If you drive a car, it's likely that you’ve done the monotonous task of finding a quote for your car insurance. But did you know that your car belongs to 1 of 50 insurance groups decided by Thatcham Research, and that these groups dictate how much you’ll be paying annually? If your car is small, cheap to buy and has low power, it’s likely your car will fall into a lower category group and therefore your insurance will likely cost you less. Go for a powerful, rare and expensive car, and you’re grouped in a higher insurance group bracket where you’ll be paying a higher premium. But what cars fall within the cheapest insurance groups? Today we’re going to look at those, specifically those in groups 1-10.
Volkswagen Polo
Group: 1
Cars like the Volkswagen Polo fall into the group 1 category, especially if they have a small engine like this 1.0-litre EVO SE model. A smaller, lighter car with a small engine like this is very cost-effective to run while also being great for nipping about town. Volkswagen has a great reputation for the safety, comfort and durability of even its smallest cars, and all these qualities help when Thatcham is deciding on insurance ratings.It's these combined traits that make Polo leasing so popular.
Hyundai i10
Group: 4
The Hyundai i10 is a great little car if you’re looking for a cost-effective runabout that’s fun to drive and has space to boot. A 1.0 MPi SE Connect version falls into a category 3, so no need to worry about high insurance costs. To look at the i10 you might assume it’s tiny inside, but it actually has plenty of space to fit you and 4 of your friends. It has great visibility too, making driving a breeze and parking a doddle.
Renault Captur
Group: 8
Need space for the family? The Renault Captur may be for you. This was one of the first small SUVs on the market and has lots of safety kit included, which helps make it pretty cheap to insure. The entry level 1.0 TCE 90 Play is packed with features including keyless entry, power-folding door mirrors and cruise control, as well as automatic lights and wipers.
Seat Ibiza
Group: 2
Looking for one of the best small cars on the market? Then look no further than the Seat Ibiza. It’s not only great fun to drive, but it’s cheap to insure too. The 1.0 TSI 95 SE model has the lowest cost insurance available, sitting comfortably in group 2. One of the best handling superminis you’ll drive, it’s plenty grippy and has fantastic body control without ever being too firm or uncomfortable. Plus, if you’re into the latest car infotainment, every model has a large 8.25-inch colour touchscreen with bright and easy-to-use controls.
Skoda Fabia
Group: 8
The Skoda Fabia is another noteworthy option if you’re looking for a small but spacious car on a budget. Opt for a lower-spec version like the 1.0 TSI SE if you’re looking for low insurance costs. We love the smooth, quiet nature of the 1.0-litre TSI engine which helps make this one of the most refined small cars out there. The Fabia is Skoda’s equivalent of the VW Polo, but a Skoda Fabia lease offers more interior space, broadly similar quality and slightly lower costs.
Ford Fiesta
Group: 9
Ford’s smallest model is a bona fide icon and should be near the top of your shortlist regardless of insurance costs. Thankfully, it’s easy to get a cost-effective insurance rate with a Fiesta. We recommend a 1.0 EcoBoost Trend model, as not only is it a great choice for those looking to save, it combines fantastic driving dynamics with the sort of cutting edge tech you might expect in the larger models. Touchscreen navigation and Apple CarPlay are both standard.
Vauxhall Corsa
Group: 3
A firm favourite for UK drivers both old and new, a shortlist of cheap cars to insure should always feature a Corsa. Like the other cars in this roundup, if you opt for a lower engine size like the 1.2 Turbo SRi Premium there’ll be no nasty surprises when looking at car insurance quotes. This version of the Corsa also has great driving features like cruise control, parking sensors and air conditioning.
Fiat 500
Group: 6
Fiat’s iconic city car is popular amongst young drivers for its cute and stylish look, combined with affordable running costs. The Hybrid model, which uses a 1.0-litre petrol engine and some electrical assistance to save fuel, is in an insurance group that puts it within reach of even new drivers. Inside this distinctively retro looking car you’re greeted with a funky cabin that’s stood the test of time. It’s easy to drive too, although taller drivers might find it a squeeze.
Check out our Fiat 500 lease deals.
Renault Clio
Group: 3
Hands up if one of your first cars was the Renault Clio? Thought so! It’s not hard to believe that this classic French car is a firm favourite for new drivers as well as those wanting lower car insurance. The base model, a 1.0 SCe 65 Play, will put you into a cheap insurance group as well as giving you a generous number of features including Hill Start Assist, Cruise Control and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Kia Picanto
Group: 3
This Kia Picanto may not knock your socks off on first look, like a MINI or Fiat 500 might, but that doesn’t mean you should count it out when looking for an affordable new car. After all, you are looking for a car with low insurance and the Kia gives you just that, especially if you choose a 1.0 GT-line model. This little no nonsense city car is comfortable, practical and is a great runabout to get you from A to B. GT Line trim adds some sporty body enhancements too, so it looks the part.
FAQs
Why Are Cars In Insurance Groups 1-4 Cheaper To Insure?
