What most people this side of the pond cannot understand is that most of these companies seem to have problems with by US standards smaller cars. However most of the companies produce good small cars in Europe. Why didn't they increase production in Europe for export which would keep the dealerships going and profits up while retooling / designing new cars in the USA.
The Ford lineup in Europe is second to none in value and as good as the best in quality. The Mondeo is the car of the year in most peoples books, my neighbour has bought the new Fiesta and its a very smart car, plus if you want a small car, the Ka has just been replaced with a new design . On top of this the Focus (different to the US version) has been the best seller for years.
GM also do an excellent range of cars with some innovative designs yet I understand from people I know in the USA that they either don't exist in the USA or are very hard to find.
There must be some logic somewhere but damned if I can find it.