A top vehicle retailer has seen a surge in demand for a certain type of model following bad weather (Image: Getty)
A popular used car retailer has highlighted that the recently experienced across the UK has caused a surge in demand for a popular type of car.
As fresh for and wind are still affecting parts of Scotland, drops in temperature and aggressive storms are making many drivers consider a more rugged vehicle.
As a result, Sam Sheehan from the vehicle retail platform has highlighted that interest in and has skyrocketed in a matter of days.
He said: “The freezing weather that carried over into the new year has been a wake-up call for many drivers, with a realisation that their cars aren’t completely fit for purpose.
“Searches for four-wheel drive cars are up nearly 45 %, and with more cold weather around the corner, it’s safe to say the trend towards winter-ready motors will probably continue.”
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Four-wheel drive cars offer more grip on slippery surfaces and can be safer in crashes (Image: Getty)
Whilst the majority of drivers in the UK have no intentions to leave the asphalt, off-roaders are typically regarded as being more capable than other types of car in harsh weather.
Four-wheel drive powertrains are capable of distributing their power to each corner of the vehicle, helping to reduce the risk of losing control on snow, icy, or wet surfaces.
The generally larger size of four-wheel drive vehicles often help to boost their safety credentials, with many of the most popular choices receiving five-star ratings from the regulatory body EuroNCAP.
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One of the most popular models available with four-wheel drive on cinch is the Kia Sportage (Image: Getty)
According to cinch, one of the most popular used four-wheel drive models on their website is the Kia Sportage, which was also ranked as the second-best-selling new car of 2024.
Widely known for having bold looks, the latest version of the Sportage is a stylish choice whilst also offering good levels of practicality and build quality that drivers expect from an SUV.
Whilst the majority of Sportages feature front-wheel drive, the 1.6T GDi diesel model is available with four-wheel drive, offering plenty of power whilst still returning an average of around 33mpg.
Another popular choice for a rugged off-roader on cinch is the Nissan Qashqai, another well-known SUV that was designed in London and made in Sunderland.
First launched in 2007, three generations of the Qashqai have been produced, which have been widely praised for their relaxed driving style, good amount of standard equipment, and impressive ride quality.
Used car buyers insisting on four-wheel drive should choose the 1.3-litre DIG-T version, which is slightly less powerful than the Kia but cheaper to run, averaging just over 40mpg.