Four in 10 UK drivers consider their car a ‘happy place’ – here’s why

New research reveals many drivers take the long route home just to spend extra time at the wheel. Here’s what makes for the perfect driving experience

Four in 10 drivers consider their car their ‘happy place’ – thanks to the feeling of freedom, a chance to reflect, or the chance to listen to their favourite podcast. A poll of 2,000 motorists revealed 42% find driving relaxing, and 53% enjoy the sense of independence it brings.

For 34% driving is one of their favourite moments of the day, offering a rare chance to relax and recharge. A third even admitted to taking the long way home just to spend extra time at the wheel.

The research was commissioned by FIAT, which has teamed up with Duncan Williams, a cognitive scientist, to create a ‘Smiles per Hour’ (SPH) metric for its new Grande Panda.

The metric is designed to reveal how often drivers smile behind the wheel and better understand the emotional side of driving.

Underpinned by behavioural science, SPH focuses on how people feel when driving, reflecting a shift away from traditional performance measures such as speed.

The research found 81% of UK drivers are unaware of their car’s 0-60mph time, highlighting how emotional experience is becoming more important than technical specifications.

Kris Cholmondeley, managing director FIAT UK said: “Driving isn’t just about getting from A to B – millions find genuine happiness in the freedom, reflection and everyday moments the road provides.

“That’s exactly why we’ve introduced Smiles Per Hour, a new way of understanding what really matters behind the wheel.

“For many, driving offers a rare moment to switch off from daily distractions – whether that’s listening to a favourite playlist, enjoying a quiet journey or simply taking time to reflect. It’s these small moments that can have the biggest impact on how we feel.”

The study revealed the key characteristics of an enjoyable drive include sunny weather (41%), dry conditions (41%), peace and quiet (39%) or a good playlist (31%).

More than half said driving in the morning is their favourite time of day while coastal roads are the best roads to drive on.

What’s more 45% prefer driving alone than driving with others in the car, and the things that make motorists smile the most when behind the wheel are no traffic (59%), their favourite song coming on (52%) and sunny days (51%).

Overall, driving plays a powerful role in wellbeing, with 40% saying they feel happy behind the wheel and 35% agreeing driving can actively improve their mood.