The automobiles that are expected to be the most targeted for theft in 2023
The frequency of vehicle thefts in Germany experienced a notable increase last year, with a jump of nearly 20%. This was reported in the German Insurance Industry's Car Theft Report, which revealed that approximately 15,000 insured passenger cars were stolen. Interestingly, the thieves exhibit a discerning preference, as Japanese SUVs hold the top spot in their list of favorites.
SUVs and off-road vehicles are not only coveted by car enthusiasts but also by thieves. In 2023, eight such vehicles were among the top ten most frequently stolen cars in Germany, according to statistics from the GDV insurance association. The Toyota group's models proved to be particularly popular targets.
- Toyota Land Cruiser - 160 thefts per 1000 vehicles
Less expensive than luxury options like the Range Rover, yet irresistible to thieves: Unlike most lifestyle SUVs, the Land Cruiser makes light work of rugged terrain, offering a blend of robustness, excellent asphalt performance, and, if desired, high-end comfort features. The recent models are priced around 60,000 euros, and Toyota is set to introduce the new generation by fall.
- Lexus NX - 157 thefts per 1000 vehicles
German markets have seen a growing demand for premium vehicles like the Lexus NX, which is on par with top-tier brands in many regions. The fact that this mid-size SUV is so high on the theft list could be attributed to restrictions on sales in Russia, a theory Toyota has put forth. Stolen vehicles are no longer available for sale in Germany since the Ukraine war, and the dealer currently offers the model at a price of about 53,000 euros.
- Lexus UX - 136 thefts per 1000 vehicles
The smaller sibling of the NX (priced around 43,700 euros) continues to attract thieves in droves. Toyota attributes the high theft rate to the high prestige value in Eastern Europe. Surprisingly, the Lexus flagship RX does not appear in the GDV statistics, despite its high-end price range that approaches 100,000 euros.
- Range Rover Sport, 2nd generation - 121 thefts per 1000 vehicles
Thieves have a soft spot for luxury vehicles from brands like Range Rover. This 2nd-generation model, with a base price of around 100,000 euros, is the most expensive vehicle on this list. While it is renowned for its popularity among thieves, the brand's advanced keyless locking systems make it harder to steal than many competitors.
- Kia Stinger - 110 thefts per 1000 vehicles
The first non-SUV to make it onto this list, the Stinger was introduced by Kia in 2017 as an attention-grabbing model with a sporty design and optional high-powered V6 engine (selling for around 60,000 euros). The model's popularity has extended to criminals, despite its short production run of six years.
- Toyota RAV4, 5th generation - 91 thefts per 1000 vehicles
For years, this model has been a top seller global SUV charts and theft hit lists. It enjoys lasting popularity, selling well in various markets despite its age.
- Hyundai Santa Fe, 4th generation - 90 thefts per 1000 vehicles
The SUV boasts strong sales in Eastern Europe, offering a blend of comfort and reliability, particularly in all-wheel-drive variants.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee, Generation 4 - 87 Thefts per 1000 Vehicles
Even a classic off-roader, the Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to draw attention, with thieves targeting the 4th generation despite the release of the 5th generation in 2022.
- Range Rover - 68 Thefts per 1000 Vehicles
Luxurious and prestigious, the Range Rover is priced beyond six figures new, but its design also makes it an attractive choice when it comes to crime.
- Toyota Prius+ - 66 Thefts per 1000 Vehicles
Perhaps the most surprising inclusion on this list, the Toyota Prius+ was not popular in Germany during its ten-year production run from 2011 to 2021 (selling for around 30,000 euros). This hybrid van attracted popularity in other regions due to its spaciousness and fuel-efficient performance.
By the way, the average theft rate in Germany is only 4 thefts per 1000 vehicles.
- Despite its luxury price point, the Range Rover continues to be a target for criminals, with 68 thefts per 1000 vehicles reported in Germany.
- Surprisingly, the Toyota Prius+, a hybrid van, also appears on the list of most frequently stolen cars in Germany, with 66 thefts per 1000 vehicles.
