According to DVLA data, thefts of two particular models have jumped 39% and 28%
As well as standard security measures there are ‘tactical’ ways to reduce the risk of your car being stolen(Image: Birmingham Mail)
Criminals are increasingly targeting particular vehicle models, according to new figures.
And they’re not vehicles that might immediately spring to mind when thinking about prime targets for criminals.
A recent hybrid model has unexpectedly attracted a spike in interest from thieves to become one of the most stolen.
There’s been a significant increase in thefts of the Toyota C-HR Dynamic HEV CVT, reports Birmingham Live. These vehicles can fetch over £40,000 when brand new.
A total of 437 thefts were reported to the DVLA last year, up 28% from 342 in 2024. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
It wasn’t the only Toyota model being targeted: in 2025, a total of 253 Toyota C-HR Excel HEV CVTs were stolen, a 39% rise from 182 the previous year.
It indicates these vehicles are becoming more attractive targets for criminals – particularly as thefts of many other models fell in 2025. And these were only the cases the DVLA were informed about.
The Ford Fiesta remains the most commonly stolen car in the UK. Demand for parts has surged over the last few years now Ford has stopped making the iconic model.
The DVLA data was analysed by motoring experts at Tempcover. Jake Lambert, from the firm, said owners of hybrids and electrics needed to be alert to the threat of theft.
He said: “If you own a C-HR or similar hybrid, standard security measures like steering locks are essential, but you can also be tactical.
“For example, keeping fobs in a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking box and parking your car ‘nose-in’ against a wall or garage door, can act as a deterrent. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
“This position blocks access to the front bumper and wheel arches, making it much harder for thieves to reach the headlight wiring often used to hack the vehicle’s computer.”