: The second vehicle was typically a base-model sub-compact with minimal features, like a Mitsubishi Mirage or a Kia Rio .
: Giving away small, fuel-efficient cars helped manufacturers offset the environmental impact of their high-emission SUVs in official sales figures. buy one car get one free 2017
In 2017, the automotive market was characterized by an abundance of inventory, particularly sedans, as consumer preferences shifted toward SUVs and trucks. To combat this and meet aggressive annual sales goals, dealerships utilized "Buy One, Get One Free" (BOGO) promotions as a high-impact marketing tactic. While these offers appeared revolutionary, they were often complex financial maneuvers designed to clear slow-moving stock while maximizing dealer profit. The Mechanics of the "Free" Car : The second vehicle was typically a base-model
: Even if the second car was free, it created a new customer relationship for service plans, extended warranties, and future trade-ins. Consumer Reality Check To combat this and meet aggressive annual sales
: It allowed dealers to move two pieces of "stagnant metal"—often a sedan and a large SUV—off the lot simultaneously.