Buying a car isn’t just about fuel efficiency, performance, or appearance—it’s also about what it’ll cost to insure. Some vehicles are cheaper to insure than others, and that difference can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.
Whether you’re a new driver, a budget-conscious family, or someone who just wants to save on recurring costs, choosing the right car can lead to long-term insurance savings. In this guide, we break down the best types of cars for low insurance rates in 2025, why they’re cheaper to insure, and what to consider when shopping.
Why Do Some Cars Cost Less to Insure?
Insurance companies use vehicle-specific data when calculating premiums, including:
- Safety ratings
- Repair costs
- Theft rates
- Crash statistics
- Replacement value
The safer and more affordable a car is to repair or replace, the lower the risk to the insurer—and the lower your premium.
Top Car Categories with Low Insurance Costs
1. Sedans and Compact Cars
Compact and midsize sedans are generally affordable to insure due to strong safety ratings, low repair costs, and low theft appeal.
Best Picks:
- Toyota Corolla
- Honda Civic
- Hyundai Elantra
- Mazda3
Why They’re Cheaper:
These models come with excellent safety tech, modest horsepower (less likely to encourage aggressive driving), and low-cost parts.
2. Family SUVs
Smaller SUVs designed for families often fall into the low-risk category. They’re not flashy, they score high in safety tests, and they’re rarely stolen.
Best Picks:
- Subaru Forester
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Ford Escape
Why They’re Cheaper:
These vehicles are known for their reliability, visibility, and ability to withstand minor collisions with less damage.
3. Minivans
Minivans might not win style awards, but they win when it comes to affordability—including insurance.
Best Picks:
- Honda Odyssey
- Toyota Sienna
- Chrysler Pacifica
Why They’re Cheaper:
Often driven by cautious, family-oriented owners, minivans are among the safest and lowest-risk vehicles on the road.
4. Pickup Trucks (Mid-Size)
Surprisingly, certain pickup trucks are among the cheaper vehicles to insure—especially mid-sized or base models.
Best Picks:
- Ford Maverick
- Toyota Tacoma
- Chevrolet Colorado
Why They’re Cheaper:
Simple builds and sturdy structures lead to fewer and less costly claims. Just avoid heavily modified or high-end trims.
5. Electric & Hybrid Vehicles
Some electric or hybrid vehicles enjoy low premiums thanks to advanced driver-assist features.
Best Picks:
- Toyota Prius
- Honda Accord Hybrid
- Hyundai Ioniq
Note:
Some EVs like Teslas may be expensive to insure due to high repair costs, so stick to mainstream models for lower premiums.
What to Avoid If You Want Low Insurance
- Sports Cars: High horsepower equals high premiums.
- Luxury Vehicles: Expensive parts and labor make repairs costly.
- High-Theft Models: Cars that are frequently stolen (even if they’re cheap) can result in higher rates.
- Modified Vehicles: Customizations often increase risk and claims value.
Additional Tips When Shopping for a Low-Insurance Vehicle
- Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Use it to get insurance quotes before you buy.
- Review Safety Ratings: Look for vehicles with top crash-test scores from IIHS and NHTSA.
- Ask for Insurance Quotes First: Always factor in monthly insurance costs when budgeting for a new car.
Table: Top 10 Cars with Low Insurance Costs in 2025
| Car Model | Estimated Annual Premium | Vehicle Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | $1,250 | Compact Sedan | Reliable, low-cost parts |
| Honda CR-V | $1,310 | Compact SUV | Family favorite, great safety |
| Subaru Forester | $1,300 | Compact SUV | All-wheel drive, high safety |
| Hyundai Elantra | $1,280 | Compact Sedan | Budget-friendly, safe |
| Honda Odyssey | $1,270 | Minivan | Family-safe, low-risk driver base |
| Ford Maverick | $1,290 | Mid-Size Pickup | Affordable and durable |
| Toyota Prius | $1,240 | Hybrid | Efficient, lots of safety tech |
| Mazda3 | $1,275 | Compact Sedan | Fun yet practical |
| Chevrolet Colorado | $1,295 | Pickup Truck | Reasonably priced repairs |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | $1,260 | Midsize Hybrid | Low emissions, safe design |
*Premiums are estimates and may vary by region, age, and driving history.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car can significantly reduce your insurance costs without sacrificing comfort, safety, or performance. When shopping for a vehicle in 2025, prioritize safety, practicality, and reliability. Avoid flashiness and high-performance features if you want to keep premiums down.
By making smart vehicle choices and comparing insurance quotes in advance, you’ll be well on your way to saving hundreds annually—before even turning the key.
You May Like To Read:
- Best Cars to Buy in 2025 for Low Insurance Costs and High Value
- How Car Maintenance and Driving Habits Impact Car Insurance Premiums in 2025
- The Impact of Car Model and Usage on Insurance Premiums in 2025
- How Electric Cars Are Changing Car Insurance in 2025
- Why Comprehensive Car Insurance Is Essential in 2025
- How Your Car Choice Impacts Insurance
- Top Reasons Why Car Insurance Rates Are Rising in 2025
- How Car Safety Features Can Lower Your Insurance Rates in 2025