Why no smart key on SE model - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Cajun · 05-07-2007, 11:22 AM

I love the smart key on my hybrid camry. Now I'm looking at a new V6 SE and the dealer said its not an option. He said its only available on the hybrid and the XLE.

What's up with that Toyota? I wish they'd do like Nissan did on the Altima and make it standard across all of the models.
Anyone know if he 08s will have smart keys on the SE?

Streaker · 05-07-2007, 05:13 PM

If the SE came with the smart key and other options in the luxury class what would be the incentive to buy the luxury model?

***summerwind*** · 05-07-2007, 07:18 PM

Oh the Toyota Marketing strategy...

If you buy a RAV4 Limited you can order it with a power seat. It is just that ONE power seat for the driver. If you want TWO power seats you need to buy a Highlander..

RAV4's do not come with Homelink. If you want Homelink you 1) buy a Highlander or 2) get a Limited with a moonroof and get a Gentex auto dimming mirror with compass and Homelink

Same with the Camry.
Sport handling is deemed not to be interested in "luxury" accessories.

Does seem to be odd that a company that has a philosophy of reducing inventory and variation would not have Smartkey as an option across all models.

It does cause problems...after driving my XLE for a couple of days I wonder why the doors on my RAV4 don't open when I touch the door handle!!!

***CharmCityES*** · 05-07-2007, 10:52 PM

its all about marketing ana packaging...
CE - affordability
LE - sensable
SE - sporty
XLE - luxury

jaysi09 · 05-08-2007, 12:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CorCamrySE

its all about marketing ana packaging...
CE - affordability
LE - sensable
SE - sporty
XLE - luxury

i agree. its one of their "marketing strategy" to hook buyers into their cars. IMO i just love the feeling to search for the key fob and press the "lock/unlock" button. i dont know why. just because probably.

Cajun · 05-08-2007, 08:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Streaker

If the SE came with the smart key and other options in the luxury class what would be the incentive to buy the luxury model?

The incentive to buy the luxury model is the smooth ride. The incentive for buying the SE is the sporty handling at the cost of a slightly harsher ride.

Streaker · 05-08-2007, 05:17 PM

^^^^ DUH! Thats what I said.

FlopShot · 05-08-2007, 07:17 PM

You can buy the TRD push-button ignition (smart key) on Ebay for $185 and install it yourself.