Middle-aged drivers most likely to buy cars online

New survey suggests it's not just millennials who are happy to purchase their car via the internet...

Using computer to shop for cars online

While shopping online is most popular with people in their late teens, adults in their 40s and 50s are most likely to buy a car via the internet, new research suggests.

The survey, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Hippo Motor Finance, found that almost a fifth (19%) of 45 to 54 year olds would be “likely” to buy a car completely online.

This was closely followed by those aged 25 to 34 and 35 to 44, with 17% of people in both groups likely to purchase a car in this way.

The figure was also 17% in the 18 to 24 age group, whereas just 9% of respondents over 55 said they were comfortable with the idea.

YouGov surveyed 2107 adults, although its findings differ from What Car?'s own experience, with 43% of the people using our online New Car Buying service aged 55 or over.

Several carmakers also offer buyers ways to buy a car completely online, including Hyundai, Peugeot, Nissan, Skoda, Smart and Volvo. However, using these often means you don't get a discount.