Strategic Vision is a research-based consultancy that recently announced its 2009 Total Value Index, which contains figures that could help sales of used Toyotas in New Jersey, hurt new model sales or both.

To prepare the Total Value Index, researchers consulted more than 48,000 car shoppers who bought a vehicle between September 2008 and March 2009. The total value calculation considers customer expectations, predicted fuel economy, price, estimated resale value and innovation. These variables are weighed and then used to measure ownership experience, also referred to as True Value.

For the first time in the history of the index, Toyota did not have a leader in any segment.

“Toyota provides buyers the security needed to make the purchase,” said Dr Darrel Edwards, Strategic Vision’s founder. “However, with so many manufacturers inspired by Toyota improving in perceived quality, customers have a wider range of options to choose from in our current economic climate. This allows them to find both value and love in their new vehicle.”

It seems used Toyotas in New Jersey and elsewhere are the models that generated the best results in past Strategic Vision indices, which could improve sales of pre-owned cars and hurt the popularity of new vehicles.