'Weather-beaten Brits looking for 4x4s'

The majority of car insurance policyholders looking for a new vehicle may be increasingly searching for a 4x4 as opposed to any other type of auto.

Findings by vehicle comparing web-based firm Carmony.co.uk have shown that almost 70 per cent of searches on its websites were for 4x4 vehicles last month, marking an increase of three-times the number for December.

The company suggests the recent snowy and icy conditions can be attributed to the increased interest in such vehicles, which are designed to tackle a variety of weather and surface conditions.

Statistics showed the increases between 19:00 GMT and 21:00 GMT, with the biggest increase in searches for 4x4s seen on January 9th, when 78 per cent were for the models.

Managing director of Carmony.co.uk Paul Coleman described the increase as "dramatic".

"With roads, schools and businesses closed during Britain's worst snow for 50 years, it seems 4x4s have suddenly become the vehicle of choice for many drivers," he said.

British Car Auctions (BCA) recently revealed that average values for 4x4s have reached record levels, with the firm's Pulse Report showing the price was an average of £12,918 in January, marking a rise of £647 on December's figure.

"Nothing makes four-wheel drives more attractive than a dusting of snow around the UK and the severe weather we have had in recent weeks will have convinced many drivers that they now need a 4x4," said BCA communications director Tony Gannon.

Meanwhile, van insurance policyholders may also have been on the lookout for a new model in recent months, as December surpassed November in delivering a new high for average light commercial vehicle values.

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The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of the BGL Group