The type of vehicle you drive has a direct effect on your insurance premium, independent of your driving record. Insurers factor in the car’s safety ratings, repair and parts costs, likelihood of theft, and even its horsepower, since higher-performance vehicles statistically see more claims. This is why two drivers with identical records can pay very different premiums simply based on what they drive — a sedan with strong safety ratings and cheap parts will typically cost less to insure than a sports car or a frequently stolen model. You can compare estimates for different vehicles using our car insurance calculator.
If you’re shopping for a new vehicle and insurance cost is a concern, it’s worth checking estimated premiums before you buy rather than after, since the difference between models can be substantial over the life of a loan. Combining that estimate with your expected coverage level — covered in full coverage vs. liability insurance — gives you a much more accurate total cost picture than looking at the vehicle price alone.