High gas prices cause behavioral changes

With gas prices being close to record levels, consumers are driving less and thinking about getting a more fuel-efficient car, according to a recent survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center.

Of those surveyed, 37 percent said gas mileage is the most important factor in choosing a vehicle. The quality of the car was the second most important factor, as 17 percent said that's what they want in their next vehicle, according to the survey.

Gas prices and the economy are having an impact on consumers' driving habits, according to Consumer Reports. Even though fuel prices are only slightly higher than a year ago, about 33 percent of those surveyed said they're driving less than they did last year.

About two-thirds of those surveyed said they want their next vehicle to get as much or better gas mileage than their current vehicle, and approximately 60 percent said they're willing to have a smaller, more compact vehicle, according to Consumer Reports.

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