How Vehicle Type Influences Insurance Costs
The car you drive says a lot about you, plain and simple. Around here, folks notice. Roll up in a brand-new Mustang, and people might think you’ve got a need for speed — and a little extra cash to burn. A Honda Accord? That’s the go-to for someone who wants something solid, dependable, and good on gas for all those I-285 traffic jams. A Chevy Silverado? Now we’re talking — whether you’re hauling feed down in Macon or just want a truck that can handle a tailgate in Athens.
But the type of vehicle you drive doesn’t just say a lot about you. Your choice of vehicle will also impact your car insurance rates in Georgia. Let’s explore a little further how you can choose a car that reflects your style while keeping your auto coverage rates low.
Insurance in the Fast Lane: Why Vehicle Type Matters
Everybody’s itching to hit the road, but before you start cruising down Peachtree or tackling Spaghetti Junction, you have to get a handle on your insurance paperwork. Georgia law says you have to have insurance to drive, but does vehicle type affect insurance costs? Absolutely. Insuring a big F-150 isn’t going to cost the same as a little Toyota Prius, and Georgia car insurance rates can vary widely depending on your ride.
Steering Through the Different Vehicle Types in the Peach State
From SUVs to pickup trucks, everyone has their favorite make and model. Some Georgia drivers prefer to only drive Chevrolet, while others are Ford loyalists. No matter your manufacturer preferences, some of the most popular vehicle types in Georgia include:
- Sports cars
- Sedans
- Hatchbacks
- Coupes
- Electric vehicles
- Vans and minivans
- Pickup trucks
- Campervans
Your favorite make and model isn’t just a conversation starter at the next barbecue. What’s under the hood has a big impact on your auto rates, too.
Under the Hood: Vehicle Features and Car Insurance Rates by Vehicle Type
When calculating your auto insurance cost, the insurance company will consider physical and measurable aspects, such as the vehicle’s age, size, and safety features.
They’re also going to take a hard look at certain “invisible” measurements, like whether an exotic Porsche 911 is going to require an expensive repairman if a claim is filed, or if Chevrolet pickups are commonly stolen in your neighborhood.
Insurance premium prices can even be affected by the age of the vehicle. Some newer vehicles can cost less to insure because they are designed with enhanced safety features. However, certain older cars are considered more reliable based on overall safety ratings and the history of that particular make and model.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how vehicle types affect Georgia car insurance rates. Ask your local insurance agent, “Does make and model affect car insurance?” They can give you the personalized guidance you need to get your pride and joy ready to hit the open road.
SUVs and Insurance
The insurance rate for SUVs depends on factors like size, safety features, and repair costs, but larger SUVs may have higher premiums because of the damage they can inflict when in an accident.
Trucks and Insurance
Pickups are not more expensive to insure as a rule, but if the truck is an older model or listed on the top ten most stolen vehicles list, you could expect to pay a slightly higher insurance premium.
Electric Vehicles and Insurance
Similarly, many drivers wonder, “Are electric vehicles more expensive to insure?” The answer varies, but electric vehicles can sometimes have higher premiums due to the cost of battery replacement and specialized repairs.
Sports Cars and Insurance
Sports cars often have higher insurance premiums due to the possibility that drivers will zoom around at higher speeds, setting the stage for an increased risk of accidents and costly repairs.
How Engine Size and Trim Levels Play a Role
Car engine size and trim levels also affect insurance costs. Cars without excessive features or luxurious extras tend to have lower insurance premiums. A car with a heavy, large engine can cost more to insure because it might pose a more significant threat to other vehicles in case of a crash.
This is also why the answer to the question, “Are sports cars more expensive to insure?,” tends to be yes, as many sports cars come equipped with upgraded features that set them apart (and admit it, if you buy a Mustang you will want to take it out periodically for a fast ride!).
Navigating the Road to Affordable Insurance in Georgia
Ultimately, every make and model has a different cost for features, repairs, and vehicle components. Many Southerners wonder, for example, “Are trucks more expensive to insure?” It depends on several factors, such as the truck’s size, age, and intended use. Larger and older trucks may have higher premiums due to potential repair costs and accident risks.
Additionally, foreign automobiles can be more expensive to insure than domestic models. If you drive a luxury car, count on paying more for your auto insurance since luxury cars have more expensive parts and components than most standard vehicles.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re doomed to pay sky-high insurance premiums just because you drive a rare or exclusive vehicle. There are many ways to be smart about your auto insurance. It can help to make a list of questions to ask before buying car insurance so you don’t forget any important talking points.
Your zip code, credit score, and driving history influence your car insurance rates, too. Drivers with optimal credit scores and a solid driving history are much more likely to get reasonable rates on their car insurance. Factors like your age, how much you drive every week, previous insurance history, and major life events can all play a role in getting the best car insurance rate.
We all love a good deal. When shopping for auto insurance, ask your insurance provider about any discounts or special rates you might be eligible for. It’s also a good idea to contact your provider every six months to inquire about any new discounts or bundle deals that they might offer. You never know — there are some surprising factors that affect car insurance rates, like who is allowed to drive the car.
Shopping for Insurance Based on Vehicle Age and Model Year
To shop for insurance based on your vehicle’s age and model year, determine the coverage you need. Full coverage, including comprehensive and collision, costs more than liability. Even newer vehicles may require higher premiums for full coverage.
When you’re getting a new quote, don’t hold back — tell your agent everything. Whether you’ve got top-notch safety features, fancy trim, or a model that’s in high demand, all those details can help you land a rate that won’t have you sweating like it’s a hot summer day in Atlanta.
Which Vehicle Types Cost the Most to Insure in Georgia?
The cost of auto insurance varies greatly depending on the factors outlined above, but specific types of vehicles tend to be associated with more expensive premiums. These include luxury cars, upscale sports cars, and Teslas.
Some of the more expensive models include Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, and Porsche. These vehicles often carry higher auto premiums because replacing any damaged parts in an accident could be costly.
When you’re looking to buy a new ride, don’t just focus on that sticker price — factor in insurance, maintenance, and whatever else it takes to keep it running smoothly. That flashy new sports car might have you grinning ear to ear, but if the insurance costs hit like Augusta traffic on a Friday afternoon, it might not be worth it. Sometimes, a good, reliable sedan — something that won’t guzzle gas or drain your wallet — just makes more sense.
If you’re considering an electric vehicle, you may also be asking, “Are electric vehicles more expensive to insure?” While some insurers offer discounts for environmentally friendly cars, electric vehicles may still have higher premiums due to specialized repair costs and limited availability of parts.
Find the Right Insurance for Your Vehicle Type with Velox Insurance
Velox Insurance can simplify your auto insurance journey, answering any questions you might have, from “Are SUVs more expensive to insure?” to “Does the type of vehicle impact the cost of insurance?” Our agents can assist you whether you’re a new driver picking out your first vehicle or you’re looking to bundle insurance for your family.
Your independent agent at Velox Insurance is waiting to answer all your questions about comprehensive, affordable auto insurance and help you find the best coverage. Call 855-468-3569, get a free quote online, or find a nearby Georgia location for a personal meet-up with one of our friendly agents.
