Our annual Motoring Report offers an up to date picture of what is influencing Irish drivers. Drawing on responses from 1,000 motorists, this year’s findings point to clearer shifts in buying intentions, cost pressures and attitudes towards future technologies.
Buying Behaviour and Market Sentiment
More drivers are preparing to move to a new car. One in three (34%) now expect their next purchase to be new compared to only 28% the year prior, and planned budgets continue to rise. The average expected spend is €21,300, an increase of €1,900 on last year. Drivers are also replacing their cars more frequently, with the cycle now at five years. Three in ten (30%) say they plan to buy within the next twelve months.
Experiences of the buying process remain mixed. Two in five (39%) describe it as exciting, but a quarter (25%) find it stressful or time consuming. Women and younger buyers are most likely to report feeling overwhelmed, suggesting that these demographics could benefit from additional support.
Cost of Living and Financial Pressures
Everyday costs continue to rise. Car owners now spend €224.40 per month on running costs, up 6% on last year. Insurance is the clear pressure point, with two thirds (65%) naming it as their top financial concern ahead of fuel and tax.
Finance continues to shape purchasing options. Over half of drivers (55%) have used car finance and three in four (75%) who have say it makes buying more affordable. Cash and savings remain common, but finance is increasingly seen as a practical route to accessing newer and higher quality vehicles.
Future Fuel Choices
Fuel preferences continue to evolve. While diesel remains the likely choice for three in ten (29%) drivers, petrol stands at two in ten (22%). A combined one in four (26%) expect to choose hybrid or plug in hybrid, and one in ten (10%) plan to go fully electric. Costs are both a motivator and barrier for EVs - lower running costs are the main motivation for those considering electric, but those who are not planning to switch often cite expense and electricity costs as their main barrier.
Technology and Ownership
Technology is becoming more familiar in the buying journey. One in four (26%) drivers have already used AI to assist with research or comparison, and over half (57%) say they would feel comfortable using AI to help them find the right car.
Car ownership continues to carry real weight in Irish life. The vast majority of drivers, 96%, believe in varying degrees that it is important to have your own car. Half of all drivers, 53%, go further and describe it as essential, which underlines how strongly people value personal access compared with alternatives such as rideshares or public transport.
Conor Faughnan from Carzone said, “Drivers are becoming more confident about their next purchase, but they are equally conscious of rising costs. We are seeing clearer intent to buy new, growing budgets and a shorter replacement cycle, yet insurance and everyday running costs remain front of mind for most people. The shift towards hybrid and electric options continues at a steady pace, though cost is still a deciding factor for many. It is also notable that more drivers are turning to technology, including AI, to support their research. These insights help us understand what really matters to Irish motorists at a time of ongoing change.”
Click here to read the full report