Are you pickier about cars than partners?

Are you pickier about cars than partners?

30.05.2025

3 min. to read

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Model Choice

Get the exact model you want with Europcar’s Model Choice

Have you ever broken up with someone because they chewed too loudly? You’re not alone. Our latest survey reveals a fascinating insight into modern dating. It turns out, we Brits are becoming incredibly picky when it comes to relationships, sometimes to the point of absurdity.

 

One in three of us (34%) admit to ending a romance over minor annoyances and 28% would rather be single than settle for someone less than perfect.

So, what are the deal-breakers?

According to the survey, bad hygiene tops the list of deal-breakers (57%), followed by staying in contact with an ex (32%) and a bad sense of humour (25%). Other bugbears include social media addiction, snoring, and even being a bad driver. And if you’re hoping for a second chance, forget it! 31% said they wouldn’t offer one, even if their partner promised to change.

 

What are we looking for in an ideal partner? Honesty (30%), affection (28%), trustworthiness (27%) and kindness (24%) lead the way. Only 5% care about good dress sense, and a mere 9% value a love for animals.

 

But here’s the kicker: 14% of us are more particular about our cars than our partners. This is where Europcar’s new Model Choice service comes in, allowing customers to book the exact model they want from a range of premium vehicles, including executive saloons, spacious SUVs and high-performance cars.

 

As Tom Read-Wilson, star of Celebs Go Dating and a self-confessed perfectionist, puts it, “dating these days is like trying to find the perfect car. We know what we want and we’re not willing to settle for anything less. We all have our deal-breakers, whether it’s bad hygiene or someone still texting with their ex. Europcar’s data shows that when it comes to choosing a partner, we weigh up options carefully, just like when choosing a car. It’s all about either finding that perfect match or staying single and enjoying the ride!”

Why are we so picky?

The survey suggests that the prevalence of dating apps and social media has made us more selective than ever. We’re bombarded with options, leading to a “why settle?” mentality. People simply don’t want to compromise on even the smallest of issues, reflecting a broader trend of heightened selectivity in today’s society.

 

While it’s important to know what you want in a relationship, is it realistic to expect perfection? Are we sacrificing genuine connection for the sake of ticking off a checklist?

 

Our research certainly provides food for thought. While we offer a service to ensure you get the perfect car, perhaps we should remember that relationships, unlike vehicles, often thrive on a little bit of imperfection.

 

Having said that, next time you’re on a date, maybe play it safe by chewing with your mouth closed and double-check you’ve turned off those ex-related notifications. And, if you need a car, at least you can be sure to get the perfect rental car with Europcar Model Choice.

 

Check out Europcar Model Choice Service – it’s like a match-making agency for cars!

 

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