Most stolen cars in New Zealand

Car theft is a real problem for vehicle owners and it is getting worse by each passing day. You see, when it comes to car theft, there is usually a pattern.

If you can identify it, you can protect yourself, to one extent, from being a victim. How? Well, buy not buying the vehicles that are popularly picked up by car-jackers, of course!

However, if you still decide to buy the cars listed in this article, at least you’ll know that you are at risk and can take extra safety precautions.

We have used data from AMI – a top insurance provider in NZ – to help you steer clear of the most stolen cars in New Zealand. So, without further ado, let’s dive in:

1. Toyota Aqua

The Toyota Aqua, also known as the Toyota Prius C, takes the stop spot in the most stolen cars list for 2023.

Interestingly, it was also on the top of this list in 2022, so it’s clear that the Aqua is getting quite popular among car-jackers in NZ.

But this is unsurprising, because the Toyota Aqua isn’t also one of the most in-demand cars in Japan (its home country) but also in many parts of Asia. In fact, the Toyota Aqua is the most stolen keyless car in NZ.

2. Nissan Tiida

A small and compact car is something every city driver loves, which is why the Nissan Tiida takes the second spot in this list.

Interestingly, it is not the first time the Nissan Tiida is gracing the top of the most stolen cars list. The Tiida took the third spot in last year’s rankings, so this year the situation for Tiida car owners has gone a bit worse.

But it’s pretty natural for a car that is common on the roads to be the one chosen by thieves as their target, so no need to worry except you should take the necessary precautions.

3. Toyota Corolla

Ah, the car loved by the entire world, the Toyota Corolla. No wonder, this vehicle makes it to this list, because not only is it the most sold car in the world, it is also one of the most stolen in the world.

So, it’s natural for NZ numbers to be pretty much in line with the world. But this year has been special, in that the Toyota Corolla has climbed up five spots to take the third position.

So, this car is definitely under the radar.

4. Mazda Demio

Once the favourite of car thieves in New Zealand, this car has dropped down a few places in the latest rankings. The Mazda Demio takes the fourth spot, two down from its previous position.

5.Mazda Atenza

Stylish, reliable and a one-of-a-kind vehicle like the Mazda Atenza (Mazda 6) is bound to be on a list like this. The Atenza takes the fifth spot this year, which is one down from its previous ranking.

6. Toyota Mark X

Who doesn’t love the sporty Mark X? This car is worth its mettle, which is why most people prefer it to its alternatives. But unfortunately, when a car gains popularity among the masses, it becomes a target for car-jackers and thieves. As a result, the Toyota Mark X takes the sixth spot – one down from last year.

7. Toyota Vitz

The Toyota Vitz is compact, reliable and affordable. In other words, it is a complete package, which is why the Toyota Vitz is stolen a lot in NZ. It lands on the seventh spot on the most stolen cars in NZ list.

8. Subaru Impreza

Thanks to its rally roots, this car is famous among car enthusiasts, which also makes it the prime target for thieves. If you have one, you should know that it is now on the 8th spot – one higher than 2022.

9. Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy takes the second-last spot on this list and rightly so. It is one of the best mid-size sedans in New Zealand, hence the attention from thieves. Interestingly, however, the Legacy has dropped down two places since last year, which is somewhat of a good news for Subaru Legacy owners.

10. Toyota Hilux

Being the only ute on this list is an achievement, but it is a cause for concern for those who own the Toyota Hilux. It’s pretty evident that Toyota vehicles are not very hard to steal, so you should definitely take precautions if you have one.

Most Stolen Cars by Region

We thought it would be helpful knowing which car is the most likely to be picked up from which New Zealand region. So, here is a short list for your information and guidance

How To Protect Against Car Theft?

Although there is not a lot you can do once your car is stolen, you can take precautions. After all, the car that is the most difficult to steal is the one that is the most properly protected.

So, here are a few tips you can follow to keep your car safe:

• Park your car in a secured area, like a garage or a protected driveway.
• In case you have to park on the street, try to find a well-lit area.
• You should consider installing an immobilizer or any other anti-theft protection system on your vehicle. Some examples include: a car alarm, steering-lock, or a GPS tracking system.
• Avoid leaving your started and unlocked car unattended.
• Hide or remove any valuables from your car. If they are visible, chances are someone will try to break-in your vehicle.
• Always remember to lock all doors and completely shut all the windows, including the sunroof before exiting your vehicle.
• Store your key fob in an a thick aluminium or tin case, or better yet get a signal blocking box off the market to stop thieves from cloning your key.