The economy may be beginning to bounce back, but the past year has changed the perspective of even the wealthiest of consumers. As they make their way back to car dealerships, these consumers are not going for their typical BMWs and Mercedes vehicles. Instead, they’re trading in their high-end models for Buicks and Hyundais.

These brands may be less expensive than their German counterparts, but what many buyers are discovering is that these cars aren’t necessarily “cheaper” when it comes to the comfort and amenities that they provide.

As the economy gets back on solid footing, more affluent car buyers are feeling not-so-affluent as homes values are still down and portfolios have condensed. As a result, companies such as Buick and Hyundai are reaping the benefits. Luxury car buyers demand the amenities, but are weary of the luxury car price tags. Sedans such as the 2010 Buick LaCrosse provide the much needed comforts for a price that’s as much as $20,000 less than comparable German sedans. Aside from the Buick LaCrosse, the Hyundai Genesis is also an appealing luxury sedan that offers available V8 power and a range of electronic and safety features that help make it an incredibly good value.

In addition to moving away from the higher priced brands, consumers are saving money by simply downsizing. For example, even Acura customers are trading in their midsize TLs in favor of the compact TSX model.

While car buyers may be beginning to return to showrooms, the vehicles striking their interest are far different than in pervious years. Even in the premium segment, buyers certainly don’t want to give up the amenities, but they’re choosing to be more frugal nonetheless. Luckily for those buyers that don’t want to sacrifice anything, including their bottom line, there are ample options available.

Despite more attractively priced luxury options, one dealer suggests that if you’re looking for a new Infiniti EX Framingham, you’re not suddenly going to choose a Hyundai because of the lower price tag. But nevertheless, these new vehicles are sending a powerful message to premium brands. And, with so many comparisons between the Genesis and the Infiniti G coupe and sedan, Westborough Infiniti dealerships are expecting branding to play a larger role in future products.

For Hyundai, the Genesis sedan was only the beginning as Hyundai Winston Salem has already encountered high demand for the luxurious Tucson crossover and Sonata sedan. With market share climbing, it seems Hyundai is unstopped as they give consumers much more for their money.

* * *

See more car buying articles on this blog.

Buick is one of the few brands to remain within the GM portfolio as it emerges bankruptcy. With the likes of Hummer, Pontiac, Saab, and Saturn leaving the fold, it’s wondered what’s in store for the Buick lineup in the near future.

Already the Buick lineup will feature several cars featuring small dimensions, and smaller engines. Those Buick enthusiasts that want to see large V8-powered sedans may be disappointed as it appears those will only be a thing of the past.

As it stands today, the Buick lineup is quite small. Buick features the large Lucerne sedan, the Enclave crossover, as well as the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse sedan which has just been completely redesigned and has already seen massive interest among Buick car loans Birmingham specialists. Soon the lineup will also feature a replacement to the Lucerne, due in 2012. A new four-door, all-wheel drive model may also be on the way, based on a new vehicle destined to become a Cadillac model and the new Chevrolet Impala. Until the 2012 model is released, one used car dealer Washington DC says the Lucerne will be dropped from the lineup in 2012. Farther out in 2013, the Buick Enclave will get an update with freshened styling.

The latest addition to the lineup, the Buick Lacrosse, will compete with other large front-wheel drive sedans such as the Toyota Avalon or the Ford Taurus. In addition to six cylinder engine offerings, the new Lacrosse will also feature a new four-cylinder engine with direct injection, which according to one Body Shop Oklahoma City will make the Lacrosse highly competitive among buyers wanting style, roominess, and efficiency.

Other sedans potentially heading into development include the Buick Regal which could be a rebadged Opel Insignia. Additionally, a Buick Century sedan as well as MPV could be on their way in 2012 to compete with compact offerings from Honda and Toyota.

* * *

All the latest automaker news and more can be read here.