Petrol-powered cars are still the preferred choice for most UK motorists, those looking for Ford Fiesta deals have been told.
A survey of more than 1,700 people reveals that 35 per cent would opt for a petrol model when choosing their next car, compared to 25 per cent who would opt for diesel.
High diesel prices may be making car buyers reluctant to run a diesel car despite the typically strong fuel efficiency of such vehicles, said ContractHireAndLeasing.com, which commissioned the survey.
However, ten per cent of people surveyed said they would consider buying a hybrid car, impressive given that alternative fuel vehicles accounted for 1.1 per cent of the UK's new car market last year.
But electric cars fared less well in the survey, with just two per cent of people saying they would opt for one.
Richard Lawton, a spokesman for the website, said that while many fleet buyers and business car users favour diesel because of its fuel efficiency, for the private buyer petrol is still the way forward.
"Private buyers have shown that they still prefer petrol; for its lower pence per litre cost, suitability to smaller cars and the quietness of petrol engines," he said.
Posted by Emma Grange
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