Auto Trader cars

Skip to contentSkip to footer
News

Range Rover security improved to cut thefts

Jaguar Land Rover invests in security updates to protect against a spate of thefts of Range Rovers and other premium models

Catherine King

Words by: Catherine King

Published on 29 November 2023 | 0 min read

Everyone loves a Range Rover including, unfortunately, criminal gangs involved in organised thefts of top-end vehicles, resulting in widespread reporting of owners struggling to find affordable insurance or even anyone willing to cover their vehicles at all. Some claim they have chosen to sell their vehicle rather than renewing and pay the huge premiums resulting from Range Rovers regularly featuring so high on ‘most stolen’ lists. As a result, Jaguar Land Rover (now known simply as JLR after the recent ‘house of brands’ restructure) is urging owners to have their cars updated with the latest protection and has already contacted eligible customers. This update applies to vehicles manufactured from 2018 to 2022, even if they are out of warranty, and must be carried out at an authorised dealership.
To reassure its customers, JLR highlights its ongoing work with Thatcham Research, the UK’s leading automotive risk intelligence company and says the new Range Rover and new Range Rover Sport exceed that standard Thatcham set. Since January 2022 only 0.07 per cent of new Range Rover and new Range Rover Sports have been stolen and it has already updated over 65,000 cars manufactured from 2018 onwards. This appears to have made a difference, with JLR stating there has been a 40 per cent reduction in thefts between October 2022 and October 2023. JLR advises that in addition to locking and activating the alarms, owners can use the Jaguar and Land Rover remote apps and their subscription based in-car trackers for extra security. Car insurance renewal is never a fun piece of life admin, but this year drivers across the board have seen an average premium hike of 29 per cent for petrol cars and an eye-watering average of 72 per cent, or £402 for electric cars year on year, according to The Guardian. Which goes to show why the price of car insurance is a big consideration when calculating the overall cost of ownership. Although there are various tips, like shopping around, that can help you save money, your choice of vehicle will play a large part in how much you can expect to pay. Given JLR will be launching an all-electric Range Rover new year it will be important to convince customers and insurers that their cars are protected.