Motorists are willing to splash out the cash when it comes to upgrading their car, new research shows.

A study carried out by Halifax indicates that about one in ten (nine per cent) drivers would like to get a new sound system for their vehicle, while three per cent want to get its paintwork redone. Meanwhile, some seven per cent of those questioned have their hearts set on installing sat nav. A new engine and wheels were the changes that eight and four per cent of car-owners would opt for respectively, regardless of cost. Other choices favoured include a roof rack, spoiler, tow bar and seat mats and covers.

Research from the financial services firm also showed that, during the last 12 months, more than one in three (35 per cent) motorists have dipped into their pockets and purses to upgrade a car. Young people were indicated as being the most active getting their vehicles modified, with a fifth of Britons between the ages of 17 and 24 splashing out more than 500 pounds on pimping their ride.

And perhaps surprisingly, women were indicated as being more likely than men to splash out major amounts of money on upgrading their cars. During the past year, 11 per cent of females claim that they have spent over 1,000 pounds improving their vehicle, in comparison to some ten per cent of males. Women drivers were also shown to want to upgrade their music system and satellite navigation system the most. Meanwhile, men are looking the most towards upgrading their engines, with 11 per cent of such drivers wanting to do this.

With a willingness to spend thousands of pounds on improving a car, it appears drivers are increasingly intent on getting value for money from their vehicle. The findings showed that 57 per cent of motorists usually purchase a used model, with 24 per cent often buying new. In addition, the research revealed that just under a fifth of Britons replace their car around every three years. Furthermore, 18 per cent of people surveyed state that they would finance getting a car via a loan from the bank.

Commenting on the figures, Neil Chandler, head of Halifax Unsecured Personal Loans, said: "Whatever your reason for taking an unsecured personal loan, with Halifax you'll have no monthly repayments for the first three months. If you're buying a car, this will allow you to pay for other things such as road tax, MOT or car insurance." His comments come as the study indicated that a fifth of those borrowing money would get more credit to help them pay for extras such as insurance. Meanwhile, 13 per cent would use a finance deal from a car dealer.

However, those looking for a more competitive way to fund getting a car may wish to consider taking a personal loan as this could leave borrowers with affordable levels of repayment to make each month, in addition to enough disposable income to help with upgrading a model. Last year research by Alliance & Leicester showed that drivers wasted an average of about 3,000 pounds in opting for uncompetitive garage showroom finance deals instead of a low-rate personal loan.

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