BCA is reporting rising demand for 4x4s after sub-zero temperatures and a large blanket of snow covered much of the country at the start of 2015.

“Despite the mild autumn, prices have risen steadily for 4x4s and by December and January when the weather worsened with the arrival of snow, values for four-wheel drive vehicles were peaking,” said Tim Naylor, editor of the BCA Used Car Market Report.

Since September 2014, the average value of 4x4s at BCA has risen from £13,518 to a peak of £15,438.

The research shows how much more buyers might pay if they purchase a 4x4 during the period of peak demand.

Typically prices start to rise in October and stay firm until March.

Over the past 12 months, 4x4s averaged £14,286 at BCA during that period, while from April to September when the weather is both drier and warmer, a similar basket of vehicles averaged £13,627.

This equates to an average premium of £659, equivalent to a 4.8% rise in value, if a 4x4 is purchased between October and March.

Tim Naylor continued: “The snowy weather is often a sharp reminder to motorists of the benefits of 4-wheel drive, and typically sparks buyers’ interest.

"The sudden rise in demand is very quickly reflected in the average prices being paid in the wholesale markets.

"Ideally, motorists considering a used 4x4 for their next vehicle should plan ahead and buy in the warmer summer months as they potentially might get a better deal.”

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