UK Insurance Shifts in 2025 - The Models That Became Most Expensive to Cover

This end-of-year breakdown looks at what pushed premiums up, which models took the hardest hit, and why checking a car’s history before buying became more important than ever. With thousands of listings now affected by hidden risks, a quick check through TopCarCheck.co.uk became one of the easiest ways for buyers to avoid cars with damage markers, theft alerts, or mileage issues that could increase insurance costs.

What Happened to Insurance Prices in 2025

Insurance didn’t rise for one reason. Multiple factors drove the surge in 2025:

• Repair costs increased after rising parts and labour prices

• Theft rates hit their highest level in over a decade

• EVs faced parts shortages and longer repair queues

• Older models with limited driver assist tech became more expensive to fix

Average UK premiums rose 20–34 percent depending on age and location. Drivers under 30 saw the sharpest jumps while London and Manchester recorded the steepest regional increases.

Used car buyers felt the impact most. Cars that previously cost £400–£600 a year to insure suddenly came in at £900+ for fully comp cover. Insurers focused on risk profiles linked to theft, write off potential, and repair complexity. Cars with past damage or missing service history instantly moved into higher risk categories.

This is also why more buyers used vehicle history checks before committing. A Cat S marker, tampered mileage, or outstanding finance can all directly raise premiums because insurers factor in risk associated with past damage or ownership issues.

The Most Expensive Models to Insure in 2025

Below is a summary of the models that became the costliest to cover in 2025. Some are expected. Some are surprising. All reflect real insurance trends across theft, repairs, and risk assessment.

These figures reflect average fully comp quotes for a 35-year-old driver with a clean record. Younger drivers often saw significantly higher premiums.

Why These Models Became More Expensive

Insurance companies highlighted four key reasons for 2025 increases:

Theft Rates Exploded

Cars like the Range Rover Sport and Fiesta ST were targeted heavily by organised theft groups. Keyless entry attacks continued to rise, making some models nearly impossible to insure cheaply.

Repair Complexity Soared

Modern cars rely on sensors, cameras, and ADAS systems. Even minor bumps can trigger high repair bills. BMW X5s and Nissan Qashqais faced some of the largest repair cost jumps.

EV Repairs Became Slower

EVs, including the Tesla Model Y and older Nissan Leafs, faced long repair queues. Parts shortages pushed insurers to increase premiums to account for higher claim costs.

Performance Models Increased Claim Values

Hot hatches and fast saloons like the Golf R, A45, and RS3 all had higher claim numbers. Complex bodywork and specialist components added to costs.

How This Shift Affected the Used Car Market

Buyers who didn’t factor insurance into their budget were hit hardest. A used Range Rover Sport priced at £22,000 may look affordable, but a £1,850 annual insurance premium made it a long-term expense for many households.

Demand shifted noticeably:

• Premium SUVs dipped in sales

• Mid-range hybrids and small petrol hatchbacks rose in popularity

• Cars with full history and clean MOT records held their value better than expected

Dealers started including insurance group numbers in listings or warning buyers of high premiums. Cars with sketchy records sold slower or not at all.

If a car shows signs of tampered mileage, a recorded insurance loss, or unresolved finance, premiums can jump by hundreds. A TopCarCheck history check can reveal these issues before buyers commit.

Models That Surprised Everyone

Not all premium spikes were predictable. Three models stood out:

• Kia Sportage – Previously low-premium, but claim volume and parts inflation increased costs

• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Hybrid components raised repair bills

• Volkswagen ID.3 – Parts availability delays pushed insurance higher

These models remain popular but buyers must factor in insurance when planning a purchase.

How Buyers Can Prepare in 2026

Insurance is expected to remain high into 2026. Used car buyers should plan ahead:

• Check insurance quotes before viewing a car – Some models can double annual costs compared with alternatives

• Run a vehicle history check – Cars with hidden damage, mileage issues, or theft markers may increase premiums instantly

• Prioritise cars with stable repair costs – Fewer sensors and reliable parts reduce long-term costs

• Avoid heavily modified vehicles – Insurers raised premiums sharply for non-standard modifications

• Choose cars with strong security systems – Factory security helps keep insurance lower

By combining these steps, buyers can avoid expensive surprises and make smarter choices.

Conclusion

2025 forced UK drivers to rethink their car choices. Vehicles that once looked sensible became unexpectedly expensive to insure, and rising theft rates pushed some models to the top of the cost list. The used car market adapted quickly, with buyers becoming more cautious about cars with incomplete records or high-tech repair risks.

As 2026 approaches, preparation remains key. Running insurance quotes early, checking a car’s history for red flags, and prioritising models with stable repair costs will help drivers avoid the worst premiums. Tools like TopCarCheck.co.uk will continue to be essential for anyone buying smart, avoiding risk, and keeping long-term costs under control.