First and foremost, let me point out that this review is strictly of the facilities, internet sales department, and the financing department. I haven't had any experience with the service department yet, but I'll be sure to write a review when I do.
Something I've noticed here on yelp and other reviewing websites, people hate pretty much every car dealership or repair shop in existence. My theory is that people have these preconceived notions and unbelievably high expectations that, of course, none of these places can ever live up to. That, or the only time people review such places is to whine. This is unfortunate because it makes places like Toyota Direct look bad and, after my experience, I find that really saddening.
The facilities:
I arrived on the lot to find it was much bigger than I expected. Organized in a fashion that makes it easy to walk around and explore the many car options, the lot is a sight to see. The building is open and bright with plenty of seating for waiting on car servicing or meetings with the financial staff. The receptionist who greets you just inside the door is pleasant and very helpful. She alos makes a pretty good cup of coffee I came to find out today.
I'm including the website under "the facilities" because that was my first interaction with Toyota Direct. It's well organized, sharp, and has many very helpful clicky links and is easy to navigate. All important things when you are starting your car shopping online.
The internet sale department:
Greg Gee was fantastic. He had the car ready and waiting for me when I arrived. Ready to show me all its fun features and practical points. He answered all my questions before I even knew I had them, honestly. During the test drive we chatted about the manual transmission, the power to RPM ratio, the TV show TopGear, and the choices for financing. It was probably the most enjoyable and least awkward test drive I have ever been on. Greg is such a friendly guy and so very not typical car salesman in that he isn't pushy at all that he made me comfortable and took away much of the stress of buying.
The financing department:
I cannot say enough good things about Perry Singh. He is a patient, friendly, incredibly helpful financial world genius. With a few things from me (paystubs, a current billl, etc), he was able to find the financing company that would not only finance me and my student loan debted self, but also one that would finance me for much less than I had expected or been quoted by any other dealership. He always greeted me with a nice smile, a handshake, and by name, showing that I wasn't just someone on a piece of paper making him money. I don't know about you, but I seriously value that in sales and financing people.
The long and short of it, if you are in need of a nice used car and fancy a Toyota, definitely take a gander at what Toyota Direct has to offer. read more