Female motorists could be looking to downsize their cars in an effort to cut increasing driving costs, according to new research.

A survey from Motorpoint suggests more than two thirds of drivers both male and female will be looking for something smaller on their next purchase.

Higher running costs for bigger fuel-guzzling cars are thought to be behind the apparent shift in attitude.

Motorpoint managing director David Shelton said: "These figures show a potentially massive shift of over two thirds of the motoring population."

He added environmental and economic concerns appeared to be taking hold of many motorists as they shop for cars.

Although women drivers generally benefit from cheaper car insurance costs than men, they have also been hit by higher tax costs and record fuel price rises.

Female motorists could end up turning to increasingly popular city cars like Toyota Aygo or the new Vauxhall Agila.

Find out how foxy lady drivers save lots of money on motoring bills.

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