Auto Trader

Four wheel drive cars have been branded 'unsafe' by Government road safety experts.

Sports utility vehicles (SUVs) are twice as likely as other cars to roll in accidents, according to a study carried out for the Highways agency.

According to the research, the vehicles' "larger mass and higher centre of gravity" makes them prone to rolling in collisions with motorway and roadside safety barriers.

The study claims 67 per cent of SUVs which have been in collision with the barriers since 2004 have weighed more than the barriers' 1,500kg safety limit.

Andrew Howard, head of road safety at the AA, said: "4x4 drivers are not always better off, especially if they hit an object which causes them to overturn."

But not everyone is convinced by the report.

Christopher Macgowan, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said: "We need to reassure 4x4 owners. Researchers at TRL have demonstrated that drivers of 4x4s and MPVs are less likely to be involved in collisions with safety barriers and that occupants are less likely to be killed or seriously injured in all types of accident."