According to CNW Marketing Research’s data, those surveyed considered interior conveniences such as heated seats and cup holders a higher priority than fuel economy. And GM’s research said that fuel economy ranked third behind styling and value. No word on where driving dynamics, technology or performance rank but being that it’s GM, i.e., middle America, this comes as little surprise.
The hell with performance. It’s all going out the window the minute the 380 lb. driver climbs on board. And anyway, ever see those Ford adverts where they find a “real Chevrolet driver” and offer him an Expedition for a short trial period?
“OH I LOVE IT. THE EXPEDITION IS SO MUCH BETTER. IT HANDLES GREAT.”
Handles great?
Fuel is so cheap here in America, I’m not surprised fuel economy isn’t everyones first agenda. I’m not saying fuel should be more expensive, but American cars in general have: big low performance engines are big and heavy = fuel guzzling. Even most imported cars are redesigned for the American market, my Mitsubishi’s European and Asian spec counter parts have smaller engines, significantly greater performance, and better fuel economy, assuming you dont drive (too) fast.
Personally I dont care about fuel economy myself, but if Alex’s article about oil decline is right, maybe introducing more efficient cars to America like our European and Asian cousins might help.