Post date: Apr 21, 2011 11:11:19 PM
Small cars and greater fuel efficiency are top trends at the 2011 New York Auto Show as the industry tries to meet growing demand for "green" autos.
USA-AUTO SHOW - It's springtime and the New York Auto Show has come to town.
Key trends: size does matter. The latest autos are smaller but smarter says Angus Mac Kenzie, Editor-in-Chief of Motor Trend.
ANGUS MAC KENZIE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, MOTOR TREND SAYING:
"The cars are shrinking slightly but they're getting more space efficient, but definitely fuel efficiency is key. The globalization of the auto industry really has come to the U.S. and also that 40 miles per gallon is the new zero to 60 among automakers."To boost fuel efficiency more diesel engines are popping up, as well as improved four-cylinder engines.
ANGUS MAC KENZIE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, MOTOR TREND SAYING:
"Mercedes Benz has the new C Class coupe here. The entry level point for that car will be a 1.8 liter four-cylinder turbo."
And as Jack Nerad of Kelly Blue Book points out hybrid technology continues to make big strides.
JACK NERAD, EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, KELLY BLUE BOOK, KBB.COM SAYING:
"This is an eco version of the Chevy Malibu, 2012 Chevy Malibu and it uses hybrid techniques in a very cost effective way. It is essentially a mild hybrid."
Other trends include a shift to brighter, more colorful interiors and lower sticker prices to appeal to shoppers in what is still definitely a buyer's market.
JACK NERAD, EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, KELLY BLUE BOOK, KBB.COM SAYING:
"We haven't come near to recovering from where we were about four years ago in terms of overall sales and it doesn't look like we're going to get that kind of recovery even though we are seeing, you know, a pretty significant recovery."
And for drivers that want to hit the road with their favorite high-tech gadgets - car companies have taken notice - making sure their latest designs are tech friendly.
Jeanne Yurman, Reuters