2010 Cleveland Auto Show Preview

If you haven't noticed, I've been on a car kick lately. Such a car kick that I might make a side business out of consulting for people, actually. But, that's neither here nor there for now...I'm pumped for the Auto Show this weekend. Why? Not only am I madly in love with two cars that will be at the show, but both my parents are in the car market...and I get to help sell them on a car. So, for that reason, I'm going to be looking very closely at new cars that will not only be good for me, but for my parents as well. (50+ would-be empty nesters if this 23 year old wasn't saving every penny he possibly can for a new car and house...but I digress.)

Cars for me:

-2012 Ford Focus - I've been over this already. This was the leader in the clubhouse for me a month ago, however the Cruze has closed the gap significantly for several reasons that I'll explain next. The Focus is the "it" car of this year's Auto Show and I can't wait to see it. I own a '03 Focus and if it had more features in it, I wouldn't be in such a rush to upgrade to the new model...I'd run it until it dies. However, mine is pretty bare bones and I want the creature comforts of a nicer model. This is going to be a world-class car that people will be talking about upon its release next year.

-2011 Chevy Cruze - the "other" apple of my eye. Originally a distant second to the Focus but several factors have closed the gap (I like the more powerful snout of the car over the Focus' more sporty but less assertive snout, for example). The Cruze is growing on me due to the fact that GM has worked the bugs out of the vehicle by releasing it in other countries first and refining it for U.S. release...the Focus comes out in the U.S. first, so it may have some kinks to work out. Also, for as much press the Focus is getting, the Cruze is also a world-class vehicle. It may turn out that both cars are about even.

-VW Jetta TDI - a dark horse candidate for me since I like domestics...but if gas prices rise higher than the price of diesel fuel, I'll be looking at the TDI for its phenomenal gas mileage and torque, plus creature comforts.

-Hyundai Tucson - dark horse as well...this compact SUV is brand new and VERY nice...however, I'm not sure I'd want to sacrifice the fuel economy of a smaller car for the extra size, snow traction and convenience of an SUV. This is one I'm going to keep an eye on, though.

For Mom:

-Chevy Malibu: It's been out for awhile so there's not much to say that hasn't already been said. It's a very nice car that I'd like my parents to consider as a family vehicle. It's much nicer than the Accord and Camry, for all those people who like imports.

-Ford Fusion: See above, except the Fusion is more exciting right now (the next Malibu might change that, however). Also, it's been updated more recently than the Malibu, so its refinement might be higher.

-Mazda5: She drives a Town and Country currently, and its added storage capacity and space has proven useful for us, it may be hard to give it up...but a minivan is not necessary, so a smaller Multi-Person Vehicle (MPV) of this size might be in order.

-2011 Buick Regal: Dark horse for my mom since it's a bit pricey for her...but this car is nice and sporty...VERY nice and sporty.

-Hyundai Sonata - the new one has received rave reviews and gets phenomenal gas mileage. I would love to see this in person and see how Momma Ammo likes it.

-Hyundai Tucson - see my previous explanation of it.

-Chevy Equinox - the nicest small/midsize SUV bar none. Period. However, the Tucson's priced significantly less.

-Ford Escape - Still a nice small SUV but is growing long in the tooth...still nice enough to get serious consideration if my mom wants something other than a car again.

For Dad:

Buick LaCrosse - he has an '08 Cadillac DTS with a lot of miles on it that he's looking to turn in...the LaCrosse is a very nice car that I'm trying to persuade him to seriously consider. Can't wait to see this in person.

Buick Regal - Unlike my mom, this car won't be out of his price range. But, it may be too small. He didn't like the size of the Cadillac CTS and this car's size is similar.

Lincoln MKS - Basically, a Ford clone of his DTS, with a nicer ride.

Ford Taurus - It's a MKS for less...the differences between a loaded Taurus and a MKS are nominal but the price is sizably different.

Lincoln MKZ - He said he may be looking to downsize, so why not a mid-size luxury sedan?

Ford Fusion - see the Taurus/MKS explanation. The MKZ and Fusion are basically the same car with a significant price difference.

Lastly:

OF COURSE I can't wait to see the new Mustang, Chevy Volt, and other cars I can only dream about right now...but these are the ones I'm looking at as a buyer. Still...this is going to be a VERY exciting show to attend!