America’s Most Stolen New Cars
If one car is easier to steal than another, it makes sense that it’s a more enticing target for a thief — which is why the most stolen cars in America are typically older vehicles with little anti-theft protection. However, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau — which tracks annual vehicle theft data across the U.S. — 2019 models were not immune to being misappropriated by thieves.

Simple Prevention
According to the NICB report, anti-theft technology works but owner complacency often plays a role in defeating that technology. Thousands of late-model vehicles get stolen each year because drivers don’t take the simple precautions of locking their cars and taking the keys and fobs with them, which makes the vulnerable vehicles easy targets for thieves. What follows are the most stolen new vehicles — a countdown of the model-year 2019 cars and trucks most popular with car thieves last year, as reported by the NICB.

25. 2019 Nissan Frontier (tie)
Number Stolen: 351
One of the oldest models in the Nissan portfolio, the Frontier pickup clearly holds its own among other vehicles in the automaker’s model lineup. Featuring more than 20 different configurations, Frontier is available as a King Cab or Crew Cab, with rear- or 4-wheel drive, as well as with long or short truck beds. Perhaps the fact that this truck hasn’t changed much in the last 10 years makes it a popular target for thieves — parts are interchangeable for multiple model years.

25. 2019 Chevrolet Camaro (tie)
Number Stolen: 351
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Camaro a few years back, and for 2019 this iconic muscle car received some major styling updates. It appears that brand-new performance cars are not high on car thieves’ shopping lists — Camaro is one of the few stolen in sufficient numbers during 2019 to make the NICB list. Available in a range of trim levels, the Camaro has engine choices ranging from the base 275-horsepower turbocharged four cylinder to the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 650 horsepower for the top-level Camaro ZL1.

24. 2019 Volkswagen Jetta
Number Stolen: 352
Last year Volkswagen introduced an all-new Jetta built on a completely new platform, and it possesses a sleek, coupelike design that gives it a sporty look. The car is longer, wider and taller than the previous version, which not only gives the Jetta a new look, it translates into a more spacious cabin. The new design must be more appealing to thieves — this is the first year Jetta has earned a spot on the Most Stolen list.

23. 2019 Toyota RAV4 (tie)
Number Stolen: 355
The top-selling model in Toyota’s lineup, the RAV4 had not drawn enough attention from car thieves to rank it as one of the most stolen vehicles in America until last year; the all-new 2019 model that went on sale in 2018 could have been the trigger. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the updated RAV4 features bold new styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features. In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, the RAV4 now comes with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection as well as lane departure alert — and both are standard equipment.

23. 2019 Toyota Tacoma (tie)
Number Stolen: 355
Toyota’s popular midsize pickup posted record sales in 2019, which could be why the Tacoma appears on this year’s Most Stolen list. The Tacoma is available in several configurations with two cab styles, two bed lengths, five trim levels and a choice of 2WD or 4WD. For 2020 the Tacoma gets a new grille and wheel designs for most trim levels, as well as an upgraded audio system with a larger touchscreen and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility.

22. 2019 Jeep Wrangler
Number Stolen: 377
An all-new Wrangler came to market in 2019, helping the iconic off-roader achieve its best sales ever; apparently this has also made the Jeep a bigger target for thieves. The updated Wrangler is available with a choice of two hardtops, a new Sunrider soft-top or a new Sky One-Touch power top. Both 2- and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Rubicon and Sahara trim levels. The new Wrangler is much improved, offering a more comfortable on-road ride while retaining its legendary off-road capability.

21. 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan
Number Stolen: 401
Considered one of the pioneers of the modern-day minivan, the Dodge Grand Caravan offers more style, versatility and technological innovation than any other time in its 30-year history. The lineup has been simplified to four trim levels: SE, SE Plus, SXT and GT. The standard engine for all trims is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing 283 horsepower, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 20 mpg combined. Dodge has announced that the Grand Caravan will end production after the 2020 model year — so get ‘em while they’re hot.

20. 2019 Honda Civic
Number Stolen: 424
One of the most successful compact cars in America, the Civic has been a popular target for car thieves for many years. Civic received a redesign for the 2016 model year, and it seems as though the updated model has garnered more interest among thieves, returning Honda’s time-honored small car to the Most Stolen list after a one-year hiatus. Last year Civic received a light refresh and a range of new features, as well as the new Civic Sport trim. The Honda Sensing safety system is now standard on all trims, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

19. 2019 Chevrolet Malibu
Number Stolen: 425
Chevrolet introduced the Malibu name back in 1964 — as a top-line version of the Chevelle — making it the longest running midsize sedan nameplate in the industry. The ninth-generation Malibu arrived for the 2016 model year, which resulted in its best sales year in more than a decade. Although sales have dropped off since then, Malibu remains popular among car thieves. Malibu features a sleek exterior design with a wheelbase stretched nearly 4 inches compared to its predecessor, offering more interior space and improved fuel efficiency. A 163-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 250-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo four are the available powertrains.

