There’s been a shake-up in the UK’s car theft rankings, and it might not be good news if you’re behind the wheel of a popular new model amongst thieves.
For a while, the headlines were all about Land Rovers. Last year, a spike in thefts pushed certain models like the Range Rover Evoque into the spotlight, with some insurers even refusing cover in high-risk areas. But things have changed. One manufacturer has seriously stepped up its game, and another has quietly taken its place at the top of criminals’ wish list.
So, what’s going on?
Newer car = bigger target?
Despite a 4.5% overall drop in vehicle thefts across the UK in 2024, the number of newer vehicles being stolen (those under three years old) rose by 6.6%. It’s a clear sign that criminals are going after newer, high-value models, often with sophisticated tech that ironically makes them easier to hack.
This shift isn’t just about joyrides or opportunistic break-ins. Organised crime groups are using high-tech methods to grab cars quickly, often exporting them abroad within days, or even hours, of the theft.
Last year’s top target was the Range Rover Evoque. But Land Rover took the criticism seriously. After a barrage of customer complaints and media scrutiny, their parent company JLR made major investments to fight back.
They’ve since:
- Invested £17 million in upgrading vehicle security
- Retrofitted 300,000 cars with new key fobs and scan-resistant tech
- Partnered with police forces to disrupt criminal gangs
It’s working. In 2024, thefts of the Evoque dropped by 77%, and for the first time in years, no Land Rover models appeared in the top 22 most stolen list.
So, what’s the new target?
The Toyota Hilux. Yes, the tough, no-nonsense pickup known for its reliability – and its famous appearance on Top Gear, where it was (almost) indestructible.
Thieves love it for a different reason. In 2024, Hilux thefts jumped by an eye-watering 549%, with 584 stolen in a single year. Its rugged build and high resale value overseas have made it incredibly desirable to export-focused crime rings, particularly in regions like the UAE, Jamaica, and parts of Africa and Eastern Europe.
In the first six months of 2025, these models were also prime targets:
- Ford Fiesta Zetec
- Fiesta Titanium Turbo
- Fiesta Titanium
- Toyota C-HR Dynamic HEV CVT
- Nissan Juke Tekna CVT
Toyota is now following in JLR’s footsteps. They’ve begun rolling out tracking systems, immobilisers, and protective tech – investing over £10 million in trials alone. Early results are promising: in one pilot, tracking devices helped recover 96% of stolen vehicles. They’ve also joined the National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership, alongside JLR, to work directly with police and combat rising thefts.
It’s not just Toyota. BMW remains high on the list, particularly for newer models, and Hyundai has seen a spike too. Some thieves are reportedly using cheap gadgets purchased online to mimic car keys and bypass systems. Hyundai has since upgraded its post-2024 models with stronger tech and is offering retrofit options for earlier cars.
Where you live matters
Car theft rates vary wildly depending on location. In 2024:
- Highest-risk areas included Bedfordshire, Essex and Warwickshire
- Greater Manchester saw a notable improvement, with thefts down 20%
Whether you live in the countryside or a busy city, no one’s immune. But regional trends can help you understand your risk level.
Top tips to protect your vehicle
It’s not all bad news. There are simple, effective ways to reduce your risk:
- Lock it, even at home. Sounds obvious, but many thefts happen from driveways.
Cost: £0 - Use a steering wheel lock. A visible deterrent that slows thieves down.
Cost: From £70 - Keep your key fob secure. Store it in a Faraday bag or box to block relay attacks.
Cost: Around £15 - Install a tracking device. Insurance-approved options increase recovery chances.
Cost: From £100–200 plus subscription - Mark your vehicle. From window etching to DNA-style swabbing, marking helps police trace your car if stolen.
Cost: Around £60 - Be cautious when selling or buying. Always verify ID and wait for payments to clear.
Cost: £0
Car theft might be evolving, but so are the defences. Whether you’re driving a Hilux, a Hyundai, or a hybrid, staying informed and taking a few simple precautions can make all the difference.
And if you’re unsure about your insurance cover or whether your vehicle might be considered high-risk, speak to one of our experts at Howden. We’re here to help keep you – and your car – one step ahead.
Sources: The Telegraph, The Sun, DVLA, The Mirror
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This is a marketing blog by Howden Insurance.