I bought a Titan two weeks ago, through
www.carsdirect.com . I can say that after that experience, I strongly believe that car dealerships with commissioned salesmen have outlived their usefullness for those of us who have internet access. We still need warranty repair shops and test drives, but other than that, the dealer isn't needed.
My local Nissan dealer couldn't touch the price that carsdirect gave me. Not only were they lacking the right feature combination, but they wouldn't look off of the lot for one that fit. I drove home and filled out the online form.
The next morning (Monday), I got a phone call. The exact Titan I wanted wasn't available, but Melissa worked with me for about 15 minutes until we found one that was suitable. I could drive (45 mi.) and pick up the car any time that day, or have it delivered for no extra cost a couple days later. My friend who recommended carsdirect opted for delivery. I was impatient, so I went and got it.
So, instead of spending time discussing price, I spent 15 minutes filling out a form, and 15 minutes discussing colors and features. Buying a car is now almost as easy as ordering a CD online.
As an FYI, I opted to drive and pick up the pickup. The lady who helped fill out the paperwork had done this several times already that day, so it was very easy. She also works with their own online system. She did confess, after prying, that had we clicked the option to get a dealer pricing instead of the fixed carsdirect price that we would have paid less. We were already below the "invoice" price, and I was pleased enough with the vehicle that I didn't want to break my commitment to buy the Titan at the price I was there for.
CG