Showroom tax makes impression on drivers conscience

50% of those considering buying a new car and polled by Direct Line just days after the budget said they are now much less likely to purchase a high-emission vehicle in the future. A further 14 per cent said it made it a little less likely. Only 9 per cent remained unmoved by Darling’s efforts to push the green agenda to motorists.

The swing in public opinion was as dramatic as Darling could have hoped for; only last month 16 per cent of drivers said they were planning to buy a 4x4 or people carrier this year.

Jennifer Culley, commenting on the findings for Direct Line, said: "We expected the new tax to have an impact, and this swing in opinion demonstrates that by hitting people's wallets, Darling has succeeded in making people think twice before they head for the forecourt."

Battle of the sexes: Men are more likely to be swayed by the tax with nearly three quarters (68 per cent) less likely to purchase as opposed to only 60 per cent of women.

Age affects opinion: Those aged 55 and over are much more affected by the tax with nearly two thirds (60 per cent) saying they are much less likely to purchase a high-emission vehicle compared to only 44 per cent of those aged between 18 and 34.

Regional difference: The Welsh are more likely to be influenced by the tax with 57 per cent saying the announcement would affect their decision compared to only 42 per cent of Londoners.