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What 20 Car Brands Get Pulled Over the Most in 2025? 🚓
Ever wondered why some cars seem to have a magnetic pull toward the flashing lights of a police cruiser? You’re not alone! Whether it’s the roar of a Subaru WRX’s turbo engine or the sleek silhouette of a Kia Stinger, certain vehicles just can’t seem to avoid the radar. But is it really the car’s fault, or the driver behind the wheel? In this deep dive, we unravel the mystery behind the brands and models that get pulled over the most in 2025, backed by data, driver stories, and expert insights from the gearheads at Car Brands™.
Stick around as we reveal surprising entries on the list, bust myths about car colors and modifications, and share tips to keep you cruising without a ticket. Spoiler alert: owning a sporty car doesn’t doom you to constant traffic stops—but knowing why some cars attract more attention can save you headaches (and dollars) down the road!
Key Takeaways
- Subaru WRX, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and Kia Stinger top the charts as the most ticketed cars, largely due to their performance and driver demographics.
- Driver behavior outweighs car model in determining who gets pulled over, but sporty cars tend to attract more scrutiny.
- Modifications and car color can increase your chances of a traffic stop, with loud exhausts and illegal tints being common triggers.
- Data-driven policing targets certain models and areas, but ethical enforcement avoids unfair profiling.
- Smart driving and vehicle maintenance are your best defenses against getting pulled over, no matter what you drive.
Ready to explore or shop these popular models? Check them out here:
- Subaru WRX: Subaru Official | TrueCar Listings
- Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Hyundai Official | AutoTrader Listings
- Kia Stinger: Kia Official | Edmunds Reviews
Buckle up—this ride through the world of traffic stops and car brands is just getting started!
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts About Cars Most Pulled Over 🚓
- Why Do Certain Car Brands Get Pulled Over More? The Psychology & Stats Behind It 🧠📊
- Top 30 Car Brands and Models Most Likely to Get Pulled Over in 2024 🚨
- Subaru WRX: The Speed Demon’s Favorite Ride
- Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Sleek but Suspect?
- Kia Stinger: The Unexpected Speedster
- Mazdaspeed 3: Zoom Zoom and a Ticket Too?
- Lexus ES 300: Luxury or Lawbreaker?
- Pontiac GTO: Classic Muscle, Modern Trouble
- Scion FR-S: The Affordable Sports Car with a Ticket Magnet Reputation
- Nissan 350Z: Speed and Style That Attract Attention
- Dodge Charger: The Cop Car That’s Also Pulled Over
- Volkswagen Jetta GL: The Surprising Ticket Target
- Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS/LT: Old School but Still Not Immune
- Toyota Supra: The Legendary Speedster’s Ticket History
- Subaru Tribeca: Family SUV or Speed Trap Victim?
- Volkswagen Rabbit: The Compact Car with a Big Ticket Count
- Mercury Topaz: The Forgotten Speedster?
- Scion tC: Sporty but Often Stopped
- Toyota FJ Cruiser: Off-Road Beast or Traffic Stop Magnet?
- Mazda2: Small but Frequently Pulled Over
- Hyundai Veloster: Quirky Design, Frequent Stops
- Volkswagen GTI: Hot Hatch, Hot Ticket Count
- Common Reasons These Cars Get Pulled Over: Speeding, Modifications, and More ⚠️
- How Police Target Certain Vehicles: Profiling vs. Data-Driven Policing 🔍
- Tips to Avoid Getting Pulled Over in High-Risk Car Models 🚦
- The Role of Insurance and Driving Records in Traffic Stops 📋
- Real Stories from Drivers: When Your Car Gets You Pulled Over (and How You Reacted) 🚗💨
- How Car Color and Modifications Affect Your Chances of Being Stopped 🎨🔧
- Technology and Traffic Stops: Dashcams, Apps, and Smart Driving Tools 📱🚘
- Conclusion: Which Cars Should You Watch Out For? Our Final Verdict 🏁
- Recommended Links for Further Reading and Resources 📚
- FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Traffic Stops and Car Brands Answered ❓
- Reference Links: Data Sources and Studies We Used 🔗
Quick Tips and Facts About Cars Most Pulled Over 🚓
- It’s not always about the car: While certain models might catch an officer’s eye, your driving behavior is the biggest factor in getting pulled over.
- Performance = Scrutiny: Cars known for speed and sporty handling, like those featured in our article about car brands with the most speeding tickets, are often on law enforcement’s radar (pun intended!). Think Subaru WRX, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and the like.
- Age matters: Both new and older cars have their own sets of risks. New drivers might be more prone to mistakes, while older cars might have maintenance issues that attract attention.
- Data drives enforcement: Police departments often use data to identify high-risk areas and times for traffic violations.
- Know your rights: Be polite and respectful, but also understand your rights during a traffic stop.
Why Do Certain Car Brands Get Pulled Over More? The Psychology & Stats Behind It 🧠📊
We, at Car Brands™, love digging into the “why” behind car-related trends. So, why do some cars seem to be ticket magnets? 🧲
It’s Not Just About the Car, It’s About the Driver (But the Car Plays a Role)
Let’s be clear: you’re more likely to get a ticket for how you drive than what you drive. However, certain car models tend to attract drivers who enjoy putting the pedal to the metal.
Think about it: a Subaru WRX, with its turbocharged engine and sporty handling, practically begs to be driven spiritedly. As HotCars.com points out, the WRX STI boasts a 305 horsepower engine, making it a favorite among those who crave speed. This doesn’t mean every WRX owner is a speed demon, but the association exists.
The Halo Effect and Stereotypes
Ever noticed how a beat-up old car might make you a little more cautious on the road? Our perceptions of cars influence how we perceive their drivers. This is called the “halo effect.” A shiny new sports car might be seen as more likely to speed, even if it’s perfectly within the speed limit.
Data-Driven Policing and Hotspots
Police departments often use data to identify areas with high rates of traffic violations. If a particular model is frequently ticketed in a specific location, it might lead to increased scrutiny of similar cars in that area.
Top 30 Car Brands and Models Most Likely to Get Pulled Over in 2024 🚨
Ready for the main event? Buckle up as we reveal the top 30 car brands and models most likely to get pulled over, based on a compilation of insurance data, studies, and anecdotal evidence.
Remember, this list is for informational purposes only. It’s not about profiling drivers but understanding the factors that might make a car more likely to attract attention.
1. Subaru WRX: The Speed Demon’s Favorite Ride
The Subaru WRX consistently tops the charts as the most ticketed car. With its rally-car heritage and reputation for performance, it’s a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy pushing the limits.
2. Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Sleek but Suspect?
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, especially with its optional V8 engine, offers a surprising amount of power for its price. This combination of affordability and performance might contribute to its high ticket count.
3. Kia Stinger: The Unexpected Speedster
The Kia Stinger has taken the automotive world by storm with its sleek design and impressive performance. However, its ability to hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds might also be attracting unwanted attention.
4. Mazdaspeed 3: Zoom Zoom and a Ticket Too?
Mazda’s “Zoom Zoom” slogan takes on a whole new meaning with the Mazdaspeed 3. This hot hatch packs a punch with its powerful engine and sporty handling, making it a blast to drive but also a potential target.
5. Lexus ES 300: Luxury or Lawbreaker?
The Lexus ES 300 might seem like a surprising entry on this list. However, its combination of luxury and performance might lead some drivers to push the limits, especially on the open road.
6. Pontiac GTO: Classic Muscle, Modern Trouble
The Pontiac GTO, a classic muscle car, might evoke feelings of nostalgia. However, its powerful engine and rear-wheel drive can still land drivers in hot water if they’re not careful.
7. Scion FR-S: The Affordable Sports Car with a Ticket Magnet Reputation
The Scion FR-S, now known as the Toyota 86, was designed to be an affordable and fun-to-drive sports car. However, its accessible price point and sporty handling might make it appealing to younger, less experienced drivers who are more prone to tickets.
8. Nissan 350Z: Speed and Style That Attract Attention
The Nissan 350Z, a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts, is known for its sleek design and powerful engine. Its head-turning looks and exhilarating performance might make it more likely to be noticed by law enforcement.
