Do people really surprise their spouses with new cars for Christmas as in those TV commercials? ~

Most people would know what kind of car their spouse is interested in....and I’ve set up meetings with a dealership, but I wouldn’t just go ahead and complete the deal unilaterally.
These days with creative leasing and financing options, it can be easier to swing a deal where you could get 2 new cars/trucks into your driveway for Christmas.....but it will probably end up costing you considerably more in the long run.

I knew a couple in Texas who did such a thing. He worked constantly. She shopped for a living. They were well off. She traded nice things for all the time he worked. It seemed to work for them. I know they are still together. I felt sorry for their kids. Gifts don't replace time. I don't think they ever learned that.

I was once married to a very material person. He had a hole deep inside his soul that could never be filled be it with love or material goods. He remains that way even now. It is very sad. He doesn't even realize how empty he is.

I always assumed it was aimed at people who thought they were better off than they actually were

That's kind of an off the wall gift. I'd rather get her a puppy