Do we really have more "choice"?

[Crazy Dazz]

It annoys me when people applaud the so-called "increased choice' we supposedly have as a result of successive governments selling Australian workers down the river.

Sure, if you want a juice-box, made in some 3rd world country, the number of available models is impressive. I don't think we've ever before in my lifetime had so many different brands, and even within the same company there are multiple entries. But is that really "choice"?

Sure, if you're looking for a juice-box, and the number of usb points is a big issue. But looking for such a car for my daughter has convinced me that they might as well all be made in the same factory, and simply come with different badges that you can mix and match.

I'm reminded of Ford's famous quip "any colour you want, as along as its black."

Similarly when Ford promises "20 cars by 2020" and "a car for every lifestyle."
So ok, I'd like a large powerful RWD Sedan or wagon!
No sorry, but come back next year and we'll have yet another FWD 4 cylinder for you to try.

At least Ford has retained some self-respect by bringing in the Mustang. Absolute kudos to them for that.
But gees, that still leaves 19 different ways to stick a 4 cylinder into a fwd juice-box.