Why Kerry gives me hope

I broke the news to my Toyota Celica that she will never be a great-grandmother. Her seven-generation genealogy, which has impressed auto critics and scooped up awards since its introduction in North America in 1971, is slated for discontinuance, along with the beloved MR2 model. \nAfter a long talk and a shed of crystal blue windshield wiper tears, I could see the questions lurking in her big round headlight eyes. Why would Toyota sterilize its representatives in both the sporty model and roadster markets?\nThe sales of the MR2 increased 13 percent in April, according to the manufacturer's Web site. The Celica, unfortunately, has been suffering from declining sales for the past few years, most likely because Toyota has shifted its marketing efforts toward its new Scion models. Too bad that Consumer Reports rated the Scion xA toward the bottom quadrant in its ratings of small cars with automatic transmissions. \nDon Esmond, senior vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., indicated that the Celica and MR2 face competition from "more exciting and youthful products" within the Toyota lineup. I'm not predicting that the Scion will have mechanical problems. But in general, how exciting and youthful does one feel when one is sitting in an auto repair shop on an uncomfortable folding chair, reading a tattered magazine from 1998, waiting for their car to be repaired because they based their purchase decision on the "youthful" feeling they got driving it instead of reliability ratings?\nSure, everyone wants their car to be attractive and make them feel good when they're driving it around town. My black vixen looks good slicing through the night, but she was allowed to come home with me because she is backed by solid reliability.\nIn the years I have owned her, I have not had a single problem with my Celica, and neither did the original owner, who bought her in 1994. I had every intention of purchasing another Celica when I buy my first new car, because I am so pleased with the track record of my current model.\nAfter 2005, the Toyota showroom will lose its zip. I still hold the manufacturer in high regard because its remaining products are generally safe, reliable and attractive. The company will go on making money and assure safe rides in its popular Sienna and Camry models, among others. The Scion may stay, or it may go.\nBut do you know who determines that? It's us, the under-30 target market of fresh graduates and up-and-comings. Toyota knows that we're smart and that we don't buy a car just based on looks, that we understand the value of the Toyota brand and want our safety and reliable transportation in a pretty package. \nJust remember -- it is the public that determines the creation and success of products. \nIf the public buys so-so cars, manufacturers will keep making so-so cars. Don't lower the bar. We are losing the Celica because for some reason, young people aren't buying a car that has proved its form and function for over 30 years. I can't think of a better sporty car to buy for under 20 grand. But I guess other people can, or the Celica wouldn't be leaving us. \nThe Scion may turn out to be great. I hope that over the years it develops a proven track record and provides a safe and happy ride for its passengers. But when the new models roll out for 2006, I can tell you now that the cute sports car swishing past you in the left lane won't be a Toyota.