Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Trend: Small cars, Big Luxury


At this past years North American International Auto show in Detroit the Ford Motor Company's Lincoln brand displayed a radically different concept that gained the attention of automotive journalists worldwide. This concept was not fueled by recycled atomic waste nor could it fly. What was so interesting was its aim to shatter the American car buyers expectation of luxury.




The Concept was named simply "C' after its C-segment size. For those unfamiliar with this jargon, the size in comparable to the Ford Focus. This vehicle, however, is no Focus as it is loaded with technology, goodies, and dramatic styling. While its exterior looks are not a home run in my opinion, the idea of a small luxury car from a brand that is known for selling cars that should be equipped with bow and stern lights is evidence that times are changing.

In rebuttal to the Lincoln's C concept, General Motors released a teaser for a small Buick that seems to go toe to toe with the pint sized Lincoln. While Lincoln's concept was on display and tangible, Buick's is merely a drawing and a dream. Even still, it looks good and could potentially be a hit if the decide to build it. Perhaps my favorite feature is the glass roof that can become opaque at the flip of a switch. Check out the full video below.



So what do you think? Will Americans accept small luxury vehicles or continue to demand the land yachts we are accustomed to today?

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