Exploring Controversial Dealership Markup Practices

In the automotive world, the dance between supply and demand often results in a contentious phenomenon: dealer markups. Over the past decade, a select group of vehicles has transcended their MSRP, fetching price tags that many argue far exceed their worth. From iconic revivals to limited-edition marvels, this article delves into the models that sparked heated debates, passionate justifications, and no small measure of sticker shock.

Dodge Demon (2018)

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With only 3,300 units produced, the Demon quickly became one of the most sought-after muscle cars. Some dealerships marked up the price by over $50,000 from its MSRP of around $85,000. The Demon’s drag racing capabilities and its label as the fastest production car contributed to the frenzy.

Chevrolet Corvette C8 (2020)

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When Chevy unveiled the first-ever mid-engine Corvette, demand soared. Some dealers added markups of $10,000 to $30,000 over its starting price of just under $60,000, given its revolutionary design and high demand.

Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (2020)

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With its 760 horsepower and iconic badge, the Shelby GT500 was destined for dealer markups. Some dealers charged premiums of $10,000 to $20,000 over its $70,300 starting price.

Toyota Supra (2020)

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After a long hiatus, the Supra’s return was highly anticipated. With an MSRP starting around $49,990, some dealers added markups of $20,000 or more due to its legendary nameplate and pent-up demand.

Jeep Gladiator Launch Edition (2020)

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As a limited edition model with only 4,190 units, markups of $5,000 to $20,000 over its approximately $60,000 price were seen, thanks to its exclusivity and Jeep’s strong brand loyalty.

Honda Civic Type R (2017)

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As Honda’s performance crown jewel, the Type R saw markups of $10,000 or more over its $34,775 MSRP due to its racing pedigree and limited availability.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (2015)

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Due to its 707 horsepower and relatively affordable MSRP of around $60,000, some dealerships added markups of $15,000 or more.

Kia Telluride (2019-2020)

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An unexpected candidate for markup, the Telluride’s overwhelming demand and high praise led some dealers to add premiums of $5,000 or more over its base price of around $31,890.

Porsche 911 R (2016)

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With only 991 units produced and a reverence for its pure driving experience, prices skyrocketed, with markups often exceeding $200,000 over its $185,000 starting price.

BMW M4 GTS (2016)

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Limited to 700 units in the US, this high-performance M4 variant saw markups of $50,000 to $100,000 over its base price of $134,200 due to its exclusivity and track-focused features.

Ford Focus RS (2016)

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As a hot hatch with rally roots, the Focus RS experienced markups of $5,000 to $15,000 over its roughly $36,000 MSRP because of its high demand among enthusiasts.

Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 (2016)

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As a rare and extreme off-roader with a base price of around $500,000, dealers and resellers marked up this beastly vehicle by hundreds of thousands due to its sheer uniqueness.

Lexus LC 500 (2018)

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This luxury coupe’s blend of performance and style led to demand outpacing supply. Dealers added premiums of $5,000 to $15,000 over its $92,000 base price.

This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.

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Author: Dave Johnston

Dave is a hands-on automotive technician with experience in performing service, diagnostics, and repairs on domestic and imported vehicles. He enjoys writing and sharing his knowledge far and wide.

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