BEIJING, Nov. 12 (Xinhuanet) -- Men own about nine of 10 heavy-duty pickups trucks on the road, according to findings by AutoPacific market research firm, while female buyers prefer models by Saturn, Honda and Volkswagen.

    The market's male-friendly cars include the Ford F-350 and the Dodge Ram, of which men own 93 percent and 89 percent, respectively. Chrysler spokesperson Dan Bodene says it is a combination of marketing and design that has created such disproportionate numbers.

    But it's an equal-opportunity marketplace, and carmakers try to design vehicles — even heavy-duty pickups — that won't discourage any potential buyers. Tailgates must be light enough for all types of people to lift, and seat belts must be comfortable for male and female body types.

    While AutoPacific's data shows brands such as Hummer, Dodge, Porsche and GMC are most popular among men, models produced by Saturn, Honda, Volkswagen and Hyundai are the biggest hits with female drivers.

    An estimated 65 percent of Volkswagen Beetle Convertible buyers are female. The New Beetle, with a 5-cylinder engine, is nearing a decade of production; the soft-top model came on the market in 2003.

    VW spokesperson Keith Price acknowledges the New Beetle is purchased and driven more by females, but says it was not a result of designers trying to make a women's car.

    (Agencies)