Younger drivers less assured with car buying and ownership experience

Younger drivers feel less assured than older drivers when it comes to buying and owning a car.

That’s the key finding of a new survey from the Motor Ombudsman. The survey  showed that three-quarters (71%) of Gen Xers, which is those aged between 43 and 58 would be the most inclined to enlist the helping hand of others.

This was followed by around 67% of Gen Z drivers, which is those aged between 18 and 26.

In third slot were Millennials (Gen Y), those aged between d between 27 and 42 and in fourth position 66% of Baby Boomers, those aged between 59 and 77, where the latter group may have more car buying experience under their belt versus their peers.

When it comes to knowing what fuel type would be right for them if they were to buy a car, 84% of Boomers would feel safe in the knowledge that a petrol or diesel-powered model would best suit their needs, compared to 76% of Millennials and 73% of Gen Z drivers.

However, when acquiring an electric vehicle (EV), the tables turn, with Gen Yers and Gen Zers leading the charge in terms of being the most self-assured,

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and managing director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Our research and ‘Car Confidence Barometers’ have revealed an insightful generation gap, with younger drivers, overall, tending to feel less self-assured in their car buying and ownership decisions compared to their older and sometimes more experienced counterparts.

“It is clear that, while living in a world where so much information is at your fingertips, the sheer volume of content can be overwhelming.

“Helping to plug the generation gap with valuable motoring knowledge that will enable them to navigate their driving journey with independence and confidence is therefore crucial.

“On this note, anyone who feels that their ‘Car Confidence’ is in need of a boost, should actively seek out The Motor Ombudsman’s comprehensive and impartial library of information covering the car buying and ownership experience, and call on the expertise provided by reputable accredited businesses in our growing UK-wide network.”