Kyle's Corner (FYI) in Great America - Second Chances for Buick, Fiat and VW!

the mulligan -

a second chance

to make an ad-

justment and do

better. Several

automakers are

trying for a second

chance in the U.S.

auto marketplace,

and America is

well known for providing the second chance. This is just one of many

things that makes America great!

GM's Buick shows real promise with its new Regal. In the past, Buick

was known as basically an older man's car and thus the brand did not

appeal to younger drivers. Now, however, the new Regal is intended

to change this. The new Regal is based on the European Opel Insignia

which is named the Vauxhall in England. This new Buick, especially

in GS form, will give the Audi A4 a run for its money. Buick desperately

needs to attack younger buyers into the brand's fold, and the Regal seems

like the car to do it.

Fiat is also taking another try at the American automotive marketplace

after a 30 year absence. The automaker will be introducing the stylish

little Fiat 500.

Much of the car's success in Europe is a result of nostalgia sur-

rounding the original 500. When Fiat launched its retro city car,

it also pushed a line of clothing and accessories with the Fiat logo.

Unfortunately, there are few warm feelings about Fiat in America.

The new Fiat 500 will be marketed as hip and cool, however, quality

and dependability will be the deal breaker. Fiat realizes that there

will be a novelty factor with the new 500 and thus the automaker will

also cover its bet by releasing a convertible version of the car in about

six months after the initial launch and an Abarth-high performance

version about a year later.

Volkswagen is bringing out its second generation of the new Beetle.

The first generation of the new Beetle was not a failure as it sold

in reasonable numbers with its timeless shape. However, the first

generation car was seen as mainly a 'chick' car. A turbo version

was added to up the macho facture, however, the convertible again

seemed to put a damper on the car's image.

Spy photos of the new second generation Beetle suggest a car

with a lower roofline, and a lot more performance under the hood

to pull in more male drivers. I contend that VW should also make

the second generation new Beetle available in a four-door model

as well as the two door. Thus, some families would also likely buy

the car.

Can Buick, Fiat and Volkswagen pull it off? Americans are

known for supporting underdogs and if history is any guide,

remain big believers in the second change. This is just one

thing that makes America great!

See the new Buick Regal, Fait 500 and VW Beetle in the slide show below!

is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price..." He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
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