Summary:
Car thefts in the U.S. have surged dramatically, more than doubling between 2019 and 2023. Among the most targeted are muscle cars, particularly the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, which stands out as the most stolen muscle car of all time according to IIHS data. Its high performance—707 hp from a supercharged V8—and aggressive design make it appealing not only to enthusiasts but also to thieves. It leads in relative claim frequency and overall losses, solidifying its top spot on the list.
Another frequently stolen variant is the Dodge Charger Hemi, which ranks second overall. Despite being less powerful than the Hellcat, it still recorded 712 theft claims between 2020–2022. Both Charger models’ popularity and performance make them prime targets.
Other commonly stolen vehicles include the Infiniti Q50, Dodge Challenger, Land Rover Range Rover, and Kia Sportage. The Infiniti and Range Rover stand out due to their luxury appeal, while the Kia’s theft spike was linked to security flaws that went viral on social media. Fortunately, Kia has since issued recalls to address these vulnerabilities.
On the flip side, some cars are rarely stolen. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y top the list of least stolen cars. This is likely due to their always-on GPS tracking and advanced security features. The Volvo XC90 and GMC Acadia also make this list, possibly due to their lower desirability among thieves.
If you own or plan to buy a muscle car like the Charger or Challenger, consider using anti-theft tools like steering wheel locks, GPS trackers, and Faraday cages. These precautions, along with secure parking, can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to car theft.
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