2010 WardsAuto Interiors Conference

Not only do trends point to more family-friendly interiors, future buyers likely will want lighter colors inside their vehicles.

The next cohort of consumers is the first generation to be raised looking down at display screens on devices such as PDAs, hand-held video games, iPods and laptop computers. As a result, they see things differently, one expert says.

Inspired by Fiat’s adventurous attitude toward style, Chrysler says future Jeep interiors will feature “rich, natural color toning” and “organic inspired finishes.”

Public-service programs are raising awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, but Americans simply are convinced some risks are less serious than others.