In this struggling economy, automakers can’t count on slick styling and big engines alone to lure buyers.  Consumers have changed their tastes: appearance and performance are still a priority, but value, gas mileage and practicality are becoming more important than every, according to experts.  In addition, people are protecting themselves with new car warranties and road service programs.

Fuel-efficiency stays on the top of people’s minds.  A study was conducted in January by the Consumer Federation of America, finding that even though gas is at $2 per gallon, drivers are still looking for 20% better mileage in their next car.

However, don’t count out the importance of performance.  Derrick Kuzak, who is the head of product development at Ford said, “I think people are looking for both [performance and efficiency].  He also said the carmaker’s EcoBoost initiative, which is basically downsizing engines for better fuel-efficiency but adding on turbochargers to make up for performance that is lost, is a way to satisfy both demands.

People assume that more power means poor gas mileage, but this isn’t the case.  Now there are advanced drivetrains, better aerodynamics and lighter materials.  There are popular vehicles in every car segment, from the Toyota Prius to the Escape that are more fuel-efficient and quicker with every redesign.

If you’re purchasing a used car you need to find out as much history as possible about it.  The car may have problems that are not apparent from a visual inspection or a test drive.

A car history report is a good way to find out what you’re getting.  This is a report prepared by a third party that is a compilation of information from DMVs, RMVs, and other sources.  A car history report will give you an overview of what the car has been through.

When getting a car history report look out for the following things.  This is not to say that you shouldn’t buy the car based on these issues, but certainly ask questions.

If a car has had a lot of owners, chances are it hasn’t been cared for lovingly.  These cars have probably endured more abuse.

Some areas of our country are easier on vehicles than others.  For example, extreme winter conditions are tough on vehicles, as are flood areas and extreme heat.

Make sure the name and description of the car match up with the actual car.  Read the description carefully to rule out vehicle fraud.

Car history reports, such as those from CARFAX are comprehensive and can save you from purchasing a lemon.  Just performing simple steps, such as getting a car history report and used car warranties may save you from having to call for auto road service.

Do you find that you are apprehensive about negotiating with an auto dealer?  Shopping for a vehicle doesn’t have to be nerve-racking, however, you need to be aware of a few things that you shouldn’t say to a dealer.

First, you shouldn’t start talking about monthly payments, instead focus on negotiating the purchase price.  It can become confusing when you’re discussing monthly payments because it might be unclear whether the payment is for 24 or 36 months.

Don’t tell the dealer right away if you’re willing to trade-in your car.  If the dealer is aware of this he will know that you want to get as much money for your car as possible.  The dealer might agree to give you a lot for your trade-in, but usually it’s a smokescreen because then they will fix the price of the new car.

Don’t tell the dealer if you’re planning on paying for the car in cash.  They count on making a lot of money in financing, and if they know that they won’t be able to count on that money, chances are they won’t negotiate on the sticker price.

Do your homework before showing up at a dealership.  Be prepared with information about new car warranties, financing, and vehicle prices.  This will help you negotiate a successful deal on a car.

Regardless of the year or make, one of the biggest investments people will make is a vehicle.  Buying a used car is a great way for consumers to save some money.  However, risks can be higher, which is why an auto warranty should be purchased for the car.  Fortunately, there are ways that buyers can recognize the difference between dependable used cars and lemons.

The safest thing to do is to have the car that you are looking to buy checked out by a licensed mechanic.  However, there are some things that you can do on your own.

For instance, bring a soft magnet from your refrigerator to determine if there is damage underneath a new coat of paint.  You can run the magnet all along the fenders and doors, which are steel.  If it seems that the magnet won’t stick, there is probably a type of body filler under the paint.

Also, examine the inside of the vehicle for stains from water.  If the car was damaged in a flood, it could mean trouble in years to come.  You also want to look at the wear on the pedals of the vehicle.  It should be consistent with what the mileage claims to be.  If there is low mileage, there should be little wear on the pedals.

Don’t forget to examine the tires of the vehicle, too.  If you see wear on the outside edges of the tires, the car is probably out of alignment or might have components that are worn-out.

Knowing what to look for in a used vehicle will bring you peace of mind about your purchase.  Also, know that used car warranties will allow you to save on costly repairs that are unforeseen.

Ford, who apparently loves mini-sites, has started a webpage for the new 2011 Ford Fiesta.  It may be premature, but since Ford is trying desperately to prove itself, displaying some of its cars of the future makes perfect sense at the moment.

Ford displays a few pictures of the vehicle, however, Ford says that they are pictures of the 2009 European model, and also reveals some information about available content of the car.

Since the features appear to be luxury-like, it seems Ford is going to market this car as a premium subcompact that will compete with the Honda Fit.  However, car shoppers seem to care more about standard features, which Ford hasn’t released yet.  But make a note that the 2011 Fiesta will have standard stability control when it is available for sale in 2010.  That’s two years before it is going to be mandated by federal law.

Car shoppers will have to wait for additional information about the 2011 Ford Fiesta, such as prices, standard features, and information about new car warranties.

