Box-Shaped Vehicles Gain in Popularity Among Youth

Washington DC, September 12, 2006; The AIADA newsletter reported that the auto industry's box-shaped models are winning over the younger generation of car buyers because they are economical, practical, and eminently customizable, reports USA Today.

"I think the shape is so unique compared to what you see on the road today," says Stephan Butler, 35, of New York about his new special edition MINI Cooper.

Toyota's Scion xB sales have increased nearly 22 percent through August compared to the same period last year.

Chevrolet expects to sell 110,000 HHRs by year's end, BMW's MINI is still in short supply at dealerships, and Honda is revamping its angular Element model for a new version called the "SC."

Many automakers are embracing the small boxes because the customization items they sell allow the buyer to determine what works and can add hundreds or thousands on the sales price.