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 new report issued by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Social media trends highlighting how to steal these 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. Leading the list are the Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima, with thefts numbering in the tens of thousands.
These models surpassed traditionally high-theft vehicles like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Ford F-150 pickups, which also feature on the list but in lower ranks.
"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."
Statistics from the report further revealed more than 85% of stolen passenger vehicles are eventually recovered, with a significant 34% recovered within just one day of being reported stolen.
This report comes after another NICB trend analysis, which indicated the U.S. is still experiencing a surge in vehicle theft rates that started at the onset of the pandemic. This past year, the nation saw another increase as vehicle theft claims rose 1% from 2022 to 2023.
Top 10 Vehicles Stolen in the U.S. in 2023
1. Hyundai Elantra - 48,445 thefts
2. Hyundai Sonata - 42,813
3. Kia Optima - 30,204
4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - 23,721
5. Kia Soul - 21,001
6. Honda Accord - 20,895
7. Honda Civic - 19,858
8. Kia Forte - 16,209
9. Ford F-150 - 15,852
10. Kia Sportage - 15,749
