Toyota has great technical assets and manufacturing capacities even if they are slightly down for the moment. Toyota may not able to keep up with #1 ranking. However, I don't think this is a big deal.
VW has myriads of super technical assets. However, they are weak on sub $20,000 cars. I think, this fact will hurt them. VW can't buy their ways into better position forever.
Hyundai/Kia is a fast growing company. They have the basic fundamental technical assets, including 8 speed transmission, 5L V8 Engines, DI, Hybrids, Diesel, and other techs. Hyundai/Kia lacks super cars. But, super cars aren't necessary, although they are indicative of entity's technical boundaries.
Renault/Nissan is a good synergy company. Renault taking on the UI works and Nissan focusing on core technical assets. The Nissan GT-R is a technical marble. And their designs are very good. Their latest is the Nissan Juke with their 1.6L DIG Turbo.
Ford is the best US automaker by a big margin. It has good technical assets, still. Ford has great truck, passenger, and sports car line ups. Their vehicles are better than the GM and Chrysler counter parts.
GM is a big money loser, and it will be like this for a long time. GM is really bad at execution. GM has wealth of technical assets but it seems that GM can't pull them together correctly.
Fiat/Chrysler is a matter of time before Chrysler needs another host it can feed off of.
Honda will be a marginal car company, and that's how Honda likes it. It doesn't have the 6-speed transmission, V8 engine, Rear wheel drive platforms, or Direct Injection. Its hybrid vehicles are inferior to its competitors offerings. Acura brand doesn't perform well in US. Their SH-AWD isn't all that either. Their Prelude is gone. S2000 is gone. The NSX is marginal. Honda's truck is from Isuzu. Isuzu is a gonner, too. That's why the Honda's Ridgeline doesn't have the truck chassis. Isuzu is in a worse position than the 0-0-0- Mitsubishi.
