Caravan Insurance

The number of 4x4s on the streets of London is soaring, according to recent figures quoted in the Independent.

The data shows that since 1997 the number of SUVs in our capital has almost exactly doubled from 88,882 to 176,610. The figures also show that the trend is likely to continue, as London's 4x4 sales figures continue to rise.

The increases can be attributed to the improving image of 4x4s, popular with housewives and trendy city kids alike.

This increased popularity has been reflected in the market, which is currently expecting new 4x4 offerings from the likes of Audi, Vauxhall and Nissan.

These will join an SUV market that already boasts vehicles from some of the world's finest carmakers including BMW, Mercedes and Porsche.

The increases come in spite of warnings over both the environmental and safety impact of SUVs.

Environmental groups have recently highlighted the increased fuel consumption that some SUVs experience, while a recent article in the British Medical Journal suggested that 4x4s may pose a greater threat to pedestrians in the event of a collision.

However, with new technologies and diesel options offering better fuel consumption, and excellent occupant safety levels throughout the 4x4 market it seems that the new dominance of SUVs is set to continue.