Motorists are increasingly baffled by technical jargon and terminology used to describe modern day vehicles, according to a new survey.

The study, conducted with over 2,500 UK drivers, showed that many car owners remain ignorant of technical terms, despite frequent usage of them by car salesmen and motoring magazines.

Almost half of those polled said they were unsure what ESP (electronic stability programme) stood for; a third drew a blank when presented with ABS (anti-lock braking system); and a quarter were clueless when it came to BHP (brake horse power).

When asked what motorists would like to read in a car review, 88 per cent thought value for money was more important than speed. Just over half prioritised comfort, while 41 per cent said they wanted to hear more about a car's environmental credentials.

Most men (68%) wanted to know whether a car fitted into their lifestyle needs, while women were much more concerned with practical gadgets, with 57 per cent saying they wanted more information on features like cup holders and satnav.

It seems that boot space, comfort and cup holders are the kind of things buyers want to know about rather than being overwhelmed with technical jargon they don't understand.

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