Comprehensive car insurance no longer delivers, according to research by the British Insurance Brokers’ Association.

Features which are expected to be included, such as third-party liability cover for driving other vehicles, extended cover for trips abroad or courtesy cars are now optional extras.

RAC’s ‘comprehensive’ policy, does not allow a policy holder to drive another car.  Features such as a courtesy car and insurance overseas are classed as optional extras.

Hayley Parsons, chief executive of comparison sire gocompare.com, said: “The importance of comparison sites has meant it is key for insurers to get near the top of the rankings on price and they can do that by sliming down the cover.”

Graeme Trudgill of the British Insurers Brokers’ Association said: “All the advertising is about price.  It’s no longer focused on providing the right financial protection for the motorist.”

The research suggests it might be worth going through a broker rather than the insurance company directly.  For example, Norwich Union offers driving for other cars through a broker, but not when you apply direct.