THE expense of owning and running a car has risen by around three times the rate of consumer price inflation during the last year, the AA Motoring Trust said on May 20.

The costs for a petrol-engine car rose by six per cent in 2004/05, while costs for diesel cars went up 5.3 per cent.

AA Motoring Trust director Bert Morris said: "Motoring costs still make up a major and unavoidable element of most people's disposable income but it is possible to make significant savings by identifying all the costs and taking appropriate action.

"Motorists tend to notice only costs that arrive as large annual bills - such as insurance, road tax and servicing.

"Yet, even when these costs are combined with tyres, breakdown cover, and the cost of capital, they amount to less than half the cost of fuel and depreciation over an average 10,000 miles per year."

"If you want to cut motoring costs, the most important decision is the first one - the kind of car you buy.

"There are, of course, many factors to consider when choosing a car.

"But if keeping costs down is your priority, it's a no-brainer - go for a greener, more economical car."

"Major savings can be made in fuel costs alone by buying the most economical car in your price range - almost £600 a year on cars up to £10,000, and nearly £1,800 on cars between £20,000 and £30,000," he added.