Car Purchase Intention: A Systematic Literature Review

The study of car adoption examines the processes and determinants that shape individuals’ decisions to purchase vehicles. These decisions result from a complex interaction between personal characteristics and contextual factors, including technological, social, and environmental considerations. Although academic interest in this topic has increased substantially, the literature remains fragmented, revealing theoretical and empirical gaps that limit a comprehensive understanding of car purchase behavior.

A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The search strategy was applied to the Scopus and Web of Science databases, focusing on peer-reviewed empirical studies addressing vehicle purchase and adoption decisions. Eligible studies were screened, assessed, and analyzed using descriptive and thematic synthesis techniques.

The findings indicate that questionnaires and surveys are the predominant data collection instruments. The highest research output originates from the United States, China, and India. The most frequently analyzed populations include car buyers, electric vehicle consumers, drivers, and university students. The most commonly employed theoretical frameworks are the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Protection Motivation Theory. Key variables repeatedly examined include car purchase intention, age, perceived behavioral control, attitudes, and social norms.

The results reveal a strong concentration on a limited set of theories and variables, suggesting a need to expand analytical perspectives. This theoretical convergence may limit the explanatory power of existing models and overlook emerging factors such as sustainability concerns, technological transitions, and market-level heterogeneity.

This review highlights the need to adopt more integrative and diverse theoretical approaches to advance understanding of car adoption. Future research should incorporate broader conceptual frameworks and contextual variables to better capture the complexity of vehicle purchase decisions.