The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) recently released their annual “most stolen cars” list. Much like how Hollywood starlets cringe at being named on the “worst dressed list”, no auto manufacturer appreciates showing up on this catalogue. Sure, they want their vehicles to be attractive – but only to paying customers.

The vehicles featured on the list not only pique the interest of consumers (some potential buyers are understandably wary of autos frequently targeted by thieves), but also auto insurers. If an insured vehicle is stolen, it is the car insurance company that ultimately has to foot the bill. So when a vehicle makes this list, auto insurance companies pay attention and raise their rates accordingly. After all, insurance companies are in the business to make a profit and they must cover their losses.

So what car was stolen the most last year? The Cadillac Escalade. In fact, all four Escalade models have the unenviable distinction of combining to make the top spot on the “most stolen” list. Now we should note that this list is formulated by the HLDI based upon insured vehicles that were stolen. Therefore, uninsured cars that were taken by thieves are not factored into the list.

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Here are the top 10 most stolen autos for 2011:

1. Cadillac Escalade (4 versions) -- Claim Frequency: 10.8

2. Ford F-250 crew 4WD – Claim Frequency: 9.7

3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew – Claim Frequency: 9.2

4. Ford F-450 crew 4WD – Claim Frequency: 7.9

5. GMC Sierra 1500 crew – Claim Frequency: 7.3

6. Chrysler 300 – Claim Frequency: 7.1

7. Ford F-350 crew 4WD – Claim Frequency: 7.0

8. Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 – Claim Frequency: 6.4

9. GMC GMC Yukon – Claim Frequency: 6.0

10. Chrysler 300 HEMI – Claim Frequency: 6.0

The “claim frequency” on the list refers to how many vehicles were stolen per 1000 vehicles. Thus, for every 1000 Cadillac Escalades out there, an average of 10.8 were stolen. It is interesting to note that SUVs and large pick-up trucks account for eight of the ten vehicles on the list. Auto manufacturers have made strides recently to reduce the number of SUVs and trucks taken by thieves, thanks to theft deterrent devices such as ignition immobilizers. Despite these advances, SUVs and pick-up trucks remain as favorite targets for professional car thieves.

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