9. Dodge Charger: The Cop Car That’s Also Pulled Over
The Dodge Charger has a split personality. It’s a popular choice for law enforcement vehicles, yet it’s also known for attracting speeding tickets when in civilian hands. Its powerful engine options, including the infamous Hellcat, might have something to do with it.
10. Volkswagen Jetta GL: The Surprising Ticket Target
The Volkswagen Jetta GL might seem like an unlikely candidate for this list. However, its popularity as a used car, especially among younger drivers, might contribute to its higher-than-average ticket count.
11. Chevrolet Monte Carlo LS/LT: Old School but Still Not Immune
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo, a classic coupe, might not be as common on the roads today. However, its history as a popular and affordable performance car might still precede it.
12. Toyota Supra: The Legendary Speedster’s Ticket History
The Toyota Supra, a legend in the sports car world, is back with a vengeance. Its powerful engine and sharp handling make it a thrill to drive, but its reputation as a speed demon might also make it a target.
13. Subaru Tribeca: Family SUV or Speed Trap Victim?
The Subaru Tribeca, a mid-size SUV, might seem out of place on this list. However, its car-like handling and optional turbocharged engine might lead some drivers to underestimate its speed capabilities.
14. Volkswagen Rabbit: The Compact Car with a Big Ticket Count
The Volkswagen Rabbit, known for its fuel efficiency and practicality, might surprise some with its appearance on this list. However, its peppy engine and nimble handling might tempt some drivers to push the limits.
15. Mercury Topaz: The Forgotten Speedster?
The Mercury Topaz, a discontinued mid-size sedan, might not be on many people’s radar today. However, its inclusion on this list suggests that even unassuming cars can attract tickets.
16. Scion tC: Sporty but Often Stopped
The Scion tC, a sporty coupe, was marketed towards younger drivers. Its affordable price and sporty styling might have made it a popular choice for those new to driving, who are statistically more likely to get tickets.
17. Toyota FJ Cruiser: Off-Road Beast or Traffic Stop Magnet?
The Toyota FJ Cruiser, with its rugged looks and off-road capabilities, might seem like it belongs on the trails, not stuck in traffic. However, its boxy shape and limited visibility might make it more likely to be involved in minor traffic violations.
18. Mazda2: Small but Frequently Pulled Over
The Mazda2, a subcompact car, might be small in size but not in its ticket count. Its fuel efficiency and affordable price might make it a popular choice for city driving, where traffic violations are more common.
19. Hyundai Veloster: Quirky Design, Frequent Stops
The Hyundai Veloster, with its unique three-door design and sporty styling, is hard to miss on the road. Its distinctive looks and affordable price might make it appealing to younger drivers who are more likely to attract attention.
20. Volkswagen GTI: Hot Hatch, Hot Ticket Count
The Volkswagen GTI, a pioneer in the hot hatch segment, offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and affordability. However, its sporty character and fun-to-drive nature might also lead to more spirited driving.
Common Reasons These Cars Get Pulled Over: Speeding, Modifications, and More ⚠️
While we’ve explored the car models often associated with traffic stops, let’s dive into the common reasons why these cars, and others, might get pulled over:
- Speeding: This one’s a no-brainer. Cars known for their performance often attract drivers who enjoy testing their limits.
- Modifications: Aftermarket modifications, especially those that affect a car’s appearance or sound, can draw unwanted attention.
- Driving Behavior: Aggressive driving, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic—these behaviors are surefire ways to get noticed by law enforcement.
- Equipment Violations: Burned-out headlights, tinted windows beyond legal limits, loud exhausts—these seemingly minor infractions can lead to a traffic stop.
- Location, Location, Location: Driving a sporty car in an area known for speed traps is like wearing a “pull me over” sign.
How Police Target Certain Vehicles: Profiling vs. Data-Driven Policing 🔍
The question of how police choose which vehicles to pull over is a complex and often debated one. It’s important to distinguish between profiling and data-driven policing:
- Profiling: This involves targeting individuals based solely on factors like race, ethnicity, or age. Profiling is illegal and unethical.
- Data-Driven Policing: This involves using statistical data to identify high-risk areas, times, and even car models associated with specific violations.
While data-driven policing can be an effective tool for law enforcement, it’s crucial that it’s used responsibly and ethically, without veering into discriminatory practices.
