A survey of 398 web users, consisting of a mix of business and personal car leasing customers, found that fuel economy was rated as very important by almost half (47%) of respondents.

This even beat fuel type (diesel or petrol car etc) as a consideration, which just 35% rated as a very important consideration, taking second place. VED rate came in third place with 27%. 

In contrast, the colour of the vehicle was deemed to be the least important factor by 11% of respondents.

Other options included Benefit-in-Kind rate, transmission, CO2 emission level, performance, standard spec and quick delivery.

ContractHireAndLeasing.com managing director Dave Timmis said: 'This is becoming the most important consideration to consumers as they are aware of the ever-increasing price of a litre of fuel and are expecting more and more from their cars.’