Theft Statistics: Kia and Chinese Brands at High Risk According to Insurers
Insurance data reveals shifting car theft trends. Kia Stinger tops the list, while thefts of Chinese brands like Li Auto and Chery have surged to 21%.
Insurance companies have updated their car theft statistics, revealing a shift in the "black market" structure. According to the latest report from VSK Insurance House, while traditional leaders remain at the top, criminals are increasingly targeting Chinese vehicles now flooding the roads.
Korean brands remain the primary target for thieves, but the shortage of spare parts is driving thefts of brands that are relatively new to the market. Experts note a trend where vehicles are increasingly stolen not for resale in other regions, but to be stripped for parts.
Below is a summary of data from leading insurers (VSK, RESO-Garantia, Soglasie, Zetta Insurance) and an analysis of risks for owners of imported cars.
At a Glance
- Anti-rating Leader: Kia holds the first place with a 21% share of all thefts (according to VSK).
- Most Dangerous Model: The Kia Stinger accounts for 14% of all theft insurance claims.
- Chinese Segment Growth: The share of stolen Chinese cars (Chery, Li Auto, Geely) has risen to 21%.
- Geography: 58% of all thefts occur in Moscow (35%) and St. Petersburg (23%).
- Purpose of Theft: Mass-market models (Geely, Chery, Hyundai) are frequently stolen to be dismantled for spare parts.
Context
Changes in logistics chains and the departure of Western brands have directly impacted crime statistics. On one hand, high demand for parts for exited brands (Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus) keeps them in the risk zone. On the other hand, the sharp increase in the Chinese vehicle fleet has led to the formation of a secondary market for their parts.
Different insurers record activity in different segments. While VSK clients most often lost Kia vehicles, RESO-Garantia places Toyota at the top, and Zetta Insurance notes a surge in Hyundai thefts. The general trend is clear: car thieves are adapting to the market, switching to vehicles that can be quickly sold or dismantled.
Details
According to VSK, the brand theft ranking is as follows:
- Kia (21%)
- Lada (14%)
- Lexus, Chery, Li Auto, Hyundai, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota (sharing the remaining spots).
Among Chinese brands, Chery and the premium brand Li Auto show the most significant dynamics. Soglasie also noted growing interest in the JAC brand, while recording a decline in thefts of Omoda and Exeed models.
The geographical distribution of crimes remains stable. Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as St. Petersburg, lead by a wide margin. The regional anti-rating also includes Tatarstan (Kazan), Stavropol Krai, Dagestan, as well as the Voronezh, Yaroslavl, and Amur regions.
Most thefts are committed in residential courtyards at night and in large shopping center parking lots during the day.
What This Means for Buyers from Korea
For EIMCAR clients, this statistics is a crucial signal. Korea remains a major supplier of both Kia/Hyundai and premium Li Auto vehicles (often imported via transit or re-export through Asian hubs).
- Kia Stinger, K5, Sportage Owners: Your vehicles are in the maximum risk zone. The high liquidity of spare parts makes them a priority target.
- Li Auto (L7, L9) Owners: While Chinese premium cars were previously considered "unstealable" due to complex electronics, VSK statistics now prove otherwise. These cars are becoming targets.
- Spare Parts: The rise in thefts "for parts" confirms a deficit in body components. When ordering a car from Korea, consider insurance immediately, as finding parts quickly locally can be difficult.
Action Plan
Buying a car from abroad requires not only careful selection but also asset protection immediately upon receipt.
- Get Comprehensive Insurance (CASCO): This is the only reliable way to cover financial losses. For high-risk models (Kia, Li Auto), the rate may be higher, but it is essential.
- Install Security Systems: Factory immobilizers are often insufficient. Consider installing tags, OBD-port locks, or satellite tracking systems.
- Check Configuration: When ordering via EIMCAR, you receive a car with a transparent history, but upon arrival, responsibility for its safety rests with you.
If you are just planning a purchase and want to choose a model with lower theft risks, explore our catalog or consult with our managers.
Contact an EIMCAR Expert