Is anybody buying cars in America today?

It figures that just when we have the best product ever, the economy is forcing us to be sensible.  After all, we have some amazing new vehicles on the market, but who will buy them?  The new Chevy Camaro is arguably one of the most anticipated cars to hit showrooms in years, but that will be an emotional purchase and not a practical one.  Other exciting new cars for 2009 include the Nissan 370Z, Corvette ZR1, 550hp Cadillac CTS-V, as well as some updated product from Porsche. 

Even the gas price argument falls flat on its face as our national average approaches $2/gallon.  All of those people who dumbed their gas guzzling SUVs for gas sipping compact cars may have helped the environment, but didn't help their own financial position by taking a big hit.  Today the problem is financing and credit, two essential ingredients to buying a new car. 

So who is buying new cars today?  Basically it's people who are forced to making a new purchase.  People who have expiring leases or have experienced some lifestyle changes that require new modes of transportation.  Yes, there are still some enthusiasts out there with disposable income and for those consumers, life is good.  They can either get some great deals or experience some incredible new cars like the clean diesels from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. 

But for the rest of us, it's all about being practical, hanging on, and making the most of the vehicle that is currently in our garage.  Too bad because it seems that automakers finally listened and produced the most passionate product ever, at a time when most of us just can't afford them.  Timing is everything.  Let's just hope the cool product keeps rolling while we figure out this financial mess.