Car Confessions
What happens in the car... doesn't always stay in the car.
To some, a car is just a vehicle to get from point A to B. For others, it’s much more than that.
We surveyed more than 2,000 Australians1 to gauge their emotional connection to their cars and what’s happening behind closed car doors, including behaviours, attitudes and quirky habits.
Scroll to see what we found out.
1 Survey results are sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025, involving 2,020 individuals aged 18 years old and above, from all states and territories within Australia who identified as car owners and drivers. Some percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number. Survey results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
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Just about everyone uses their car for something other than driving.
Turns out, we’re more connected to our cars than you might think. Our survey found that the majority of Aussies use their car for something other than driving. In fact, many of us spend time in our car without even going anywhere.
Glovebox snacks and zero witnesses - 59% of Australians enjoy a sneaky treat in the car.
Gen Zs are more likely to enjoy a snack in the car (66%) as well as NSW locals (62%).
For 64% of Australians, the best views come with cup holders and a car stereo.
Boomers (70%) are the most likely to stop and enjoy the view while the car is parked, along with women (65%).
Who needs a destination? 67% of Gen-Z use their car to hang, listen and vibe out.
Only 43% of Boomers choose to sit in the car and listen to music or podcasts.
The engine’s off, but the convo’s on - 60% of Australians take calls from the comfort of their parked car.
Millennials (64%) are the most likely to take a phone call in the car while it's parked, and NSW locals (64%) do this more than any other state.
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Nowhere to go, and that’s the point. 43% of Aussies use their car as a space to pause.
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Your car’s heard it all - rants, pep talks, awkward rehearsals. 31% of drivers say they talk to themselves when they’re alone on the road.
Let’s just say... the car’s heard things, and seen things - strange things.
Drivers say their car knows that they talk to themselves a lot when they’re alone in the car.
31%
38%
Female drivers say they need to have a little cry in their car sometimes.
36%
Male drivers admit they sometimes use their car to nap.
Gen Z drivers say their car knows they spend too much time on social media.
31%
10%
Gen Z drivers say their car knows that sometimes they’re napping when they’re meant to be working.
22%
Gen Z give their cars words of encouragement.
Comparative data based on information obtained from Dentsu Intelligence as of May 2025. Data may have changed since the time of collection. Comparisons are intended for information purposes only and may not reflect current market conditions. Individual results and experiences may vary.
“I talk to it on long drives about my day.”
“I like listening to the start-up of the car.”
“I ask my car not to burp when I start her.”
“I shut my eyes when I hit a pothole.”
“I make brake noises; I pat the car to say well done for a big drive.”
“I turn the music off if I have a tight parking spot.”
“I believe it has soul and character.“
What's hiding in the boot?
Over one third of Aussies (35%) say they only keep completely normal things in their car...
But what’s normal?
Blankets 🧺
36%
24%
A change of clothes 👕
23%
Toilet paper 🧻
(normal?)
We’re not saying you’re in love with your car… but you might be.
0%
of drivers have an extremely or somewhat strong emotional connection to their cars.
Our findings show that younger people are more likely to have a strong emotional connection to their car.
Gen Z
58%
51%
Millennials
41%
Gen X
34%
Boomers
Comparative data based on information obtained from Dentsu Intelligence as of 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025. Data may have changed since the time of collection. Comparisons are intended for information purposes only and may not reflect current market conditions. Individual results and experiences may vary.
It might not be perfect, but it’s yours - 83% of Aussies are proud of the car they drive.
29% of Gen Z drivers are proud of their car because they have a sentimental attachment to it, compared to only 15% of Boomers (Millennials 22%, Gen X 18%). Other reasons Aussies are proud of their cars include its toughness, it being a second home on the road or inheriting it from a loved one.
43% of drivers say they are proud of their car because they worked hard to buy it.
Beyond this, 40% of drivers say they’re proud of their car because they look after it very well. Among the states, WA drivers rank number one for vehicle pride due to their tender care (45%). Gen Zs are the most likely to be proud of their car because of a sentimental attachment (29%).
Only 14% of drivers are not proud of their car.
This tends to be because it is old and outdated, or they can’t afford anything better. Other reasons for not being proud include the car’s strange appearance, it needing repairs, or being constantly worried it’s about to break down.
