You may love your car, but your insurance company might see it as a walking liability. Some vehicles, no matter how popular or stylish, are magnets for theft, are expensive to repair or come with safety risks that make insurers cringe. That means higher premiums even if you’ve got a spotless driving record. Here are 21 vehicles insurance companies in Canada hate:
Dodge Charger (2011–Present)
With its aggressive styling and V6 or V8 powertrains, the Dodge Charger looks fast, and that is precisely the problem. The 5.7L HEMI V8 (370 hp) rockets the car from 0–100 km/h in around 5.2 seconds, which appeals to speedsters and thieves. It’s consistently one of the most stolen vehicles in Canada, especially newer models with push-to-start systems. Add high repair costs for bodywork and performance parts, and insurers don’t hesitate to raise rates. Whether for street racing or parts resale, the Charger’s risk profile makes it a pricey vehicle to protect.
Honda Civic (2006–2015)
The Civic may be a reliable favorite, but it is also one of Canada’s most frequently stolen vehicles, particularly older models. The 1.8L engine, which produces 140 hp, isn’t thrilling, but Civics are easy targets for thieves due to outdated anti-theft systems. High theft rates and a massive used market mean your insurance company likely sees your Civic as a claim waiting to happen. Even though it is a fuel-efficient commuter with a solid safety record, the Civic’s popularity on black markets for parts keeps premiums unusually high for a compact car.
BMW 3 Series (2012–2018)
Luxury cars come at a cost, and not just at the dealership. The BMW 3 Series, particularly models with the 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 180–248 hp, carries some of the highest insurance rates in its class. Repairing damage to advanced electronics and proprietary parts is expensive, and fender-benders often lead to hefty claims. Theft is not as common, but insurers still view BMWs as high risk due to accident frequency and above-average repair costs. Even cautious drivers may pay a premium simply for driving a badge that screams “expensive to fix.”
Ford Mustang (2011–2020)
Muscle cars don’t get much more iconic than the Ford Mustang, and insurers know it. The 5.0L V8 GT version puts down 435 hp and reaches 100 km/h in under 5 seconds. That kind of performance can encourage risky behavior, especially among younger drivers. Add a high theft rate, costly repairs for rear-wheel-drive components, and poor winter handling, and you’ve got a car that makes actuaries wince. Even the base EcoBoost models with 310 hp see higher premiums.
Toyota Tacoma (2016–2023)
You would not expect a midsize pickup to be an insurance red flag, but the Toyota Tacoma consistently ranks among the most stolen vehicles in Canada. Its 3.5L V6 engine produces 278 hp, and its durable build makes it valuable to off-roaders and thieves alike. Due to its frame and suspension complexity, it’s also expensive to repair after collisions. Despite a strong safety record, replacement part costs and frequent claims increase insurance rates.
Subaru WRX (2015–2021)
Built for performance, the Subaru WRX features a 2.0L turbocharged engine pushing 268 hp and a 0–100 km/h time of under 6 seconds. That rally-inspired DNA, however, makes it a magnet for high-risk driving behaviors and higher insurance rates. The WRX is frequently involved in speed-related accidents and can be costly to repair due to its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and performance parts. It also ranks high for modifications, which only adds to insurer anxiety. Even responsible owners get hit with premiums that reflect the car’s boy-racer image and elevated claims history.
Jeep Wrangler (2007–2021)
The Jeep Wrangler may be Canada’s off-road sweetheart, but its insurance profile tells a different story. With a 3.6L V6 engine that produces 285 hp, high rollover risk, and poor crash test scores compared to modern SUVs, Wranglers cost more to insure than most expect. Their removable roofs and doors also make them easier to steal or vandalize. In addition to that, owners tend to modify suspension and tires, and insurers see a higher-than-average risk on and off pavement.
Hyundai Elantra (2011–2017)
Although positioned as a reliable commuter car, the Hyundai Elantra has been dogged by theft concerns and airbag recall issues. Its 1.8L engine is not powerful, but the model’s older anti-theft tech and appeal as a budget vehicle put it on the radar for opportunistic thieves. Additionally, it’s lower initial value than rivals can result in write-offs from even minor accidents, driving up claim totals. Insurance companies factor all this in, meaning the affordable sticker price does not always equal lower premiums.
Chevrolet Camaro (2010–2020)
With its 6.2L V8 engine producing up to 455 hp, the Camaro is a high-performance machine that insurers view cautiously. Even the base turbocharged 2.0L version (275 hp) can hit 100 km/h in under 6 seconds, which raises concerns about aggressive driving. Its large blind spots and poor crash visibility contribute to elevated accident rates. Repairs, especially to body panels and drivetrain components, are expensive. Combined with above-average theft risk, owning a Camaro in Canada almost guarantees a spike in your insurance premium, particularly for younger drivers.
Range Rover Evoque (2012–2020)
The Evoque’s sleek design and upscale interior conceal a vehicle that’s notoriously expensive to repair. Its 2.0L turbocharged engine produces 237–296 hp and offers decent performance, but electronic failures and reliability issues plague ownership. Insurers take note of the frequent high-dollar claims from minor mechanical failures and advanced driver-assist system glitches. A simple bumper replacement can cost thousands due to sensors and specialty materials. Add its appeal to thieves, and you’ve got a vehicle that’s as pricey to insure as it is to buy.
Nissan Altima (2013–2018)
The Nissan Altima seems like a sensible sedan, but insurers don’t see it that way. A 2.5L four-cylinder engine (182 hp) or optional 3.5L V6 (270 hp) offers solid performance but also a high rate of accident claims. The Altima has a history of poor driver behavior associations, particularly in urban settings, and it’s a frequent flyer on theft lists. CVT transmission failures also lead to expensive repairs and insurance payouts. While it’s roomy and comfortable inside, insurers price in its problematic past, making it costlier to cover than rivals like the Camry or Accord.
