Most states require drivers to carry some form of insurance on their vehicles in order to drive on public roads. The type of vehicle you drive is, of course, up to you.
Some drivers prefer manual transmission over automatic. Some prioritize having great gas mileage, while others want a powerful vehicle with good towing capacity. A single person might want a sporty two-seater, while a family needs room for kids, their friends, and gear.
Car companies offer a variety of models to satisfy every need. Cars and SUVs have been popular for decades. Crossover vehicles are a mix of both, with higher ground clearance like SUVs.
There are still sports cars available to folks who want more performance out of their daily drive. Drivers can also choose hybrid or EV models to make their commute more efficient.
With many options to choose from, does the type of vehicle you drive affect your auto insurance cost?
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Which Vehicles Types Are Cheaper to Insure?
Your premium is calculated using a number of variables that fall into three buckets:
- Information about you
- Information about your car
- The options that you’ve selected
When we look at which types of vehicles are cheaper to insure, we’re looking at the information about your car. So which is the cheapest vehicle to insure? The answer depends on several factors.
How Much Will Auto repairs cost?
Repair costs will influence how much you pay and point you to which types of vehicles may be cheaper to insure. Both newer and older cars can cost more to fix, so the age of your vehicle could impact insurance cost, whether it’s an SUV or a sedan. Premium parts on expensive vehicles could also be pricey to repair, so a luxury SUV could potentially cost more to insure than a non-luxury counterpart.
Make and Model
Your vehicle’s make and model could also contribute to your insurance premium cost in several different ways.
First, we will consider your vehicle’s safety ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an independent nonprofit group dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries, conducts tests to evaluate a vehicle’s “crash-worthiness.” How your car or SUV performs in different tests will likely factor into a premium cost.
The more protected a vehicle’s occupants are in a crash, the higher the potential to save on insurance rates.* Safety features such as anti-lock brakes and proximity warnings may also make a difference.
Another reason why your car’s make and model affect insurance rates is the likelihood of theft for similar models. Cars that thieves like to steal can make your insurance cost more. These are the cars that get stolen most often.
Potential for Damage
The size of a vehicle can make a difference in road accidents. Larger vehicles usually do better than compact cars because of the impact of the circumstances. Since less damage means a lower repair cost, this can work in favor of SUVs.
Damage Inflicted by your Vehicle
On the other side of that coin is the damage that your vehicle can cause others if you are at fault. If your car causes damage in an accident, it may increase your insurance rates due to comprehensive and collision costs. This is where your driving record could contribute to your rates.
If you have been in many accidents while driving and you purchase an SUV, your insurance rates might be higher. This is in contrast to someone with a clean driving record who also has the same vehicle.
For a detailed look, check out our article on why you might be paying too much for car insurance.
What’s the Difference in Insurance Cost Between Cars and SUVs?
The answer is complicated. SUV insurance rates can vary from one model (and from one insurer) to the next. To find the best insurance for a SUV, compare quotes from different companies. This is especially important if you have a specific make and model in mind.
By comparing quotes, you can ensure you are getting the best coverage at the best price. This will help you make an informed decision when choosing an insurance policy for your SUV.
Are Hatchbacks Cheaper to Insure?
You might wonder where hatchbacks fit into all of this. Hatchbacks are classified as cars. They generally have either two doors or four, and have a rear door that swings up to open.
These vehicles have more space for carrying things because you can put items in the back instead of a trunk. Whether you’re hauling sporting equipment or a multi-tiered wedding cake, hatchbacks offer flexibility.
When comparing hatchback and sedan insurance, you may notice that insuring a hatchback could cost a little more.
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Are Sports Cars Expensive to Insure?
Sports cars have higher insurance premiums than regular cars. This is because they are faster, more expensive to repair, and have a higher chance of being in accidents.
Yes, sports cars are usually more expensive to insure than cars that aren’t focused on performance. However, insurers may also look at your driving record and how often you drive your sports car when determining your insurance rates.
You’ll definitely want to compare auto insurance quotes if you’re considering an upgrade to a sports car.
How can I compare car insurance quotes today?
Whether you own a car, truck or SUV, Rate Insurance can help you compare quotes from top-rated carriers to find your best rate. Start comparing quotes online or talk to an Expert Agent today and see how much you could save*!
Disclaimer:
*Savings, if any, vary based on the consumer’s profile and other factors. Contact your insurance agent for more information. Restrictions apply.
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