Cars are what we make of them – and are often an expression of who’s behind the wheel. For many Aussies, cars are central to key memories and milestones.
"Moving states with my car full of all my things."
"Sleeping in the back, going on lovely trips, transporting things nobody believed I could fit in."
"Fastest car I’ve owned."
"Teaching my kid to drive."
"Saving up and buying my first car without help."
First keys. First solo cruise. For most Aussies, those early car moments leave the biggest mark - 42% say owning their first car, and 27% say that unforgettable first solo drive.
Gen Z are more likely than any other generation to have special memories attached to their cars – for 50% it’s having their own car for the first time, or having their first solo drive (44%) or the first time they could drive their friends around (39%).
Tiny passengers, big emotions. 32% of parents say the memory of bringing their baby home is forever tied to their car.
Cars hold memories - and for some, a little more personality too.
It's a girl!
Significantly, more Australians think their car is a girl (24%) than a boy (13%).
Gen Z drivers (51%) are almost twice as likely to assign a gender to their car compared to Boomers (27%). 38% of Millennials and 37% of Gen X are also likely to do so.
Female drivers are more than three times more likely to say their car is a girl not a boy (34% vs 9%). Male drivers are more split – 15% think their car is female, compared to 17% who think it's male.
Turns out, 1 in 4 Aussies are on a first-name basis with their car.
Gertrude
Susie
Our Chariot
Pammy
Speedy Tomato
The Rocket
Daisy
Big Red
Our cars carry more than people - they carry moments, memories, and a little bit of who we are.
So, what’s your car personality?
Your car sees it all – the snacks, the tears, the Spotify karaoke sessions. It knows when you’re lost, hyped, or just need a moment to yourself. Now it’s your turn to find out what kind of driver you really are.
Scroll down to take the quiz
What’s your car personality?
In our Car Confessions survey1, we set out to test a theory: is a car more than just a way to get from A to B? Turns out, Aussies are more emotionally connected to their cars than we expected — and we’ve discovered that everyone has a unique ‘car personality’. We’ve narrowed it down to four fun personas, each with their own quirks and interests. Want to know what your ‘car personality’ is?
Take the quiz to find out!
The Road Trip Romantic
Every drive’s a memory in the making. Whether you’re travelling with a partner or just sitting in the car talking to a friend and not actually going anywhere – you have a deep emotional connection to your car.
As a Road Trip Romantic you find peace in scenic drives and quiet moments, and you often keep sentimental items like blankets and old movie tickets in the car. You’re likely to be a hoarder at home too – minimalism is not your thing. You might even go as far as to say you view your car as a personal retreat or emotional space – perhaps to de-stress, take a moment after a long day at work or sit and watch the sunrise or sunset. You romanticise the small things in life, and you wouldn’t be where you are today without your car.
Sounds like you? You’re not alone. 64% of our Car Confessions survey respondents* say they have parked somewhere nice just to enjoy the view. In fact, 47% say they like to spend quiet time in the car, 20% say their car is a private spot just for them and 16% use their car to de-stress.
Looking for ways to enjoy your car even more? Check out Youi’s Great Australian Road Trip itineraries here.
*Survey results are sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence involving 2,020 individuals from Australia from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025. Results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
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The Bush Mechanic
If it ain’t broke, it’s probably still got duct tape on, right? You’re practical, resourceful, and even a bit rough around the edges. Your car would likely say you talk to it, and you believe it has a personality of its own (we won’t share your Car Confession, don’t worry).
You keep tools, gadgets and gear for any situation in your car because it’s always best to be prepared! Naturally you’re the first person your friends and family call upon to help them out of a tricky situation – whether they’re bogged or stranded on the side of the road, you’re there to help them. Perhaps even a metaphor for your life!
Not just that, your car is always there for you, through thick and thin. Whether you’re catching up on work, sneaking a nap or using it as a second home (is that a fridge we see in the back?), it’s your space and no one else’s.
Sounds like you? You’re not alone. According to our Car Confessions survey,* 12% of Aussies like to catch up on work or study in the car. 23% talk to their car sometimes (see, you’re not crazy) and 47% admit using their car just to get some quiet time.
