WESTLAND, Mich. -- While there may be a gap when it comes to music and fashion, drivers of the Gen Z cohort (those born 1995) have at least one thing in common with their parents: SUVs.
Making up more than a quarter of the US population with nearly one-third having reached driving age, Gen Z is making quite an impact on the auto industry. Despite their reputation as ride-share enthusiasts, a recent study has shown that 92% of the Z generation plans to own or lease a new vehicle. As to what kind, the country's youngest drivers are ditching the subcompact car and gravitating towards the subcompact SUV.
“Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials – everybody wants their SUV, and Gen Z is no different,” says Ford US sales analyst Erich Merkle. “As more new small SUVs like Ford EcoSport become available, you’ll see the subcompact SUV segment continue to climb as a popular new car of choice for first-time buyers.” Merkle adds that sales of subcompact SUVs among 18-to-24-year-olds will surpass that of subcompact cars as early as next year.
In 2014, the 18 to 24 age group in the United States purchased 8,121 subcompact cars and only 443 subcompact SUVs. Flash forward to 2017, that same age group purchased 3,981 subcompact cars and 2,480 subcompact SUVs - that's a 541% spike in just four years.
The Ford EcoSport, which hit showrooms earlier this year, is the newest of nine vehicles looking to capitalize on Gen Z's growing affinity for the subcompact SUV. Fuel-efficient and with the cargo space desired by young drivers, the EcoSport comes at an accessible price for Gen Z to consider over the used car option for their first ride, with a starting price of under $20,000. On top of that, the EcoSport comes equipped with 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine that returns an EPA-estimated 28mpg combined rating and a range of up to 381 miles per tankful.
What else does the Gen Z cohort love about subcompact SUVs? As the "Connected Generation", technology is extremely important to young drivers. As a result, subcompact SUV designers strive to include more features like Wi-Fi, multiple charging ports, and smartphone app-compatible entertainment systems.
The Ford EcoSport comes with all that and more including compatibility with popular tech products like Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Additionally, FordPass provides remote access through a smartphone app, plus an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen, and is also available with a B&O Play premium audio system and SiriusXM satellite radio.
“To Gen Z buyers, connectivity is everything,” says Karen Sullivan, Ford EcoSport brand marketing manager. “Their car serves as an extension of their phone and their home, and we’re seeing an exciting response from these young customers to our all-new EcoSport.”
To top it all off, the Ford EcoSport provides cargo space Gen Z can't get out of a subcompact car, boasting 50 cubic feet behind the front row - nearly double that of a Fiesta hatchback - and 20.9 cubic feet behind the second row - much greater than the trunk space of a Focus sedan.
What's the best part about all of this? North Brothers Ford has the 2018 Ford EcoSport in stock! When considering a first car for your young driver, browse our selection of Ford EcoSport subcompact SUVs and schedule a test drive. While you're at it, pop into our service department and let our Ford certified technicians ensure that everything is A-OK before they hit the road!
North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!
