Carzone’s 2026 Motoring Report found that 65pc of car owners have listed insurance as their top financial concern, just ahead of fuel and tax.

Drawing on responses from 1,000 motorists, this year’s findings point to clearer shifts in buying intentions, cost pressures and attitudes towards future technologies.

The report also said that the means of purchasing a car have also altered due to the rising cost of living, with 55pc of drivers having used finance.

Although cash and savings remain common, finance is increasingly seen as the practical route to car ownership.

Despite cost pressures, the report revealed that drivers are replacing their cars more frequently, with the average cycle being every five years and 30pc of those surveyed hoping to buy in the next 12 months.

Car ownership proves to be of significance importance to Irish drivers

As well as this, 34pc now expect their next car to be brand new, up from 28pc in 2025, with the average expected spend sitting at €21,300 – an increase of €1,900 on last year.

Car ownership proves to be of significance importance to Irish drivers, with over half (53pc) describing it as essential, underlining how strongly people value personal access compared with alternatives such as ride-shares or public transport.

However, experiences of the buying process remain mixed, as two in five describe it as exciting, but a quarter of those surveyed finding it stressful or time-consuming.

While diesel remains the fuel of choice for most motorists (29pc), electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options together account for nearly 40pc of searches.

However, costs are both a motivator and barrier for electric vehicles – lower running costs are the main motivation for those considering electric, but those who are not planning to switch, have said that expense and electricity costs as their main barrier.

Motorists are now leaning on artificial intelligence (AI) to inform and support their research for their next purchase, with over half of those surveyed (57pc) saying they would feel comfortable using AI to help them find the right car.

Carzone is owned by Mediahuis Ireland, which is also the publisher of the Irish Independent.

The shift towards hybrid and electric options continues at a steady pace

It credits the insights in the latest report in helping “understand what really matters to Irish motorists at a time of ongoing change”, by creating a clear picture of the factors shaping the Irish motoring landscape.

Carzone’s independent motoring expert Conor Faughnan said: “Drivers are becoming more confident about their next purchase, but they are equally conscious of rising costs.

“We are seeing clearer intent to buy new, growing budgets and a shorter replacement cycle, yet insurance and everyday running costs remain front of mind for most people.

“The shift towards hybrid and electric options continues at a steady pace, though cost is still a deciding factor for many.”