So what is it that keeps people buying cars, driving them a while, selling them and buying new ones? If anything, it’s obviously all about the looks. Lately, however, the market has gotten a bit smarter and is turning towards alternative forms of transportation. Not that they are ditching the whole concept of cars. They are just looking for a car that performs well and saves money and at best, the environment as well. What kind of car are you looking for this time around? Something built for…

Speed?
A fast car is just that: a fast car. In a city where traffic is almost hellish, it would be useless to have a car that could burn rubber. And then there are the various speed limit laws the different streets. If you don’t see yourself spending a lot of time on the freeway, then this is definitely not the perfect car for you.

The Looks?
For many, buying a new car for its looks is almost mindless. After all, who wouldn’t want to be caught in a gorgeous car that some celebrity rides in to promote on a famous TV or magazine ad? But in all seriousness, if you are not a safe driver and if a gorgeous car will only make you more nervous and second-guessing whenever you hit the highway, then a car that’s all about the looks is not the perfect car for you.

Fuel Economy?
One thing that people look for in the perfect car is how much fuel it consumes. For them, it really matters that their cars do at least 18km to the gallon or even better. That’s the perfect car for the fuel efficient mind. It’s not about the looks, the speed or the comfort. Chances are that the fuel saving vehicle does look good and is comfortable to ride. Take, for instance, the Toyota Prius. It’s a hybrid, but it’s anything but a freak science experiment and it looks nothing like a tasteless-looking space vehicle. It’s a sleek little number that not only does more miles to the gallon; it leaves a clean mark on the environment too, with almost zero carbon dioxide emissions. Perfect? Not if you are looking for a fast car.

Safety?
Are you that much of a speed demon? You may want to look into car manufacturers who are conscious about safety. One such brand is Volvo, known throughout the world for having put into the market one of the safest vehicles on the road. It’s got everything; seatbelts, sensors, the perfect brakes, and safety bags located in all the right places; it’s the perfect car for the driver who is most accidental. Physically it looks good, and fuel efficiency is so-so but that could improve in the next five years, and newer models are fast enough to satisfy a racecar driver. The irony is that it’s packed with all these features, but if you were going to spend $38,000+ (Volvo S80 starting price) for a car, we really doubt you’d be experiencing breakneck speeds or risk accidents; simply because you would be wasting your money. Then again, you can never be too safe.