Thanks to the poor economy, people are skipping the big purchases and becoming disciplined shoppers.  Instead of splurging on cars equipped with all of the gizmos, people are holding onto their current rides and purchasing used car warranties.  However, with some savvy buying tips, you can get a new car with great features.  Here’s how.

First of all, in order to splurge in the cabin, downgrade under the hood.  You can purchase a car with a smaller engine and still enjoy the interior upgrades.  For example, a Honda Accord that is top-of-the-line comes with heated seats, leather upholstery, dual climate control, and plenty of other comforts, all for $29,000.  However, instead of getting the V-6, you can get a four-cylinder for $3,000 less that will also allow you to save on gas.

Also, you can save by ordering options a la carte.  Many times, popular options, such as a sunroof or heated seats get bundled together into megapackages that has a lot of features you may not need or want to pay for.  So, shop around for cars with smaller packages, or just order the features you really want.

Finally, skip the options that are the most expensive.  Features such as entertainment and navigation systems can cost you an extra $2,000.  By purchasing a portable DVD player and navigation system you can spend less than $500 combined.

When purchasing a new car it is important to put your money towards necessary things, such as new car warranties, safety features, and maintenance costs.  Pick your upgrades wisely to avoid going over your budget.

When purchasing a family vehicle several things should be considered.  These include reliability, safety, fuel-efficiency, and other personal concerns.  In addition, consumers should factor in the price of the vehicle to own, not just the sticker price.  For instance, new car warranties, maintenance costs, and insurance all need to be part of the equation.

It doesn’t have to be a hard process to shop for the right family car.  All you need to do is put some time into research beforehand so that you know your options.  Parents should evaluate how they will be using the car, the type and amount of cargo they intend on carrying, and how their needs might vary in the future.

Generally, parents need to focus on finding a vehicle that offers a lot of space and is versatile.  Families need a sufficient amount of cargo space, easy access, and windows that the kids can look out with ease.  If the rear seats are low, kids won’t be able to see out the windows, and they won’t be as happy.

There are many great options for family vehicles.  Small families will be just fine in four door sedans, or station wagons, whereas large families will benefit from an SUV or minivan.  Thinking through your needs in advance will ensure the proper choice.  In addition, doing your homework will save you money on the sticker price and an auto warranty.

When looking to buy a new vehicle it is important to consider crash test ratings, electronic stability control, and rollover resistance.  When evaluating a car for safety, remember to look closely at the following.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducts crash tests on vehicles.  They rate vehicles based on results in frontal crashes and side impacts.  Paying attention to these scores will help make a good choice when it comes to vehicle safety.

Electronic stability control is a highly recommended safety feature.  This will help your vehicle stay under control when cornering.  It will help you avoid sliding and skidding by selectively applying brakes to one or more of the wheels.

Vehicles that are tall, such as SUVs and pickup trucks have a higher likelihood of rolling over.  To determine a vehicle’s inclination for rollover NHTSA has a five-star rollover rating.  You can access these ratings at www.safercars.gov.

Consumers are becoming more and more concerned with protecting themselves.  They are purchasing new car warranties and buying vehicles with added safety features.  Taking these simple steps allow drivers to have peace of mind.

People love to get a new car, but they don’t love the new car payments. But, although you can’t avoid those monthly payments, you can keep them reasonable. And make sure to factor in other costs, such as new car warranties, maintenance, and auto loans. Here are some tips to keep those car payments down.

Make sure you purchase a car that you need, not necessarily one that is on the lot.  Often, cars on the lot have more features than you need.  Dealers’ benefit from selling you one of these cars.  Not only do they move a vehicle off their lot, they sell you a more expensive car.

Only buy features that you must have.  For example, air conditioning is something most of us can’t live without, yet we don’t need climate control air conditioning.  You can save a lot of money by living without luxury features.  Watch out when the dealer tries to sell you power seats, audio systems, and tire packages.  All of these things are nice, but not essential.

You can save a lot by avoiding a bigger engine.  Test-drive a car model that has a standard engine.  You might find that the car has more than enough power.  By skipping the engine upgrade, you can save money upfront, as well as on fuel down the road.

Follow these simple tips to save yourself from paying high monthly payments.  However, realize that the one thing that you shouldn’t skimp on is purchasing an auto warranty.  You don’t want to be stuck with unnecessary repair costs down the road.

Forbes has assessed all of the vehicles out there and has concluded that as far as used cars go, the Honda Accord is at the top of their list.

There are a lot of vehicles available that are certified pre-owned, claims Forbes, however, the Accord deserves acknowledgement.  Forbes has based its decision on data concerned with reliability taken from Consumer Reports Magazine.  Also, they looked at safety and availability of used car warranties.

Following the Accord on the list was the Saturn Relay and Jeep Grand Cherokee.  Next, were the Pontiac G6, Mercedes Benz E-class and VW New Beetle.

Certified pre-owned cars are often taken back and resold if they are in sound condition.  Auto dealers often refurbish them if necessary and offer a limited auto warranty.  This is a booming practice, and consumers are benefiting.