When it comes to car brands and choosing a vehicle you love, preferences can differ widely. Even more than that, these preferences can change from generation to generation. For Baby Boomers, certain car brands don’t provide what they’re looking for due to reliability concerns, practicality, or cost. Because Boomers influence much of the market, it is important to pay attention to what they’re buying (and what they’re not). Here are eight car brands that Boomers try to avoid at all costs.
1. Fiat
Fiat is one of the car brands that Baby Boomers hate the most. Although it is a well-known brand, only about 30% of Boomers have a favorable opinion about Fiat. Many people in this generation find that Fiat isn’t as reliable or durable as other brands. The brand is known for needing frequent repairs and it tends to be higher maintenance. Additionally, the compact size of many of Fiat’s models doesn’t appeal to Boomers.
2. Chrysler
Chrysler was once a symbol of American auto innovation. However, it has recently seen a decline in popularity among the Boomer generation. Many people feel like the quality and overall reliability of Chrysler has declined. Not to mention, the brand has had a number of recalls and significant mechanical problems in recent years. On top of that, Chrysler was bought by Stellantis, which had Boomers concerned about the brand’s stability, making them hesitant to invest in these cars.
3. Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi is another brand that doesn’t seem to sit well with Boomers. Even though this brand is known for its affordability, it hasn’t dazzled anyone in this generation. Time and time again, Boomers have pointed out the brand’s issues with reliability and questioned its build quality. Additionally, Mitsubishi doesn’t have a great presence in the American market, making it “sketchy” to many Boomers. They tend to prefer car brands with a longer history of reliability and customer satisfaction in the U.S. market.
4. Ram Trucks
You might be surprised to find this American-made vehicle on the list. However, Ram trucks aren’t impressing any Boomers. This generation often associates these trucks with poor fuel efficiency and high maintenance costs. The rebranding of Ram separate from Dodge has also confused many Boomers, leading to mixed feelings about the brand’s identity. All in all, Baby Boomers think that Ram trucks lack the durability they’re looking for in a truck.
5. Bentley
Bentley is a brand name that has become synonymous with luxury in the decades they’ve been built. Surprisingly, Boomers aren’t interested in the brand at all. Most of them find Bentleys to be impractical and expensive for no reason. The brand has focused on luxury over practicality for years, and that isn’t something that appeals to many Boomers. Not to mention, Bentleys have a high cost of ownership that deters many people from even considering it.
6. Acura
Acura is the luxury division of Honda, but once again “luxury” isn’t turning any heads among the Baby Boomer generation. Even though Acura is known for quality and performance, Boomers typically feel disconnected from the brand. It is largely marketed toward younger people with its high-tech features and sporty designs. Some Boomers also feel like Acura’s cars are overpriced compared to other luxury brands.
7. Ferrari
Ferraris are iconic, but they don’t resonate with Baby Boomers. Generally speaking, many people in this generation find Ferrari to be impractical and expensive. With limited practicality and high maintenance costs, most Boomers steer clear of this brand altogether.
8. Tesla
Tesla is another car brand that Boomers aren’t a fan of. Although it has become more popular among younger individuals, the brand faces a lot of skepticism among Baby Boomers. They have concerns about the reliability of electric cars and the charging infrastructure. On top of that, the cost of a Tesla and the brand’s short history add to its lack of popularity among this generation.
Understanding Preferences Across Generations
Overall, many Baby Boomers prefer established brands that have a proven track record of reliability and excellent customer service. This generation also places importance on reliability, practicality, and value. They aren’t interested in all of the bells and whistles that may come along with newer vehicles. Rather, Boomers simply want a car that with get them from point A to point B reliably.