Heavy snowfall caused by the ‘beast from the east’ sparked a sharp increase in the number of online searches for 4x4s, according to Motors.co.uk.

The car search platform saw a 300% rise in traffic from people hunting for 4x4s and SUVs in the week commencing from February 26.

Motors.co.uk marketing and business intelligence director Dermot Kelleher said: "The weather left people unable to get to work or take their children to school and they have understandably started searching for 4x4s and similar vehicles that can make travelling in extreme conditions easier.

"Our figures suggest that consumers are prepared to quickly invest in a new car when circumstances permit and we are proud to provide a fast car search platform to help them find the right vehicle for their needs."

During the cold snap website visitors clicking on advertised 4x4s increased by 26%.

The Nissan Qashqai received the biggest boost compared to similar vehicles, with a 130% increase in views on Motors.co.uk over the seven-day period, closely followed by the Land Rover Discovery and Defender.

Top five performing 4x4s on Motors.co.uk: