What are the most stolen cars in France?

Car thefts are on the rise, and certain models are particularly targeted by thieves. Find out which ones and why.

The latest Argos / France Assureurs barometer, revealed by Roole the leading automotive club in France with 1,400,000 members, shows a worrying increase in car thefts in 2024. According to these data, 47,144 cars were reported stolen, a 5% increase compared to 2023. Some models are especially targeted by thieves. Here are the key trends to remember.

Cars from French brands remain the most sought after by thieves, a trend confirmed over several years. In 2024, the most stolen models include the Renault Clio IV (2,283 thefts), the Peugeot 3008 II (1,504 thefts), and the Peugeot 308 II (1,462 thefts). These vehicles are among the best-selling in France, which explains their high demand on the resale market, whether for whole cars or spare parts. Their popularity, combined with discreet colors like gray or black, makes them easier to sell while reducing the risk for thieves.

In terms of frequency (number of thefts relative to the number of vehicles in circulation), other models dominate the rankings. In 2024, the Toyota RAV4, Lexus RX II, and Lexus NX hold the top positions.

Certain departments report a high volume of thefts. Bouches-du-Rhône (8%), Nord (6%), and Rhône (4%) are the most affected. These regions, near strategic ports like Marseille or Antwerp, facilitate the export of stolen vehicles.

With techniques like “mouse jacking,” vigilance is essential. Prefer parking in secure locations, avoid leaving visible objects, and consider investing in a GPS tracker or an alarm. These precautions can deter thieves and increase your chances of recovering your vehicle if stolen. Notably, electric cars are still spared from theft due to the difficulties thieves face… in reselling them!

READ ALSO: Roole Map, the clever app that accompanies you on the road