So long, SUV: high fuel prices fuel shift in US car sales

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2008

DETROIT, Michigan (AFP) — Automotive trends traditionally don't change nearly as fast as fashions in clothing or music.

But as sales of new vehicles in April dropped to their lowest level since the 1992, raw numbers also indicated US consumers were -- at warp speed -- foregoing beloved trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) for mid-sized and compact cars and hybrids with better fuel economy.

"Smaller vehicles are going over big," said Toyota Motor Sales president Jim Lentz. "With oil prices at record levels, compact cars and hybrids continue to lead the way," Lentz said.

Japanese brands, such as Honda, Nissan Subaru and Suzuki, also reported sales increase last month as consumers opted for small cars.

Overall, Autodata reported that despite a weak...