Feature article
Most Stolen Cars in NZ
Check out the most stolen models from 2024, including the Toyota Aqua, Corolla, and Nissan Tiida.
When it comes to choosing a car, something you find desirable is often a good place to start looking. But what if thieves also see your potential new car as a desirable option to steal? Knowing just which cars are the most stolen in NZ can help you choose one that is not such a target for theft.
According to insurance data from AMI, claimed to be the largest dataset in the country when it comes to reported thefts and associated claims, some 12,000 cars were stolen last year in 2024. And the cars that top the list might be a little surprising.
What is the most stolen car in New Zealand?
This dubious title goes to the unassuming Toyota Aqua. The diminutive hybrid hatchback, also known as the Prius C, was said to make up eight per cent of all stolen vehicle claims.
Being one of the most popular used imports on the road makes them easy to find. And they seem to be easy to get into, thieves able to discreetly smash the small quarter window upfront to gain access. Early model Aquas with an ignition barrel are easy to get started, while later model versions with a start button also have an immobiliser. This makes them a little harder to get started but thieves, using a digital device easily bought off the Internet, can override this.
As the Aqua tops the list of most stolen cars, which it has done for the past four years, insurance premiums for this popular affordable model have increased. It is best to check what you’ll be paying before buying an Aqua.
The Toyota Corolla is the next most popular target for thieves, accounting for six per cent of all thefts and then the Nissan Tiida, making up five per cent of all theft related claims. Both of these cars are numerous, unassuming and easy to break into.
Other cars in the top ten include the Mazda Demio, which gained notoriety among young Tik Tok users to see who could steal the most of these little hatches, followed by the Mazda Atenza.
As Toyota is the most popular brand of car here in New Zealand, one in every five cars being a Toyota, it’s not a surprise to see more models on the list including the Hilux, Vitz and Mark X. It’s thought Hilux utes are targeted by thieves as there is a demand for parts on the second hand market. Another couple of popular used import models also make the list, those being the Subaru Impreza and Mazda Axela.
The top 10 most stolen cars in New Zealand
- Toyota Aqua
- Toyota Corolla
- Nissan Tiida
- Mazda Demio
- Mazda Atenza
- Toyota Hilux
- Toyota Vitz
- Subaru Impreza
- Toyota Mark X
- Mazda Axela
What can you do to help prevent your car being stolen?
- Always lock your car when it’s parked.
Fit a visible anti-theft measure like a steering wheel lock or a wheel clamp. These make your car a little harder to steal, so the thief will likely move to the car which doesn’t have these attached, and is therefore easier to pinch.
Don’t leave valuables in your car, especially not in plain sight.
Off street parking is always preferable, in a locked garage is even better.
Fitting an alarm and immobiliser (and a visible sticker alerting people to the fact these are fitted) can help, and often lead to lower insurance premiums.
Don't get out of your car and leave the engine running or keys in it, even for a few seconds.
Author
Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.
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