Car theft remains a persistent challenge for vehicle owners across America, with certain models proving particularly attractive to thieves. The 2025 data reveals some familiar names alongside a few surprises in the most-stolen vehicle rankings.
Understanding which cars are most frequently targeted can help current and prospective owners make informed decisions about security measures and insurance coverage. While technology has advanced on both sides of this equation, the numbers tell a clear story about which vehicles need extra protection.
Let’s dive into the top 10 most stolen vehicles of 2025 and explore what makes them such popular targets.
1. Hyundai Sonata – 157 thefts per 10,000 sold
The Hyundai Sonata claims the unfortunate top spot with a theft rate of 157 per 10,000 vehicles sold. This midsize sedan has become a prime target largely due to vulnerabilities in certain model years’ anti-theft systems, particularly those manufactured between 2015 and 2021.
The widespread attention from social media hasn’t helped matters, as viral videos demonstrated how quickly these vehicles could be stolen using basic tools. Hyundai has since implemented software updates and enhanced security features for affected models, but older vehicles remain at risk.
For Sonata owners, investing in aftermarket security systems like steering wheel locks or kill switches has become practically essential.
2. Hyundai Elantra – 154 thefts per 10,000 sold
Coming in at a close second, the Hyundai Elantra faces similar challenges to its Sonata sibling with 154 thefts per 10,000 units sold. The compact sedan’s popularity among budget-conscious buyers ironically made it a more widespread target for thieves.
Like the Sonata, certain Elantra model years lacked engine immobilizers, making them vulnerable to the same theft methods that went viral on social media platforms. The good news is that newer Elantras come equipped with improved anti-theft technology, and Hyundai has been proactive about addressing the issue through free security upgrades.
Still, if you’re driving an older Elantra, parking in well-lit areas and using visible deterrents can make a real difference.
3. Kia Soul – 142 thefts per 10,000 sold
The quirky, boxy Kia Soul lands in third place with a theft rate of 142 per 10,000 vehicles. This distinctive crossover shares the same security vulnerabilities that affected its Hyundai counterparts during certain production years.
The Soul’s unique styling and practicality have made it a popular choice among younger drivers and urban dwellers, which unfortunately also means there are plenty of them on the road for thieves to target. Kia has responded with software patches and complimentary security kits for eligible owners, including wheel locks and window decals.
Soul owners should take advantage of these programs and consider additional security measures, especially if they’re driving a 2011-2021 model year.
4. Kia Sportage – 132 thefts per 10,000 sold
The Kia Sportage, a compact SUV that’s been a steady seller for the Korean automaker, comes in fourth with 132 thefts per 10,000 vehicles sold. The Sportage’s combination of practicality, reasonable pricing, and decent resale value makes it appealing to both legitimate buyers and thieves alike.
Models from the vulnerable production years face the same immobilizer issues that have plagued other Kia and Hyundai vehicles. The Sportage’s popularity in both urban and suburban markets means stolen vehicles can be quickly moved through various channels.
Owners should stay current with any manufacturer recalls or security updates and consider comprehensive insurance coverage to protect their investment.
5. Kia Forte – 124 thefts per 10,000 sold
Rounding out the Kia presence in the top five, the Forte sedan registers 124 thefts per 10,000 units sold. This compact sedan has been a strong value proposition in the competitive small car segment, which has contributed to its sales success and, unfortunately, its theft statistics.
The Forte shares the same security concerns as other affected Kia models, with earlier production years being particularly vulnerable. Many Forte owners appreciate the car’s warranty and features-per-dollar ratio, but they need to be equally mindful of its security profile.
Taking advantage of Kia’s free security upgrade program is a smart first step for any Forte owner concerned about theft.
6. Chevrolet Pick-Up – 48 thefts per 10,000 sold
The first non-Hyundai/Kia entry on our list, Chevrolet pickups show a theft rate of 48 per 10,000 vehicles sold. Full-size trucks have always been attractive targets due to their high resale values and the demand for parts in the aftermarket.
Chevrolet’s pickups, including the ever-popular Silverado, are workhorses across America, from construction sites to family driveways. While the theft rate is significantly lower than the Korean brands above, the sheer number of Chevy trucks on the road means thefts still occur with notable frequency.
Truck owners should be particularly cautious about leaving valuable tools or equipment in the bed, which can attract unwanted attention beyond just the vehicle itself.
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee – 39 thefts per 10,000 sold
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, a perennial favorite in the midsize SUV segment, records 39 thefts per 10,000 vehicles sold. This iconic SUV’s combination of off-road capability, comfortable on-road manners, and strong brand appeal makes it desirable in both showrooms and, unfortunately, to thieves.
Certain model years have been noted for vulnerabilities in their keyless entry systems, though Jeep has continually worked to enhance security features. The Grand Cherokee’s popularity means there’s consistent demand for parts, which can motivate theft for chop shops.
Owners in high-theft areas might consider additional security measures like GPS tracking devices to help recover their vehicle if stolen.
8. Dodge Charger – 38 thefts per 10,000 sold
The muscular Dodge Charger, beloved by performance enthusiasts, sits at number eight with 38 thefts per 10,000 vehicles sold. This powerful sedan’s theft appeal stems partly from its performance credentials and the value of its components, particularly in higher-trim models with HEMI engines.
The Charger has maintained a devoted following among car enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of practicality and straight-line speed. While modern Chargers come equipped with sophisticated anti-theft systems, determined thieves have found ways around some of these protections.
Charger owners should consider parking in secure locations and might want to explore additional security options like aftermarket alarm systems.
9. Honda Accord – 36 thefts per 10,000 sold
The Honda Accord, long celebrated for its reliability and resale value (and sometimes called the “cooler Toyota”), ranks ninth with 36 thefts per 10,000 vehicles sold. This midsize sedan has been a top seller for decades, and that ubiquity creates a steady market for stolen parts.
Honda has significantly improved its anti-theft technology in recent years, which has helped reduce theft rates compared to older model years. The Accord’s reputation for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles means that parts remain in demand, even for older generations.
While newer Accords are substantially harder to steal than their predecessors, owners should still practice basic security habits like parking in well-lit areas and never leaving valuables visible.
10. Honda Civic – 35 thefts per 10,000 sold
Closing out our top ten is the Honda Civic, with 35 thefts per 10,000 vehicles sold. The Civic’s position on this list isn’t entirely surprising given its decades-long status as one of America’s best-selling compact cars.
Older Civic models, particularly those from the 1990s and early 2000s, remain targets due to less sophisticated security systems and the interchangeability of parts within the tuner community. Newer Civics benefit from improved immobilizer technology and more advanced security features that make them considerably harder to steal.
For Civic owners, especially those with older models, steering wheel locks remain one of the most cost-effective deterrents available.
Conclusion
While these statistics highlight which vehicles are most frequently targeted by thieves, it’s important to remember that any car can be stolen under the right circumstances. The dominance of certain Hyundai and Kia models at the top of the list reflects specific vulnerabilities that manufacturers have actively worked to address through updates and retrofits.
Vehicle owners can take proactive steps to protect their cars, including using multiple security layers, parking strategically, and staying informed about any recalls or security updates for their specific model. Insurance considerations should also factor into purchase decisions, as higher theft rates can impact premium costs.
Ultimately, awareness combined with practical security measures remains the best defense against becoming a statistic in next year’s most-stolen vehicle list.