When purchasing their first car, young Europeans are making rational and budget-conscious decisions. According to the Europe Automotive Study 2025 by Observatorio Cetelem, those under 30 prioritize price and practicality over design, sustainability, or cutting-edge technology—a trend reshaping the automotive industry.
💶 Price: The Most Influential Factor
For 50% of young drivers, price is the most decisive factor when choosing a car. However, 59% see it as the main obstacle to making a purchase.
As a result, used cars dominate the market for young buyers, although preferences vary by country:
🌏 China: 92% prefer new cars.
🇵🇱 Poland: 75% choose used vehicles.
🇪🇸 Spain: 56% opt for new cars, exceeding the European average.
This reflects how economic conditions and credit accessibility shape consumer choices across different regions.
🛡️ Safety: A Growing Priority
Following price, safety is the second most important factor, cited by 32% of European buyers and 42% of Spanish buyers.
When asked what they value most in a car:
✅ 30% prioritize safety over
✅ 27% who emphasize practicality and
✅ 27% who seek driving freedom.
This marks a significant shift from previous generations, who often prioritized aesthetics or brand reputation.
⛽ Operating Costs & Mileage: Saving Matters
Beyond the purchase price, young buyers are concerned about long-term costs:
📊 23% of European buyers factor in running costs (17% in Spain).
📍 18% consider mileage, though in Spain, only 7% do.
🚗 17% care about brand, while
📏 19% of Spaniards value car size more than the EU average.
⚡ 21% in Spain look at power & performance (vs. 16% EU average).
These stats highlight the strong financial influence on first-time car purchases, as buyers seek fuel efficiency and cost-effective ownership.
⛽🚀 Gasoline Still Reigns Despite Electric Growth
While 50% acknowledge EVs are more sustainable, gasoline engines remain the top choice due to:
⚡ Higher upfront EV costs
🔋 Charging infrastructure limitations
⏳ Uncertainty about resale value
Interestingly, environmental concerns rank just 8th in importance:
🌍 12% in Europe
🌱 17% in Spain
However, 60% believe electric cars will eventually replace gas-powered ones, suggesting that government incentives and charging expansion will be key to EV adoption.
🚘 Conclusion: A Pragmatic, Budget-Conscious Generation
Today’s young car buyers are reshaping the industry by prioritizing:
✔️ Affordability over luxury
✔️ Safety over aesthetics
✔️ Cost efficiency over cutting-edge tech
The future of the market will depend on:
📉 Government incentives for EVs
🚗 The availability of affordable options
⚡ Automakers adapting to new consumer demands
