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British Drivers Average 1.5 Million Lifetime Miles

Published 16 January 2026

A new survey of British drivers reveals that the average motorist will log more than 1.5 million miles behind the wheel over a lifetime, a distance equivalent to three round trips to the moon or 63 laps around the Earth. The findings, drawn from 2,000 respondents, highlight extensive driving habits and preferences amid the automotive industry's shift toward electrified vehicles.

Conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Honda to coincide with the launch of its updated Civic eHEV hybrid model, the poll outlines key milestones in a typical driver's journey. Most take their driving test twice before passing, own five cars throughout their life, and refill their fuel tank 1,360 times. About 15 percent purchase their first vehicle at age 17, paying an average of £2,999. When it comes to international travel, drivers first venture abroad by car at around 25 years old, though 44 percent have yet to try it.

The study shows drivers typically replace their cars every five years, with 21 percent sticking to the same one for a decade or more. The top reason for upgrading, cited by 46 percent, is simply wanting something new, while 42 percent wait until their current vehicle becomes...

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