Hotel California named greatest driving song in new poll of 2,000 drivers

The Eagles' 1977 classic Hotel California has been voted the greatest driving song of all time in a poll of motorists. More than one in four of those asked ranked the track as the song they most want blasting from the speakers on the open road.

Just behind in the survey of 2,000 drivers was Bruce Springsteen's Born in the USA, followed by Flowers by Miley Cyrus. The poll was commissioned by Isuzu UK pick-up trucks.

Drivers love to sing along

Four in 10 of those asked say they love nothing more than belting out their favourite tunes at the top of their lungs behind the wheel, singing an average of seven times a week in the car. And singing at the top of their voice isn't confined to when drivers are on their own — a third admitted they have frightened or startled passengers with their enthusiastic singing.

Given a choice, just over four in 10 say they prefer to sing with their partner in the car, although 35% reckon their children make the most tuneful travelling partners.

Music's power on the road

Music also has the power to transport drivers back in time, with three in 10 saying certain songs bring back fond childhood memories of family holidays and day trips. More than half say nothing beats listening to music on the road, while one in two have at least one dedicated road trip playlist, containing an average of 44 songs.

And while many drivers say they listen to music on the go for the sheer enjoyment, 48% also believe it helps them stay alert during longer journeys.

George Wallis, head of marketing at Isuzu UK pick-up trucks, said: "Music has always been part of the joy of the open road. Whether you're off to work or heading out for a weekend away, the right song can lift the mood for both drivers and passengers."