How many newly introduced vehicles actually get smaller/lighter with a redesign? It seems like vehicles only get bigger/heavier with each generation.
Not a whole lot of cars get smaller/lighter with a redesign. In fact, we can’t really think of any in recent memory, except for high-performance versions of existing models like the Corvette Z06 and Porsche GT3, to name a couple. You can thank consumer demands for more interior space and government mandates for added safety equipment for the larger/heavier cars.
According to Cars.com Senior Editor Joe Wiesenfelder, “This isn’t a new phenomenon. The early Camrys, etc., would be compacts by today’s standards — or close to it.
“People want larger, even in cars, partly driven by the SUV phenomenon. SUVs themselves always looked big, but then people realized they needed more actual interior room, which made for growth in the SUVs.
“As for weight, it comes with growth, added equipment and, significantly, with safety requirements. Almost all cars now pass crash tests, and that’s due to changes in structure — mostly added metal. IIHS frontal offset in particular prompted stronger front wheel wells to prevent front wheel intrusion into the front occupants’ legs.
“Other safety equipment also has added weight.
“Note how much of the above is safety-related. It’s not spin when manufacturers say the government has required cars to increase in weight and thus decrease in fuel economy. Be it market pressure or government mandate, good crash test scores, antilock brakes, stability, more airbags, tire pressure monitoring systems, etc., add weight.”
The latest generation Subaru Legacy and Outback were notable for reduced weight while remaining about the same size.
yeah subi actually does seem to be reducing weight well, while still keeping up with safety standards(surpassing even), and the awd. Imo, the main reason is that weight = luxury = higher prices = more profit. no one wants to be the entry level(cheap) car manufacturer these days. Even Hyundai has their new Genesis sedan coming out. Cars need diets almost as much as most people!
It's to bad that the government requires heavier cars; in a way, they are partly responsible for the bad mpg of the cars since they force manufacturers to build heavier and larger cars. Consumers should have the right to choose whether they want cars that pass safety tests.
It's to bad that the government requires heavier cars; in a way, they are partly responsible for the bad mpg of the cars since they force manufacturers to build heavier and larger cars. Consumers should have the right to choose whether they want cars that pass safety tests.
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"Not a whole lot of cars get smaller/lighter with a redesign."
Think WRX.