The Top Female Cars

The Top Female Cars

Cars are typically ranked up there with sports and beer as a stereotypical "male" interest, yet women are taking the lead on the road in many respects. In the United States, there are now more licensed female drivers on the road according to a recent study from the University of Michigan. Another study from the University of New South Wales Transport and Road Safety research unit had interesting findings related to women's skill as motorists. During a recent twelve month period, the researchers found that male drivers were four times as likely to be involved in fatal accidents as female drivers. Women tend to be more cautious on the road, and want a vehicle that will measure up to the challenge while still being fun to drive.

What Women Want

Although car manufacturers release cars in fun colours and sporty styles to appeal to women, many females have a long checklist of what they look for in the right car. A good-looking car is appealing; but so is a car with a high safety rating, excellent fuel economy, and good value for money. Traditional gender roles no longer apply, as in many households men and women alike are looking for a car that they can use not only to drive to work but also to drive the kids to school. Families look for comfortable cars at a reasonable price, with all the latest gadgets.

Yet women also appreciate style, which is why females are the majority of buyers for fashionable vehicles like the Citroen C1 or MINI. For today's top manufacturers to appeal to a female audience, they have to keep this on board and produce high quality products that effectively combine style and substance. The following are five cars that consistently rank high with female buyers, ticking all the boxes.

Honda CR-V

Many women are on the hunt for family cars, which must be roomy enough to fit the kids and all their gear yet still provide good value for money. The minivan was nearly ubiquitous in the 1990's, and the SUV drove up to take its place as the most popular family vehicle in the 2000's. A more modern alternative these days is the crossover SUV, which combines the roominess of an SUV with the fuel economy and easy handling of a smaller car. One of the top sellers is the Honda CR-V, which boasts an attractive exterior design and practical list of features. Not only is there an abundance of space in the cargo and passenger areas, but the price is right at under $25,000. The infotainment system is kitted out with all the latest gadgets like Bluetooth and a rear-view camera to keep the kids entertained while boosting its safety ratings.

Volkswagen Beetle

One of the most iconic cars ever produced, the VW Beetle has long been popular with female car buyers. Volkswagen has achieved enormous success in this market for producing cars which are both known for their reliability and style. Although the classic model of the Beetle was extremely popular with women, the updated model still commands their attention. Over 60% of new Beetle buyers were women in 2011. Although the car still retains its retro style, it has a more balanced range of features to appeal to both genders. Top features include a powerful engine, spacious trunk, and precise steering capability. The enduring popularity of this classic car proves that good things can come in small, stylish packages.

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is another crossover vehicle that makes the list. Although it's a hit with both genders, over half of Forester buyers are females. Its wide appeal is due to the Forester being such a fun car to drive, offering a high level of performance on both city streets and rural highways. One of its standout features that make it so popular with women is its high safety rating. Market research also shows that female drivers usually prefer to sit lower to the ground than male drivers do, perhaps because this gives a feeling of security and control. The Forester has a lower bearing than comparable vehicles, which may also help boost its popularity. It has all the advantages of an SUV yet with a sleeker, lower build that is similar to a conventional city car. Finally, the Subaru Forester reviewed by Motoring offers great value for money which appeals to both genders.

Fiat 500

In terms of style, the Fiat 500 is one of the hottest cars that you can find on the road. It's a real head-turner for women, with its diminutive size and vintage flair. Available in girly colours like pale pink and blue, this car has also taken part in fashion industry promotional tie-ins, with brands like Gucci dressing it up. When women are looking for a stylish car that can is both practical and fun, the Fiat 500 come out on top. Yet there's more to the Fiat 500 than its good looks.  In addition to its cute exterior, this Fiat retains its value well over the years, and it also offers a high level of fuel economy with 65 miles to the gallon.

Mazda 3

Mazda is another brand that is often associated with women due to its cute, sporty models. Yet the Mazda 3 is not only sporty, but also quite practical. This hatchback comes in 4 and 5-door versions, both of which are top sellers with female drivers. Although the car is quite petite upon first glance, it offers a surprising amount of passenger and cargo space which make it a good family or working car. The engine is powerful, making the car fun to drive. The Mazda 3 reviewed by Motoring is also known for its versatility and high safety rating. This ideal blend of style and practicality makes the Mazda 3 a perfect example of what women are looking for in a car.

When it comes to style, ease, and value, these five models come out on top with the female market. They are cars that other brands strive to emulate, as an increasingly high percentage of female drivers become sole car purchasers.