Most stolen cars in the UK 2024

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

1. Number stolen in 2023: 5,976
2. Number stolen in 2024: 4,446
3. % increase/decrease: -25.6%

Volkswagen Golf

1. Number stolen in 2023: 2,038
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,727
3. % increase/decrease: -15.3%

Ford Focus

1. Number stolen in 2023: 2,120
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,700
3. % increase/decrease: -19.8%

Toyota RAV4

1. Number stolen in 2023: 1,169
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,260
3. % increase/decrease: 7.8%

BMW 3 Series

1. Number stolen in 2023: 1,466
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,207
3. % increase/decrease: -17.7%

Range Rover Evoque

1. Number stolen in 2023: 1,489
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,079
3. % increase/decrease: -27.5%

Nissan Juke

1. Number stolen in 2023: 636
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,027
3. % increase/decrease: 61.5%

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

1. Number stolen in 2023: 1,786
2. Number stolen in 2024: 1,024
3. % increase/decrease: -42.7%

Range Rover Sport

1. Number stolen in 2023: 954
2. Number stolen in 2024: 950
3. % increase/decrease: -0.4%

Vauxhall Corsa

1. Number stolen in 2023: 1,110
2. Number stolen in 2024: 870
3. % 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

"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.