Table of Contents
Key Takeaways :
- Car model impacts premiums more than insurer choice.
- Rates depend on safety, repair cost, theft risk, and resale value.
- Subaru, Honda CR-V, Buick Envista, and Mazda CX-5 are 2026’s cheapest.
- Comparing quotes and bundling save even more.
Thinking about the cars to purchase that will have the lowest insurance rates? The car model you select could end up costing you thousands of dollars each year – more than any other factor, even the insurance company itself. Find out how those rates are determined, and which cars win out in 2026.
Why Insurance Costs Vary So Much
Insurers price a policy around risk, not sticker price. Four factors matter most:
- Collision safety — high IIHS/NHTSA ratings result in reduced settlements in case of injuries sustained from crashes
- Costs of repair – common parts and mechanics reduce expenses
- Theft risk – cars that do not get stolen often have lower premiums
- Value for salvage – reduced replacement costs mean less settlement in case of total loss
Compact SUVs and family sedans usually check every box, which is why they dominate the “cheapest to insure” lists year after year.
The Cheapest Cars to Insure Right Now
Based on 2026 data from major insurance comparison sites, these models consistently post the lowest premiums:
- Subaru Forester, Outback, and Impreza – standard AWD and best possible safety rating mean good rates for all three
- Honda CR-V – proven reliability and low incidence of thefts
- Buick Envista – inexpensive small crossover with relatively inexpensive repairs
- Volkswagen Taos – good price and crash test results
- Mazda CX-5 – very good safety rating and low claim frequency
- Dodge Grand Caravan and Honda Odyssey – minivans that are almost never stolen and inexpensive to repair
Monthly full-coverage premiums for these models typically run $100–$170, well below the national average of roughly $138–$150.
What Doesn't Make the List
Sport cars, luxury sedans, and high-performance trims tend to have higher insurance rates because insurers factor in higher repair costs, increased attractiveness to thieves, and higher risk of dangerous driving behavior.
In 2026, electric cars reduced their gap, but battery and sensor repair costs still make them more expensive to cover than compact SUVs and sedans.
How to Lock In the Lowest Rate
Picking the right car is only half the equation. To get the cheapest insurance possible:
- Compare at least three quotes — rates for the same car can vary by hundreds of dollars between insurers
- Ask about bundling — pairing auto with home or renters insurance often unlocks a discount
- Check usage-based programs — pay-per-mile or telematics apps can reward safe, low-mileage driving
- Review coverage annually — rates shift as the car ages and your driving record changes
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