The Gender Gap is Closing on Car Buying According to New Research from Quicks

LONDON, August 26, 2011 -

When it comes to buying cars, the old stereotype that women go for substance and men go for looks is dead, according to new research from Quicks, one of the UK’s a leading car retailers. Based on a sample of over 4,600 vehicle sales over the last six months, Quicks has examined gender differences in car purchases to reveal that the gap between what cars men and women are buying, is closing.  The study shows that today, both men and women are buying smaller, practical cars which are cheaper to run.

With spiralling motoring costs including rising insurance premiums, sky-high fuel prices and the rise in VAT, it’s no surprise that car buyers are being savvy with their money, sometimes looking for value-for-money practicality, over performance and looks.

According to Quicks research, the top 10 most popular car choices for women are:

1. Ford Fiesta
2. Vauxhall Corsa
3. Ford Focus
4. Vauxhall Astra
5. Fiat 500
6. Ford KA
7. Renault Clio
8. Volkswagen Golf
9. Fiat Grande Punto
10. Peugeot 207

The top 10 most popular car choices for men are:

1. Ford Focus
2. Ford Fiesta
3. Vauxhall Astra
4. Vauxhall Corsa
5. Vauxhall Vectra
6. Volkswagen Golf
7. Ford Mondeo
8. Renault Clio
9. Honda Civic
10. Vauxhall Zafira

Katie Martin, Head of Quicks Operations comments: “Our sales data shows that men, like women, are cost-conscious and are looking for cars that are cheaper to run, as insurance premiums and fuel prices soar.

“Traditionally, perception is men have gone for higher priced, higher performance cars, but the pressure on their wallet is changing men’s priorities.  We are seeing a growing demand by men for smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles, in lower insurance bands.  Indeed, men are starting to think about cars in the same way as women - practicality and substance over looks and performance.”

The Quicks brand was launched in 2010, and currently operates seven stores around the UK in Stoke, Stockport, Stockton, Hull, York, Sunderland and Lincoln.  Each store offers servicing and styling, as well as a wide choice of cars, to suit every type of driver with every type of budget.  Quick’s focus is on providing the lowest prices, a wide product choice and excellent quality products, supported by outstanding customer service.

For further information, please visit www.quicks.co.uk.

Karen Hughes, The Drum Consultancy, t: +44(0)20-7025-8044, e: karenh at thedrumconsultancy.co.uk;
Jason England, PR and Communications assistant,
t: +44(0)1623-725190, e: jason.england at pendragon.uk.com