As a side effect of their popularity, SUVs are the most popular vehicles for thieves, according to information gathered by the Hello Safe website, an insurance comparison service.
Posted at 5:45 p.m.
Based on data provided by the Bureau of Canadian Insurers (IBC), Equity Association and Statistics Canada, Hello Safe estimates that 55.6% of vehicles stolen in Quebec in 2021 were SUVs. Of these, the 2018 Honda CR-V receives the unenviable prize for proportionally the most stolen vehicle. It ranks ahead of the 2019 model year Ford F-Series pickup trucks and the 2019 Lexus NX SUV.
The strong popularity of this category of vehicle inevitably boosts resale prices, both of vehicles and parts, whether here or in foreign markets.
The IBC estimates that auto theft in Canada cost $1 billion in 2021. Of that, $542 million was paid out directly by insurers. Alberta is the most affected province, with 13.1 stolen vehicles per 10,000 inhabitants, more than double that of Quebec, which stands at 5.9 stolen vehicles per 10,000 inhabitants.
Some inexpensive tracking systems can reduce the risk of theft and thereby lower your insurance premium. Some manufacturers also offer, through their telematics applications, the possibility of locating your vehicle.