AMI Insurance has revealed its top 10 most stolen cars for 2025, with the same model claiming the unwanted top spot for the fourth year in a row.
Analysis of more than 9000 theft and attempted theft claims shows the Toyota Aqua has once again emerged as New Zealand’s most stolen vehicle.
The hybrid hatchback accounted for 8% of all stolen vehicle claims in 2025, followed by the Toyota Corolla at 7% and the Nissan Tiida at 6%.
The data showed Toyota Aquas were disproportionately targeted, with a theft rate nearly four times higher than that of the country’s most insured vehicle, the Toyota Corolla.
Auckland remained the region with the most vehicle thefts, followed by Canterbury, Waikato, Wellington, and the Bay of Plenty.
AMI executive general manager claims Steph Ferris said overall, thefts had been relatively lower since they hit a record-high in 2023.
“Lower crime rates, improved security systems in newer vehicles, and New Zealanders adopting security practices - including being more mindful about where they park - likely play a part in this," Ferris said.
Toyota models continue to remain popular among stolen vehicles, with five different models appearing within the top nine this year.
Ferris said vehicle age was also a significant factor in theft risk, with nearly nine in 10 stolen vehicles more than a decade old.
"Older vehicles often lack modern, electronic encrypted locking systems, making them easier for thieves to compromise," she said.
Ferris encouraged drivers to consider anti-theft measures such as alarms, immobilisers, fuel cut-out switches, steering wheel or handbrake locks, and parking behind a locked gate if a garage is not available.
Around 64% of stolen vehicles were eventually recovered, with 40% of those able to be repaired. The remainder are typically written off and auctioned for parts.
While some hybrid vehicles feature near the top of the list, they account for only around 5% of total thefts, with petrol and diesel-powered vehicles making up the majority.
The AMI top 10 stolen cars list:
1. Toyota Aqua (=)
2. Toyota Corolla (=)
3. Nissan Tiida (=)
4. Mazda Demio (=)
5. Toyota Vitz (+2)
6. Toyota Hilux (=)
7. Subaru Impreza (+1)
8. Mazda Atenza (-3)
9. Toyota Mark X (=)
10. Mazda Axela (=)
The most frequently stolen vehicle in each region (regions ranked by claims volume)
Auckland - Toyota Aqua
Canterbury - Toyota Aqua
Waikato - Toyota Corolla
Wellington - Toyota Corolla
Bay of Plenty - Toyota Corolla
Manawatū - Nissan Tiida
Northland - Toyota Corolla
Hawke’s Bay - Mazda Atenza
Gisborne - Mazda Demio
Taranaki - Toyota Corolla and Nissan Tiida
Otago - Toyota Aqua
Southland - Suzuki Swift
Nelson - Nissan Tiida
Tasman - Mazda Demio and Toyota Corolla
West Coast - Toyota Hilux
Marlborough - Honda Jazz
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