Motorists expect cost of fuel to worsen in 2026

THE cost of fuel (net -46%) tops a list of factors motorists believe will get worse in the New Year, according to January’s Startline Used Car Tracker, but the vast majority still value owning a car.

The Tracker is compiled monthly for Startline Motor Finance by APD Global Research, and this time, 303 consumers and 60 dealers were questioned.

It shows they also expect to experience more on-road insurance scams (-42%), worse behaviour from other motorists (-38%) and growing traffic congestion (-36%).

Other anticipated issues include higher car running costs (-32%), more difficult parking (-30%), and an increase in speeding and other fines (-22%).

In only one area – electric car charger availability (+56%) – are motorists expecting a net improvement.

Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance commented: “It looks as though most motorists are quite downbeat about almost everything connected to owning and driving a car as we head into 2026. They believe costs will rise, driving will become increasingly frustrating, and even that they are more likely to be targeted by criminals.

“Except for quite visible investments being made in electric car charging infrastructure across the country, they don’t see any bright spots at all.”

However, despite this widespread pessimism in the Startline Used Car Tracker, 94% said they still valued having a car.