The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) has published its annual report on the most stolen vehicles of 2023, and Kia and Hyundai models have emerged as the top targets. Vehicles from these two brands dominate the list, occupying six out of the top 10 spots, signaling a significant shift in theft trends. Topping the list is the Hyundai Elantra, with a staggering 48,445 reported thefts.
Close behind are the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima, with 42,813 and 30,204 thefts, respectively. This surge in theft rates for Korean models marks a departure from the previous trend, where full-size pickups often led the list. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, a staple in past reports, ranks fourth with 23,721 thefts. The NICB report highlights a troubling trend: criminals are increasingly using advanced technologies to bypass vehicle security systems.
David J. Glawe, the bureau’s president and CEO, explains the situation: “Criminals are employing increasingly sophisticated methods to steal vehicles, including the use of advanced technology to bypass security systems. From keyless entry hacks to relay attacks on key fobs, perpetrators are exploiting vulnerabilities in modern vehicle security measures with alarming success rates.” The report also notes a steady rise in vehicle thefts since 2019.
The NICB attributes this increase to the evolving tactics of thieves, who are continually finding new ways to circumvent the latest security measures. This trend underscores the need for vehicle manufacturers to innovate and enhance security features to stay ahead of these sophisticated criminal methods.
The 2023 NICB report serves as a stark reminder of the growing sophistication of vehicle theft tactics, and the automotive industry must continue to innovate to counteract these emerging threats.
