The Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Honda Civic, and Nissan Altima were among the new vehicles that were most searched for on AutoTrader.com. AutoTrader.com has researched the shopping habits of over 14 million visitors monthly on their site. Also, they have begun compiling the data in order to provide insight into sales trends in the auto industry.

As SUV and pickup truck sales steadily decline due to gas prices of $4 per gallon, consumers are steadily migrating to compact cars and midsize sedans when looking for a new car. This indicates a continued decline for domestic manufacturers, who rely on the sales of these vehicles.

One bright spot in this downturn, however, is the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The recent Malibu has had its searches rise 293% over the last generation in 2007. The search activity increase even comes at a time when the average price tag of the Malibu has gone up $4,500 year-over-year. This makes it have a slightly higher price than the Camry and Altima. According to AutoTrader.com, the Malibu could be a strong rival for the Camry and Accord in coming months.

Consumers are protecting their wallets by purchasing small, fuel-efficient cars with an auto warranty. According to AutoTrader.com this trend isn’t changing any time soon.