Buyers say, "Make it safe"

Safety features dominate the Top Five list of what auto buyers want in their next new vehicle, according to a recent J.D. Powers survey in which new-vehicle buyers chose from a list of 45 traditional and emerging auto features. They'd like to see air bags, traction control, brake assist, and other safetyrelated add-ons in the next vehicle they buy, whether that's a sports car or an SUV. Buyers are also interested in hybrid vehicles, those that combine internal-combustion engines with battery power. Currently there are only two hybrids selling in the U.S. market, the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius. But 31% of those answering the survey want this environmentally friendly technology in their next car or truck.