Kiwis downsize their cars

The AA survey shows that 16 per cent of drivers downsized their cars in the last year and another 30 per cent are thinking about it.

According to the latest AA Insurance Drivers Index, fuel economy was the main reason, and managing the household budget, no longer needing a large car, and reducing maintenance costs also featured.

The annual survey of 3708 New Zealand drivers aged 18-65 found that older age groups – 45-54 and 55-64 – were more likely to downsize, with the youngest age group, 18-24, least likely to.

According to the survey, 46 per cent said their household had two vehicles, 18 per cent had three, and 11 per cent had four or more.

Wellington had the most one-car households (36 per cent) and fewer multiple car households than other New Zealand cities.

Christchurch had fewer one-car households (23 per cent) and more multiple car households.

This probably reflected the higher rates of public transport use in Wellington, said AA Insurance deputy general manager Martin Fox.

A recent report by Turners also showed Kiwis are buying smaller cars as a way to cut costs.

Auto Trader’s expert columnist Jacqui Madelin this week wrote about the small cars that dominate the roads overseas.

See our range of new and used small cars for sale here.