Pickup warning: What the sharp increase in Hilux thefts tells us about modern vehicle crime.
- QuestGates analysis of DVLA stolen vehicle data for vehicles less than 3 years old
- <3YO Toyota Hilux thefts up 550%, making it UK’s most stolen newer model
The UK’s largest owner-managed loss adjusting and claims solutions group, QuestGates, has released eye-catching research into newer vehicle theft trends.
While overall UK vehicle thefts were down 4.5% last year, thefts of less than 3 years old models rose by 6.6%, according to the comparison of DVLA data for 2023 and 2024.
Perhaps the most significant finding was a sharp increase in the number of Toyota vehicles being taken. In particular, the Hilux pickup saw a 548.9% year-on-year rise.
In contrast, Land Rover models saw substantial decreases. Less than 3 year old Range Rover Evoque thefts were down 77% last year, helping to remove the brand from the top 10 and reflecting the success of recent security enhancements introduced by the manufacturer.
Most stolen less than 3 YO cars in UK
| 2023 | 2024 | |
| 1 | Toyota | Toyota |
| 2 | BMW | BMW |
| 3 | VW | Kia |
| 4 | Audi | VW |
| 5 | Kia | Ford |
| 6 | Lexus | Audi |
| 7 | Land Rover | Hyundai |
| 8 | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| 9 | Ford | Vauxhall |
| 10 | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Source: QuestGates analysis of DVLA data
Philip Swift, Technical Director – Motor at QuestGates said: “The increased targeting of the Toyota Hilux reflects changing criminal behaviour and the perceived value of and demand for specific models. We advise affected owners to take immediate steps to secure their vehicles.
“JLR deserve huge credit for security upgrades which are apparently highly effective in deterring the professional criminals who target new cars. Fewer thefts mean fewer claims, lower costs and better outcomes for motor insurance policyholders.”
Regionally, thefts of vehicles less than 3 years old increased significantly in Bedfordshire, Essex and Warwickshire, while Greater Manchester recorded a notable 20% reduction.
QuestGates’ analysis is based on full-year DVLA Lost or Stolen (LoS) data, with the 3 year old parameter set on the date of theft, enabling a like-for-like comparison.