Traditionally the small car segment has been reserved for first-time car buyers or for those that don’t want to spend the extra money for the size and the amenities of a larger vehicle. However, that trend is certainly changing and anyone wanting evidence of that can simply take a look at what’s on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Ford is clearly leading the way on the small car front. Not only did the automaker have an over the top launch for the Ford Fiesta at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, but Ford went on to Detroit to unveil the slightly larger 2012 Ford Focus. Featuring European styling and a number of all-new technologies that are unavailable with the current model, the next Focus will certainly provide more than the average small car when it arrives early next year.
Chevrolet has also been focusing on compact cars in recent months. Like Ford, Chevy used the LA Auto Show to showoff another compact, the all-new Chevy Cruze which will compete directly with the Focus. Making even bigger news in Detroit however was the Chevy Aveo RS concept. Clearly not too far off from being a production model, the Aveo RS features sporty styling and an improved interior that can best be described as being a far more interesting car than the existing Aveo. Although it’s just a concept, the Aveo RS gives consumers a sneak peak into the next generation Aveo subcompact which is due to enter production in early 2011.
Chrysler also made news surrounding the compact category. For starters, the automaker will soon launch a range of all-new four-cylinder engines that will provide outstanding fuel economy without sacrificing power. Chrysler also committed to bringing the stylish Fiat 500 to Chrysler showrooms soon.
These new vehicles not only mark a new strategy among automakers, but it also marks new demands among consumers. Concerns over rising fuel costs had previously reinvigorated small car sales, but with gas prices now stabilized, the demand continues for other reasons. More consumers are interested in maintaining high-mileage, but consumers also want to downsize without giving up quality, amenities, or style. This is what has fueled vehicles like those just mentioned as they may be small, but they’re not the typical economy cars that we’ve seen in the past.
Today’s car buyers are eager not only for fuel-efficiency, but they also want to see innovative technologies and improved build quality in the next generation of small cars. Despite recent troubles, the Big Three seem more than capable of providing exactly that.
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