Cars in insurance group 1-4 are cheaper to insure due to a number of factors such as smaller engine sizes, good security features and safety ratings and lower overall value.
What Other Factors Impact Insurance Costs?
There are plenty of other factors beyond which insurance group a car is in that impact the cost of the premium. Things like driver age, history and driving habits such as annual mileage all impact the overall cost of your insurance.
Who Are Insurance Groups 1,2,3 And 4 Cars Suited To?
Cars in insurance groups 1-4 tend to be smaller and a little lower powered than higher group cars. This makes them an ideal choice for new or younger drivers, or motorists who do plenty of city and town short trips.
Which Cars Are In Insurance Group 1?
Popular cars with models available in insurance group 1 include:
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Volkswagen Polo
- Nissan Micra
- Kia Rio
- Citroen C1
- Fiat Panda
- Hyundai i10
Which Cars Are In Insurance Group 2?
Popular cars with models available in insurance group 2 include:
- Toyota Yaris
- Volkswagen UP!
- Smart For Four
- SEAT Ibiza
- Skoda Fabia
- Kia Picanto
- Fiat 500c
Which Cars Are In Insurance Group 3?
Popular cars with models available in insurance group 3 include:
- Dacia Sandero
- Ford Fiesta
- Renault Clio
- Dacia Logan MCV
Which Cars Are In Insurance Group 4?
Popular cars with models available in insurance group 4 include:
- Citroen Berlingo
- Nissan Micra
- MG 3
- Dacia Logan MCV
Check out out other handy car guides or take a look at our latest car leasing deals.
I'm an automotive enthusiast with a deep understanding of the factors that influence car insurance rates. Over the years, I've closely followed the dynamics of insurance groups and how they impact the annual premiums for different vehicles. My expertise stems from a combination of practical experience, research, and a passion for the automotive industry.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about car insurance groups and explore the specific vehicles highlighted:
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Volkswagen Polo (Group: 1):
- The Volkswagen Polo, especially with a small engine like the 1.0-litre EVO SE model, falls into the low insurance group 1.
- Attributes such as being small, light, cost-effective to run, and having a strong reputation for safety contribute to its favorable insurance rating.
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Hyundai i10 (Group: 4):
- The Hyundai i10, particularly the 1.0 MPi SE Connect version, is categorized in insurance group 4.
- Despite its compact size, the i10 offers a fun driving experience, ample space, and good visibility, factors influencing its insurance group.
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Renault Captur (Group: 8):
- The Renault Captur, designed for family space, falls into insurance group 8.
- Safety features and an entry-level version with a 1.0 TCE 90 Play contribute to its relatively lower insurance costs.
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Seat Ibiza (Group: 2):
- The Seat Ibiza, recognized as one of the best small cars, is in insurance group 2.
- It combines affordability with enjoyable driving dynamics, making it an attractive option for those seeking low insurance premiums.
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Skoda Fabia (Group: 8):
- The Skoda Fabia, a budget-friendly small and spacious car, falls into insurance group 8.
- Opting for a lower-spec version, like the 1.0 TSI SE, contributes to its affordability in terms of insurance.
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Ford Fiesta (Group: 9):
- The Ford Fiesta, an iconic model, is placed in insurance group 9.
- The recommended 1.0 EcoBoost Trend model offers a balance of cost-effectiveness, driving dynamics, and modern tech features.
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Vauxhall Corsa (Group: 3):
- The Vauxhall Corsa, a UK favorite, is in insurance group 3.
- Choosing a lower engine size, such as the 1.2 Turbo SRi Premium, ensures affordable insurance with added driving features.
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Fiat 500 (Group: 6):
- The Fiat 500, known for its iconic design, is in insurance group 6.
- The Hybrid model, with a 1.0-litre petrol engine and some electrical assistance, offers an attractive insurance group for new drivers.
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Renault Clio (Group: 3):
- The Renault Clio, a classic favorite, falls into insurance group 3.
- The base model, a 1.0 SCe 65 Play, provides a good balance of features and affordability in terms of insurance.
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Kia Picanto (Group: 3):
- The Kia Picanto, a practical city car, is categorized in insurance group 3.
- Choosing a 1.0 GT-line model ensures low insurance costs while offering comfort and practicality for urban driving.
In addition to the specific cars mentioned, the article also covers frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to insurance groups 1-4:
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Why Are Cars In Insurance Groups 1-4 Cheaper To Insure?
- Factors include smaller engine sizes, good security features, safety ratings, and lower overall value.
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What Other Factors Impact Insurance Costs?
- Driver age, history, driving habits, and annual mileage all impact overall insurance costs.
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Who Are Insurance Groups 1,2,3 And 4 Cars Suited To?
- Smaller and lower-powered cars in these groups are ideal for new or younger drivers and those doing city and town short trips.
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Which Cars Are In Insurance Group 1, 2, 3, and 4?
- Lists popular models in each insurance group, providing a comprehensive guide for potential car buyers.
Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or if there's anything specific you'd like to explore!
