Consumer Car Buying Advice Blog

In an effort to get sales back on track, both Toyota and Volkswagen launch new vehicle sales incentive programs.

Volkswagen Sign-Then-Drive Program

By far the more comprehensive program is the return of Volkswagen’s “Sign Then Drive” promotion for qualified buyers. Effective Friday, October 10th and extending through the end of the year, the program (somehow using the initials “STD” just doesn’t seem right) is designed to promote Volkswagen’s leasing program.

2009 models covered under the promotion include the Rabbit, Jetta and Jetta SportWagen (not the diesel models), GTI, Beetle and Beetle convertible, Eos, Passat and Passat Wagon, Tiguan, Touareg, Routan and the 2008 R32. As part of the package, Volkswagen will also waive the security deposit and make the first monthly payment. It’s also important to remember that all 2009 VW’s are included in the manufacturer’s maintenance program – all scheduled maintenance is no-charge for 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Toyota Zero-Percent Offer

The biggest surprise has to be the one from Toyota, but then, again, so were the company’s sales figures for September – a 32.3% drop year-over-year.

Beginning October 3rd and expiring on November 3rd, the zero percent financing program covers most of Toyota’s models: Matrix, Corolla, Camry, RAV4, Highlander, FJ Cruiser, 4Runner, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra. The loan offer also varies by model and terms range from 36 to 60 months.

The Bottom Line

Desperate times call for drastic measures. Even though both Volkswagen and Toyota had, until September, managed to avoid the sales fiascos of the domestic manufacturers, VW’s string of modest sales gains came to an end, while Toyota’s sales headed south big time. If you’re considering buying, it doesn’t get any better than 0%. If you’re considering a lease, VW is still in the game and sweetens the deal with free scheduled maintenance and no security deposit. Either way, if you are in the market for a vehicle from either one of these manufacturers, now would be a good time to make your move.

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