The big car trend going small.

1 July 2006

The big car trend seems to be getting small, that is, the massive SUVs introduced in the 90s, and swallowed up by Americans, may be taking a back-seat to smaller, more affordable and more environmentally friendly, automobiles.

Don’t believe it? I don’t blame you. SUVs are everywhere, and it seems every other commercial totes the offroad capabilities of vehicles that will spend their lives “onroad”. So where does my statement come from? Well, $3.00 for a gallon of gas has people talking, and to understand the trends we need only look at the people who listen. That is, examine the offerings of today’s car manufacturers. More than ever, automobile companies are listening to the public’s wants, and creating vehicles to appease them. That’s just smart business.

And what are the manufacturers hearing. Well, if it’s any indication, more and more affordable, and smaller, vehicles are being introduced that get much better gas milage than the large SUVs.

Want proof? Honda will release the Fit, a 5-door version running $13,850, next year. Toyota’s now got the Yaris, various styles are available, the lowest base price being $10,950.

The Americans are on board too. Dodge has the new Caliber that starts at $13,985.

“But car makers have always had the smaller more affordable vehicles to offer” you say. True, no doubt.

But think about this, the absolutely tiny SmartCar (by DaimlerChrysler) will be introduced to the U.S. market in 2008. This vehicle is about 9 feet long, and gets almost 70 miles to the gallon (average of 40mpg overall). It will sell for under $15,000, and will be a version of its “fortwo” model.

Still not convinced? How about, Dodge can’t make their new Calibers fast enough to keep up with sales?

The truth is, smaller cars are already the new trend. Car makers have adjusted for our desire for more options in affordable, efficient, vehicles. And it’s a trend that will be beneficial to our wallets and planet.

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