Hey, America: How Long Are You Gonna Drive That?

In 2006, research outfit AutoPacific polled new car buyers in the U.S. and found that 44% intended to hold on to their vehicle for at least four years. One recession later, and the figure has risen to 59%. However, that may not be all bad news--at least not for buyers. The jump might be due to people shopping smarter: according to the company's George Petersen, buyers may be "putting a higher priority on vehicles with a reputation for quality and durability that meets not only their short-term needs, but also their long-term expected needs." And smarter is usually better in our book. [AutoPacific via MP]