News Published on : 14-Sep-2021 12:44:23

The majority of car owners (76%) buy their car from a car showroom rising to 86% of over 66s compared to just 58% of under 34s. The survey of 2 000 UK drivers commissioned by InsuretheGap.com finds that drivers who prefer to buy from showrooms do so because: 1. 34% wish to part-exchange their vehicle 2. 33% want a showroom warranty - this is particularly important for over 66s (41%) compared to under 34s (25%) 3. 21% like a showroom s after-sales service 4. and 11% want to be able to access finance options. In contrast almost one in ten (9%) prefer to buy a car online or privately so they don t have to deal with car salespeople (10% men and 8% women) and 12% say they can get a better deal not buying through a showroom. The remaining buyers purchase cars from a private seller (9%) car supermarkets (4%) online retailers (3%) and gifts from family members (3%). One in twenty (5%) drivers are happy to buy a car online without even seeing it (8% men and 3% women) rising to one in ten (11%) under 34s compared to 4% of over 55s. 9% would also buy a car without a test drive (11% men and 6% women). Ben Wooltorton Chief Operating Office of InsuretheGap.com said: Car showrooms continue to be the Goliath of the car industry and remain the go-to place for most car purchases. Drivers clearly feel confident in the quality of vehicles offered and the overall service. What I do find surprising is how many people are happy to either buy a car they haven t seen or one that they haven t even test driven!