The market value of your car will typically indicate the maximum amount an insurer could have to pay out if your car is written off. Therefore, high value cars that are more expensive to repair or replace often cost more to insure.

High performance cars, or cars with larger engines not only cost more but are considered a higher risk to insurers. This is because power and speed can cause more damage in accidents. 

Classic or imported car models can also be more costly to insure. Repairs on these vehicles are likely to need expensive with difficult-to-source parts. Some could even need specialist fitters to do the work, wracking up the potential costs for an insurer.

Different manufacturers will fit different security features in their cars. If these are particularly advanced or secure, the car could be cheaper to insure as they are more protected from theft or accidents.

Some car models are simply more attractive to thieves. Insurers will consider the theft rates of your specific car and set premiums according to its risk.

In the UK, each car make and model is assigned to an insurance group between 1 and 50. Cars in lower groups typically have lower insurance premiums.

Many people forget to research insurance costs when buying a car. With the average cost of car UK car insurance climbing over the last few years, the reality can be a nasty shock for some.

Comparing insurance costs for different car brands can help you make better buying decisions, and is especially important for young drivers.

Regardless of your car’s make some tips that could help lower your insurance premiums include:

• Increasing your voluntary excess – A higher excess often reduces premiums.
• Upgrade security features – Adding alarms or immobilisers can lower your risk of theft.
• Choose a lower annual mileage – Fewer miles usually means a lower risk of accidents.
• Practice safe driving – Lowers the risk of convictions and unnecessary claims, so you can build a no claims discount. 
• Choose the appropriate cover – Leaving off extras and add-ons you don’t need can lower insurance costs. 
• Shop around – Comparing car insurance from a range of insurers could help you find a cheaper policy.

When insuring a car you will typically have three options that offer different levels of coverage:

• Comprehensive car insurance – Protects third party claims as well as your own car in the event of accidents, even if you were at fault.
• Third party car insurance – Only protects third party damage or loss.
• Third party fire and theft insurance – Protects third parties and your own car, but only from loss or damage in fire or theft.