Average sales prices for four wheel drive vehicles have improved for six months in a row and used 4x4 values are now at the same level they were a year ago, according to BCA.

“With increased fuel prices and the threat of government taxes to deter motorists from choosing bigger vehicles, there was a real expectation that there would be a significant downturn in sales and values for four wheel drives,” said Tim Naylor, PR manager, BCA.

“And initially that view was well-founded as average values fell by over £2,000 in a matter of weeks, with many dealers only buying these vehicles to order and even refusing to take them in part-exchange.

"But as fuel prices began to drop, many motorists realised what exceptional value for money these vehicles had become and there was increased demand and a steady up-swing in prices.”

In January, the average value for a four-year-old 4x4 at 50,000 miles was £8,566, showing a small increase over December’s figure and just behind the peak values recorded last year.