More so than other age groups, Millennials say SUVs make them feel powerful when they drive; are the kind of vehicle they want to be seen in; and are more sporty and fun to drive than other vehicle types, according to research consultancy Benenson Strategy Group.

The Millennial generation is also more likely to consider it important that a car is perfect for an active lifestyle, with half believing this better describes SUVs than other types of vehicle.

The survey makes two important points—the SUV boom in Europe is not a passing fad and young people are not as ambivalent about car ownership as some suggest—especially when it comes to SUVs.

—Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe

Millennials account for 24% of Europe’s adult population. The new survey shows one in four Millennials who intend to purchase a vehicle in the next year are considering an SUV.

Industry wide, SUV sales in Europe are expected to increase from 20% of total passenger car sales in 2014 to 27% by 2020, according to industry analyst IHS.

The study of 5,000 adults in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK also found:

• 54% of Millennials believe SUVs are better than any other type of car at going anywhere in city or countryside;

• 52% of Millennials believe SUVs are better at keeping them safe than other types of vehicle;

• 84% of Millennials believe SUVs have become more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly over the last five years;

• 52% of Millennials intending to buy an SUV consider them the only type of vehicle that delivers toughness as well as lifestyle, rational and emotional appeal in a single package.