The automotive market is in obvious change right now and has been for the past several years. We have seen the evolution of autos more so in the past twenty than the prior eighty years. New categories such as the SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) and the CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) are two such categories.

Honda CR-V

Many are just now noticing the class known as CUVs. This is made up of such autos as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Edge and Chevy HHR. I recently realized how much I like this class of automobile. After test driving a CR-V, I realized what makes them so popular. You have the ride height closer to an SUV yet the comfort from a car chassis and gas mileage of one as well in many cases. Even the all new Ford Flex boarders this class in my book being that it's based on the Volvo XC90 chassis and gets similar mileage, along with having a front-wheel drive configuration.

Ford Edge

So where is the market stacking up in these respective classes. Well according to the numbers recently released from my friends at SEMA, some are doing better than others. One thing we know is people are waking up to the realization that gas in America will likely never be in the $2-3 range again. Not that I'm surprised as we have been paying less than any of the first-world countries. Do remember that if you have a soccer team as a family then you are sure to find excellent deals on Expeditions, Yukons, Sequoias and alike right now.

Notice that compared to popular belief, all manufacturers are suffering. People's lack of love for the large SUV does not segregate by "domestic" or "import". If anything I see larger decreases on models with worse fuel economy. For example; a friend owns a FJ Cruiser and he was floored when he realized the best he could pull was 15mpg. Likewise I had a friend that was amazed he averaged upwards of 19mpg from his Jeep Liberty.

Now we see the sales trend of the CUV class. Some have lost a bit of ground while others are seeing exponential growth 2007 to 2008. We must also factor that some models are new to market while others have been available for a few years now.

As I have said before, the need for a vehicle to handle rough roads, larger cargo loads and passenger space will never change. These class of autos will be here until autos go extinct. All I ask is that you consider your car buying on necessity over desire. If you live alone in the city, a Hummer might not be the wisest choice. There are easier ways to stand out in the crowd than to have the "I don't care what gas costs" mentality.

Knowledge is key, know your carbon footprint and what you can do to shrink it.

Happy Motoring,

Lance

The end of a wonderful season is among us. Traditionally we recognize Labor Day as the last big weekend of Summer where I'm from. While this marks the end of kid's freedom from school and fun times at the lake, it's not so the end for car shows. I have listed a few events this weekend to accommodate your staycation plans.

The top of my list is the 15th Annual Red Line Corvette Car Show

This show is the top of my list in part because it's for a good cause. They're working in conjunction with Thousand Oaks Police Department to bring this, the 15th annual show on September 14th (Sunday). This event helps support the T.O. Police Explorer Program and Hospice of Conejo Valley.

They will have entertainment, food & drink as well as vendors on hand.

For registration and additional information click here: Red Line Corvettes Car Show

This weekend Ventura Village Rods will be hosting the Harbor 18 Car Show. This show is also on Sunday and starts at 8am. Parking is open on the grass to the first 250 cars and entries must be 1975-model year or older. Entry fee is $20 and proceeds go to local charities.

This event will have local vendors, food, prize drawings and more!

Find out more here: Ventura Vintage Rods Show

Last is the All-Chevy Car Show in Burbank hosted by The San Fernando Valley Region of VCCA. This event will be held Sunday on Olive St. in Burbank.

For more information click here: SFV All-Chevy Car Show.

Enjoy,

Lance

Many moons ago I remember summer days of riding a mini bike along the old railroad tracks. It was a simple means of transportation, a tubular frame with Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine. Yes, those were the days when helmets were optional and gas was cheap.

Recently I came across something that was somewhat f a throwback to my youth. It's called a Ruckus and at first sight it looks like a barely legal mini-bike. Well that's exactly what it is! They deliberately gave this rugged scooter a bare-bones look to draw the attention of the tuner scene. This strategy has worked. Many of us that don't care for the look or stigma of your average scooter. This ride balanced a look between rugged and hipness. It carries a 4 stroke, 49cc motor and starts out at $2300.

Now machismo lacking aside, I dig the retro scooter rather it be a Lambretta or contempo Vespa. I wouldn't trade my Yamaha R1 in for these smaller two-wheel options, but do think they are "cute". They are the ideal means of transportations in most European and third-world countries. Places where our ego doesn't interfere with our choices in transportation.

Scooter Riding Pros:

Imagine getting anywhere from 45-100 MPG!
Easy parking in densely populated cities and neighborhoods.
Very low maintenance and annual operation costs.

Scooter Cons:

Not so ideal as a grocery getter.
Unsafe and hassle to utilize in rainy conditions.
Forget it if your are going on a date or have a family.

I chalk anything on two-wheels as a great second source for transportation. It's a good way to offset that SUV in your driveway for runs to the gym or beach. They are also excellent for big city and college campus living. either way, there is only a certain time in ones life that a scooter makes sense.

Happy Motoring,

Lance