What Cars Will Your Kids Buy – Automotive Patterns and Trends
Think about the incredible change we’ve seen in the automotive industry over the past ten years with the introduction of EV platforms, various levels of autonomous driving (I still remember Volvo showing me the tech a decade ago here in Detroit). So what automotive patterns and trends can we glean from past auto reviews and what we’re seeing going forward?
Not buying your dads car – what does that mean for the SUV?
Over the past two years I’ve driven some amazing full size SUV’s…for example:
- 2023 Genesis GV80: Absolutely stunning 3.5 liter V6 platform with legendary styling. Doesn’t get much classier and better than the GV80 – I still smile thinking about it.
- 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy: under 50k for a completely loaded SUV, I can’t recommend this enough if you’re looking for a family ride with style (felt the same way with the 2024 edition btw).
- 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV Limited: If you’re looking for a plug-in option, this is where you start (see above). It’s all about options with Hyundai (and they do it better than most)
- 2024 Lexus TX 350: I actually prefer this to the Grand Highlander version from Toyota – Lexus projects a certain style and attitude, and it’s been fun to see them redefine it…keeping it fresh without losing its style points.
- 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited: Okay, I know what I wrote about the Lexus – but when you see it in all white…damn. Just check it out. Might have to revisit this one again.
So obviously we’ve seen some amazing SUV’s, and the segment continues to grow – but what about the 20 something just starting out, what are they buying?
I’m a big believer that autos are still an expression of freedom, no matter how much we try to emphasize the “utility” component. The next generation might very well go with something other than the SUV they grew up riding in – maybe we see people gravitate back to the mini-van? What about sedans? I’ve spent some time in a couple that come to mind:
- 2024 Lexus G90 AWD 3.5 T E-supercharger: Okay, I’m just showing off here…this ride is absolutely stunning. Look at the visual cues, and the actual ride is incredible with well 375hp and an attitude on the road that I’d put up against any platform out there. But can you get that look in an SUV? NOPE. Will we ever see James Bond driving an SUV? NOPE.
- 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL: I love the clean styling of this car, and for under 30k? Where else you going to find a true 4 door that gets you close to 40mph on the freeway. Such a great car for anyone starting out.
Automotive Trends – Is The Sedan coming back?
So does the young generation go back to sedans? I think it’s going to be part of the discussion along with more CUV’s and EV’s – great example is the 2023 Genesis GV70 Electrified AWD Prestige. Styling, functional and a true SUV. I had people stopping me and asking about it. That’s a mark of a top level platform.
Is there any easy answer in automotive trends going forward? Absolutely not. The economic disruption of the EV transition (or inclusion as part of the portfolio for any automaker) means consumers will – believe it or not – change their minds occasionally and move in a direction we can’t anticipate.
That’s part of what makes it an interesting time. The next generation of auto purchasers are going to have more choices and options than any time in history. Will they be loyal to brands? Will they choose EV’s simply because they want to go electric and support the concept behind it? I think we’re going to see a return to hybrid technology (should’ve never left), and focus diversified platforms. And we’ll definitely discuss it on my podcast: CLICK HERE
Bottom line: What cars will your kids buy? Hard to say. But they’ll speak with their wallets – and that part of the equation will NEVER change.