Tips to Avoid Getting Pulled Over in High-Risk Car Models 🚦
So, you’ve got your heart set on a sporty car, but you’d rather not become best friends with your local traffic cop? Here are some tips to stay off their radar:
- Obey Traffic Laws: This seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals are your friends, not your enemies.
- Maintain Your Car: A well-maintained car is less likely to attract unwanted attention. Make sure your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are in working order.
- Be Mindful of Modifications: While some modifications are purely cosmetic, others can affect your car’s performance and attract unwanted scrutiny.
- Drive Defensively: Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and always be prepared to react safely.
- Know Your Rights: If you are pulled over, be polite and respectful, but also understand your rights.
The Role of Insurance and Driving Records in Traffic Stops 📋
While your car model and driving behavior play a significant role in your likelihood of getting pulled over, your insurance and driving record also come into play:
- Insurance: Insurance companies use statistical data to assess risk. Cars with higher ticket and accident rates often come with higher insurance premiums.
- Driving Record: Your driving history is like a report card for insurance companies. A clean driving record can lead to lower insurance rates, while multiple violations can result in higher premiums or even difficulty obtaining coverage.
Real Stories from Drivers: When Your Car Gets You Pulled Over (and How You Reacted) 🚗💨
We’ve all heard the stories—a friend of a friend who swears their red sports car is a cop magnet, or the neighbor who insists their old pickup truck is invisible to radar.
We want to hear from you! Have you ever felt like your car made you a target for traffic stops? Share your experiences in the comments below! 👇
How Car Color and Modifications Affect Your Chances of Being Stopped 🎨🔧
Does the color of your car really make you more likely to get pulled over? And what about those aftermarket modifications? Let’s separate fact from fiction:
- Car Color: While some studies suggest that certain car colors, like white and red, are more visible and therefore more likely to be noticed by law enforcement, the evidence is inconclusive.
- Modifications: This is where things get a bit more complicated. Aftermarket modifications that alter your car’s appearance or sound can attract attention, especially if they violate local laws or regulations.
Technology and Traffic Stops: Dashcams, Apps, and Smart Driving Tools 📱🚘
In the digital age, technology is changing the landscape of traffic stops, offering both drivers and law enforcement new tools and challenges:
- Dashcams: These increasingly popular devices provide video evidence of traffic stops, offering a level of transparency and accountability.
- Police Scanner Apps: These apps allow users to listen in on police radio communications, potentially giving drivers a heads-up about speed traps or DUI checkpoints.
- Smart Driving Apps: Apps that monitor speed limits, provide navigation assistance, and even encourage safe driving habits are becoming increasingly common.
Conclusion: Which Cars Should You Watch Out For? Our Final Verdict 🏁
After cruising through the data, anecdotes, and expert insights, one thing is crystal clear: certain car models do tend to get pulled over more often, but it’s not just about the car—it’s about the driver, the location, and yes, sometimes the modifications and color too. 🚓
Positives:
- Cars like the Subaru WRX, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and Kia Stinger offer thrilling performance, sharp handling, and undeniable style that make driving fun and engaging.
- Many of these models are affordable sports cars that bring excitement to everyday driving without breaking the bank.
- They often come with strong enthusiast communities and aftermarket support, making customization and upgrades a breeze.
Negatives:
- The very traits that make these cars fun—speed, sporty handling, aggressive styling—also make them magnets for law enforcement attention.
- Owners of these vehicles may face higher insurance premiums due to their ticket histories.
- Modifications, especially loud exhausts or illegal window tints, can increase the chance of getting pulled over.
Our Recommendation:
If you’re eyeing one of these high-risk models, drive responsibly and maintain your vehicle well. Enjoy the performance, but don’t let the thrill lead you into trouble. And if you’re concerned about insurance or legal hassles, consider a more subdued trim or model. Remember, it’s the driver, not the car, who ultimately controls the outcome.
For those who want to dive deeper into which car brands rack up the most speeding tickets, check out our detailed Car Brands with the Most Speeding Tickets article for more juicy insights.
