GM, Ford dealers see sales shift from SUVs to small cars

Both automakers introduced new small cars at LA Auto Show

Will compete against established small cars from Honda, Toyota

Ford will appeal to consumers more through social media

Consultant will go to 800 largest dealers to build online infrastructure

2006: small cars made up 14% of market, SUVs and trucks were 53%

Now split is 19% for small cars and trucks have dropped to 46%

But GM, Ford and Chrysler hold just 21% of small-car segment

Dealers retooling showrooms; GM wants uniform look

Customers will see receptionist up front, not salesperson

Improvements costing $200K to $600K per store

"Gas prices and lifestyle changes are going to push more people into small cars." -- Tony Pack, GM, Five Star Ford, Dallas, TX