Next time you’re asked to help someone out of a tricky situation, just send them the below article on what to do if your car breaks down#. Just because you always have tools and gadgets in your car doesn’t mean you have to be the first they call!
*Survey results are sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence involving 2,020 individuals from Australia from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025. Results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
# Youi Roadside Assist available with Comprehensive Car insurance policies only. Exclusions, limits and additional fees may apply. Cover not available within the first 24 hours of taking out, or upgrading to, Comprehensive cover.
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The Car-aoke Star
Your car, your stage . You’re fun, bubbly and always in-the-know. You love music, podcasts and performing solo concerts at red lights because why not – life’s too short to take seriously.
You keep up with the latest trends, you’re always the first to tell people about a new style or the latest news – some might even say you’re the trendsetter in the group. You’re quirky and creative and your car is your safe space to express yourself. Is that a camera or instrument in your glovebox?
While you love driving the car, you feel most comfortable in your role as passenger princess. You don’t care where you’re going, as long as you’re having fun and making memories.
Sounds like you? You’re not alone. Our Car Confessions survey* found more than half of Aussies (55%) listen to music or podcasts in their car. 11% even make social media content in their car! Do you want to be TikTok famous too?
Next time you want to scroll on social media or make content – just remember to not use your phone while driving! Otherwise, you can cop a hefty fine.
*Survey results are sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence involving 2,020 individuals from Australia from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025. Results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
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The Free Spirit
Your car’s got crystals, character, and a name like ‘Moondust’. You see your car as a spiritual or expressive extension of yourself. You enjoy solitude and emotional release in the car – sometimes you just need to park somewhere and have a good cry, right?
You’re also quirky – you like to keep whimsical or symbolic items in your car like crystals and stuffed animals. Great conversation starters! But that’s not all you are – you’re soulful and unapologetically unique. You feel deeply and your car is where you can freely process, reflect and recharge.
You might name your car, talk to it, or even believe it has a secret life of its own.
Sounds like you? You’re not alone. Our Car Confession survey* reveals 20% of Aussies meditate or enjoy peace in their car. In fact, 19% vent or release emotions in the car, and 8% believe their car has a mind of its own.
It might not be a crystal or stuffed animal, but here are some items worth keeping in your car next time you hit the road to stay safe.
*Survey results are sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence involving 2,020 individuals from Australia from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025. Results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
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Aussie Car Confessions
Ever cried in your car? Given it a pep talk before a big hill? You’re not alone.
We lifted the bonnet on Aussie driving habits with our Car Confessions study – a nationwide survey of more than 2,000 drivers1 – to find out what really happens inside our cars. And it turns out – they’re so much more than a way to get from A to B.
Nearly half of Australians feel emotionally connected to their car. For Gen Z, it runs even deeper, with 58% admitting they’re genuinely bonded to their ride.
Our data proved that cars aren’t just transport. They’re our safe space. Our sound booth. Our escape pod from the chaos of everyday life. We snack in them. Vent in them. Hang out, cry – and even nap in them.
Beyond the road – what Aussies really do in their cars (besides drive)
92% of Australian drivers use their car for more than just driving. In fact, many of us sit in our cars without going anywhere at all – just to think, breathe or get a moment of peace.
Top non-driving habits
- 59% snack while parked – especially Gen Z (66%) and NSW locals (62%)
- 64% enjoy the view from their car when it’s parked – Boomers (70%) and women (65%) are big fans
- 67% of Gen Z just hang and listen to music or podcasts (Boomers lag at 43%)
- 60% take calls while parked – led by Millennials (64%) and NSW locals (64%)
Car time = me time
- 43% of Aussies admit they sometimes or often sit in their car without going anywhere.
- 31% of Aussies say their car knows they talk to themselves when no one else is around.
For some, that time alone creates a bond the outside world doesn’t see.
When we’re alone in the car, we:
- Talk to it on long drives
- Listen to it start up
- Ask it not to burp when starting
- Shut our eyes when we hit a pothole (just for a second)
- Make brake noises and praise the car for a big drive
- Turn the music off to focus on parking
- Treat it like it has a soul and character
What’s in the boot?
You might expect blankets (36%), a change of clothes (24%), and toilet paper (23%) to top the list.
