Most Popular Vehicle Among Military Personnel a Chevy

When it comes to our military personnel, the most popular vehicle among those financed is a Chevrolet, but it's not a high-flying Chevy Camaro like one might assume. It's a much more sedate choice.

Security National Automotive Acceptance Co. (SNAAC) recently revealed its Top 10 purchased vehicles for 2011. SNAAC is a specialty finance company that purchases and services retail sales finance contracts from auto dealers in the sale of new and used automobiles to military personnel.

SNAAC discovered that domestic models dominated the list. Eight of the 10 vehicles came from a Big 3 manufacturer.

SNAAC's top 10 purchased vehicles for 2011 are:

1. Chevrolet Impala – Somehow this really mundane sedan keeps showing up on most popular lists. It's among the most sold used cars overall. It just goes to show that some people favor practicality over passion.

2. Dodge Charger – It's great to see an American icon like this is popular with the troops. Passion isn't dead.

3. Nissan Altima - The 2012 Nissan Altima is an enduring icon of the Nissan lineup now entering its 20th year of production in the United States. This stylish sedan and coupe, though, have not idly stood by in those two decades and continues to be an exceptional value that combines strong performance and sporty design.

4. Dodge 1500 – Technically, it's now called the Ram 1500 but was known as the Dodge Ram 1500 for years. What's surprising, though, is the Dodge 1500 is usually the third most popular selling pickup truck when new.

5. Ford Mustang – The Chevrolet Camaro doesn't even make the list. (Kind of sad that the Impala does.) But it's not surprising to see the troops like the great American pony car that has been around since 1964.

6. Pontiac G6 – Bland wins out again. The one good thing about the death of Pontiac was the death of the G6. Look up uninspired. You'll see a picture of a Pontiac G6.

7. Chevrolet Cobalt SS – It's a good little coupe. This must be what people buy while waiting to jump in pay grades. Buy a Cobalt after boot camp. Trade it in for a Charger after a couple of tours overseas.

8. Chevrolet Malibu – Seriously, who is buying Malibus? Chevrolet's military program must be awfully strong.

9. Chrysler 300 – The sedan that jumpstarted Chrysler's revival has held up well over the years. It's comfortable, stylish, and quick off the line with the right powertrain.

10. Honda Civic – Sadly, our military does not pull down big salaries, especially the enlisted men and women who aren't officers. Fortunately, they can get good basic transportation in the form of the Honda Civic that is reliable.

Keith Griffin has been writing continuously about new cars since 2002. He used to be the guide to used cars at former About.com as well as a contributor to The Boston Globe and Automotive Traveler. He is the founder and president of The Internet Car and Truck of the Year, where "Internet Pros and Average Joes" pick the car and truck of the year. Currently, Keith is the managing editor for American Business Media. Follow Keith at @indepthauto on Twitter.