Men and women have differing perspectives on a range of topics, so it should come as no surprise that the subject of cars is one of them. More to the point, the buying habits divided along gender lines reveal marked contrasts. Men tend to appreciate style and performance as opposed to women’s preferences for safety, practicality, and comfort.

Women’s automotive opinions are, in fact, driving the majority of auto sales. With 1.4 million more licensed women than men, according to CJ Pony Parts, statistics show that women are responsible for 62% of new car purchases, and they influence 85% of consumer decisions.

What are the 5 most popular cars for women?

A 2.75-year study conducted by the automotive research company, iSeeCars.com, provides comprehensive insight into the car-buying habits of women. “The findings were based on analyzing 54 million car sales and more than 500,000 consumer inquiries.”

The inquiries, which were categorized according to male and female names, discovered that, “more than 60% of prospective buyers were women.” Women also pay an average of $14,870 for a new car compared to men’s purchase price of $49,224.

5. Ford Fiesta

Voted as 2017 Budget Car winner by Women’s World Car of the Year panel, the Fiesta hits squarely on the practicality point so important to female car buyers. Base model priced at $13,273, the new Ford offers comfort and sophistication at a definite value.

Don’t underestimate this 2019 subcompact. While it may not win a speed contest, Ford made some changes in 2014 when the three-cylinder EcoBoost was introduced.

The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine loaded with 197 hp and 202 pound-feet of torque. This is car is ready to hit the ground running on its 17″ wheels and six-speed manual transmission. Women are looking for a complete package, after all.

4. Kia Forte

Kia Forte owners are price-conscious buyers. Women represent 55% of Kia’s compact population.

Although affordability is tantamount to purchasing a new compact vehicle, Forte drivers are also willing to spend extra on safety features and an environmentally friendly vehicle.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Kia’s compact at a 9.5 out of 10. The multi-air bag configuration combined with 4-wheel ABS brakes and traction control creates a safety-conscious package that’s worth investigating. Not to mention, the Forte’s gas mileage ranges from an enticing 27 mpg/city to 41 on the highway.

Wrap the 2019 Forte’s $17,770 package up in sleek exterior styling and roomy interior design, and it’s clear to see how it ranked #1 for compact cars.

3. Volkswagen Beetle

Women favor affordability and reliability, which is exactly the reason why the Beetle made it onto the most popular list. With 56% more women than men purchasing this Volkswagen, the topic of practicality over performance is a frontrunner.

An average of 26 mpg/city and 33/highway, the 2019 Beetle’s six-speed transmission allows for extended maneuverability. Shifting options include the automatic Sport mode or the manual Tiptronic transmission for added control. Plus, this classic remains an affordable option with prices at $20,800.

2. Nissan Versa

For less than $16,000 and a suite of safety features, it’s no mystery why the third-generation Nissan Versa is so popular with women. The standard manual transmission also retains its popularity across the board.

Ever aware of the technology most desired by its buying public, Nissan includes such standard safety features as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and high beam assist.

1. Hyundai Tucson

The 2019 Tucson offers some cosmetic styling changes as well as standard safety features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now included in the base model with pricing starting at a modest $23,350.

Women represent 59% of the owner contingency for this small crossover SUV. Handling and comfort rank high on the list of reasons for Tucson’s popularity.

While it’s easy to maneuver, the interior is designed for both legroom and carrying cargo. Not to mention, at 23 mpg/city and 28/highway, the Hyundai Tucson optimizes both space and performance.

It goes without saying that auto dealers who want to create a positive buying experience for this growing demographic would be well-served to study the trends and expectations of female car buyers.