Vehicle Trends of 2010 / Happy New Years

It's been a tough year in the auto industry, with companies being pushed to their limits to produce competition-worthy vehicles in order to stay afloat. In the midst of many recalls (undoubtedly from pushing products out the door too quickly) we have seen numerous changes in the ways companies are designing their vehicles - some great, and others questionable in my opinion...

Fuel Economy

Even though companies have always been aiming to produce fuel efficient cars, never has it been more important than this past year. With the state of the global economy, fuel economy was essentially the largest purchasing factor for most consumers who were overlooking the usual "fun" aspects in favor of saving on petrol. Vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Chevy Cruze Eco and the Hyundai Elantra all have astonishing fuel economy, somewhere in the 40mg range, without having batteries or other nonsense.

More American Cars Getting Turbos

Ford grabbed 2010 by the balls by introducing its lineup of vehicles equipped with "ecoboost" engines. Now sure, other companies have been combining direct injection with forced induction for a long time now, but it's a new concept on American cars. 

Korean Manufacturers Moving Up

If you think you've seen more Kia's and Hyundai's on the street this past year, it's because you have! It seems like they have finally made a big name for themselves with models like the Kia Optema, Hyundai Genesis, Hyundai Sonata, etc. North Americans aren't afraid to have a Korean car in their driveways.

LED Headlights

I'm undecided on whether or not I like this trend. On one hand, I think it looks amazing on the Audi's, but they're bright as hell when you're in oncoming traffic - almost unnaturally bright.  What do you guys think?

I might not post tomorrow or Saturday so I'd like to wish everyone a happy new year, and remember to hang up the keys so you don't get anally violated by the police officer who pulls you over and gives you a DUI. They're everywhere this year. 

So have fun whether you're spending an evening with the Mrs...

Or whether you're out partying with your friends...