Blog

The all new Elantra is the top ranked Compact Car in AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Research.  As the class winner, its owners indicate there is little they would change about the car with only a few notable exceptions.  About 30% of Elantra owners want improved visibility (somewhat compromised by the swoopy styling of the new body).  About 25% want more power and a softer ride.  About 20% want more infotainment technology.  Elantra owners most like the Elantra for its seat comfort, styling and exterior size.  Elantra outpoints the second place Volkswagen Golf by a wide margin.

 Compact Car

One of the hottest segments today, the Compact Car segment is very competitive with products being vastly improved over the past few years.  Compact cars today look to offer high fuel economy, the newest technology, and plenty of creature comforts.  Many feel anything but compact inside.  The Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze are two vehicles competing in this segment.

 Ideal Vehicle Award

Each year AutoPacific surveys new car and light truck buyers via mail and Internet about their new vehicle in order to learn more about their purchase experience, attribute importance and satisfaction, lifestyle, preferences, vehicle use, personal characteristics, desired features and more. Respondents to this survey are owners of new 2011 model-year cars and trucks purchased from September through December 2010.  The questionnaire was administered in January and March 2011. The 2011 Ideal Vehicle Awards are based on scores developed using results from a part of this survey that focuses on the consumers’ desire to change their vehicle if given the opportunity.  Respondents rate 15 attributes indicating whether they want them to be changed (larger, smaller, more or less) or not changed (stay the same) after having driven their vehicle for 90 days. Those vehicles wanting the LEAST CHANGE win the IVA for their class.  A total of 72,917 respondents provided input for these awards.