New data reveals that BMW and Mercedes feature prominently on the list of the most stolen car brands in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region, even as overall vehicle thefts continue to decline.
Ford Leads, But Toyota and Mitsubishi Thefts Rise
Ford remains the most nicked car in the West Midlands, with 2,375 thefts recorded in 2025, a drop of 19.4% compared to the previous year. Toyota follows as the second most stolen, with 1,099 thefts — an increase of 7.6%, suggesting criminals are increasingly targeting these models. BMW ranks third with 781 thefts (down 11.6%), while Mercedes is fifth with 633 thefts (down 29%).
Overall Theft Numbers and Trends
Thousands of vehicles were stolen from driveways and streets across Birmingham and the wider region last year. The top ten most stolen brands in the West Midlands for 2025 are: Ford (2,375), Toyota (1,099), BMW (781), Nissan (753), Mercedes (633), Land Rover (483), Volkswagen (445), Vauxhall (437), Audi (412), and Jaguar (283). While thefts of most brands are down, Mitsubishi saw a dramatic 64% increase, though from a lower base.
Police and Commissioner Respond
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “While there is still more work to do, I welcome this continued reduction in vehicle theft across the West Midlands, with offences falling by 15.5% over the past two years. This progress reflects the determined action of West Midlands Police, working alongside partners and local communities, to tackle crime, target offenders and protect the public. However, we cannot be complacent. While Ford vehicles remain the most stolen, we are seeing increases in other brands – particularly Mitsubishi – which is a clear reminder that criminals are constantly adapting.”
Impact on Car Owners
The data suggests that owners of Toyota and Mitsubishi vehicles should be particularly vigilant, as thefts of these brands are rising. Meanwhile, owners of luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes can take some comfort from declining theft rates, but these models remain high on thieves' lists. Ford's long-standing popularity among thieves continues, though the overall downward trend is encouraging for motorists across the region.
