Soaring vehicle expenses are compelling British motorists to reconsider traditional car ownership, with a significant majority now open to alternative mobility solutions.
The subscription revolution
New research from SIXT UK reveals that three-fifths of drivers would try a Netflix-style car hire subscription to reduce both the financial burden and hassle associated with owning a vehicle. The study shows 60% are willing to try a car hire subscription, marking a dramatic shift in consumer attitudes toward personal transport.
This growing interest comes as many drivers report their annual running costs now exceed £1,000, creating significant financial pressure on household budgets. Half of those surveyed described vehicle costs as a source of worry, while one in four considered them a substantial burden.
Changing consumer habits
The concept of car subscriptions has rapidly moved from obscurity to mainstream consideration. In 2023, 78% of adults were unfamiliar with subscription models, but by 2025 the same concept appeals to 60% of the population.
This trend aligns with Britain's growing comfort with subscription services generally, with the average UK adult now subscribing to 2.8 different services ranging from streaming platforms to mobility options.
Andrew Smith, Managing Director of SIXT UK, commented: "The latest SIXT UK Mobility Study shows a clear market demand for flexible, commitment-free mobility solutions."
How car subscriptions work
Unlike traditional ownership or leasing, subscription models allow drivers to access vehicles for a fixed monthly fee that typically includes insurance, maintenance, and roadside assistance. This approach eliminates large upfront payments and provides transparent pricing without unexpected financial surprises.
Smith added: "The subscription model directly addresses what consumers want - low upfront costs and transparent pricing that eliminates financial surprises. This shift is reshaping the mobility landscape."
With one in four Britons believing subscriptions or rentals represent the future of driving, the automotive industry appears poised for significant transformation as consumers seek more flexible alternatives to traditional car ownership.
