Carzone: Munster drivers claim highest running costs

Carzone, one of Ireland’s leading motoring marketplaces, has launched its 2024 motoring report, shedding light on how Munster’s driving habits stack up to the rest of the country.

Carzone’s research provides insights into regional motoring trends across Ireland, including pivotal trends and shifts within the Munster car-buying landscape.

People in Munster claim to have the highest vehicle running costs in the country, with average running costs of €225 a week compared to the national average of €220. Fuel was also the top financial concern for Munster drivers when it came to running a car, closely followed by insurance and servicing. 61% of Munster drivers have cut back on driving as a result to save costs.

Munster drivers are more likely to own their cars alone compared to the rest of the country. 76% of Munster drivers own their car solely compared to the national average of 72%, while only 15% share a car compared to 20% across the country.

46% of Munster drivers plan to purchase an EV or hybrid as their next vehicle, below the national average of 54%.

As well, Munster drivers spent an average of €17,370 on their last vehicle, slightly below the national average of €18,251. 49% of respondents purchased their last vehicle using savings, 23% from a loan with a credit union, and 13% from a bank loan.

On average, Munster drivers change their vehicles every 5.08 years and are most likely to purchase them from franchise dealers.

Since its inception, Carzone’s research has provided insights into the evolving automotive industry.

Sinead McCann of Carzone comments on the 2024 report, stating: “It offers a vivid depiction of a market in flux and the industry’s collective navigation through times of change.

“The automotive sector is at a pivotal juncture of recovery, with our data showing a promising start to 2024 and a pathway back to pre-pandemic levels of success for a sector recently challenged by Brexit and stock shortages. This motoring report encapsulates the changing preferences of Irish consumers and how the industry can adapt to these emerging trends and expectations.”

The 15th edition of the Carzone Motoring Report merges insights from the 80 million searches conducted on Carzone in 2023 with a comprehensive survey of 1,000 motorists in Ireland, offering a barometer of current car-buying sentiments.

The hallmark report, with further insights from across the country, serves as a comprehensive guide for both car buyers and sellers to collaboratively navigate the future market landscape.

To explore the full analysis and commentary on Ireland’s automotive industry, the complete report is available for review at www.carzone.ie/motoringreport.