[chuckm]

I guess my opinions fall somewhere between Frank and Orange4boy. Marketing does influence people and what they buy, do, and think. If it didn't, companies would not spend the money. I think both Orange4boy and Frank both overstate each side. Individuals tend to be rational in their decision-making process, even if that process is based on cultural and social factors, not just raw facts. Groups (read cultural and social factors) tend to be irrational. Thus we have people buying cars that are designed to impress the neighbors AND meet their actual transportation needs.

The irony is that this forum is populated with people that do care about energy and fuel economy. But many of us, myself included, are honestly motivated by a desire to save money as well. How many of us will buy a new car rather than a used car? Why should the car companies listen to us? We're not giving them any money! So many people that do buy new cars are buying ones that will help them keep up with the Joneses.