Alfa Romeo

Fuel economy remains top priority for car buyers - 07/07/2012

Car buyers are increasingly looking at fuel economy when choosing a car, and to a lesser extent carbon emissions. 

In a survey of motorists by Auto Trader, 71% said it would be a priority when buying their next car, with 43% saying that low carbon emissions should be a priority. This compares with 53% and 24% respectively when their present car was purchased.  

While the emphasis on fuel economy has increased during the purchasing decision process, so has the emphasis on low carbon emissions – a clear sign that motorists are taking a more environmental approach when selecting a car. 

The survey also found that many motorists have switched from petrol to diesel.  41% of respondents had previously owned a diesel car, while 52% presently drive one.  58% of them said that the main reason for changing was running costs.  

Young drivers, aged 17 to 24, appear to care least about fuel economy, with 65% stating that they didn’t consider economy when buying their present car and 58% that they won’t when buying their next car either.  

The most fuel economy conscious drivers were aged 65 and over, with more than 62% claiming it was a priority when buying their present car and 82% stating that it will be a priority when buying their next car. 

“It’s not just today’s concerns about the availability of fuel that is driving motorists to prioritise fuel economy when choosing a new car,” Nathan Coe of Auto Trader said.  “Increases in fuel prices and the growing pressure on family budgets over the past three years are all having an impact.  The survey also revealed that the number of motorists who consider low emission to be a priority has almost doubled and we expect that number to continue to increase in the next few years.”