Driver alert as cars UK thieves are most likely to steal revealed in new list
Drivers have been issued a warning as new data was issued on the most popular cars for UK thieves to steal. Lexus vehicles have emerged as the top choice for car thieves.
They have overtaken Range Rovers from Jaguar Land Rover as the car in top spot. Fresh DVLA figures suggest that Lexus motors are increasingly in criminals' crosshairs, with five models from the premium brand featuring in the top 10 most stolen vehicles list.
The DVLA's examination of 2024 car theft data, covering more than 61,000 stolen vehicles, shows that whilst the Ford Fiesta leads in sheer numbers, it's actually less prone to theft relative to how many are on Britain's roads.
Lexus ES 300 is being targeted
In an alarming development, the Lexus ES 300 has been pinpointed as the motor most susceptible to being stolen last year, with one in 30 ending up in criminals' hands. Additional Lexus models under threat include the RX 450, LC 500, UX 250, and NX 300, according to the Express.
Toyota, which owns Lexus, has addressed these concerning statistics by emphasising their investment in security technology. They said: "Toyota GB has invested millions of pounds in a variety of security solutions. Our anti-theft measures form part of a nationwide customer care offering."
The company also stressed their commitment to safeguarding customers' motors, stating: "For example, at a cost of more than £10million to Lexus, selected customers were provided with a free Tracker vehicle location service.
"As a result, a 96% recovery rate has been achieved. We have subsequently rolled out Tracker installation as an option for buyers of certain models."
Whilst the recent statistics may be disappointing for Lexus owners, they seen to highlight the progress Jaguar Land Rover has made in protecting their vehicles, placing them among Britain's most secure cars.
Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker, a firm specialising in vehicle security, has commended the improvements made by the British manufacturer. He also stressed the continuing fight to prevent stolen vehicles from being exported abroad.
He said: "Lexus is making considerable efforts to protect its customers' cars but JLR suffered a rise in thefts sooner than it and so has had more time to react and develop solutions.
"However, its cars are still being stolen. There is a thriving market overseas for Lexus, JLR and other premium vehicles and we recover many at docksides."
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