Hassle-free sales environment revs vehicle purchases

The test drive is by far the most powerful motivator of new vehicle purchase with 63% of respondents who got a new car in the last three years, though 37% were influenced by the dealer warranty. Meanwhile, 20% were swayed by the demeanour of the sales agent and 27% were wooed by the dealer trade-in amount.

"Our findings suggest that consumers are looking for a tangible experience when they are browsing for a new car," says Mark Guarino, senior analyst at Mintel. "These big-ticket purchases are always going to be influenced by financial aspects, but consumers still value service and don't want to be pressured by a pushy or overbearing salesperson."

Who - not what

Many factors at the dealership can influence a vehicle purchase, but there are also factors outside the showroom, as consumers often seek a second opinion from a friend or family member. 58% of individuals who purchased a car in the last three years say their spouse or partner helped them make the decision. Another 9% say they consulted their parents while 27% say they made the decision on their own.

"Most often, car buyers don't operate alone," adds Guarino. "Spouses or loved ones are not only a trusted source of information, there is also the practical aspect too: the spouse or partner may likely also be driving the vehicle - and in some cases helping pay - so they have a say in which one their significant other purchases."