Aussie Mums Feeling Pressure in the Playground for the Car they Drive

SYDNEY – Aug 1, 2012: New research released today shows that Aussie mums are feeling judged on the car that they drive, particularly when it comes to the school run. One in ten said it was the environment in which they felt most judged by the car they drive, making them dread the daily drop off.

From a work perspective, women are also feeling under fire from their boss on their choice of wheels, with one in five claiming they feel most judged on their car choice in a work situation. The Carsguide.com.au Free Way survey examined what causes Aussies to trade in their wheels, with insecurity and practicality topping the list.

Something that both men and women agree on is that family is the biggest critic on our car choice, with one in three saying a family gathering was the time they feel most judged on their vehicle.

Commenting on the results, Karla Pincott, Editor of Carsguide.com.au, said, “Women are clearly feeling judged by both family, friends and strangers on the type of car they drive and are looking to take the driver’s seat in ensuring their wheels match their lifestyle and social status. For some, the car is the new power suit when it comes to impressing those around you.

“Despite wanting to impress at the school and workplace, nearly half of all Australians still choose practicality over any other motivation to sell their car, showing we are a level headed nation when it comes to selecting a new vehicle.

“From men wanting practical ‘man vans’ for their golf clubs, to the ladies using their car to influence in the playground, we are celebrating that you can now sell your car, free - on Carsguide.com.au and we encourage anyone looking to sell their car to go online and try us today.”

The Carsguide.com.au Free Way survey also revealed:

Gen Y are more concerned about impressing the boss (33%) with their wheels than they are a romantic partner or family

When deciding to sell their car for an upgrade, baby boomers are just as influenced (21%) by their friends as their Gen Y counterparts (21%) - perhaps a sign of a mid-life crisis setting in!

Men are more than twice (25%) as concerned about impressing their mates with the car they drive than women (12%)

Don’t bother paying for an expensive clean when selling your car as only 6% of buyers look for this when choosing a second hand car. A bigger concern is how it smells (14%), with smoking and pets a big turn off for prospective owners

Sports car owners are clearly out to impress with their wheels, with one in five saying a first date was the situation they felt most judged on the car they drive

Carsguide.com.au, the largest free online car sales service, today announced that private car sellers can now list their vehicle on the site for free. All listings are featured on Carsguide.com.au, their mobile site, partner websites, as well as being emailed directly to interested car buyers – delivering exceptional exposure for private sellers.

To celebrate this announcement, Carsguide.com.au is also launching a Facebook competition for keen sellers to win up to $2000. For more details visit the Carsguide.com.au Facebook page