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The 20 Cheapest Cars to Insure in New Zealand

Our data, provided by major New Zealand insurers, outlines the cheapest cars to insure
Updated 24 April 2024

Summary
  • To comprehensively list the twenty cheapest cars to insure, we spoke to several car insurers who provided insights. The cars below are deemed to be the cheapest to insure for many reasons - small engine size, lower replacement value and the abundance of cheap parts being some of the factors.
  • The list below is primarily comprised of compact, small engine sized Japanese manufacturers and models. These are the cars that insurers identifiable as the lowest risk and therefore the cheapest to insure. 
  • A comprehensive guide outlining the cheapest cars to buy and insure from CarLoanExpert has more information. 
  • Important: This list is general in nature, and like all MoneyHub guides, does not apply to any individual. For example, a 25-year-old driver with a history of claims wanting to insure a 2017 Toyota Aqua may receive quotes higher than a 54-year-old woman who has not claimed in the last ten years. The guide is informational - to find the best policy at the best price, we suggest reading our car insurance comparison guide.
  • Our guide below talks positively about each of the cars from a value-for-money perspective - the information is not in any way an endorsement of any vehicle or a recommendation. Our guide to buying a used car is a good starting resources, as is our saving money on car costs.
  • The list below is in no particular order and the cars are of no particular year, the origin (i.e. Japanese import or New Zealand specific model) etc. The information is general and not in any way to be relied on for any insurance-related decisions.

The 20 Cheapest Cars to Insure in New Zealand:

Toyota Aqua

​Packed with safety features and ready and willing for whatever you’ve got planned, the Toyota-Aqua is a popular car on roads all around New Zealand, with drivers enjoying cheaper than average car insurance premiums. In a nutshell, the Aqua is a full-hybrid petrol hatchback with tons of luggage space and a comfortable, durable interior.
  • Fuel efficiency: 3.9 L/100km

Nissan Tiida

The ever-reliable Tiida is seen all over New Zealand, and comes with an uncomplicated setup, obedient engine and big windows. It's popular with families and as a run-around car, and offers excellent efficiency. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 5.7 L/100 km

Toyota Yaris

The average age of a Yaris buyer is around 55 in New Zealand, and it remains a popular go-to hybrid. It's efficient and drivers are favoured by car insurance companies (generally) with lower policy costs. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 3.3 L/100km

Honda Jazz

The Honda Jazz is known for the smooth, comfortable drive it delivers. To many, smooth and effortless equals dull when it comes to driving, but insurers disagree and prefer Jazz drivers.
  • Fuel efficiency: 5.8 L/100km

Toyota Caldina

The Toyota Caldina is a streamlined, sporty hatchback with plenty of personality. On roads around New Zealand, the Caldina is known as a reliable standard family vehicle. Leg-room, safety features and a large boot make it a popular choice. 
  • Fuel efficiency: Varies by model

Nissan March

The Nissan March is a supermino with flair, using every cm of space to its advantage. March drivers enjoy knowing that nothing is wasted and that every inch of its small frame is put to good use. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 5 L/100km

Nissan Dualis

Nissan’s revolutionary Dualis was the world’s first crossover vehicle - and even though it’s no longer in production, it still has a big leg up over the competition. Funky, fresh, still super dependable, the Dualis is a well-designed, roomy family sedan with lots to offer. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 8.5 L/100km

Mitsubishi Colt

The Mitsubishi Colt may not have all the horsepower in the world, but it's a popular city run-around car. This is a simple, practical machine, with not much to show aesthetics but an impressively frugal fuel economy and smooth, comfortable handling. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 6.5 L/100km

Nissan Wingroad

Practical, no-frills and very compact, the Nissan Wingroad has fans all over New Zealand. It's sporty, airy and delightfully nimble.  
  • Fuel efficiency: 6 L/100km

Toyota Auris

An eco-car in every sense of the name, the Toyota Auris is low on emissions and is a hybrid car through and through. Responsive, agile and easy to handle, the Auris is popular around New Zealand. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 7.5 L/100km

Toyota Ist

The Toyota 1st is compact yet spacious, sleek yet economical, drivable yet eco-friendly and a popular option for anyone looking for a low-cost driving option. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 6.2 L/100km

Toyota Starlet

The Toyota Starlet is a reliable budget model that goes the extra mile. Refined, ergonomic and cheap to run, there's a lot to like and thousands of them still run on New Zealand roads. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 7.8 L/100km

Toyota Avensis

The Toyota Avensis is sturdy, comfortable and trustworthy, with a spacious cabin, plenty of legroom and surprisingly quick acceleration. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 6.5 L/100km

Mazda Verisa

The Mazda Verisa offers a refreshing take on a subcompact car. The steering is consistent, sharp and zippy, the engine reliable and powerful for its size. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 7.6 L/100km

Hyundai Getz

The Hyundai Getz is known as being cheap and cheerful. While it isn't the zippiest motor on the road, it’s undoubtedly one of the most dependable. New Zealanders continue to find it modest, reliable and economical. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 6.0 L/100km

