These Auto Manufacturers Have Discovered The Fountain of Youth

Researchers have just released a report that states American and South Korean auto manufacturers have been gaining ground in sales to the youth demographic, and at the expense of Japanese companies which have long been the go-to for people 25 and under.

Both R.L. Polk & Co. and Edmunds.com affirm that General Motors (NYSE:GM), Ford (NYSE:F) and Chrysler have increased their shares of sales to the 18-24 year old demographic by 1.9 percent, and increased sales to the 25-34 year-old demographic by 1.5 percent. Combined, South Korean brands Hyundai and Kia gained 6.8 and 5.1 points in those segments, respectively.

While surprising because Japan has long since had the younger markets covered, the news makes a degree of sense. Industry trends show that Japanese manufacturers like Toyota (NYSE:TM) and Honda (NYSE:HMC) have placed an emphasis on retooling their luxury brands, which had dated, stale qualities and sliding sales figures. Although both still maintained their more affordable portfolios, the real focus has been reworking the Lexus and Acura brands.

Conversely, American and Korean manufacturers have played more towards younger audiences, introducing lines that are more fuel efficient, and more approachable from a cost point of view.