How long does it take to buy a new car?

AIB has partnered with Carzone.ie to research the hours that Irish people commit to finding their new car and factors that are most important to them when making their decision.

Some 45% of those surveyed claimed to spend a few weeks searching online, and 25% dedicating a number of months.

Some 50% said they test drove up to five cars before making their choice, with 8% trying between five and 10. Only 16% said they would commit to purchasing a car without trying it out first. Also, 28% of individuals said they change their car every two to three years, while 33% would purchase every four-plus year.

The vast majority of participants rely on the experts when in the market, with 38% saying they would primarily take advice on choosing a new car from motor experts, and 24% relying on online publications, as opposed to only 13% deferring to friends.

It also seems that Irish people are increasingly spending more time in their cars, with 32% spending 10 hours per week, and 14% claiming to spend upwards of 20 hours, commuting or travelling.