A new study has shown that 1.2 million Britons will choose a fuel-hungry 4 x 4 vehicle or people carrier this year.
The Admiral research finds that people are four times more likely to choose such vehicles over more efficient hybrid or alternative fuel cars.
As the new car registration year draws near, the firm reports that over a fifth of the population is planning on buying a new vehicle in the coming 12 months.
Tony Chilcott, head of
car insurance at Direct Line, said, "As a nation, we take pride in our cars and with new car registration plates available in the spring, March is a popular time of year for people to purchase a new one."
Under new provisions to be introduced, cars consuming high amounts of fuel will be charged more to drive in London's congestion charging zone.
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