THERE was a time when 4x4s were only used by rural folk who needed sturdy cars to travel over muddy, uneven terrain.
But, over the years, off-road vehicles have risen in status among the middle-classes, being used for school runs and trips to the supermarket.
As a result, the "gas guzzlers" have long been criticised for their massive fuel consumption and high carbon dioxide emissions.
With an increasingly vocal environment lobby voicing concerns over climate change, it was only a matter of time before the vehicles were hit by taxation.
In his Budget speech last week, Chancellor Gordon Brown slapped a £45-a-year road tax increase on the most polluting cars.
It means some 4x4 owners will see their annual bill rise to £210.
The move was welcomed by environmentalists, who said it would deter people from driving cars they did not need.
However, some called for higher taxes, saying Mr Brown was only making a token gesture that would have little effect.
Meanwhile, people in rural communities criticised the tax, claiming they would be penalised for owning cars they needed in the places they lived and worked.
And others said the huge taxes 4x4 owners already pay on fuel and purchase were currently getting the Government's message across without further rises.
Today, the Daily Post asks: Should 4x4 drivers pay higher taxes?
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