* Your driving record: This is the biggest factor. A clean driving record with no accidents or tickets will result in significantly lower premiums than a record with multiple incidents.
* Your age and gender: Younger drivers, especially males, generally pay more for insurance.
* Your location: Insurance rates vary widely by state and even zip code due to factors like crime rates and accident frequency.
* Your credit score: In many states, your credit score is a factor in determining your insurance rates.
* The type of coverage you choose: Comprehensive and collision coverage are more expensive than liability-only coverage.
* The car's safety features: Cars with advanced safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and electronic stability control may qualify for discounts.
However, generally speaking, smaller, less powerful, and less expensive cars tend to have lower insurance premiums. This is because they are:
* Cheaper to repair: Repair costs for a small, inexpensive car are lower than for a large, luxury vehicle.
* Less likely to be stolen: Popular models and luxury cars are more frequently targeted by thieves.
* Less likely to cause significant damage in an accident: Smaller, slower cars typically cause less damage in a collision than larger, faster cars.
Examples of car types often associated with lower insurance premiums (but this is NOT a guarantee):
* Small sedans: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3
* Subcompact cars: Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris
* Hatchbacks: Mazda3 Hatchback, Honda Fit
* Older cars (with higher mileage): Insurance is often cheaper on older models simply because the vehicle is less valuable, leading to lower repair costs.
Important Note: To find the cheapest insurance for *you*, you need to get quotes from multiple insurance companies. Use comparison websites or contact insurers directly, providing your specific information. The make and model of the car is only one piece of the puzzle.
