What is car insurance group 12?

Key takeaways

• Vehicles in group 12 typically have moderately priced insurance premiums, as they’re considered lower risk than those in higher groups. Premium costs can vary based on factors such as the driver’s age, driving history, and location.

• Car insurance group 12 offers a balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for various drivers due to cheaper repair costs and reasonable safety features

• Group 12 includes popular models such as the BMW 1-series hatchback, Citroën C3, Fiat 500 hatchback and Ford Fiesta.

What is car insurance group 12?

Car insurance groups are a way UK insurers classify vehicles to estimate how expensive they are to insure. The group your car falls into will influence how much you pay for car insurance.

Each car model is placed into one of 50 groups – with group 1 being the cheapest to insure and group 50 the most expensive. These groups are determined by the Group Rating Panel, which includes members of the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the Lloyd’s Market Association. Their decisions are based on data provided by Thatcham Research, a leading authority on vehicle safety and repair.

Car insurance group ratings are based on several factors that help insurers predict repair and replacement costs. Key factors include:

• Car value – Pricier cars usually cost more to insure.

• Repair costs – Cheaper, quicker repairs mean lower ratings.

• Parts prices – Easily available, low-cost parts reduce premiums.

• Performance – Faster, high-powered cars fall into higher groups.

• Safety tech – Features like automatic braking or lane assist can lower the rating.

• Security – Alarms, immobilisers, and trackers help reduce risk.

• Claims data – Real-world repair and accident stats from Thatcham Research influence the final group.

Group 12 sits in the lower range of the UK’s 1–50 car insurance scale, meaning vehicles in this group are considered low risk. They’re generally affordable to insure, with reasonable repair costs and good safety features, making them a popular choice for cost-conscious or younger drivers.

Which cars are in car insurance group 12?

Here are some specific makes, models and trims that are in insurance group 12.

What’s the average insurance cost for a group 12 car?

According to Moneysupermarket data, the average annual cost of car insurance for a vehicle in insurance groups 11-20 is £486.37^{^} for comprehensive cover.

While a car’s insurance group affects how much you’ll pay for cover, other factors also play a major role in calculating your premium. Insurers consider things like your age, driving experience, and claims history, as younger or less experienced drivers typically face higher costs.

Your location also matters – living in an area with higher traffic, accident rates, or vehicle crime can increase premiums. Additionally, factors such as your annual mileage, occupation, and type of cover can all influence the final price you pay.

Is a group 12 car cheap/expensive to insure?

Insurance premiums for cars in insurance group 12 are towards the lower end of the scale. Costs are higher than for groups 1–10 (an average of £425.75^{^} but cheaper than cars in higher groups. Average costs for cars in the 21-30 group are £486.37^{^} , for example.

Typically, car insurance policies for group 12 vehicles are moderately priced. This makes them a feasible option for many drivers.

Who is car insurance group 12 suitable for?

Cars in insurance group 12 offers a sweet spot for most drivers – practical, comfortable and reasonably priced to insure.

First-time buyers benefit from manageable premiums and essential features, while budget-conscious families enjoy reasonable insurance costs along with space and safety.

These cars offer a good mix of performance, comfort and affordability. Insurance is moderate, so it suits people who want a little more power or space without steep costs.

Additionally, drivers who typically face high premiums – such as young drivers or those with driving convictions – may be able to reduce their insurance costs by opting for a car in a lower insurance group like 12.

What does the ‘e’ mean in car insurance group 12e?

The ‘e’ in car insurance group 12e means the car exceeds the security requirement for the type of car. These enhancements can include things like advanced alarms, immobilisers, tracking devices, or extra safety tech, which can reduce the risk of theft or accident. That extra protection can make premiums slightly lower.

How can I check my car insurance group?

Use Moneysupermarket’s car insurance group checker tool.

How can I get cheaper insurance for my group 12 car?

There are several ways you can find cheaper insurance for your group 12 car. These include:

Increase your voluntary excess

Add a named driver

Boost your car’s security

Pay annually, not monthly

Park off-road and in a locked garage

Build your no-claims bonus

Limit mileage if possible

You should always compare quotes from different insurers when buying car insurance.

You can compare car insurance with MoneySupermarket.

• Drivers can save up to £514^{^} by comparing quotes

• You can get a £15^{^} SuperSaveClub reward with your car insurance policy plus other benefits like Free Days Out