37 per cent believe their fantasy car is nothing but a pipe dream and are resigned to NEVER possessing such a vehicle

The average motorist expects to finally own their dream car at the age of 42, according to a poll.

However 37 per cent believe their fantasy car is nothing but a pipe dream and are resigned to NEVER possessing such a vehicle.

But when it comes to their next motor, the 2,000 drivers surveyed are in no doubt about the dream features it would have – including a panoramic sunroof, heated seats and sat-nav.

Assisted driving tech such as parking sensors, automatic braking systems and remote start would be important too.

And for one in 10, a cup holder would be an absolute must.

A spokesperson for Hyundai said: “As the research shows, many of us long to own a truly amazing car but unfortunately a vast number don’t think they ever will.

“Of course, this doesn’t stop us wondering what our dream car would – or will – be like and clearly we have pretty fixed ideas of what our next car would at least have.”

Preferences also differ somewhat according to age with 18-24 year olds especially keen that their next car features tech such as Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Whereas those aged 48 plus are more concerned with features which improve safety and aid driving such as demisting mirrors, automatic braking systems and parking sensors.

Interestingly, men and women want very similar things when it comes to their next car – although the number one requirement for men is air conditioning while parking sensors are a must for females.

The findings emerged as it was revealed 35 per cent of those polled buy the first car they go to see when shopping for a new motor.

And around one fifth will only check out two vehicles before making a decision.

The research also identified the factors we take into account when purchasing a new motor, with price at the top of the list.

Factors such as reliability and fuel type are also popular among those polled, in addition to fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

On the flipside, it also emerged that there are certain things that annoy people about their current cars.

The most common being scratches and dents, size, how much it costs to fill up with fuel and how slowly it accelerates.

Others are fed-up with smelly air con, poor visibility out of the rear window and being unable to get the radio to work.

Amid this, four in 10 have bought a car and regretted it later.

Carried out through OnePoll.com, the research also found the typical motorist has owned six cars to date with their first one costing £1,596.10 on average.

In contrast, their current vehicle on average costed £11,313.28.

And typically those polled will own a car for five years and eight months before getting a new one.

A spokesperson for Hyundai said: “The good news is our new i30 N Hot Hatch has the features many of those polled are looking for in their next car along with great acceleration.

“It’s a real head turner and bound to impress the biggest of petrol heads – but doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.”

TOP 20 – FEATURES WE WANT IN OUR NEXT CAR:

1. Air conditioning
2. Parking sensors
3. Electric windows
4. Sat-nav
5. Spacious boot
6. Digital radio
7. Demisting mirrors
8. Automatic braking system
9. Heated seats
10. Bluetooth
11. Backup Cameras
12. Sound system
13. Cruise control
14. Lumbar Support
15. Panoramic Sunroof
16. Leather seats
17. Cup holder
18. Heated Steering Wheel
19. Remote Start
20. Android Auto/Apple CarPlay