In previous generations, small SUVs like the Honda Fit wouldn’t have the same appeal as they do today. Baby boomers grew up in a time of economic prosperity. In those days, the bigger the car, the better. That’s why you saw Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Corvettes selling as fast as they could be produced. If these drivers weren’t buying Mustangs, they were looking at muscle cars, microbuses, all kinds of other iconic vehicles.
It wasn’t long before this post-World War II generation started making families of their own. By the late 1970s, vehicles like the minivan, Jeep, and SUV started to take over. While powerful cars were a sign of independence for baby boomers in their younger years, they soon moved towards family vehicles that offered more space, utility, and safety features.
Now, baby boomers have mostly moved on to their next stage of life. The kids are out of the house, and the need for a spacious family vehicle is waning. These boomers are now leading active lifestyles where they require mobility and flexibility. One weekend might be spent taking the grandkids to the park, while the following is a trip out of state.
A New Trend of Downsizing
Boomers are now looking at compact crossovers as their primary mode of transportation. These downsized vehicles offer tons of luxury features, a host of customization options, and incredible fuel economy. With modern features like surround-view cameras, parking sensors, self-parking, built-in navigation, etc., even older drivers can feel confident on the road.Aging drivers are actually one of the biggest motivators for more autonomous driving vehicles. Going out to lunch with friends, visiting family, or simply making doctor’s appointments no longer need to be hindered by arthritis or other issues that come with aging.
Older drivers may make up a large portion of new car buyers, but they aren’t the only ones looking to downsize their rides. The biggest reason drivers claim to be looking at smaller vehicles is to save money. Smaller cars not only have lower price tags, but they also reduce costs at the pump. There is also the reduction of environmental impacts with fewer emissions being released into the atmosphere.
Even with all of the logistical benefits of downsizing, smaller vehicles are also fun to drive. They offer great handling and can still pack quite the punch under the hood. Of course, that doesn’t mean larger and more rugged vehicles are going anywhere, but more incredible downsized options are available every year.
Top Downsizing Options On The Road Today
There are countless compact and subcompact vehicles on the market today. While there are plenty of awesome options out there, some vehicles stand out above the rest:
The Honda Fit
Drivers who love versatility are huge fans of the Honda Fit. This subcompact hatchback offers more cargo space than it appears from the outside. Thanks to the innovative Honda Magic Seat, the Honda Fit can handle hauling objects of all shapes and sizes. On top of that, this amazing vehicle earns an exceptional 40 mpg highway, and it is loaded with tons of modern features.
The Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V may not be as flashy as some of the other compact SUVs on the road, but it offers everything a pragmatic driver needs. This is the smallest vehicle in the entire Honda lineup and even comes with the amazing Magic Seat. Fold and adjust the second row to allow for cargo other compact SUVs simply can’t handle.
The Hyundai Kona
The Kona may be relatively new to the Hyundai lineup, but it’s earned a remarkable reputation. This crossover catches attention with its bold styling and potent turbocharged engine. It may not offer the passenger and cargo space that you’ll find in other SUVs in this class, but its abundance of available features makes it an excellent option.
If you’re in the market for a more fuel-efficient vehicle, nearly every manufacturer makes something worthy of downsizing.
Whether you’re into the versatile Honda Fit or want something like the Mazda CX-30, Kia Soul, or Volkswagen Taos, there is a smaller vehicle option for everyone. Stop by your favorite auto dealer and see how a downsized vehicle feels around you.
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