Bear in mind this is almost entirely caused by the stupidity of the American consumer. You can also lease cars like you’re describing, and you can also buy a used Honda Civic for under $20k that will last you forever and you can get loans on more reasonable terms. People just don’t do those because they see they can get a really nice car for an “affordable” monthly price and get stars in their eyes.
Bear in mind this is almost entirely caused by the stupidity of the American consumer. You can also lease cars like you’re describing, and you can also buy a used Honda Civic for under $20k that will last you forever and you can get loans on more reasonable terms. People just don’t do those because they see they can get a really nice car for an “affordable” monthly price and get stars in their eyes.