OAK BROOK, Ill. – Kia and Hyundai vehicles experienced the highest theft rates in 2023, breaking the years-long trend of full-size pickups topping the list, according to a report issued by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Social media trends highlighting how to steal the vehicles likely played a factor in pushing Kia and Hyundai models to occupy six spots, including the top three, on the list of the 10 most -stolen vehicles. Also featured on the list were full-size pickups and additional mid-size cars, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Ford F150 Series pickup.
More than 85% of passenger vehicles reported stolen were subsequently recovered by law enforcement or other means, with 34% recovered within a day of the vehicle being reported stolen, NICB reported.
“These rankings highlight the persistent threat of vehicle theft across the country,” said NICB President and CEO David J. Glawe. “NICB works with law enforcement agencies and industry partners to deploy advanced technologies and strategies to combat vehicle theft from organized criminal networks and individuals. Even as we work to deter crime, it is crucial for owners to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their vehicles.”
Each year more than a million Americans experience vehicle theft. If you drive one of the vehicles on this list, you might want to double-check those locks. In 2023, the usual suspects – big trucks and popular sedans – gave up their top spots to a new trio of car thief favorites.