Infiniti Q50 (2014–2021)
Sporty, sleek, and loaded with tech, the Infiniti Q50 also has a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 option that produces 300–400 hp, can turn heads, and can rack up claims. While its cabin is premium and comfortable, insurance companies are wary due to frequent electronic failures and high repair costs. Parts are expensive and not always readily available in Canada, meaning longer, pricier claims. The Q50 is also prone to high-speed driving and crash severity among younger luxury buyers. Driving may be a thrill, but your insurance company won’t be thrilled to cover it.
Chevrolet Cruze (2011–2018)
On the surface, the Chevy Cruze looks like an affordable compact perfect for students and commuters. However, this model has long suffered from engine issues, turbo failures, and electrical problems that lead to large insurance payouts. Its 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is not fast, but its high repair frequency and parts costs surprise even seasoned drivers. The Cruze’s crash ratings are average at best, and its older models lack advanced safety tech, increasing the risk on the road. It’s not flashy or powerful, but insuring a Cruze may cost more than expected.
Tesla Model S (2012–Present)
The Model S revolutionized electric driving, but its insurance costs are another shock. With insane acceleration of 0–100 km/h in 2.4 seconds for the Plaid edition and a dual-motor AWD setup pushing over 1,000 hp, this EV isn’t for the faint of heart or wallet. Repairing damage to its aluminum body or touch-heavy interior can run into five figures. Insurers also worry about battery replacement, charging cable theft, and tech failures. Though its safety scores are stellar, the Model S is a high-stakes vehicle to insure, no matter how green it is.
Kia Stinger (2018–2023)
The Kia Stinger came out swinging with a twin-turbo 3.3L V6 pushing 368 hp and an upscale sport-sedan experience. But insurers took notice of its performance capabilities and aggressive styling, especially given its affordability. With 0–100 km/h in under 5 seconds, many treat it like a budget BMW and drive it that way. That’s translated to elevated crash and claim rates. The Stinger also has higher-than-average parts costs, especially for body repairs and its AWD system. While it punches above its weight, insurance costs reflect its muscle-car mindset more than its mainstream badge.
BMW X6 (2015–2022)
The BMW X6 blends coupe styling with SUV utility, but its repair costs are anything but practical. Its turbocharged 3.0L inline-six produces 335 hp, or an optional 4.4L V8 produces 523+ hp in M trims, making it a performance beast and a nightmare for insurers. Body repairs are notoriously expensive due to the sloped roofline and complex sensors, while advanced tech often leads to high-cost electrical claims. Throw in above-average theft rates and BMW’s luxury price tag, and insurance companies slap on premiums that match the X6’s aggressive profile.
Mitsubishi Lancer (2008–2017)
While no longer in production, the Lancer, especially the GTS and Ralliart trims, still haunts insurance underwriters. The 2.4L engine (168 hp) or turbocharged 2.0L in the Ralliart (237 hp) made this compact sedan a magnet for young drivers with a need for speed. It also developed a reputation for poor crash outcomes and high modification rates, leading to costly repairs and total losses. Outdated safety tech and a weak theft deterrent system only worsened things.
Dodge Challenger (2008–Present)
Bold, brash, and built for speed, the Dodge Challenger’s retro muscle car appeal hides some hefty insurance baggage. The base V6 makes 303 hp, but higher trims like the Hellcat pushes past 700 hp, making them favorites in high-speed crashes and theft claims. Despite its large size, the Challenger has limited visibility and poor winter handling, which increases collision risk. Add costly repairs from widebody kits and specialty tires, and it is clear why insurers give this beast the cold shoulder, especially for younger or urban drivers.
Lexus IS (2014–2021)
Luxury doesn’t always mean low risk. With a 3.5L V6 and agile handling, the Lexus IS sedan tempts drivers into spirited driving. While it has a well-crafted interior and a reputation for reliability, parts are expensive, and availability in Canada can delay repairs. The IS has also been targeted in recent vehicle theft waves nationwide. Even though Lexus vehicles typically hold up well in crash tests, the high cost of replacing even a single headlamp cluster can drive insurance premiums uncomfortably high.
Audi A5 (2010–2022)
Stylish and sporty, the Audi A5 coupe and Sportback variants have engines ranging from 2.0L turbocharged (261 hp) to fire-breathing S and RS versions. Insurers are wary of this vehicle for several reasons, like high-speed accident potential, costly repairs due to complex electronics, and luxury parts that are not cheap or easy to source. The A5 is also commonly leased; leased vehicles often have higher claim frequency. Throw in theft susceptibility and expensive tech features like virtual cockpits and advanced sensors, and insurers price it accordingly.
Chrysler 300 (2011–2023)
The Chrysler 300 might exude old-school swagger with its bold design and 5.7L HEMI V8 option, but insurance companies are far less charmed. The 300 is known for being involved in high-severity crashes and carries a higher-than-average claim frequency. High repair costs stem from outdated tech systems, heavy body panels, and parts availability issues. It’s also increasingly favored by thieves, especially in urban areas. Though the ride is smooth and the cabin spacious, this full-size sedan costs more to insure than many expect.
22 Times Canadian Ingenuity Left the U.S. in the Dust
When people think of innovation, they often picture Silicon Valley. However, Canada has a history of innovation, too. Whether it’s redefining sports, revolutionizing medicine, or just showing America up at its own game, Canadian inventors, thinkers, and dreamers have had their fair share of mic-drop moments. Here are 22 times Canadian ingenuity left the U.S. in the dust.
22 Times Canadian Ingenuity Left the U.S. in the Dust
