Even though falling sales, fluctuating gas prices, and financial uncertainty cast their shadows, the Paris Auto Show was a glimmer of light. What cars are most likely to come out of all this and which ones will we be likely to see stateside? I asked Jody Victorto let us in on some of the most likely candidates for the US market.
Jody Victor: Big auto manufacturers think that the American trend of buying smaller and more fuel efficient cars is here to stay. Whether it be a Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa or Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class - all sales of these vehicles are up. Out of the Paris Auto Show there are cars you may see in the months/years to come. In general they are smaller and more fuel efficient.
It's a near certainty that this one will be here soon, the feisty-looking new Ford Fiesta has been well trailed already.
Bet on this one. The BMW X1, still officially a concept at this show, is an SUV based on the 1-series that launched in the US earlier this year. Automakers think that these mini-SUVs are the way forward - the flexibility, commanding driving position, and go-anywhere feel that buyers like, but in a small and efficient package.
Very likely to be comming soon, the MINI Crossover Concept is another of the small SUV idea. A bit more fanciful, this concept had all sorts of wacky accoutrements but it's not just for fun.
Possibly by 2010 this concept may be showing up here. The Nissan NuVu has a "secret" propulsion technology that is as far down to earth as it gets, with a 75 mile range and 75 mph top speed.
Thanks, Jody! What a cool assortment to look forward to!