Ontario car insurance can be pricey. Your car choice can change your premium a lot. Insurers look at theft risk, crash claims, and repair costs. So, cars that are common, safe, and cheaper to fix often cost less to insure.
This guide gives you a short list of cars and SUVs that often quote lower. It also shows a simple way to confirm the cheapest option for your postal code.
Why some cars cost less to insure
Insurers price cars using real claims data. The “cheaper to insure” models often have:
- Lower theft risk
- Lower repair bills (parts cost less, repairs are simpler)
- Good safety features
- Fewer expensive claims for that model
Some insurers also use tools like vehicle loss ratings to estimate claim costs for different cars.
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Quick picks that often cost less to insure in Ontario
These are not guarantees. Think of them as good starting points for your quote list.
Small cars (good for most drivers)
These models show up often in quote datasets as lower-cost picks:
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Corolla
- FIAT 500
Tip: Avoid sport trims. A “base” trim often quotes lower than a sporty trim with bigger wheels and higher power.
Small SUVs (popular and often reasonable)
These often come up as lower-cost SUV options:
- Subaru Forester
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Mazda CX-3 (small SUV)
Small SUVs can be close to compact cars on price, depending on theft risk and repair costs.
Vans and trucks (surprising low-cost options)
These often show low average premiums in quote datasets:
- Ford Transit (van)
- Ford Ranger (pickup)
In used-car datasets across Canada, some full-size pickups also show low averages. The best one depends on your area and your insurer.
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Best cars for insurance Comparison table
Use this in the article so people can scan fast.
| Type | Often lower-cost picks to quote first | Why it can quote lower |
|---|---|---|
| Small car | Civic, Corolla, FIAT 500 | Common parts, lower repair bills, lower claim costs |
| Small SUV | Forester, Eclipse Cross, Tiguan, CX-3 | Safety features, mainstream repair costs |
| Van | Ford Transit | Often lower theft risk in datasets |
| Pickup | Ford Ranger | Often moderate repair costs vs bigger trucks |
Theft can change the result
A car can look “cheap to insure” in one list, then quote higher in some Ontario areas. Theft risk is a major reason.
Thieves target some popular SUVs more often. That can lead to:
- higher comprehensive costs
- theft surcharges
- extra anti-theft requirements
Which vehicles face higher theft risk?
Insurance industry data shows theft is a major issue in Ontario. Some popular models targeted by thieves include:
- Honda CR-V, Civic
- Toyota RAV4
- Ford F-150
- Lexus RX series
Theft can add about $130/year to your premium (Insurance Bureau of Canada estimate). This is why VIN quotes for your specific postal code matter.
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The best method: confirm the cheapest car before you buy
This is the step most people skip. It saves the most money.
- Pick 3 to 5 cars you would actually buy (same year range if possible).
- Get the VIN for each car (ask the seller or dealer).
- Run quotes with the same coverage every time. Keep deductibles and limits the same.
- Ask each insurer or broker these two questions:
- “Is there any theft surcharge for this model in my area?”
- “Do you require an anti-theft device for this vehicle?”
- Compare the monthly price. Then choose the best fit for your budget.
Mini example (simple numbers)
You run quotes using the same coverage:
- Corolla: $220/month
- Forester: $240/month
- Popular high-theft SUV: $285/month
That is a $65/month gap. Over a year, that is $780.
Read: Use this checklist before you buy your first used car in Ontario.
Easy ways to lower your premium (after you pick the car)
These do not work the same for everyone. Ask your insurer what applies.
- Winter tires: Insurers in Ontario must offer a winter tire discount. Ask what proof and dates they need.
- Low mileage: If you drive less, you may qualify for a lower rate.
- Usage-based insurance: This can help if you drive less or drive safely.
- Higher deductible: This can lower your monthly cost, but you pay more if you claim.
Best cars for insurance FAQs
What is the best car for cheap insurance in Ontario?
There is no single best car for everyone. A safe starting point is to quote a Corolla, a Civic, and a small SUV like the Forester.
Are SUVs always more expensive than cars?
No. Some small SUVs can be close to compact cars. It depends on theft risk and repair costs.
Should I avoid cars that thieves target?
Not always. But you should quote them first. In some areas, theft risk can raise prices or add extra requirements.
Do trims matter (base vs sport)?
Yes. Sport trims often cost more to insure. They can have higher repair costs and higher claim rates.
