Franchised new-car dealers are on the front lines, facing skeptical customers, when cars and trucks offered are not fresh, innovative and inexpensive.

These cars aren't being sold in huge numbers to typical customers who drive 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year. They are being sold to early adopters of technology, long-distance commuters and people who want to be seen driving the correct' vehicle.

Increased sales of cars in the second half of the year means that gasoline prices, as well as exciting new car designs, helped make this the year of the car.

The impact will be concentrated on specialty and sports cars and vehicles over $50,000 in price, continuing the modest pattern of slower growth in luxury-vehicle sales.