4x4 prices rise sharply

FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE cars are soaring on the used car market, according to car auction house British Car Auctions (BCA).

Off-roader values rose by up to 16% in October as the first signs of winter emerged. With some medium-term weather forecasts highlighting a colder-than-average winter, BCA is predicting that 4x4 prices may keep rising.

Average values for four-wheel-drive vehicles stood at £13,000 for the month, said the firm; a rise of over £1,800 from September and £2,800 greater than the same average in June this year.

Tim Naylor of BCA says this is still a good time to buy a 4x4. “There is a well charted trend between falling temperatures and rising values for 4x4s and we would expect to see that continue in the next few months,” he said.

“And the first hint of snow across the wider UK could create significant demand for 4x4s which will send values even higher.”

The Met Office’s 16-30-day forecast indicates colder than average temperatures are expected, although no snow has been signalled at this point.

Buyers looking for an off-road vehicle would do well to choose the highest-spec models, said Mr Naylor. “When it comes to choosing a 4x4, buyers should go for the best specification they can afford, as this will help the vehicle retain its value in the years ahead,” he said.

“Alloys, leather interior, air-con and sat-nav are all desirable, while more ‘rugged’ accessories such as mounted spotlights, running boards and winches can drive prices up too.”

By Press Association reporters