Auto sales are weak, two major American manufacturers have gone bankrupt and the housing market has yet to find a bottom. Although the boys in Washington believe that the economic data being relayed back is hinting at a turnaround, I am not so sure if we are out of the woods, yet.
With that said, the American auto manufacturers have been releasing a bevy of new products. But, I want to know what you guys think is the star.
Ford’s Taurus is back and coming to the fight with its legacy, performance-oriented SHO. Although it is another step for the debt-laden manufacturer, it will get hairy as prices are quite high. Granted, it is aiming to take down the likes of BMW’s 5-series and Audi A6. Too expensive for an American sedan? Time will tell.
With sales down nearly 11 percent for June, Ford is weathering the storm much better than many of its global counterparts. Sales of the Fusion and Flex were record breaking for June; the company is gaining momentum with new, innovative product.
General Motor’s is not fairing out so well with sales down nearly 34 percent for June. But that has not gotten the bruised brand down. Sales of the new Camaro and Aveo are keeping the firm’s hopes up.
Is the new Camaro the savior? Could it be the 2010 sport-ute, Equinox? Something tells me that although the Cadillac CTS wagon may be a good car, it is not excellent timing. Particularly when many auto builders are abandoning wagons and bringing in a new, GT segment.
One car that has struck my fancy is the new Chevrolet Spark. Set to hit U.S. shores after 2010’s first quarter, it is a nice looking vehicle that will provide competition to Honda’s Fit and Scion’s portfolio. If GM can hold out that long, this car could be what brings Detroit life, especially if it does well in European markets.
Certainly the hardest hit, Chrysler, slipped 42 percent in June. Hopefully, the return of Fiat to the U.S. – with the tiny 500 – will put the brakes on this slide, but, those Italians always seem to be taking their time. So, who knows?
One car that has a lot of potential and made quite an impression on me during the New York International Auto Show was the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Materials and build quality were astounding but it will be interesting to see how it actually drives, assuming the firm is still around.
Amidst the great tumbling of the former big three, good products are still being turned out. What remains to be seen is a truly stand out vehicle that will stir up the consumer’s lust and desire.
What do you think, Spies?
2010 BMW X6M X5M Photo Gallery
2009 Concours on Rodeo Photo Gallery
2010 Ford Taurus and Taurus SHO Photo Gallery