SUV insurance: what you need to know before buying your dream vehicle

What factors affect SUV insurance premiums?

The impact of vehicle price and repair costs

It’s a fact: sedans are losing popularity. Manufacturers have developed new technologies and high-performance materials to make every SUV the perfect blend of car and pickup truck. As a result, this market segment is gaining popularity…

However, SUVs generally have a higher purchase price than sedans. Their larger parts are more expensive than ever. Repair and labour costs have not escaped inflation either. As a result, vehicle repairs are becoming increasingly costly.

SUV weight and its impact on premiums

An SUV’s weight (and size) can affect your auto insurance premium in several ways. A heavier vehicle can cause more significant damage in a collision, which increases potential claim costs.

The impact of sensors and ADAS on insurance

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have a positive effect on the cost of SUV insurance. These safety technologies protect occupants and reduce the risk of accidents and, consequently, the risk of injury or death. Fewer claims limit potential premium increases.

Conversely, the components of these systems—such as chips, cameras, sensors and radars—are expensive, driving up the purchase price and, indirectly, the cost of the auto insurance premium. In short, the impact varies from one case to another!

Why are some SUVs cheaper to insure?

How IIHS/NHTSA ratings affect premiums

Some SUVs provide better passive safety, meaning enhanced protection in the event of a collision. Each vehicle has a safety rating, which is an assessment of its safety based on standardized crash tests.

The go-to source for a vehicle’s safety rating remains the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Its mission is to reduce deaths, injuries and property damage caused by traffic accidents. Buying a highly rated SUV can therefore help you get cheaper auto insurance.

Safety features that lower your premium

Lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are examples of safety features that help reduce accidents and, as a result, lower your insurance premium. These safety technologies are generally available when purchasing a new SUV or on newer used vehicles.

A good driving record helps you pay less

A good driving record in Quebec is another factor you shouldn’t overlook! Drivers with a significant history of traffic tickets, accidents or licence suspensions will see their insurance costs rise. Some insurers may also decline coverage if the risk involved is too high. Conversely, policyholders who have never filed a claim will pay a lower premium.

SUV insurance: common myths and the reality

There’s no shortage of myths about SUVs. Here are three to put into perspective!

1. All SUVs cost more to insure
Not necessarily. While some SUVs require a higher premium due to their value, weight or repair costs, many models (such as compact SUVs) can be comparable to certain cars in terms of insurance. Insurers instead evaluate a range of factors, such as the vehicle’s price, theft statistics, repair costs and safety technologies. And every insurer has its own pricing structure!

2. A large vehicle is necessarily more expensive to repair
False. A large SUV with a simple mechanical setup and readily available replacement parts can be cheaper to repair than a small car manufactured in 2026 equipped with sensors, cameras and driver assistance features built into the bumpers. It’s primarily the cost of parts, the complexity of electronic systems and labour costs that drive repair bills, far more so than the size of the vehicle itself.

3. SUVs are stolen less frequently
False, although theft rates vary widely by region and model. Their popularity, high resale value and strong demand in certain foreign markets make them prime targets for criminal networks. One thing is certain: vehicle theft in Quebec has a noticeable impact on insurance premiums.

Tips for choosing an SUV with the best insurance rates

1. Choose an SUV that isn’t among the most frequently stolen vehicles.
2. Consider buying a compact SUV rather than a full-size model to benefit from lower insurance costs.
3. Bear in mind that engine power affects the cost of auto insurance.
4. Compare safety ratings to choose a safer SUV and save on your insurance premium.
5. Get an SUV insurance quote before purchasing the vehicle you have your eye on. Our checklist will also make it easier for you to find affordable insurance!

FAQ - Choosing SUV insurance

1. Why can SUV insurance be more expensive than car insurance?
SUVs are generally heavier and more expensive than cars, which can increase repair costs or the damage caused in a collision. Their popularity can also make them more attractive to thieves. These factors can therefore influence your insurance premium, although your driving record or place of residence, for example, are other important variables in the equation.

2. Are compact SUVs really cheaper to insure?
Generally, yes. Compact SUVs are often cheaper to purchase and repair. They are likely less powerful than full-size models. However, other factors also come into play, such as the model’s theft rate, the cost of parts or the presence of advanced technologies. The result: two compact SUVs can have very different premiums!

3. Do advanced driver assistance systems lower insurance premiums?
These safety technologies can help prevent certain accidents. While they do not always guarantee a lower premium, they are generally seen as factors that help reduce the number of claims. As a result, advanced driver assistance systems can positively influence an insurer’s risk assessment.

4. Does a vehicle model’s theft rate really affect insurance costs?
Yes. Insurers analyze theft statistics by vehicle model. If an SUV is particularly targeted by thieves, it may be subject to a higher insurance premium. Conversely, the presence of an anti-theft device that combines prevention, identification through marking and GPS/RFID tracking can sometimes reduce the insurer’s risk and, consequently, the premium paid by the SUV owner.

5. Is it better to get a quote before buying an SUV? If so, why?
Absolutely. Getting a quote before making your purchase lets you know in advance the insurance cost associated with a specific model. This information will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and allow you to compare the total costs of different SUVs. To make an informed decision, you need to consider not only the purchase price of the vehicle you’re interested in, but also the insurance costs you’ll have to pay. But rest assured: getting an SUV insurance quote online takes just a few minutes!