What does niche car mean?
2 Answers
Niche cars generally refer to models with relatively low ownership and recognition. Typically, these cars have lower resale value and should be purchased with caution. The reasons for caution are as follows: Inconvenient maintenance and repairs: Niche cars usually have fewer 4S dealerships, and correspondingly, fewer maintenance and repair service points. Owners may need to travel long distances for maintenance and repairs, and in some small towns, there may not even be any service points, requiring cross-regional maintenance. This not only wastes time but also fuel costs. Additionally, the maintenance and repair cycles for niche cars tend to be longer than those for popular models. Due to their relatively small market presence, the stock of certain parts may be limited, leading to potential delays in sourcing these parts when needed. Low residual value for used cars: Generally, resale value is directly proportional to market ownership. The higher the sales of a new car, the greater its market presence, and consequently, the higher the residual value of its used version. Niche cars, however, are the opposite.
When it comes to niche cars, I think they're like those lesser-known brands or models that few people talk about, and hardly anyone recognizes them on the street. My friend bought one last year, mainly attracted by its unique design and trendy appearance—it felt full of personality, unlike the common Toyotas and Hondas. But in actual use, there were quite a few hassles: repair parts were hard to find, few local shops could service it, and every maintenance required waiting for parts, costing more than double what a mainstream car would. The resale value was even worse—after three years, the price could drop by more than half. The upside is, if you don’t mind these issues, it can bring a sense of novelty and something to talk about. Nowadays, young people really dig this vibe. But before buying, definitely check if there are service stations nearby—don’t just chase novelty and end up with headaches in daily driving.
