German cars beat the thieves

NMVTRC chairman David Morgan said the level of secure design applied during manufacture was the single most important factor in the theft rate score.

"While there are some luxury vehicles amongst the winners, the inclusion of the many affordable cars, with the Polo starting at around $20,000 clearly demonstrates that good security is within reach of everyday motorists and that other manufacturers should be aspiring to matching these levels of design," he said.

Mr Morgan said the organisation was unable to present awards in the people mover and commercial segments as the security features were too far below the standard set by passenger cars.

More than 70 current vehicles were assessed by security experts from the nation's motoring groups' on door and ignition locks, alarms, window glazing, engine immobiliser and anti-theft vehicle identification.

NRMA Insurance Head of Research Robert McDonald said the results were pleasing but there was still ways to improve vehicle security.

"There is still more to be done in tackling the issue of professional car theft in Australia by updating vehicle identification technology with the adoption of high-security self-voiding labels, in-place of current aluminum compliance plates and low security labels," he said.

Volkswagen Australia managing director Ms Anke Koeckler said the company was delighted to accept four awards for the most secure cars in Australia.

"These awards further demonstrate our commitment to offer cars with class-leading security as well as unparalleled drivability, at a price to suite every motorist," she said.

The most secure vehicles

• Small Car - Volkswagen Polo five-door hatch
• Small/Medium Car - Volkswagen Golf five-door hatch
• Medium Car - Audi A4 & VW Passat (joint winners);
• Large Car -  Jaguar XF
• SUV - Volkswagen Tiguan
• Coupe/Convertible - BMW 1 Series Convertible & 3 Series Coupe (joint winners).
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