I have often wondered who decides on the name of a new car model. It seems 
that they reflect on the generation of who the potential buyer may be. 

 People pick out a new model based on many different preferences. Some buy for looks, performance, economy, or just as a status symbol to impress somebody. Brand loyalty is also a major reason. 

 Let's start back in the fifties when manufacturers started to expand their product lines. The space age was in its infancy and the public was fascinated with all the hoopla of orbiting the earth and so on. The automakers were quick to capitalize on  this. Soon we were seeing Galaxy, Comet, Starliner, Nova, Satellite, etc. 

 In 1964, Ford  introduced the Mustang which had set sales records in its debut. It wasn't long before other models had similar names hoping that it would enhance sales such as Pinto, Bronco, and Colt.  

 Names of cities were also a popular nameplate - Monterey, Malibu, Belvedere, Cheyenne. When  you thought of luxury, Seville, Riviera, Catalina, and New Yorker came to mind.

 Then there are racing names such as Grand Prix, LeMans, Sebring, Laguna, and Daytona. And let's not forget the birds such as Falcon, Firebird, Sunbird, Eagle and Hawk.  

 As we moved into the new millennian, our society has become so dependent on computers and electronic devices in our everyday lives. The auto industry uses computer designs to come up with new models. Many  different brands seem to look very much alike. It almost looks like they all use a variation of the same design program. Some of the names also want to reflect a technical image such as the G-6, MX3, MX6, RX-7. This is indicative of a faceless society where people are known and defined by their e-mail addresses, cell phone numbers, and pagers. These are the people who must have a navigation system and a DVD player in their car. Does anyone use a road map anymore? 

 I wonder what will happen in the future when we use  hydrogen power or possibly nuclear power in our daily drivers? The names could get real interesting. How about the "Atom"? That would be a good name for a tiny car for the city. We already have a Fusion out there. 

 Or maybe a minivan called the "Plutonium". It doesn't need lights because it glows in the dark. The performance model could be called the "Reaction". Once it starts, it doesn't stop. I guess time will tell. I hope I am still around to see it. 

 From the "I told you so" department, I mentioned the last time that the used car market would be flooded with used SUV`s and trucks. As it turns out, that's exactly what is happening. There is a huge demand for fuel efficient cars and the car  companies can't keep up. I have seen many SUV`s setting for sale in front lawns everywhere. You can find a bargain if you can afford to feed it. If you are lucky enough to own a fuel efficient car, no matter how old, you would be smart to keep it around and in good working order. I have a 27 mpg nine-year-old car that still runs great and if gas keeps climbing, I expect to have it for a long time. 
At least till the "Atom" hits the showroom!