Don?t be surprised if the young drivers in your circle seek out a fuel-efficient car with plenty of extras, even on tight budgets.
Although those shopping for used cars might not be able to snap up a Toyota Prius or other new-model “green” car that has generated a lot of buzz in the media, they still have plenty of options. Small sport utility vehicles, such as the Ford Escape, or even subcompacts and compacts such as the Mazda Protégé, are increasingly popular as used cars.
“Last year the No. 1 thing on people?s minds was efficiency,” especially for younger drivers, said Kevin Buehler, owner of Patriot Automotive in Eldersburg.
As demand increases, it sometimes makes the number of fuel-efficient cars ? especially in the used car lots ? less available than some shoppers would wish. Those who shop in Eldersburg will find that dealers work with each other to find the right car for customers, Buehler said. That?s not the case in most markets.
The good news is that plenty of extra equipment, such as side air bags, is standard in many of the older-model used cars. That?s a relief to many safety-conscious parents or first-time car buyers.
“Technology has finally caught up with the market,” Buehler said.
Of course, there are also plenty of younger drivers who are transitioning from college into a career who have plenty of extra cash to spend on a car.
Dealer Scott Northcutt, of Northcutt Chevy/Buick/Toyota in Enid, Okla., sees many twentysomethings with plenty of money to spend on autos, due in part to the U.S. Air Force base in his area. “Some of these highly paid pilots are only 22 years old,” he said. “They have disposable income and don?t mind spending it.”
Many times, those buyers want something special many dealers don?t stock. The demand ? from buyers of all ages for Jaguars and high-end luxury vehicles ? is another solid market filled by Patriot. The Web site for the dealership attracts buyers from throughout the U.S. looking for a special car at a fair price.
“We focus on what people want so they come back and buy,” Buehler said. “That?s how we do business.”
And guess what, added Patriot Sales Manager Roy Hall: “It works.”
Dealer at a glance:
Patriot Automotive
www.patriotautomotive.us
6229 Sykesville Road (Route 32) at Lee Lane
Eldersburg
410-552-0997
Toll Free: 877-840-0994
