Introduction to the Generation Gap

A study conducted by Peugeot polled 2,000 drivers across five generations, shedding light on the differing priorities when it comes to cars and driving. The results show that technology-driven features such as in-car connectivity, autonomous capabilities, and eco-friendly design are top priorities for Gen Z and Millennials.

The biggest differential is in connectivity features, with 42% of millennials and 38% of Gen Z drivers valuing the smartphone connectivity of their cars, compared to just 10% of Baby Boomers and 3% of the Silent Generation. When it comes to technology overall, 31% of Gen Z rated it as their top consideration when choosing a new car, compared to 10% for Boomers.

Environmental and Sustainability Credentials

Older buyers are less likely to be influenced by the design of their vehicles, with 27% of Gen Z listing it as their top consideration when buying, compared to 12% of Boomers. Environmental and sustainability credentials were not overwhelmingly factored-in to purchases by any group, although Gen Z valued it most, with a sizeable 25% listing it as their most valued new car attribute.

Interestingly, 74% of the Silent Generation said that sustainability was important to some extent in their choice of new car, higher than both Boomers and Generation X. With 75% of Gen Z thinking it is important that their next car is electric or hybrid, the youngest and eldest generations both value sustainability in their choices of future cars.

Technology Preferences

While ‘technology’ per se isn’t an overarching factor for older drivers, the research revealed a strong affinity for some elements of it - for example, 45% of Boomers said they wouldn’t want to drive without their sat-nav software. AI assistants were identified as a popular new technology by 24% of all drivers, rising to 46% among Gen Z.

Gen Z is also the keenest when it comes to self-driving functionality, with 62% welcoming autonomous features - fewer than a quarter of Boomers feel the same way. Peugeot is committed to developing vehicles that meet modern drivers’ expectations and reinforce their position as leaders in both technology and electrification.