Aussies’ generational differences is an age-old debate and, when it comes to getting behind the wheel, we’ve revealed some surprising variances in how people care for their vehicles.
During May 2024, we surveyed more than 2,000 Australians aged 18+ across the country. In doing so, we uncovered differences in car spending and maintenance habits as well as attitudes towards car insurance coverage and providers, to provide an insight into what matters most to each generation.
Read on to explore the 2024 Car Care & Costs Report and get to know the ins and outs of each generation on the road – you might be surprised to find out which generations are more prepared or frugal than others.
Download the report2024 Car Care & Costs Report
As of 2021, Millennials (21.5%) and Boomers (21.5%) made up the largest generational cohorts in Australia, followed by Gen X (19.3%) and Gen Z (18.2%).1 However, some generations tend to be more vocal than others and when it comes to attitudes and behaviours on the road, including car care, there are some surprising discrepancies.
What does the data tell us?
Pre-Boomers/Boomers (1901-1966)
The research uncovered Pre-Boomers/Boomers are typically more conservative and price-conscious than other generations. And when it comes to vehicle maintenance and care, cost-of-living has surprisingly not had a huge impact on their spending. As these generations don’t typically drive as often, their rate of car maintenance and servicing was already lower than younger generations.
Gen X (1967-1981)
Unlike the older generations, Gen X Aussies tend to be very strict with their spending and make decisions about their car based on the financial impact. They’re well covered when it comes to insurance and value ‘price and range of cover’ over other insurance benefits.
Millennials (1982-1996)
As one of the biggest cohorts in Australia1, this generation is also one of the most frequent drivers which means their car spending and costs are typically higher than other generations. But when it comes to cost-of-living pressures, this cohort is quick to change their spending behaviour to cut costs.
Gen Z (1997-2011)
A young generation who grew up with the influence of the internet and social media platforms, Gen Z can be considered the most ‘vocal generation’ and have strong opinions when it comes to culture, spending and even vehicle care. And those opinions might not be what you think.
Want to find out more about what the data revealed for each generation? Download the report below.
Download the report
1 Statista, Distribution of Australian population in Australia as of 2021, by generation
