Business: General Motors Changes Drivers

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That goal, however, could run into some buyer resistance. Drivers continue to be stunned by the price tags on the new models rolling out of Detroit. Ford announced last week that its new subcompact Escort would cost at least $5,128. That is over $1,000 more than the Pinto it replaces and will be about $200 more than a 1981 Toyota Corolla. GM's hot-selling Chevrolet Citation four-door hatchback at $6,282 will cost 9.6% more this autumn; the price has risen almost 40% since it was introduced 1½years ago. To make the price increases more palatable,GM announced that it is doubling the warranty to 24,000 miles or 24 months. The imports, though, continue to be tough competition. The Government last week announced the 1981 fuel economy ratings, and Japanese-or West German-built cars captured the first ten places.