Stereotypes are everywhere and the automotive world is no exception. When it comes to the cars we drive, we’re all guilty of wanting to be perceived a certain way while out on the road and equally, we are all guilty of assuming that the driver in certain car types has particular personalities or traits. From the Ford Fiesta and its racing stereotype to the Fiat 500 and its reputation for being a woman’s car, we’ve dug a little deeper into some of the most popular cars around, and who you could expect to see behind the wheel.

Ford Fiesta

A car that has become synonymous with ‘boy racers’ over the years is the Ford Fiesta, and understandably so – with nimble handling and a powerful engine under the hood, it packs a powerful punch at a far more affordable price than other high-performance sports cars. However, while the roads do see drivers of this stereotype in a Ford Fiesta, research suggests that they are actually common amongst healthcare workers, carers and other support workers. The Ford Fiesta’s reliable nature could have a lot to do with this but certainly goes to show that there is more to this car than meets the eye.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus is a vehicle synonymous with new drivers, not least because of its affordable nature and lower insurance costs. If you drive a Focus, you’ll likely be written off as a new or inexperienced driver regardless of whether there’s a P-plate on your car or not. The stigma attached to young or new drivers is a hard one to shake, but when it comes to a good first car, the Ford Focus is one of the best. Reliable and relatively cheap to run, the Ford Focus isn’t just popular with new drivers, however – in fact, it’s a popular car for those with careers in transportation, including chefs, caterers and more thanks to the significant boot and spacious seats.

Fiat 500

It’s pretty commonly known Fiat 500s are particularly popular with the female population, but one stereotype is that these women are typically of the younger generations. The Fiat 500 is a compact, relatively affordable car that’s popular on the roads and therefore accessible both brand new and second-hand and for this reason, has built a reputation as a popular car amongst new and inexperienced drivers. However, research suggests that while the majority of Fiat 500 drivers are women, it certainly isn’t just new or young drivers – in fact, you’ll find women of all ages with and without kids as owners of this vehicle.

Vauxhall Corsa

The stereotype surrounding drivers of a Vauxhall Corsa isn’t always seen in a positive light. The Corsa is one of the most commonly seen cars on the road today, and is popular among younger generations but as a result, has earned itself a reputation as the car of choice for ‘boy racers’ and ‘chavs’. However, this stereotype is far from true. While there are owners of this car that fall into the stereotype, research suggests that these vehicles are actually p,ost popular amongst teachers and other lower-paid jobs. The Vauxhall Corsa is another affordable car, which is likely why it has become so popular amongst those with lower budgets.

BMW Series 1-3

BMW drivers don’t always hold the highest of reputations, with stereotypes varying from young and dangerous drivers, to wealthy businessmen and women depending on the model being talked about. BMW’s Series 1, 2 and 3 vehicles are particularly known for their popularity with businessmen, particularly those who are directors of companies or managers of firms. Simply put, the BMW Series 1 – 3 models are popular city cars and their price often means that those who own and drive them are typically of the wealthier variety.

VW Golf

Another model known stereotypically as the car driven by racers and younger, more reckless drivers, the Volkswagen Golf is a small but fiery vehicle that really holds its own on the roads. With some of the best steering seen in hatchbacks, an engine that really packs a punch and a comfortable interior to boot, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most commonly seen – and heard! – on the roads. However, while ‘racer’ types do own and rev these vehicles, reports actually suggest that the VW Golf is particularly popular amongst those in the world of fitness, or in managerial positions at their jobs.

Nissan Juke

The Nissan Juke doesn’t hold quite as strong of a stereotype as some of the vehicles on this list, but they have been known as family cars, particularly single moms or dads in need of a spacious car that will reliably get them from A to B. While the Juke definitely ticks all of those boxes, research suggests that they’re generally popular with those with responsibility in life, such as receptionists, carers, medical staff and more. The Nissan Juke is a reliable and sturdy vehicle that you can rely on to get you from A to B when needed, and safely at that.

While stereotypes can be fun from time to time, the reality is that cars are all a case of personal preference, what you need in your day to day life and in some cases, affordability. Both new and used vehicles are available in a vast range of styles and with an even vaster range of features. For more information on different manufacturers, take a look through our blog or for help with your existing car, feel free to get in touch with our team, today.