Italy sees car ownership turn into luxury as costs surge

A new OpinionWay survey of 1,000 Italian drivers finds that 98% consider mobility expenses to be rising and 82% view owning a private car as a luxury. The perception is higher among women (87%), young adults aged 18‑24 (88%) and lower‑income households (86%). Despite the rising price pressure, 91% say they could not manage daily travel without a car, especially in suburban areas where reliance reaches 95%.

The same economic strain is prompting Italians to cut non‑essential trips, postpone new‑car purchases and delay routine maintenance, with one‑third postponing repairs. In parallel, EU Regulation 461/2010 (MVBER), extended to 2028, guarantees that car owners can choose independent garages without voiding warranties, provided the shop uses genuine or equivalent parts, follows the manufacturer’s service procedures and issues detailed invoices. Authorized dealers, while offering direct access to proprietary diagnostics and a flawless service record, charge higher hourly rates ranging from €50‑€90 plus VAT.

These findings highlight a defensive shift in Italian mobility habits, balancing the need for personal transport against shrinking disposable income and a complex regulatory landscape for vehicle maintenance.