Bring this list to the dealership
Combine it with the coverage worksheets in our Understanding Your Policy pillar guide so you can match limits and deductibles to your new ride.
Insurance costs vary as much as sticker prices. Vehicles with high safety scores, affordable parts, and strong anti-theft systems routinely quote below the national average. We analyzed 2025 filings from major carriers, IIHS crash data, and repair cost studies to build this shopper-friendly list. Always request personalized quotes, but use these models as your shortlist when affordability matters. Pair your choice with the right deductibles and quote strategy to lock in savings.
Cars that insure cheaply in 2025 share three traits: top safety scores, low theft risk, and cheap-to-fix parts. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Subaru Crosstrek, Hyundai Kona, and Chevrolet Bolt EUV hit that trifecta and usually quote below average premiums.
1) Why some cars cost less to insure
- Crashworthiness: IIHS Top Safety Pick+ vehicles have fewer severe injury claims.
- Parts and labor: Common, non-luxury parts lower collision payouts.
- Theft resistance: Strong immobilizers, VIN etching, and active tracking cut comprehensive claims.
- Telematics-ready: Factory tech pairs well with usage-based discounts.
2) Best affordable sedans and hatchbacks
| Model | Why insurers like it | Shopping tip |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Honda Civic | Top safety scores, plentiful parts, great loss history | Stick to non-performance trims for lower rates |
| 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid | Reliability + anti-theft tech = fewer claims | Hybrid fuel savings without high repair bills |
| 2025 Mazda3 | Excellent crash ratings and updated anti-theft software | Choose trims with standard LED headlights (cheaper replacements) |
| 2025 Kia Forte | Bundled telematics, simple parts | Avoid GT turbo if you want cheaper premiums |
3) Best crossovers and small SUVs
| Model | Why it's affordable | Insurance-friendly move |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | EyeSight driver assist + low theft rate | Add VIN etching to lock in comp discounts |
| 2025 Hyundai Kona | 5-star NHTSA, easy-to-source parts | Use BlueLink to join usage-based programs |
| 2025 Chevrolet Equinox | Fleet-friendly, cheap panels | Skip chrome packages that spike repair costs |
| 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid | Strong loss history plus great MPG | Confirm hybrid battery coverage and deductible |
4) Budget EV picks that stay cheap
Electric vehicles can be expensive to insure if batteries cost a fortune to replace. These models buck the trend with manageable repair bills.
- 2025 Chevrolet Bolt EUV: Modular battery design and wide parts availability.
- 2025 Nissan Leaf: Mature platform with predictable loss history.
- 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 Standard: Strong safety suite and insurer partnerships for EV repairs.
Ask for EV-specific discounts and confirm how your gap coverage handles battery value.
5) How to get quotes the smart way
- Grab the VIN for each candidate car.
- Quote with identical limits and deductibles so comparisons are clean.
- Ask about telematics and low-mileage programs for each specific model.
- Request premiums with and without optional packages that change repair costs (wheels, body kits).
- Check how credit, mileage, and garaging are rated.
6) Sample cost math
Numbers vary by state, but this shows how model choice affects a six-month premium.
| Vehicle | Base 6-mo premium | Common discounts |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Honda Civic | $540-$720 | Telematics, multi-car, good driver |
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | $560-$760 | VIN etching, telematics, pay-in-full |
| 2025 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | $620-$820 | EV discount, anti-theft, telematics |
| 2025 Ford Escape Hybrid | $600-$820 | Hybrid discount, multi-policy, safe driver |
7) Scripts to use with dealers and agents
At the dealership:
"Give me VINs for the Civic and Corolla I'm considering. I need them for insurance quotes before I sign."
With your insurer:
"Quote these VINs with the same limits, deductibles, and my telematics program. Send a side-by-side PDF so I can compare."
On optional packages:
"If I add the premium wheel package, how does that change the collision premium? Price it both ways."
8) Mistakes to avoid
- Quoting one car with a low deductible and another with a high deductible. Keep them identical.
- Skipping policy review and assuming all carriers rate EVs the same.
- Buying performance trims that add horsepower and expensive wheels.
- Ignoring anti-theft features that cut comprehensive costs.
9) Action plan before you buy
- Pick three models from the tables above.
- Collect VINs and run quotes with identical coverages.
- Ask for telematics and anti-theft discounts on each VIN.
- Match the premium with your budget and coverage needs.
- Save quotes and updated declarations in your policy binder.
Even the cheapest-to-insure car can become expensive if you add performance parts or skip security. Share this list with your dealer, capture the VIN of each candidate, and run quotes before signing. Cheap insurance is the result of smart shopping, safe picks, and disciplined documentation. Finish by reviewing full coverage vs liability so you set limits that match your new ride without overspending.