13 Car Models With the Cheapest Insurance Rates
Car insurance premiums are influenced by a variety of factors, including the make and model of the vehicle. Choosing a car with lower insurance costs can save drivers hundreds of dollars annually. Based on data from sources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), NerdWallet, and Insurify, we’ve compiled a list of the 13 car models with the cheapest insurance rates for 2025. These vehicles are typically compact SUVs, sedans, or minivans with high safety ratings, low repair costs, and minimal theft risk. Below, we detail the methodology and list the top 13 models, focusing on their affordability for insurance.
Our Methodology
To determine the 13 car models with the cheapest insurance rates, we analyzed data from multiple sources, including Insurify, NerdWallet, and the IIHS, updated as of June 2025. We focused on full-coverage insurance rates for a typical driver profile: a 35-year-old with a clean driving record, good credit, and driving approximately 13,000 miles annually. Rates were averaged across major insurers like GEICO, Nationwide, and Progressive, using data from Quadrant Information Services and other industry analyses. We prioritized vehicles with low claim frequencies, high safety ratings, and affordable repair costs, as reported by the IIHS and Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI). Prices reflect monthly full-coverage premiums unless otherwise noted.
13 Car Models With the Cheapest Insurance Rates
1. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester tops the list with an average monthly insurance premium of $147, according to Insurify. Its status as a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick, combined with low repair costs and standard all-wheel drive, makes it a favorite for insurers. The Forester’s compact SUV design and strong safety record keep claims low, saving drivers about 25% compared to the national average of $195.
2. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback, another IIHS Top Safety Pick, has an average monthly premium of $149. Its robust safety features, including advanced driver-assist systems, and low theft rates contribute to its affordability. The Outback saves drivers 35% compared to the average sedan, making it a cost-effective choice for families.
3. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V, a compact SUV, averages $160 monthly for full coverage. Known for its reliability and high safety ratings from the IIHS, it has low accident claim rates and affordable parts, reducing insurance costs by about 16% compared to the national SUV average.
4. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 offers a premium feel with an average monthly premium of $161. Its strong safety scores and theft deterrents keep insurance costs competitive, saving drivers around $30 monthly compared to other compact SUVs. Nationwide offers some of the lowest rates for this model at $1,071 annually.
5. Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V, a smaller SUV, averages $161 monthly for insurance. Its low MSRP and excellent safety ratings, combined with affordable repair costs, make it one of the cheapest SUVs to insure, particularly with insurers like GEICO.
6. Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan has an average monthly premium of $165. Its solid safety ratings and low theft risk make it a budget-friendly option. The Tiguan’s compact size and affordable parts help keep insurance costs down, especially in urban areas.
7. Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek, with an average monthly premium of $166, benefits from its high safety scores and all-wheel-drive reliability. Erie offers some of the lowest rates for this model at $40 monthly for liability coverage, making it a great pick for cost-conscious drivers.
8. Jeep Wrangler Sport
The Jeep Wrangler Sport averages $173 monthly for full coverage, making it the cheapest new car to insure, per LendingTree. Its rugged design and high safety ratings reduce bodily injury claims, saving drivers 23% compared to the average for new vehicles.
9. Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick, a compact pickup, has an average monthly premium of $177. Its low repair costs and availability of parts make it the cheapest truck to insure, offering savings of about 16% compared to other trucks like the Ram 1500.
10. Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy, a midsize sedan, averages $179 monthly for insurance. Its high safety ratings and lower claim frequency make it the most affordable sedan to insure, particularly with Nationwide at $1,157 annually.
11. Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla, known for reliability, has an average monthly premium of $180. Its low maintenance costs and strong crash-test ratings contribute to lower premiums, making it a top choice for budget-conscious commuters.
12. Kia Forte
The Kia Forte averages $182 monthly for full coverage. Its efficient design, low theft rates, and excellent safety scores keep insurance costs down, offering savings for drivers seeking an affordable sedan.
13. Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue, a compact SUV, rounds out the list with an average monthly premium of $185. Its strong safety features and low theft rates make it a cost-effective option, with savings of about 5% compared to the average SUV premium.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a car with low insurance rates can significantly reduce your overall vehicle ownership costs. Compact SUVs like the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5 dominate the list due to their high safety ratings, low repair costs, and minimal theft risk. Sedans like the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Corolla also offer affordable premiums for those preferring smaller vehicles. To maximize savings, compare quotes from multiple insurers like GEICO, Nationwide, and Progressive, and consider bundling policies or adding safety features. Always check rates specific to your location and driving profile before purchasing a vehicle.
