no air conditioning, though the top is removable for cycle-like motoring.
Also, the research group said more women than men favor buying vehicles with manual transmissions. The reason: women favor a manual for high mileage and lower initial purchase price, while men who favor manuals want one for performance driving. It seems there are more frugal women than speed-demon men out there.
Related
Cars.com Video: Driving the Dodge Demon (KickingTires)
Dodge Demon Concept (KickingTires)
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I usually don't think the name of a car matters as much as some people on here seem to, but I do believe that the name may turn some people away. I'm not even very religious and it doesn't sit well with me.
Cool! I want a Carver!
Automakers have made more errors based on focus groups. I wonder if they polled average people or Miata/Solstice owners. They should remove the impractical-car bias and see how fans of this car type feel about it. Some cars should get the green light based on the gut instincts of real car people. By that standard, this one is a no-brainer. Gimme one in burgundy or dark red.
Excellent looking vehicle.Dodge needs this vehicle.Just change the name.
Excellent looking vehicle.Dodge needs this vehicle.Just change the name.
Maybe "Dart" would be a better name than "Demon"?
You can't focus group a sports car.
You either get it our you don't.
If DCX had made the Pronto Spyder I'd probably have one now, but they didn't and I bought a used MR-S. If I had the money I'd have bought a new Razor,,, oh wait, they haven't delivered that yet either. So I guess I'd have to get a Sky or Solstice.
DCX doesn't get it and they're running out of time.
At the very least, this car would generate lots of showroom traffic. There is currently nothing that would draw me into a Dodge or Chrysler dealership.