Europe injects verve into car lineup to weather US downturn

0 Comments | AFP, January, 2008

DETROIT (AFP) — European carmakers sporting their latest models at the North American International Auto Show, are hoping to maintain a healthy share of the coveted US market, despite a discouraging 2008 economic forecast.

Some 700,000 people paying for a glimpse of hundreds of the world's innovative concept cars are also eager for an eyeful of the more traditional European models, which over the years have come to be synonymous in the United States with power, agility, luxury and performance.

Carmakers from across the pond however, have diversified beyond the plush interiors and smooth styling of their luxury vehicles and are pushing the verve of their tiny hits, including the Mini and Smart at the show, which runs here through January 27.

The US car market...