But across-the-board growth is highly unlikely.
Many observers predict Asian brands such as Toyota and Honda will continue their assault on Detroit's Big Three in 2005. Asked Monday whether General Motors Corp., the world's largest automaker, can increase its business in the United States this year after watching it fall 1.4 percent in 2004, chairman and chief executive Rick Wagoner said, "We can. We're going to try."
A bright spot for Detroit's Big Three was good reviews for several important products introduced in Detroit.
Chris Ceraso, an analyst with Credit Suisse First Boston, liked Saturn's Aura "concept" car, which the GM brand says provides a peek at its upcoming replacement for the L-Series midsize sedan, expected to join Saturn's revamped lineup in 2006. Ceraso also was bullish on Ford Motor Co.'s new Ford Fusion midsize sedan, an important car for the company that fits between the Focus and new Five -Hundred flagship sedan. It will compete against models such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the top-selling cars in America last year. Another Big Three vehicle that attracted attention is Chrysler's new Dodge Charger, a high-performance sedan that takes its name from a muscle car of the '60s.
"I think the Charger will do well," said Jesse Toprak, senior analyst for Edmunds.com, an independent company that provides online automotive information. "It still has a loyal following from way back when."
Still, Toprak said, much of the media attention at the show surrounded the Asians and Europeans. Honda Motor Co., for example, unveiled its first pickup, the Ridgeline.
While the winners and losers among the automakers will emerge as the year unfolds, Toprak said a certain winner is the American consumer. He said buyers can expect to find continued rebates and financing offers on many models in the ultra-competitive market.
