Women Behind the Wheel: Why Irish Female Drivers Are Turning to Suzuki
Over the past few years, we’ve noticed a clear trend: more and more Irish women are choosing Suzuki as their go-to car brand. Whether it’s navigating the streets of Dublin, cruising along South Dublin’s scenic roads, or tackling the ever-changing Irish weather, Suzuki models have struck a chord with female drivers across Ireland.
Why Irish Women Are Choosing Suzuki
In our experience, women car buyers in Ireland are looking for a mix of style, reliability, and practicality. Suzuki ticks all the boxes. The brand offers compact, safe, and affordable vehicles that are perfect for city driving while still feeling spacious enough for family trips or weekend getaways.
It’s no surprise that the Suzuki Swift Ireland is a favourite. Its nimble handling makes it ideal for tight Dublin streets, while the modern safety features give peace of mind, especially for those new to driving or navigating busy urban roads.
Suzuki Models Women Love
At Gerry Caffrey Motors, we often see female drivers gravitate towards three key models:
Suzuki Vitara
A versatile SUV that handles everything from the M50 in rush hour to weekend escapes in Wicklow. It’s compact yet roomy, making it perfect for both city and country driving.
Suzuki S-Cross
For those who want a little more space without sacrificing fuel efficiency, the S-Cross is a smart choice. It’s safe, stylish, and comes packed with features that make driving in Ireland’s sometimes unpredictable weather much easier.
Suzuki Swift
Small, sporty, and easy to park – the Swift continues to be a favourite for city dwellers. Its lightweight frame and excellent fuel economy make it ideal for daily commutes across Dublin.
What Women Look for in a Car
Women car buyers in Ireland often prioritise safety, affordability, and practicality. With Suzuki, you get all three. From NCT compliance to the ease of handling Irish roads in wet conditions, these cars are built to suit local needs. Women are also less prone to risky driving behaviours such as speeding, drink-driving, or not wearing a seatbelt, which further complements Suzuki's focus on safety.
We also see a growing interest in finance options and trade-ins, allowing female drivers to access premium stock without breaking the bank. At GCM, our flexible finance packages mean you can drive away in a new or used Suzuki that fits your budget.
Trends in Car Buying Among Irish Women
Car buying trends in Ireland show that women are increasingly making decisions based on long-term value rather than just aesthetics. Features like advanced safety technology, low running costs, and reliability have become top priorities. Suzuki aligns perfectly with these expectations, offering vehicles that are both fun to drive and practical for daily life. Despite having fewer major accidents and fatalities, women have historically had a lower driving test pass rate than men, which may reflect broader systemic issues.
According to AA Ireland, women are also more likely to consider resale value and maintenance costs, and Suzuki consistently ranks highly in both areas.
Safe Cars for Female Drivers
Safety isn’t just a feature – it’s peace of mind. Suzuki’s models come with advanced braking systems, airbags, and stability control, making them among the safest cars for female drivers on Irish roads. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Dublin or heading out to South Dublin’s hills, you can feel confident behind the wheel.
New vs Used Suzuki Cars
Whether you’re looking for a brand-new Vitara or a high-spec used Swift, we often see Irish women weighing the pros and cons carefully. New cars give you warranty peace of mind, while premium used stock allows you to access higher trims and features at a lower cost.
The Importance of Female Role Models and Initiatives
The presence of few female role models in motorsport has historically been a barrier for many aspiring female drivers. However, initiatives like Motorsport Ireland Women in Motorsport Commission and Formula Female are changing this narrative by providing support, networking events, and educational programs.
These programs aim to increase visibility and provide pathways for female racing drivers to compete at high levels, including prestigious events like Le Mans and Formula One Grand Prix, where only five women have officially competed to date. The ultimate objective is to create an environment where women in motorsport can thrive and compete regularly.
Representing Ireland on the World Stage
Irish female drivers continue to represent Ireland with pride at international events. From rally drivers competing in endurance trials to circuit racers taking on the UK championships, their presence is growing. Events like the Formula Woman Nations Cup, with an expected attendance of over 60,000 and broadcast to over 120 countries, provide a platform to showcase their talent and inspire more females to join the sport.
Looking Ahead: The Next Event and Beyond
The momentum is building, with more female drivers preparing for the next event on the calendar, including final rounds of various championships. These drivers are not just competing; they are setting new standards and crossing finish lines that inspire others. The growing visibility of Irish female drivers like Rosemary Walsh and the legacy of trailblazers like Rosemary Smith continue to fuel the passion and progress of women in motorsport. In 2024, the Motorsport Ireland Women in Motorsport Commission celebrated successful female competitors and volunteers in the sport, marking a significant milestone in their efforts to promote inclusivity.