Car theft is on the rise, with over 1 million vehicles stolen in 2023—a one percent increase from 2022. California topped the charts with 208,668 vehicles stolen, according to NICB. But a few models are bucking the trend, proving far less tempting to thieves. Drawing from Sirix Monitoring, CarPro, IIHS, HotCars, and NICB data, we’ve identified the 11 least-stolen cars, trucks, and SUVs.
11. Subaru Ascent – Exterior
The Subaru Ascent is one of the least stolen vehicles on the market, with only 19 theft claims from over 312,000 insured units. It’s clear this SUV doesn’t draw much attention from thieves. While it’s a favorite among families due to its practicality and reliability, it lacks the flashy appeal that often makes vehicles more attractive to criminals.
Subaru Ascent – Interior
With built-in security features like Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Ascent offers both safety and peace of mind. Its advanced systems not only keep passengers safe but also help deter potential theft.
10. Mercedes GLE – Exterior
Despite being a luxury SUV, the Mercedes GLE finds itself on the least stolen list, with just 4 theft claims out of 63,000 insured units. This might seem surprising, as high-end vehicles typically attract more attention from thieves due to their resale value.
Mercedes GLE – Interior
The GLE stands apart thanks to its robust security systems, including an advanced alarm and tracking capabilities. These features help prevent theft and give owners added reassurance, making it a great choice for those who want both luxury and a strong theft deterrent.
9. Nissan Leaf – Exterior
The Nissan Leaf, a popular electric vehicle, has an impressively low theft rate, with only 2 theft claims from nearly 33,000 insured units. EVs like the Leaf are becoming less appealing to thieves, likely due to their unique design and technology.
Nissan Leaf – Interior
The Leaf’s lack of a traditional engine and its budget-friendly profile make it less desirable to steal. For eco-conscious drivers looking for security and sustainability, the Leaf stands out as a solid choice.
8. Land Rover Defender – Exterior
Interestingly, the Land Rover Defender shares the same low theft numbers as the Nissan Leaf, with just 2 theft claims from 33,000 insured units. This might seem surprising, especially since Land Rover’s Range Rover models have been among the most stolen vehicles in the past.
Land Rover Defender – Interior
The Defender’s rugged build and advanced security features help it avoid the same fate. Its off-road capabilities and robust design attract adventure seekers but not thieves, who seem to be more interested in flashier targets.
7. Lexus UX 250h – Exterior
With only 2 theft claims from nearly 40,000 insured units, the Lexus UX 250h has proven to be a tough target for thieves. This hybrid SUV offers a mix of luxury and efficiency, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers without catching the attention of criminals.
Lexus UX 250h – Interior
Lexus is known for its reliability and cutting-edge safety features, both of which contribute to the UX 250h’s low theft rate. Its design and technology make it a less attractive option for thieves, reinforcing its place on this list.
6. Cadillac XT5 – Exterior
The Cadillac XT5 continues General Motors’ streak of producing vehicles with low theft rates. Out of 53,000 insured units, only 2 theft claims have been reported.
Cadillac XT5 – Interior
Like the XT5, other GM vehicles such as the Buick Encore and Chevy Traverse also have impressively low theft numbers, making them solid picks for security-minded drivers.
5. Buick Encore – Exterior
The Buick Encore recorded only 4 theft claims out of 63,000 insured units, placing it among the least stolen vehicles of 2024.
Buick Encore – Interior
With a compact design and reliable performance, it’s not particularly flashy, which may explain why it’s less attractive to thieves.
4. Volvo XC60 – Exterior
Volvo’s commitment to safety extends beyond accident prevention—its vehicles are also tough to steal. The Volvo XC60 has only 2 theft claims from 31,000 insured units.
Volvo XC60 – Interior
Volvo’s advanced anti-theft technologies, including real-time tracking and security alerts, make it a less appealing option for criminals.
3. Volvo XC90 – Exterior
Another Volvo model, the XC90, also boasts low theft numbers, with just 3 claims from 108,000 insured units.
Volvo XC90 – Interior
The brand’s high-tech security systems and safety-first approach contribute to the XC90’s strong defense against theft, making it a smart choice for luxury SUV buyers looking for added protection.
2. Tesla Model 3 – Exterior
Tesla continues to dominate the least stolen list, with the Model 3 showing only 3 theft claims from 256,000 insured units.
Tesla Model 3 – Interior
Tesla’s vehicles are packed with advanced security features like Sentry Mode and GPS tracking, which make them particularly unattractive to thieves. Add to that the difficulty of reselling stolen Teslas due to their unique software, and it’s no wonder why theft rates are so low.
1. Tesla Model Y – Exterior
The Tesla Model Y takes the top spot, with just 5 theft claims out of 373,000 insured units. Like the Model 3, it benefits from Tesla’s multi-layered security systems and real-time tracking, which make it hard to steal and even harder to sell.
Tesla Model Y – Interior
For security-conscious drivers, Tesla vehicles continue to be some of the best choices on the market.
