A new survey by Mazda North American Operations shows that priorities are different for younger generations when it comes to vehicle ownership. 

Traditionally, owning a home has taken priority over buying a vehicle, but for generation Z those milestones have swapped places, according to the survey. Sixty-nine percent of the youngest car-buying generation's respondents said they would choose to buy a car over a house, which made them 13% more likely to go the car route.

At the same time, the young buyers place value on different car features than older cohorts.

“As Gen Z places greater emphasis on vehicle ownership, they expect vehicles that seamlessly integrate advanced safety systems and intuitive technology to deliver confidence, peace of mind, and a more secure, intuitive driving experience every day,” said Mazda Director of Vehicle Safety Jennifer Morrison.

Vehicle quality for gen Z is largely defined by advanced safety features at 94%, intuitive technology at 93%, and premium sound systems at 82%. Audio is an important consideration, 64% of respondents saying they judge a vehicle by its sound system. 

Mazda commissioned Burson Insights, Data & Intelligence to conduct the online survey in February of 1,000 vehicle owners in the U.S. who had purchased in the past five years.