The global auto industry has been showing signs of revival since early 2010 after the last two turbulent years in which auto giant General Motors filed for bankruptcy due to turmoil in the economy. The worst recessionary trends seen in 2009 appear to be on the verge of fading, albeit at a snail’s pace, and consumer spending is yet to return to normal.
The hallmark of the global automotive industry is innovation and we have come a long way from the day the wheel was invented and the first automobile powered. Vehicles like cars and trucks no longer represent status symbols, but have become part of essential needs in developed countries and a growing list of developing countries.
Major players in the auto industry, including Ford, Toyota, General Motors, Hyundai and Suzuki Motors, have launched a range of new models to capture the attention of the consumer, who is saving money to fight the recession.
What should you look for in a vehicle in 2010?
Technological advances have changed and redefined the concept of vehicle design. The insistence on a high level of safety standards and the adoption of greener technologies, along with fuel and energy efficiency, has brought the best of car manufacturers’ design. Energy conservation, fuel economy, comfort, style and affordability are the top things an avid customer looks for in a vehicle in today’s circumstances.
A new model launched by Toyota Motor, the stylish Prius, is one that will catch the eye of the customer. The car is not only unique in that it is a full hybrid electric car, but the looks and styling seem pleasing to say the least. Slightly on the higher side, of course, in cost comparisons, Toyota’s Prius would be a serious contender among the alternatives for a customer looking for that little extra style and comfort on top of fuel economy.
In the luxury class, a large number of manufacturers strive to appeal to the customer who values luxury, style and comfort in addition to fuel economy and safety standards.
BMW, the other name for style in the auto industry, launched a range of vehicles for the style-savvy customer. The new 2010 BMW 5 Series, which has the new V8 engine that is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, is a serious contender in the luxury brand without compromising fuel economy and other interior features.
For connoisseurs of luxury and style, the Audi 8 2010 car model will be a real breakthrough. The unique feature of this extravagant vehicle is the lavish interiors made of leather and wood inlays, and acres of comfort for the passengers, in addition to the elegant appearance and superior performance on the road.
For the nuclear family and upper-middle-middle class segment that is growing at a faster rate in emerging countries, ideal selections would include Scion from Toyota Motor and Honda Civic Si from the Honda Motors stable.
