Car theft statistics
The Ford Fiesta was the UK’s most stolen car in 2024[1] – with thefts more than double the Volkswagen Golf ranked in second place, according to DVLA data we analysed
Some 4,446 Fiestas were stolen last year – which equals 12 pinched every day on average. The Fiesta was also the most stolen model in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
The Fiesta remained the most popular target amongst car thieves last year despite being axed by Ford in July 2023 as it shifted its focus to making electric vehicles. Overall, thefts of Fiestas were down 25.6% last year compared to 2023.
The number of Nissan Jukes stolen last year rose sharply, with thefts up 61.5% last year (1,027) compared with 636 in 2023.
In total, 53,955 stolen cars were reported by the police to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in 2024. This compares to 64,087 in 2023, a decrease of almost 16%.
Three Ferraris, seven Lamborghinis and 64 Bentleys were also stolen in 2024 – a significant drop from the 43 Ferraris, 14 Lamborghinis and 126 Bentleys in 2023.
Ten most stolen car makes/models – 2024 vs 2023
-
Ford Fiesta
Number stolen in 2023: 5,976
Number stolen in 2024: 4,446
% increase/decrease: -25.6% -
Volkswagen Golf
Number stolen in 2023: 2,038
Number stolen in 2024: 1,727
% increase/decrease: -15.3% -
Ford Focus
Number stolen in 2023: 2,120
Number stolen in 2024: 1,700
% increase/decrease: -19.8% -
Toyota RAV4
Number stolen in 2023: 1,169
Number stolen in 2024: 1,260
% increase/decrease: 7.8% -
BMW 3 Series
Number stolen in 2023: 1,466
Number stolen in 2024: 1,207
% increase/decrease: -17.7% -
Range Rover Evoque
Number stolen in 2023: 1,489
Number stolen in 2024: 1,079
% increase/decrease: -27.5% -
Nissan Juke
Number stolen in 2023: 636
Number stolen in 2024: 1,027
% increase/decrease: 61.5% -
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Number stolen in 2023: 1,786
Number stolen in 2024: 1,024
% increase/decrease: -42.7% -
Range Rover Sport
Number stolen in 2023: 954
Number stolen in 2024: 950
% increase/decrease: -0.4% -
Vauxhall Corsa
Number stolen in 2023: 1,110
Number stolen in 2024: 870
% increase/decrease: -21.6%
- 12 Ford Fiestas were stolen daily on average in the UK in 2024 – a whopping 4,446 over the course of the year – despite the popular car being axed in 2023
- 1,727 Volkswagen Golfs were stolen last year, driving it to second place, followed by the Ford Focus, which was nicked 1,700 times
- Nearly 54,000 cars were stolen in the UK last year – 16% fewer than the year before, reveals a Freedom of Information request to the DVLA
- Three Ferraris, seven Lamborghinis and 64 Bentleys were stolen in 2024
- The Toyota Rav4 was the most stolen electric car last year, with 611 pinched in 2024, while 21 Tesla cars were also taken over the year
As experts in temporary car insurance, we advise all motorists to stay informed about ways you can protect your vehicle.
Car theft prevention – What happens if your car gets stolen
What our expert says
"We recognise how devastating it can be if your car is stolen. Beyond the physical loss, the life disruption and added stress can also linger. That’s why it’s important to stay informed about ways to protect your vehicle.“ “There’s a few precautions you can take to fend off the thieves, such as using a steering wheel lock, installing an immobiliser, and putting up motion-sensor lights if parking at home.” “But if you are unlucky enough to have your car stolen, temporary car insurance is one option that can offer greater flexibility, especially if you're borrowing a car from a friend or family member, helping to ease the burden if the unexpected happens.” “A car is often more than just a means of transport, it can be an integral part of life, so being prepared can help protect it and deter potential thieves."
Claire Wills-McKissick
Temporary Insurance Expert
Notes
[1] Freedom of Information request submitted to the DVLA. Data available on request.
