Newly released data has identified the Ford Fiesta as the vehicle most likely to be stolen in the United Kingdom. The findings, compiled from official government records, paint a clear picture of the models criminals are actively targeting and the regions where thefts are most prevalent.
The Most Targeted Models and Criminal Motivations
The Ford Fiesta has once again been crowned Britain's most stolen car. Its enduring popularity with thieves is attributed to two key factors: its immense historical popularity as the UK's best-selling car of all time, meaning there are vast numbers on the road, and a consistently high black-market demand for its parts. This demand has been further intensified since Ford ceased production of new Fiestas, causing the value of components to surge and making existing models even more lucrative for criminals. Experts warn the Fiesta is likely to remain a top target for the foreseeable future.
However, the Fiesta is far from the only vehicle in the crosshairs. The top ten most stolen models list reveals a dual strategy employed by thieves. Following the Fiesta, the list includes high-value vehicles like the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and robust models such as the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara. These premium SUVs and powerful pick-up trucks are often stolen not for parts but for export to international markets where they can be sold for a significant profit.
The full top ten, as identified by motoring firm cinch, is:
- Ford Fiesta
- Land Rover Range Rover Sport
- Toyota Hilux
- Nissan Navara
- Toyota C-HR
- Ford Ranger
- Ford EcoSport
- Nissan Juke
- Land Rover Discovery
- Toyota RAV4
Regional Hotspots and the Scale of the Problem
The research, based on Freedom of Information requests to the DVLA covering theft reports from 2022 to 2025, also highlights where vehicle crime is most concentrated. While London is a major hub, the data shows that the West Midlands has the highest number of thefts outside the capital. A staggering nearly 54,000 vehicles were reported stolen in the West Midlands region over the three-year study period.
Motoring experts have described vehicle theft as a "relentless problem" that impacts tens of thousands of drivers annually across the UK. While the figures have not shown dramatic year-on-year spikes, the persistent and large-scale nature of the issue continues to be a major concern for motorists. The criminal approach is calculated: thieves prioritise models that offer the greatest financial return, whether through the sale of high-demand parts from common family cars or the lucrative resale of entire luxury vehicles abroad.
What the Data Means for Drivers
The clear trends in the data serve as a crucial warning for owners of the listed models. The combination of specific vehicle desirability and regional hotspots underscores the need for heightened security awareness. Whether a car is targeted for its components or for export, the financial and personal disruption for the victim remains severe. This analysis not only informs the public but also highlights the ongoing challenge for law enforcement and vehicle security manufacturers in tackling a sophisticated and profit-driven criminal enterprise.
