Why do Americans buy large automobiles, even though they are unnecessary?

Question

With the rising price of gas, and the threat of global warming -- Why are there so many SUV's, hummers, pickups, and vans on the road? When I commute, almost all of these big vehicles have no passengers, no payload -- and only the driver! There are so many appealing smaller cars to choose from, too... I just don't get it!

Answer 1

GLOBAL WARMING IS A MYTH!!!
IM MAJORING IN ENVIRO-SCI!!!


i always have something in my truck, chok full of tools, feed, pulling a trailer, dirt, what have you around the town and the farm, i need my big truck, yes it is necessary, and when i dont need the truck, i drive my honda accord, or whenever i get my new bike

Answer 2

Because there are some who actually think global warming is a myth despite it being on very solid ground.

Then there is the fact that many of them think you've got to have a V8 because they don't realise that four cylinder cars have no trouble doing the speed limit on freeways. Then there are the ones who think that a big car is somehow more comfortable for a tall person who would have no trouble fitting in the drivers seat of a city car.

There are also a few that actually need a large vehicle but they're a small percentage of people buying them.

Answer 3

Well, to begin with, not all Americans do, so your question has a ring of prejudice right off the bat. Then, who says they are unnecessary? I have an 8 passenger SUV that I bought specifically because I have a large extended family of grown children, grand children and even a couple of great grand children and I hated that we had to use 2 or 3 cars to go anywhere. And although fuel mileage isn't great, with the smaller engine it really isn't that bad. And it sure beats what driving 3 cars would cost. For shorter trips when I'm alone I drive a smaller vehicle.

And global warming is a myth. Or at least the part of it claiming it's all caused by vehicles is.

Following are three sites, picked at random from the 581,000 found by putting "Myth of global warming" into a search engine.

Answer 4

Personally, i think that aside from wanting to buy American cars just to show your patriotism, there's really not many other reasons to buy them. Granted, American cars may be more powerful (in terms of horsepowers and acceleration) than a Japanese car, but just think of the reliability, the durability, and the re-sale value, all of which Japanese cars are much more superior in. That's a fact, and it's not like i'm spewing forth my opinions about this...anybody and any publications will tell you the same thing. So, it comes down to choices, once again: you can go with a slightly more powerful American car (the Chevies, the Dodges, the Fords, etc.) that'll last you about 5 years or so and have absolutely no re-sale value whatsoever after that time period....or, you can go with any Japanese cars (the Hondas, the Toyotas, the Nissans, etc.) that will give you, on average, 2 additional years of reliable services, and higher re-sale value afterwards.

Answer 5

We Americans like to have more space in our vehicles. I have a BMW 7series, which is considered a large car. I looked at 3series and 5series Bimmers too before I bought mine, and I simply found them to be too small. I like having the extra space. As for people who drive Hummers, Escalades, and other gigantic vehicles, I really don't see the point. I guess people like them because they feel safer, like the looks, and they're some kind of status symbol. My mom drives a Chevrolet Suburban not because she needs the room (we only have 4 people in our family) but because she likes the tall ride height. She feels she can see better at night time because she is above other cars' headlights, so there is less glare. I think she should just get her eyes checked to be quite honest with you, though.

Answer 6

Mostly because it is so widely advertised. I personally have no problem with people and big cars. and apparently the cost of fuel doesn't seem to bother them. just look at the gas stations and how many fill there tanks up on a weekly basis.

Answer 7

well i own a Pontiac Montana because i have a big family and i own a ford focus i alternate the gas mileage on the Montana is omg the gas mileage on the focus is unbelievable it only cost me $20 dollars to fill up the tank the Montana $50 that's why i love the focus

Answer 8

Your not the only one. Stupidity is my only suggestion. One of the Jones buys one the rest of the idiots think they have to keep up. What gets me are the idiots that think you are jealous of what they drive.Fools Were laughing are heads of at your stupid purchase.

Answer 9

Larger vehicles are more comfortable and a whole lot safer

Answer 10

my SUV gets 30 mpg. what does your little rice burner get?

It's all about comfort man. those little rolling coffins are too small for the tall people