A recent survey by Consumer Reports shows that only 25 percent of drivers plan to buy a smaller vehicle, mainly because of improved fuel economy, lower maintenance and repair costs, environmental concerns, and improved reliability.
On the other hand, the majority (56 percent) said they expect their next vehicle to be the same size as their current model, while nearly one out of five respondents (19 percent) plan to go bigger.
Researchers found that drivers aged 18-34 years are more likely to upsize. This younger demographic is in their family-starting years, likely motivating the need for more passenger space. At the same time, more than half of this group desires better fuel economy than their current model.
While it is true that some of the large sedans, SUVs and pickups are more fuel-efficient than their predecessors, the actual improvement in gas mileage is likely to be modest.
Meanwhile, older buyers and Northeast residents (where gas prices are higher than in much of the country) are more likely to buy the same size. This is a practical group, looking at their wallet and larger concerns.
On average, drivers said they get 23.0 miles per gallon (10.23 L/100 km) in their current vehicle. When asked about their expectations for their next ride, the median fuel efficiency was 29 mpg (8.11 L/100 km). Those under age 35 were even more optimistic.
Source : Consumer Reports
On the other hand, the majority (56 percent) said they expect their next vehicle to be the same size as their current model, while nearly one out of five respondents (19 percent) plan to go bigger.
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| Photo: Ford |
Researchers found that drivers aged 18-34 years are more likely to upsize. This younger demographic is in their family-starting years, likely motivating the need for more passenger space. At the same time, more than half of this group desires better fuel economy than their current model.
While it is true that some of the large sedans, SUVs and pickups are more fuel-efficient than their predecessors, the actual improvement in gas mileage is likely to be modest.
Meanwhile, older buyers and Northeast residents (where gas prices are higher than in much of the country) are more likely to buy the same size. This is a practical group, looking at their wallet and larger concerns.
On average, drivers said they get 23.0 miles per gallon (10.23 L/100 km) in their current vehicle. When asked about their expectations for their next ride, the median fuel efficiency was 29 mpg (8.11 L/100 km). Those under age 35 were even more optimistic.
Source : Consumer Reports