The automotive industry continues to innovate, by bringing to the market new models that are stylish, fuel efficient and loaded with the latest technological amenities. In a bid to meet stiffer federal fuel economy mandates, car manufacturers are making greater use of engineering to deliver vehicles that are lighter, smaller and more efficient than ever before. Let's take a look at five new car trends you'll see for the 2013 model year.
1. Turbochargers -- Until recently, turbocharged cars were few and far between. That's because such models are more expensive and turbochargers were not as resilient, able to handle the day in and day out punishment that they take. The engineering has certainly improved and today's turbo engines should hold up for many years to come. That's what Ford, Hyundai, GM and others are betting on and are rolling out dozens of new turbo models to deliver smaller engines with more power.
2. Transmissions -- The standard automatic transmission of the 1990s was a four-speed overdrive. By the end of the 2000s, the six-speed became the de facto measurement for car manufacturers. The six-speed is still used, but manufacturers are now incorporating eight- and nine-speed transmission to deliver even better highway fuel economy. Some manufacturers, such as Nissan, have successfully innovated by using continuously variable transmissions, matching or exceeding the fuel economy of other transmissions and engines.
1. Turbochargers -- Until recently, turbocharged cars were few and far between. That's because such models are more expensive and turbochargers were not as resilient, able to handle the day in and day out punishment that they take. The engineering has certainly improved and today's turbo engines should hold up for many years to come. That's what Ford, Hyundai, GM and others are betting on and are rolling out dozens of new turbo models to deliver smaller engines with more power.
2. Transmissions -- The standard automatic transmission of the 1990s was a four-speed overdrive. By the end of the 2000s, the six-speed became the de facto measurement for car manufacturers. The six-speed is still used, but manufacturers are now incorporating eight- and nine-speed transmission to deliver even better highway fuel economy. Some manufacturers, such as Nissan, have successfully innovated by using continuously variable transmissions, matching or exceeding the fuel economy of other transmissions and engines.