But Aussies also stash:
- Shopping bags
- Water
- First aid kits
- Yoga mats and gym gear
- Mints and lollies
- Dog toys
- Golf clubs
- Shells and feathers
35% say they only keep normal things in their car... but clearly “normal” is up for debate.
The emotional miles
37% of drivers have an extremely or somewhat strong emotional connection to their cars – with Gen Z once again leading the way (58%) compared to only 34% of Boomers, 51% of Millennials, and 41% of Gen X.
What makes us proud of our wheels?
- 83% of drivers say they’re extremely or somewhat proud of their car – not because of the make or model, but what it represents.
- 43% say they’re proud because they worked hard to buy it.
- Others love their car for its toughness, sentimental value or because it feels like home on the road.
- Among the states, WA drivers are the proudest (45%) due to their tender care.
Only 14% say they’re not proud of their car – often because it is outdated or they can’t afford anything better.
Other reasons include the car’s appearance, the car needing repairs, or constant worry about breaking down.
Milestones and memories
For many Aussies, cars are wrapped up in big life moments:
- 42% say having their own car for the first time is a special memory
- 42% say completing their first solo drive is one they’ll never forget
- 32% of parents say bringing their baby home for the first time is their top memory.
Gen Z drivers are more likely than any other generation to have special memories attached to their cars:
- 50% say having their own car for the first time is a special memory
- 44% say completing their first solo drive is one they’ll never forget
- 39% remember the day they could drive friends around for the first time
Others mention memories of passing down a loved one’s car, the feeling of independence, or finally obtaining their dream vehicle.
Other memories include:
- Moving states with the car full of belongings
- Sleeping in the back seat
- Going on road trips
- Transporting things nobody believed would fit
- The fastest car they’ve owned
- Teaching their kids to drive
- Saving up to buy a car without help
Is it a boy or a girl?
- 24% of Aussies say their car is a girl, vs 13% who say it’s a boy
- Gen Z drivers (51%) are almost twice as likely to assign a gender to their car compared to Boomers (27%)
- Female drivers are three times more likely to say their car is a girl not a boy (34% vs 9%)
- 15% of male drivers think their car is female compared to 17% who think it’s male
And yes, 1 in 4 Aussies have named their car, with top names including Our Chariot, Susie, Kiki, Terry, Chopso-Bluey, Speedy, Tomato, Breadcrumb and The Beast.
Car seat confessions
31% of Aussies say their car knows that they talk to themselves when they’re alone.
- 23% of drivers talk to their car, at least sometimes
- 38% of female drivers say they need to have a little cry in the car sometimes – more than double the number of male drivers (14%)
- 47% of male drivers spend time in their car without going anywhere, compared to 39% of women
- 31% of Gen Z drivers say their car knows they spend too much time on social media
- 10% of Gen Z drivers admit to taking a sneaky nap when they’re meant to be working
Sometimes we give our cars words of encouragement
22% of Gen Z say they give their car pep talks during tough moments – like when going up a steep hill – compared to just 6% of Boomers, 14% of Millennials and 10% of Gen X.
And if our cars could talk, they’d probably spill a few secrets.
Here’s what Aussies admit their car would know about them:
- My singing voice is terrible
- I am a poor navigator
- I'm quite an untidy person
- I like to drive just because
- I'm crap at parallel parking
- I'm still learning the harmonica
So, what’s your car personality?
Your car sees it all – the snacks, the tears, the Spotify karaoke sessions.
It knows when you’re lost, hyped, or just need a moment to yourself.
Now it’s your turn to find out what kind of driver you really are.
Take the quiz above and find out your Car Confessions personality.
1Data for the Youi Car Confessions study was sourced from a survey conducted by Dentsu Intelligence from 28 April 2025 to 9 May 2025, involving 2,020 individuals aged 18 years old and above, from all states and territories within Australia who identified as car owners and drivers. Some percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number. Survey results have not been independently verified by Youi and may not be representative of the general population. Individual experiences may vary.
Product issued by Youi Pty Ltd. Consider our Car PDS to decide if this product is right for you. PDS and TMD available at youi.com.au. Any information contained in this article is for general information only and is not comprehensive advice. Any recommendations should be considered against your personal circumstances.