It’s hard not to enter into a used car purchase without a - 22207 - Rob
It’s hard not to enter into a used car purchase without a preconception of skepticism. Toss in the fact that in my recent visit to Smythe Volvo
, I was to closing a purchase that was locked in online from over 200 miles away and came at the end of an Amtrak ride from DC on a dreary, gray day. All the makings of misery were there.
But none of that car purchase dread manifested. The purchase was for a certified used Volvo. It was immaculately prepped; Steve R. from the sales team made the process a simple as possible. The purchase was across state lines with a joint owner in another state. Henry Z. from the finance department was efficient and professional.
It was like a Michelin star dining experience; not only is the product great, but staff are on point to make the most of the whole experience.
You’ll hear the phrase “family-owned” a couple of times here. It’s not just the motto or the pitch; Smythe really seems like a business that has succeeded for a generation or more by embracing a philosophy that customers are treated as if they are at a family gathering. The collection of vintage Volvos only adds to the sense of being in a place that has a proud heritage that it wants to preserve and enhance.
Volvos are not inexpensive (nor are they cheap), but the availability of nationwide online information has made the old dance of “low ball offer - talk to the manager - fist pounding on the table - wash - rinse - repeat” a car purchase experience relic of the past at any quality, reputable, car dealership. The Smythe team does not play that relic of a sales model.
Could I have negotiated the price down a bit more? Maybe, but Michelin star service deserves a commensurate tip.
It is our family’s 3rd Volvo for our almost-grown kids. They are safe and fun, comfortable and reliable.
The Certfied Pre-owned program is one of the best of any manufacturer, and Volvo affinity incentives are like that tiny free appetizer from the Michelin Chef.
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