15 Cars with the Highest Speeding Ticket Rates
The relationship between car models and speeding violations is more intriguing than you might think. Certain vehicles tend to attract drivers with a lead foot, leading to a higher likelihood of speeding tickets. This phenomenon isn’t just about raw horsepower; it’s a complex interplay of vehicle design and perhaps even a dash of psychology.
Subaru BRZ
Topping Insurify’s 2024 list of speed-ticket magnets is the Subaru BRZ, with 23.9% of its drivers having speeding tickets. While this sleek sports car might not scream “speed demon,” its 228-horsepower engine probably tempts drivers to push the limits. Unfortunately, this thrill-seeking comes at a cost, with BRZ owners facing potentially steep insurance premiums.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Hot on the heels of the BRZ is the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, with a 21.9% speeding violation rate. Depending on the engine option, this model packs up to 348 horsepower and appeals to drivers with a penchant for velocity. Despite its discontinuation, the model’s reputation for attracting speeding tickets lives on.
Volkswagen GTI
In third place is the Volkswagen GTI, with 18.8% of its drivers receiving speeding tickets. Its engine and handling make it a joy to drive, sometimes too joyfully for legal speed limits. The GTI’s reputation as a “wolf in sheep’s clothing” might contribute to its high ticket rate, as drivers underestimate its capabilities.
Chevrolet Cruze Limited
A surprising number of Chevrolet Cruze Limited drivers were caught speeding in 2017—17.9% of them. Unlike its sportier list-mates, the Cruze Limited is a modest sedan with unremarkable horsepower. Its affordability likely attracts younger drivers who are more prone to speeding, or its appearance leads to inadvertent lead-footed driving.
Nissan 350Z
With a 17.6% pullover rate, we have the Nissan 350Z. This discontinued sports car still turns heads with its sleek design and potent 306-horsepower engine. The 350Z’s reputation as an affordable performance car likely makes it all too easy for drivers to exceed speed limits and contributes to its high ticket rate.
Subaru WRX
Another Subaru, the WRX, secures a spot on the Insurer’s list, with 16.9% of its drivers receiving speeding tickets. Known for its rally-inspired performance and all-wheel-drive capability, the WRX offers a unique blend of power and practicality. Interestingly, despite its higher ticket rate, the WRX is recognized as a Top Safety Pick.
Scion tC
This sporty compact hatchback sees 15.8% of its drivers nabbed for bursting past speed limits. Although this car is not as powerful as others on this list, the tC’s youthful appeal and affordable price point may attract drivers who are more prone to pushing speed limits.
Scion FR-S
The Scion FR-S follows with 15.2% of its drivers pulled over. This rear-wheel-drive sports car, mechanically identical to the Subaru BRZ, offers a driving experience that tempts some drivers to exceed legal speeds. Its lightweight design and responsive controls make it a favorite, but these qualities may contribute to its high ticket rate.
Toyota Yaris iA
Tied with the Malibu Limited is the Toyota Yaris iA, with 14.5% of its drivers receiving speeding tickets. This compact sedan’s presence here is particularly intriguing given its modest 106-horsepower engine. The Yaris iA’s inclusion on this list suggests that vehicle power isn’t the sole factor in speeding tendencies.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited
Another unexpected entry, the Chevrolet Malibu Limited, is racing out the top ten, tying with the Toyota Yaris iA at 14.5% for speeding violations. The sedan’s inclusion is surprising, given its family-oriented design and modest performance. Its presence among sportier models raises questions about the influence of factors beyond raw power on driving behavior.
Audi S4
While the Audi S4 didn’t make the top ten in the recent Insurer 2024 report, data from an earlier 2023 study shows that 14.6% of its drivers received speeding tickets. Known for its turbocharged 3.0-liter engine delivering up to 349 horsepower, the Audi S4 is an agile performer with tempting road power.
BMW i3
Despite its eco-friendly reputation, the i3’s acceleration and compact design can lead to spirited driving. Its instant electric torque and handling make it deceptively quick. With 17.6% of its drivers getting tickets in the 2023 rankings, its inclusion seems inevitable. BMW discontinued the i3 in 2021, but the roads can tell it lives on.
Infiniti G37
Similarly, the Infiniti G37 recorded a speeding ticket rate of 10.07% among its drivers. Also not making the 2024 list, the G37’s 328 horsepower engine and luxurious design create an engaging and fast-paced driving experience, which might explain its inclusion in the earlier report among vehicles more traditionally associated with speeding.
Honda S2000
A roadster beloved for its racing-inspired engine, the Honda S2000 also made its mark in the earlier report, with 10.8%. It has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing up to 240 horsepower and rev to 8900 rpm. No doubt, this capability often encourages spirited driving. The model was produced from 1999 to 2009.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata got a 9.2% pullover rate for speeding tickets. This car may be small, but it will not be a pushover on the roads. It combines the ability to move from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds and an affordable price tag to become a car for the fun-loving.