Blow to 4x4 tax cuts as many fail new test

National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) has come up with a more accurate way of measuring the dimensions of rear apertures/tailgates

Eddie Cunningham

A large number of 4x4s that would have enjoyed lower VRT and road tax, will no longer qualify for reductions, worth up to €30,000 in some cases.

This follows the application of a more precise way of measuring tailgate dimensions.

Some of those vehicles qualified for lower tax on the basis of how a test - called 'masses and dimensions' - was carried out.

But now, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) has come up with a more accurate way of measuring the dimensions of rear apertures/tailgates.

And it is understood that rules out lower tax for a large number of 4x4s.

For some time, owners could get 'type approval' to change the vehicle from passenger to 'commercial'.

That could reduce road tax, for example, from €1,600 to €333.

With some larger new passenger 4x4s, taking out a third row of seats and meeting other criteria, could save up to €30,000 in lower taxation too.

There have been different ways of measuring the rear opening of these vehicles, but the RSAI now say a range of vehicles don't 'measure up' to their method and won't qualify.

A NSAI spokesperson was not available for comment when contacted by Independent Motors.