SiriusXM’s second annual Canadian Commute study shows that audio continues to play an important role for commuters, particularly among younger Canadians.

Conducted by Angus Reid Group, on behalf of SiriusXM, in early September, more than 1,200 car commuters were surveyed, in both English and French.

Among audio listeners aged 18–34, half (50%) said audio improves their mood, while nearly a third (32%) have looked forward to their drive because of something they planned to listen to.

More than one-third (37%) of Canadians said their time on the road has worsened over the past year, with Toronto drivers facing some of the longest (27% drive for more than an hour) and most stressful commutes (48%). Forty-six per cent of Vancouver drivers described their commute as stressful, with just 11% driving for an hour or more.

Montreal drivers were among those with the strongest connection to audio, with 85% saying their time in the car would be worse without it and 31% saying audio is the part of their drive they value most.

Overall, 73% of those surveyed said their drive would be worse without audio.

“Canadians can’t always control the traffic, distance or delays that come with being on the road, but they are able to manage how they spend that time,” said Susan Simpson, Senior Director, Brand, Marketing and Communications, SiriusXM Canada. “This year’s study shows the important role audio can play in that experience, and how it can help make time behind the wheel feel more enjoyable, meaningful and their own.”