Although the latest survey by the research institute TX Group Market Research does not focus on classic cars/young cars, but on cars in general and how Generation Z deals with them, the results are also interesting from a classic car perspective. It shows that young drivers also enjoy their cars, value their status and are quite tech-savvy.
The representative survey commissioned by AutoScout24 shows how Generation Z (aged 18-29) feels about cars. Even though Gen Z is considered sustainable, digital and urban, it has a pragmatic and thoroughly emotional relationship with cars - with clear differences to older age groups.
Of the young adults surveyed in German-speaking Switzerland, 82% stated that they drive a car themselves; a proportion that is almost the same as the average for the population as a whole. When it comes to driving, Generation Z is slightly more likely to use petrol than older generations (+ 4%). Although electric and hybrid vehicles are still less common among Generation Z, they are certainly attractive: almost two thirds of the young participants in the study could imagine buying a fully electric car in the next few years.
The approval rate is slightly higher for hybrid drives. It is striking that Generation Z is particularly price-conscious when buying a car. 45 percent would rather opt for a used car, while only 11 percent would specifically look for a new car. Environmental friendliness or the brand's country of origin also play a lesser role in the choice of vehicle than for older generations. Instead, what counts for them is value for money, the purchase price - and looks: Design, color and style are gaining in importance.
Fun and status instead of environmental concerns
Although two thirds of Generation Z are interested in the topic of environmental protection, this interest is below the average of older respondents. At the same time, young adults are particularly tech-savvy and lifestyle-oriented.
For 88 percent, the car is a means to an end, to be mobile and save time. At the same time, they associate cars with fun, prestige and independence much more frequently than older generations. Statements such as "a car is fun" or "a car is an object of prestige" receive significantly more approval from Gen Z.
Generation Z also sets its own priorities when searching for information. While the majority of older people get their information from the dealer or garage, the younger generation prefers digital sources. Car portals, specialized blogs and social media such as TikTok or Instagram are used much more frequently. Only a quarter of young people still value personal advice.
Electric car yes, but autonomous and connected
Gen Z sees car sharing more as a supplement to owning a car. Although many see it as an environmentally friendly alternative, the effort, costs and lack of flexibility are viewed critically. The idea that car sharing could offer more freedom than owning a car is met with disapproval.
Looking to the future, Gen Z is open to technology: Autonomous driving is seen as a realistic scenario slightly more often in this age group than in older generations. At the same time, a larger proportion expect a shift towards public transport - but without giving up their own car completely.
