I've just ordered a new car ready shortly after our arrival next March. The dealer automatically specified the option that removes model and engine size badges from the boot lid. When I asked why he said "if you have a big engine in Switzerland people look at you with big eyes". I was surprised by this. Are people expected to be that discreet?

Of course. De-badged cars have been standard here for 15 years at least. It's nouveau riche to flaunt it...

Blimey. I haven't got a strong opinion either way, just thought it odd that an option, albeit no-cost, was automatically added on the assumption it would be required.

I agree with AbFab, and add that this applies in general life too.

I read somewhere that "debadging" originated in Germany as a result of several kidnappings when families were holidaying in Italy (probably going back to the 1970s/1980s).

That could of course have been some clever marketing story, but it has a practical value - you are less likely to get your car vandalised if you take it to the UK on a visit.

Perhaps it is to prevent their embarassment at having such a gas guzzler...

In the middle of this Swiss info link:
http://www.swissinfo.org/eng/swissin...81&sid=7159690

OK, so removing the engine size badge is more discreet. But what's the reason for removing the model badge?

Mmmmmm. The cheapest petrol in Europe and the highest per capital income might have something to do with this.

I would point out that Switzerland was the first European country to introduce catalytic converters and reduce the speed limits for environmental reasons (though it could be argued that was simply an 'anti-car' move.) [Autobahns 130 > 120kph other out of town roads 100 > 80kph]

Stealth Wealth. It doesn't just apply to cars.

dave

Well the Daihatsu dealer here didn't offer to take of the 1.1 badge from our car.

Shame, as it probably has a better resale value than the car.

dave

Luxembourg on both counts.
Possibly the only place able to make Switzerland look poor and scruffy...

I have been to Luxembourg city once, and would never go again. It was seriously scruffy, shabby and a major disappointment.

dave

Missing badges probably wouldnt "stealth" the hideous huge Dodge Ram thingo luxury SUV wagon that is street parked in Kanzleistrasse, Zurich. The thing is covered in key scratches and phlegm. The owner has put signs up in the windows pleading that it is "only used for work purposes and towing". Not the smartest car to street park in an area frequented by 1st Mai types.

It's the "stealth wealth" thing... even the cities are disguised.

Some a**hole scratched my little car this last weekend.

I have the badge on, it is only a 2 lt.

But I can't debadge the fact that is a beautiful convertible...

I am really impressed.

dave

No, I will not take you for a ride Dave....

One does have standards. That doesnt extend to a 2l GSI Vectra convertible.

It would only mess up my bouffant, in any case.

dave

A Vectra ?!?! Vade retro !

Your bouffant will get all messed up on my little convertible

4 seats...tut tut