Sport Utility Vehicles are steadily growing in popularity, despite increases in petrol prices during 2010.
The Motor Trade Association says SUVs comprised about 20% of new car sales in 2006 and the figure is now 26%.
It says about 11,500 new SUVs were sold in New Zealand last year.
The association says SUVs are now competing with smaller cars for popularity.
Popular models include Toyota's RAV 4 and Mitsubishi's Outlander.
The association says SUVs are not known for their fuel economy, but are seen as a style statement. They are becoming more popular overseas as well.
