Half of Gen Z drivers give their car nicknames - what's the most popular?

The study delves into how UK drivers personify their vehicles and the driving experiences that evoke the most nostalgia.

Surveying 1,500 UK drivers, the research reveals that while the majority (77%) still refer to their vehicle simply as a "car," younger drivers are much more likely to assign a nickname.

Common choices include endearing names like "Baby," "Babe," and "Betty," as well as more powerful monikers such as "Beast" and "Rocket." Nostalgic names like "Herbie," "Churchill," and "Elvis" also made the list.

According to drivers interviewed by Honda, giving cars nicknames helps to forge a deeper emotional connection.

Whether it's out of affection, personality, or nostalgia, these names become part of the driver's personal story.

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The survey goes beyond just nicknames, exploring the emotional bond drivers have with their vehicles.

Nearly half (42%) of respondents said certain songs or music genres bring back memories of past journeys.

Millennials are the most nostalgic when it comes to music, with 46% recalling songs that marked their formative driving years.

In contrast, Baby Boomers tend to feel nostalgic when encountering classic cars (29%) or reminiscing about the days of using paper maps (24%).

Nearly a third of drivers aged 18 t0 25 years old (29%), feel nostalgic about simpler moments, such as the breeze through an open window.

Honda's survey also highlights regional differences in nostalgic trends. In London, 48% of drivers say specific songs or genres trigger fond memories, while 42% enjoy revisiting familiar spots like roadside cafes or scenic viewpoints.

In the East Midlands, 40% of drivers associate positive memories with familiar routes, and in the South East, 33% of respondents connect good times with the company they keep during drives.

Let us know what your favourite car nicknames our in our comments section below.

^{Generation splits: Gen Z (Born after 1996) / Millennials (Born 1981-1996) / Gen X (Born 1965-1980) / Boomers (Born 1946-1964)}