Online shopping search engine Kelkoo has launched a new cars section which will allow buyers to simultaneously compare the prices and specifications of five vehicles from hundreds of dealers and private sellers.

The company believes it can offer a new approach to car research and buying, which will open up the market to a wider audience.

The new service enables people to search for cars according to their requirements, such as type of car or insurance group, without needing to specify brand or model. It also includes features such as women’s reviews, which it hopes will target the female car buying population.

“Kelkoo has grown to become the leading European shopping search engine by pursuing its mission to find consumers the best deals online, fast.

Our approach to the automotive industry will reflect the same priorities: convenience, choice and speed,” says Glen Drury, managing director of Kelkoo.com UK.

“Over the last year the range of goods, which consumers are confident in buying online has increased dramatically. There is now a clear demand for an autos site which brings together a comprehensive search engine and transactional capabilities with a brand they trust.”

As well as the ability to search for new and used cars, the site also has details on finance and aftersales. Dealers already signed up include Perrys, Listers, Priory, Dixon Motors and CD Bramall together with online retailers Autobytel, Oneswoop and Virgin.

The new category will be launched on Kelkoo and integrated into the Yahoo UK and Ireland automotive channel.