18. 2019 Nissan Versa
Number Stolen: 430
As the least expensive car in America at the time, the 2019 Nissan Versa had an MSRP of $12,110, and for that buyers received air-conditioning, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, an AM / FM / CD audio system and a trip computer. A 109-horsepower engine is teamed with a 5-speed manual transmission, and although Versa won’t win any races it is rated at 36 mpg on the highway. It appears that this lowest priced car on the market is still popular among thieves — it was stolen enough to make the NICB list. Versa is all-new for 2020 — no longer the least expensive model in America, the small car goes upscale while remaining a great value.

17. 2019 GMC Savana
Number Stolen: 442
Although many brands have moved to more modern takes on the full-size van, the GMC Savana remains one of the oldest designs on the market. Generally speaking, sales of full-size vans are not exceedingly high; however, the Savana did have an impressive year in 2019. Available in regular or extended lengths, this big van is built solely in heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 variations. Unlike many newer designs, the GMC Savana has either a sliding or split swing-out door on the right side only. An additional 3-person bench seat in the Crew Cargo Van is unique in the van segment.

16. 2019 Chrysler 300
Number Stolen: 455
One of the last large rear-wheel-drive sedans on the market, the Chrysler 300 has not changed much in several years. The big car’s attractive styling and roomy interior have kept sales steady, so it’s a bit surprising that last year was the 300’s most recent appearance on the most stolen list. The 300 is available in trim levels ranging from the Touring to luxury-minded Limited. Chrysler also offers the 300C with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine producing 363 horsepower.

15. 2019 Nissan Rogue
Number Stolen: 467
Rogue is one of the hottest-selling vehicles in America, so it’s no surprise to find this small crossover on the NICB list. The best-selling vehicle in the Nissan lineup, Rogue features a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine teamed with an advanced Xtronic transmission with Eco mode that boasts an EPA fuel-economy rating as high as 33 mpg. Rogue is available in three trim levels, and also comes as a smaller model called Rogue Sport. Nissan introduced an all-new Rogue for the 2021 model year; it should be arriving in showrooms soon.

14. 2019 Kia Optima
Number Stolen: 502
Last year marks the first time that Kia’s stylish midsize sedan had been called out by the NICB as a favorite among car thieves. The Optima is certainly desirable, offering a great combination of attractive styling, a roomy interior, considerable trunk space and a high-level of safety and convenience features. Kia updated the Optima for 2019 with fresh styling as well as a more advanced driver assistance system. Optima will be replaced by the all-new K5 for the 2021 model year.

13. 2019 Hyundai Elantra
Number Stolen: 544
Over the last few years, Elantra has gained enough momentum to become the best-selling model in the Hyundai lineup — surprising, given the general popularity of crossovers over passenger cars in the U.S. This popularity continued with the updated 2019 Elantra, which received a new hood, front fascia, grille and headlights. Three engine options are available, including a 201-horsepower unit for the Elantra Sport. Hyundai also offers Elantra with the latest high-tech safety features including automatic emergency braking. An all-new Elantra has been introduced for the 2021 model year.

12. 2019 Chevrolet Silverado
Number Stolen: 613
Although the GMC Sierra — sibling to the Chevrolet Silverado — had been a perennial favorite among car thieves in years past, the new Silverado seems to have become the favored offspring. Last year an all-new 2019 Silverado arrived on scene with increased passenger space as well as more cargo room. With updated styling inside and out, the big truck offers a variety of powertrains ranging from a new turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant to V8 options with dynamic fuel management.

11. 2019 Ford Fusion
Number Stolen: 649
When the Ford Fusion received its last major update, it unveiled a bold new look that included a long nose, a sloping roofline and a short rear deck to create a much more upscale statement than the previously conservative design. The best-selling domestic passenger car in America, Fusion is available with two fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines, or for even better efficiency buyers can choose the Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid. Fusion can also be equipped with all-wheel drive. With so many Fusions on the road, it makes sense that it would land on this Most Stolen list; however, owners and thieves alike may be sad to hear that Ford has ended Fusion production.

10. 2019 Dodge Challenger
Number Stolen: 689
Designers at Dodge did a wonderful job capturing the look of the classic muscle car and incorporating it into a thoroughly modern Challenger. The 2-door Challenger offers the latest high-tech entertainment and safety features, but this retro-looking coupe is really all about performance. The Challenger can be equipped with a variety of high-powered engines, although the most talked-about variant is the Challenger Hellcat Redeye with its 797-horsepower supercharged V8 powerplant. Can you say joyride?

