Carzone, Ireland’s leading motoring marketplace, has released the 16th edition of the Carzone Motoring Report, combining data from 84 million searches on the site last year and a survey of 1,000 Irish motorists to offer unparalleled insights into what’s happening in the Irish car market.
The 2025 report includes observations on EV sentiments, the financial habits impacting driving, car purchasing behaviours and the most-searched for cars in the country.
Since its launch, Carzone’s annual Motoring Report has become a trusted resource for vehicle sellers and buyers, offering crucial insights into Ireland’s dynamic motor industry.
Irish Search Data
Carzone’s 2024 search data highlights popular car trends. The most-searched new models include the BMW 5-Series, Volkswagen Golf, and Hyundai Tucson. Among EVs, the Volkswagen ID.4, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla Model 3 dominated searches, while the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, and Toyota Corolla were the most sought-after hybrids.
In 2024, buyers frequently searched for cars produced between 2020 and 2022 and priced between €20,000 and €25,000.
Black was the most popular colour filter, hatchbacks were the most common body type, and automatic transmissions were the top searched feature.
Evolving EV Landscape
This year’s report highlights the evolving sentiment toward electric vehicles (EVs). While 32% of respondents plan to purchase a hybrid, electric, or plug-in hybrid vehicle next, some buyers remain cautious due to concerns about cost (40%), reliability (31%), and electricity prices (28%). However, enthusiasm remains strong among younger drivers, with 71% of respondents aged 17-24 open to choosing a more environmentally friendly vehicle.
The market itself tells a positive story: EV sales in the first two months of 2025 have surged compared to the same period last year, signalling growing consumer confidence. With more affordable models arriving and charging infrastructure improving, EV adoption is expected to accelerate. Among current electric and plug-in hybrid owners, 85% cite lower running costs as a key advantage, highlighting the long-term value EVs can offer.
Cost of Living Crisis Eases
The cost of living crisis continues to influence driving habits, though its impact appears to be easing. The average monthly spend on running a vehicle has decreased from €220 in 2024 to €212 in 2025. Fewer respondents reported cutting back significantly on driving, though 38% still reported moderate reductions due to fuel costs. Regionally, 67% of Ulster respondents have reduced their driving.
Insurance remains a key financial concern, with 52% of respondents reporting an increase in premiums (up from 47% last year and 35.9% the year before). 63% of respondents listed insurance as their top financial concern for car ownership, followed by fuel costs (60%). Only 7% reported having no financial concerns with car running costs.
Car Purchasing Behaviours
Car buyers continue to prioritise research. Of those who use classified websites when researching, 65% use 2-3 websites to compare options before purchasing. 28% of respondents reported an increased car-buying budget in the past year.
Leinster respondents had the highest average spend on their current vehicle (€17.65k), while those aged 65+ were the highest overall spenders. When considering what car to purchase, 33% prioritised price, 18% focused on reliability, and 12% on running costs. Among new car buyers, 34% plan to pay with cash or savings. The 17-24 age group remains the least likely to purchase a new car, with only 17% planning to do so.
Martin O’Neill from Carzone, said:
“This year’s report reflects an evolving Irish automotive market, shifting sentiments towards alternative fuels and emerging innovations.
Carzone has been at the forefront of car buying and selling in Ireland for over 25 years, bridging the gap between dealerships and consumers while providing valuable insights for those navigating the car-purchasing process. We’re thrilled to continue this legacy with our latest report, designed to equip buyers and sellers across Ireland with the insights they need.”
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