Stay safe, drive smart, and keep your eyes on the road—not the rearview mirror! 🚦
Recommended Links for Further Reading and Resources 📚
Looking to explore or shop for some of the cars we discussed? Here’s where you can start your engines:
-
Subaru WRX:
Subaru Official | TrueCar WRX Listings | Edmunds WRX Reviews -
Hyundai Genesis Coupe:
Hyundai Official | AutoTrader Genesis Coupe | TrueCar Listings -
Kia Stinger:
Kia Official | Edmunds Stinger Reviews | AutoTrader Stinger Listings -
Mazdaspeed 3:
Mazda Official | TrueCar Mazdaspeed 3 -
Volkswagen GTI:
Volkswagen Official | Edmunds GTI Reviews | AutoTrader GTI Listings
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Traffic Stops and Car Brands Answered ❓
What are the most ticketed cars in the US?
The Subaru WRX tops the list, followed closely by the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Kia Stinger. These models are ticketed significantly more often than the national average, with some studies showing up to 46% more speeding tickets for the Genesis Coupe. Other frequent offenders include the Mazdaspeed 3, Volkswagen GTI, and Dodge Charger. These cars tend to attract drivers who enjoy spirited driving, which often leads to more traffic stops.
Read more about “Who Has the Highest Speeding Ticket? Top 10 Shocking Cases 🚓 (2025)”
Are certain car brands more prone to getting speeding tickets?
✅ Yes! Brands like Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, and Volkswagen have models that are statistically more likely to be pulled over. This is often due to the performance capabilities of their sportier models and the demographics of their typical drivers. However, it’s important to remember that the driver’s behavior is the ultimate factor.
Read more about “Speeding Ticket Statistics by Vehicle Make: Top 8 Surprises of 2025 🚦”
Do police target specific car models for traffic stops?
Law enforcement agencies use data-driven policing to identify high-risk vehicles and areas, which can lead to increased scrutiny of certain car models known for violations. However, targeting based solely on car model without cause would be unfair and potentially illegal. The key is that police look for violations, not just the car.
Read more about “What Is the Most Pulled Over Vehicle in the US? 🚓 Top 10 Revealed …”
Which car color is most likely to get pulled over?
Studies show that white cars are pulled over most often, followed by red, gray, and silver. White cars are also the most common on the road, which partly explains this trend. However, color alone is a minor factor compared to driving behavior and vehicle type.
Read more about “Can Car Color Really Boost Your Chances of a Speeding Ticket? 🚦 (2025)”
Are luxury cars more likely to get pulled over than economy cars?
❌ Not necessarily. While some luxury cars have higher ticket rates, many economy cars with sporty trims or performance capabilities also get pulled over frequently. The key factors are performance, driver behavior, and modifications, not just price or brand prestige.
Do car modifications increase the likelihood of getting pulled over?
✅ Absolutely. Modifications that alter a car’s appearance, sound, or performance—such as loud exhausts, lowered suspensions, or illegal window tints—can attract law enforcement attention and increase the chances of a traffic stop.
Read more about “What Model Car Gets Pulled Over the Most? 🚔 Discover the Top 10 for 2025!”
What are the top 5 cars most frequently stopped by police?
Based on multiple studies, the top 5 are:
- Subaru WRX
- Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- Kia Stinger
- Mazdaspeed 3
- Volkswagen GTI
These models have higher-than-average ticket rates, often due to their performance capabilities and the driving styles they attract.
Read more about “What is the Most Pulled Over Vehicle in the US 2020? … 🚔”
Reference Links: Data Sources and Studies We Used 🔗
- HotCars: 28 Cars That Get Pulled Over The Most
- Pronto Insurance: Do Red Cars Get Pulled Over More?
- Kustom Signals: 5 Vehicle Models Most Likely to Be Pulled Over for Speeding
- Subaru Official Website: https://www.subaru.com
- Hyundai Official Website: https://www.hyundaiusa.com
- Kia Official Website: https://www.kia.com
- Mazda Official Website: https://www.mazdausa.com
- Volkswagen Official Website: https://www.vw.com
For more on the technology behind traffic enforcement, visit Kustom Signals.
Thanks for riding along with us on this deep dive into the cars that get pulled over the most! Remember, the best way to avoid tickets is to drive smart, respect the rules, and enjoy your ride responsibly. 🚗💨