Car insurance is a necessary expense for drivers, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re a new driver, a seasoned commuter, or someone looking to switch vehicles, understanding which cars are cheaper to insure can save you hundreds of pounds annually.
In this article, we’ll break down the key factors that influence car insurance costs, reveal some of the most affordable cars to insure.
Why Do Insurance Costs Vary by Car?
Insurance premiums are determined by assessing the risk your car poses to insurers. Here’s what they consider:
- Car Group Rating: Every car in the UK falls into an insurance group (1-50). The lower the group, the cheaper the insurance. Cars in group 1, for example, are like the goody-two-shoes of the motoring world – safe, low-powered, and rarely involved in mischief.
- Repair Costs: A luxury car might impress your neighbours, but its fancy parts make repairs expensive – and insurers know this.
- Safety Features: Cars equipped with modern safety tech can help lower premiums because they reduce the likelihood of accidents or theft.
- Driver Profile: Your age, experience, and even your postcode can make a big difference, but let’s save that rabbit hole for another day.
Top Picks: Cars That Won’t Make Your Wallet Cry
Here’s a look at some of the cheapest cars to insure in the UK (group ratings included):
| Car Model | Insurance Group | Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Polo | 1 | £769.19 |
| Hyundai i10 | 2 | £769.19 |
| Volkswagen Up | 1 | £769.19 |
| Kia Picanto | 3 | £769.19 |
| Dacia Sandero | 3 | £769.19 |
| Seat Ibiza | 3 | £769.19 |
| Renault Clio | 3 | £769.19 |
| Skoda Fabia | 3 | £769.19 |
| Kia Rio | 3 | £769.19 |
| Toyota Aygo X | 3 | £769.19 |
These cars are generally cheaper to insure because they fall into lower insurance groups, which take into account factors like the cost of repairs, the car’s safety features, and its susceptibility to theft
Key Tips to Keep Insurance Costs Low
Let’s face it, even with a cheap car, insurers have a way of making us feel like we’re funding their next office holiday. Here’s how to keep costs down:
- Choose the Right Trim: A car with a sportier trim might look cooler but could bump you into a higher insurance group.
- Install Security Features: Adding an immobiliser or a tracker can shave a bit off your premium.
- Opt for Pay-As-You-Go Insurance: This is especially useful if you’re not a frequent driver.
- Shop Around: Never settle for the first quote. Use comparison sites like Confused.com or GoCompare to sniff out the best deals.
- Increase Your Voluntary Excess: A higher excess means lower premiums – just make sure you can afford it if the worst happens.
Common Myths About Cheap Car Insurance
- “Only old cars are cheap to insure.” False! While older cars might have lower upfront costs, their outdated safety features can lead to higher premiums.
- “Smaller cars are always cheaper to insure.” Mostly true, but the type of driver typically associated with the car also matters. A high-performance hatchback might be tiny but costly to insure.
They say your car insurance renews right after you’ve paid for Christmas gifts. Coincidence? We think not. And while you can’t haggle with your insurer like you would at a car boot sale, sometimes calling them up and saying, “I’m leaving,” works like magic.
Final Thoughts: Drive Smart, Insure Smarter
The cheapest car to insure isn’t just about the price tag – it’s about finding the perfect balance between affordability, safety, and practicality. Before you buy your next car, check its insurance group and potential premium costs.
Remember, being an informed driver is the first step to saving money. Or as insurers might say, “Knowledge is power, but not too much power – that’s a higher insurance group!”