9. 2019 Ford Transit
Number Stolen: 744
According to Ford, the big Transit van can be configured in about 60 different ways, given its two wheelbases, three roof heights as well as 150, 250 and 350 variants. Cargo capacity is immense — the largest Transit features a space 172.2 inches long, 70.2 inches wide (54.8 inches between the wheels) and 81.5 inches high for a total of 487.3 cubic feet. This versatility may be why Transit is by far the best-selling commercial van in America, and perhaps its ability to carry plenty of valuable cargo explains why it often makes the Most Stolen list.

8. 2019 Toyota Corolla
Number Stolen: 758
One of the most popular compact cars in America, Toyota’s Corolla has been posting impressive sales numbers over the last 10 years. Sold in some form since 1966, the Corolla’s continued success can be attributed in part to its impressive fuel economy, roomy interior and extensive list of standard features. With more than 300,000 Corollas sold in 2019, the small car’s ubiquity means there are plenty on roads for thieves to get their hands on, as well as a high demand for parts.

7. 2019 Toyota Camry
Number Stolen: 770
Camry has held the title of best-selling passenger car in America for 17 years, and with a strong push at the end of 2019 the popular Toyota retained its crown. Redesigned for the 2018 model year with an updated grille, integrated headlights and sculpted lines that give the sedan a more engaging presence, the Camry also possesses a completely new interior and choice of fuel-efficient, powerful engines. A new high-performance TRD trim has been added to the Camry lineup, perhaps making it even more attractive to thieves.

6. 2019 Nissan Altima
Number Stolen: 863
All new for the 2019 model year, Altima features a lower, wider stance and a much more dynamic look, as well as available all-wheel drive for the first time in the model’s history. The updated sedan comes well equipped with multiple USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera and a large display screen. The cabin offers plenty of room up front and in the rear seat. This stalwart sedan offers a nice mix of comfort, style and — most important to the majority of shoppers — great fuel economy.

5. 2019 Dodge Charger
Number Stolen: 888
The Dodge Charger is an icon of the muscle-car era, and it’s great to see the brand continuing the tradition with a modern version of this classic vehicle. Charger offers the latest in high-tech entertainment and safety features, but most consider the Charger a performance sedan. The big vehicle is available in a number of torque-generating versions, including the vaunted 707-horsepower Charger Hellcat. This car tends to attract a lot of attention, which is the likely reason for it ending up on the Most Stolen list.

4. 2019 Nissan Sentra
Number Stolen: 959
Passenger car sales are declining as crossovers remain a popular choice among new car shoppers; however, the Sentra is a perennial favorite with car thieves. A member of the Nissan lineup for more than 35 years, the 2019 Sentra has a wide trim range with two powertrain choices, as well as high-tech features including forward emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. Nissan introduced an all-new 2020 Sentra with added safety features, more power, better handling and a range of comfort, convenience and safety improvements — sure to be popular with buyers and non-buyers alike.

3. 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Number Stolen: 1,110
The Jeep brand had great success in 2019, due in part to the phenomenal popularity of SUVs in America. Apparently this appreciation for the SUV is not only among new car shoppers but car thieves as well. The 5-seat Grand Cherokee continues the tradition of offering impressive off-road capability in an attractive package. Available in several trim levels and 4WD systems, the Grand Cherokee line ranges from the off-road-focused Trailhawk to the luxurious Summit. Jeep also offers a high-performance version called the Trackhawk, which boasts a staggering 707 horsepower.

2. 2019 Ram Truck
Number Stolen: 1,547
One of the most stolen vehicles in America when all model years are counted, the current Ram is also quite popular with truck thieves. There are also more Ram trucks available to steal — Ram ended 2019 with a strong showing, posting record sales for the fourth year in a row. One of the reasons for these high sales (and stolen) figures is that an all-new 2019 Ram went on sale in 2018. The new Ram improves upon the current model in practically every way with updated looks and one of the nicest interiors on the market. Six trim levels are available, as well as a new lineup of powertrains that will eventually include a hybrid system.

1. 2019 Ford F-Series
Number Stolen: 1,767
Thanks to strong sales in 2019, the Ford F-Series extended its streak as the best-selling vehicle in America to 38 years — 43 years as best-selling truck. This boost in popularity can likely be attributed to updated styling, added safety and convenience features, and a new 3.3-liter 290-horsepower V6 engine. With so many copies of this capable truck on the road, it’s no surprise to discover that it was one of the most stolen vehicles last year.

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