Fuel efficiency 'helping to boost popularity of 4x4s'

Improved fuel efficiency has been singled out by one industry source as a major reason why more people may be interested in 4x4 hire or purchase.

Chris Green, co-founder of Motoring.co.uk, told the Press Association that the amount of petrol required to run such vehicles might have put drivers off in the past, but there are now options available with smaller engines and superior fuel efficiency.

His comments were made following research by the website showing that demand for 4x4s is at its highest level ever, with the number of interested buyers rising by 35 per cent over the past year.

"As major manufacturers continue to invest in more fuel efficient, smaller engine 4x4s, we will continue to see demand ... grow as motorist favour their size, safety and road handling in bad weather conditions," noted Mr Green.

He highlighted the new Range Rover Evoque as an example of the sort of car that is becoming popular, with its 2.2 litre engine and its fuel efficiency of about 44 miles per gallon.

City AM pointed out that the vehicle is the smallest, lightest and greenest car ever produced by the manufacturer and said the company is targeting city types rather than rural motorists with the design.

The publication also reported that a special Victoria Beckham edition of the Evoque is in the pipeline, which is indicative of the market Range Rover is aiming at.