The UK’s most stolen cars and vehicle theft hotspots

As it's revealed that vehicle thefts in 2025 matched the total for the whole of last year in just seven months, we look at the 10 cars most likely to be targeted by thieves.

If you own a Toyota Hilux, you may want to be on high alert.

According to new data, this is the most-stolen car of 2025.

But sadly, it seems these drivers are not alone. In just seven months, vehicle thefts in the UK have nearly matched the total for the whole of last year.

In fact, new DVLA figures analysed by insurance provider Tempcover found that staggering 52,299 vehicles were reported stolen in the first seven months of 2025 – that’s 247 every day, up 48.5% on 2024’s daily average.

At this rate, the UK is on course for more than 90,000 thefts by the end of the year.

So, which other models are highest on thieves’ wishlist?

Top 10 most stolen cars*

Source: DVLA, analysed by Tempcover (January-July 2025)

*Note: we stripped out the data for vans, scooters and motorcycles to make sure this information remained relevant for our readers.

Where is your vehicle most likely to be stolen?

As well as which model you drive, where you live makes a big difference to your risk.

According to data obtained by National Scrap Car via a Freedom of Information request, more than 34,000 stolen cars were seized by police across the UK in 2024.

The West Midlands topped the list (5,413), followed by Greater Manchester (3,757) and South Yorkshire (2,909).

The worst regions for car theft

Source: Carwow

For drivers, this isn’t just stressful – it also affects insurance. If you live in a theft hotspot, you’ll likely pay higher premiums, as insurers see you as more at risk of making a claim.

What happens to our stolen vehicles?

Earlier this year, a report from Thatcham Research found that organised crime networks are increasingly targeting premium vehicles for export.

Some 38.5% of stolen cars were shipped to the Democratic Republic of Congo, while others ended up in the UAE, Jamaica, and Georgia.

This export trade helps explain why high-value vehicles like the Hilux and Sprinter remain so attractive to gangs.

Will the thieves be caught?

Unfortunately, the chances are slim.

Data from the Home Office shows just 3% of car thefts were solved in 2023, down from 4% in 2018.

Meanwhile, ONS figures analysed by Rivervale Leasing reveal that on average, only two in five stolen vehicles are ever recovered.

Protecting yourself from vehicle crime

Sadly, car crime is now a fact of life.

By taking precautions, however, you can reduce your chances of being among the thousands of drivers each year who have to report a stolen car, van or scooter.

For example, you might want to consider:

• Installing a steering wheel lock or tracking device
• Using immobilisers or faraday pouches for keyless entry systems
• Avoiding leaving valuables inside overnight
• Parking in well-lit or secured areas