Daihatsu Sirion

The Daihatsu Sirion is far from being your average supermini; it's refined, well-mannered and ultra-comfortable, with enough power for an engine twice its size. With an excellent fuel economy to boot, running a Sirion is a low-cost city and town car. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 6.0 L/100km

Hyundai I20

​The Hyundai L20 is a supermini that drives like an SUV, which is unique and especially good value for money given the price point. The L20 manages to exceed all expectations and is a proven favourite among select New Zealand drivers. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 5.9 L/100km

Honda Civic

As one of the most popular mid-end sedans, the Civic continues to be the favourite pick of tens of thousands of New Zealand drivers. The 2021 model has a new trim features a signature C-Shaped taillights’ design and a sleeker profile, further accentuated by an optional Sport trim.
  • Fuel efficiency: Varies by model

Nissan Note

The late model Nissan Notes offer spacious sitting space for up to 5 passengers and improved cargo space. From the Intelligent Mobility Technology to keep you connected to a fresh, sporty impression, the car is as practical and stylish as it gets. 
  • Fuel efficiency: 5.1 L/100km ​

Kia Rio

Owing to its unique features like the Cruise control, the remote keyless truck and entry opener, the split-folding rear seat and an armrest laden with a centre console and a storage bin, this car is an absolute favourite pick for many New Zealanders young and old. 
  • ​Fuel efficiency: 5.6 L/100km​

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is style fused with practical driving features and one of New Zealand's most popular cars. The used models are some of the most common cars listed for sale on Trade Me, and the market for spare parts is endless. The average Corolla driver pays lower insurance costs. 
  • Fuel efficiency: Varies by model

Volkswagen Polo

Laden with future-forward safety features and brand new TSI engine technology, the Volkswagen Polo remains popular in New Zealand. The car features unique new perks like the multi-function steering control, voice control, touch screen infotainment system, refined app Connect, and stylish upholstery accented using black and grey shades in the cabin passenger seats.
  • ​Fuel efficiency: 4.8 L/100km

The Cheapest Cars to Insure and Saving Money on Driving Costs - Frequently Asked Questions

Car insurance costs can range from good value to unaffordable - we answer common queries about outline what affects the cost of a policy, and how you can avoid overpaying.

What Influences the Cost of Car Insurance?

Car insurers take into account a lot of data to decide what price to offer which is why car insurance is more expensive for one person than another. Factors that affect the price include:
  • Your age
  • Your gender
  • Your car accident history
  • Your location
  • Your car model and year
  • Where your car will be stored
  • Whether your car will be used for work purposes, or for personal

Beyond car insurance, what other costs should I consider?

After the cost of buying a car (or the financing costs), running costs add up. Cars are a cash trap - they always cost money even if they're not moving. To help minimise the costs, it's helpful to be aware of the following expenses:
  1. Registration Charges - These compulsory fees range from around $200 to up to about $285 a year, depending on the size of the vehicle per NZTA.
  2. Warrant of Fitness (WoF) - Another compulsory requirement of car ownership, WoF costs range - our dedicated guide helps explain what you need to know.
  3. Petrol and Diesel - Every kilometre you drive incurs costs (unless your vehicle is electric).
  4. Services, Cleaning and Detailing - While these aren't essential, many drivers use them, and the costs need to be budgeted for
  5. Unexpected Costs - these are, in many cases, the most expensive and can hit you at any time. Engine issues, electrical problems, tyres and more - all of it adds up.
  6. Breakdown call-out services - If this is a service you want, your car insurer will offer this as an optional add-on, our you can consider personal protection from the likes of AA Membership.

Our saving money on driving guide explains how you can minimise the ongoing driving costs without compromising convenience.

How does the size of your car's engine affect the cost of car insurance?

Generally, the larger the engine, the costlier the car insurance policy. For example, a 3-litre Bentley will cost more to insure than a 1.2 -litre Honda Civic. The reason is insurers see a link between high-performance cars and accidents - drivers behind the wheels are, statistically, a greater risk. This Stuff.co.nz article outlines that the biggest engined cars also have equally high running costs.

Will my car insurance be cheaper if I have an alarm and/or an immobiliser?

Car insurers prefer drivers who drive secure cars. Having an approved device that deters thieves will help reduce the cost of your policy. Additionally, if you park the car on the street, there is a higher risk of theft or damage (hence higher premiums) than parking it on your driveway or, better yet, in a locked garage. 

How do car modifications affect car insurance?

Insurers always ask about car modifications, whether adding spoilers, changing the engine's performance and changing the exhaust. Any modification will, in most cases, change the cost of your car insurance - this is because cars with modifications are linked to higher rates of claims. Understandably, modifications increase performance (i.e. which increases the risk of an accident) and appeal to thieves. If you have an existing policy, you'll need to tell your insurer about any modification you make - not doing so could invalidate your policy.

How can I compare car insurance quotes?

We believe the best way to get the best value car insurance is to compare quotes. Our car insurance guide compares major insurers' policies and provides sample quotes for drivers around New Zealand. Getting a quote is simple, takes less than three minutes (in most cases), and it's straightforward. Without comparing, you won't be able to save.
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