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Comment by metadat | Hacker News Reader

Interesting claim considering Tesla's are often referred to as the California Camry. Why isn't Toyota or Subaru included on the list of Luxury vendors? The ride experience as a passenger is similar.

CEO political struggles aside, Tesla's have some nice features, but the build quality, decor, and creature comforts are basic and not seriously competitive with the likes of BMW or Mercedes.

No offense intended, you're of course free to like what you like and I affirm the validity of your feelings in advance.

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> Why isn't Toyota or Subaru included on the list of Luxury vendors? The ride experience as a passenger is similar.

Because the "luxury" segment is hard to define. The BMW 3 series has a similar problem. The entry level versions have synthetic materials that are a lower grade than some upper trims of Honda Accord or Nissan Altima.

The build and paint quality of Accord are likely better in many cases and the car feels very solid.

But there are other reasons to rank a BMW 3 series as luxury when an Accord doesn't get the same classification.

Similar principles apply.

I would suppose that luxury in this case refers to the price point not comfort levels.

Agreed. Build quality that no VW owner would accept. Calling the interior design "minimalist" is an insult to IKEA.

> Why isn't Toyota or Subaru included on the list of Luxury vendors?

Japanese auto makers have luxury brands like Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti.

I'm aware. Tesla vehicle luxury levels remain comparable to a Toyota, at best. Toyota build quality is probably better on average.

> Why isn't Toyota or Subaru included on the list of Luxury vendors?

Sounds like you should be asking for Tesla to be removed rather than Toyota to be added.

Such a downgrade is probably warranted, and would be both deserved and amusing.

California (or silicon valley) Prius is the other moniker I've heard

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