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Four 4x4s for urban warriors

The city is often referred to as the urban jungle, which might explain why four wheel drive vehicles have become so popular in our cities in recent years. 4 x 4s aren't known for being cheap to buy or to run. But what about insurance? Well the good news for urban warriors is that they compare favourably with more conventional cars.

Direct car insurer, Admiral has looked at four completely different four wheel drive cars and compared the cost to insure them with more normal models. They have compared a driver in London and one in Glasgow and found the cost of a year's insurance could come in well below £300.

Admiral managing director, Jane Stone, said, "4 x 4s have never been so popular in our towns and cities. Motorists like the feeling of security and power they provide, even just for a trip to the shops. But they have a reputation for being gas-guzzlers compared with conventional cars. We wanted to see how they compared with non-4x4s for insurance too, and found it to be quite competitive."

Case 1 - 33-year-old male living in Glasgow (G4)

Case 2 - 33-year-old male living in London (W2)

The stylish and popular Toyota Rav-4 came out the cheapest of the bunch. A motorist in central Glasgow could insure one for just £266, while for someone in central London, the cost rises to £416 for a year.

Jane Stone, said, "Our research shows that people living in the city can afford to insure a 4x4 just as cheaply as a conventional executive or family car. So if you fancy taking to the High Street in an off-roader why not got out and buy one?"

Issue date: 21-08-03