Auto owners in the United States are likely to buy vehicles that exhibit good fuel economy, according to a survey conducted by Consumer Reports. The magazine publisher said that of the 1,702 car owners interviewed, 37 percent of them said fuel economy will be their main concern this year when buying their next vehicle. Around 17 percent of the respondents said that quality was their top concern. Around 16 percent, meanwhile, believe that safety is their main concern, while 14 percent see value as the primary factor in buying their next car. Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted the survey in April 2012.
The results of the survey conducted by Consumer Reports reaffirmed findings in similar studies, which show that due to the rising gasoline prices, consumers prefer car that offers good fuel economy. A similar study conducted by Consumer Reports in summer 2009 reflected similar results, with 46 percent of new-car buyers considering fuel economy as their main concern.
Jeff Bartlett, deputy auto editor of Consumer Reports, said an e-mail to Bloomberg that the results show clearly that high fuel prices continue to impact driver behavior and influence future purchase consideration. Bartlett said that the results suggest a market shift by buyers seeking respite over rising fuel prices. Vehicle buyers are very much active this year, as researcher Autodata Corp. predicts that car and light truck sales in the US will reach 14.3 million units. If the trend continues, US annual sales will be on track to post a third straight gain of at least 10 percent.
