Motor insurance quotes for big cars have declined in the last year, while those for vehicles with smaller engines have increased, it has been revealed.

According to research carried out by insurance retailer Swinton, quotes for the largest cars, such as Land Rovers and Hummers have fallen by 16 per cent since 2007, whereas those for vehicles with engines below 1.5 litres have risen by 20 per cent.

The study also found some families with more than one vehicle are choosing to take one off them off the road in the face of rising running costs.

Chris Collings, director of insurer development at the company, said: "The value of larger second hand cars, even with very low mileage have plummeted and many owners would rather stack their car on bricks rather than realise its low value now".

He went on to say insurance providers are likely to start offering greater incentives to cash-strapped motorists and those doing their bit to alleviate climate change.

Last week, insurance provider Rias claimed drivers looking to cut motoring costs by ignoring car cover are "foolhardy in the extreme".