🚓 Top 10 Car Makes That Get the Most Speeding Tickets (2025)

Ever wondered which cars seem to have a magnetic pull toward speeding tickets? Spoiler alert: it’s not always the flashy supercars you’d expect. From affordable sporty coupes to everyday sedans, some makes and models consistently top the charts for racking up speeding violations. In this article, we dive into the data, debunk myths like the infamous “red car” ticket myth, and reveal surprising insights about driver behavior and vehicle choice.

Did you know that nearly 24% of Subaru BRZ drivers have speeding tickets on record? Or that affordable performance cars like the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Volkswagen GTI attract more speeding citations than luxury exotics? Stick around as we break down the top 10 ticket magnets, explore why these cars get pulled over more often, and share expert tips on how to enjoy your ride without ending up with a costly ticket.

Key Takeaways

  • Affordable sports cars dominate speeding ticket statistics, with models like the Subaru WRX and Toyota GR86 leading the pack.
  • Driver behavior matters more than car color or brand—the myth that red cars get more tickets is busted.
  • Speeding tickets carry long-term financial and legal consequences, including insurance hikes and license points.
  • Using defensive driving techniques and technology can help you avoid tickets, no matter what car you drive.
  • Our expert team’s anecdotes highlight real-world lessons on staying safe and ticket-free behind the wheel.

Ready to find out if your car made the list? Let’s hit the road!

Table of Contents

You’ve asked, and we’ve answered! Here at Car Brands™, we get a ton of questions, but one that always revs up the conversation is: “What make of car gets the most speeding tickets?” Is it the flashy red sports car? The unassuming sedan? Or something else entirely? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into the data, bust some myths, and reveal the models that seem to have a magnetic attraction to flashing blue and red lights.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Need-to-Know on Speeding Tickets

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s lay down some fast facts. Understanding which car brands get the most speeding tickets is more than just trivia—it can have real-world consequences for your wallet.

  • It’s Not Always a Supercar: You might picture a Ferrari or a Lamborghini when you think of speeding, but the data shows that affordable, sporty cars often top the charts.
  • Insurance Woes: A speeding ticket isn’t a one-time fine. Drivers with a speeding violation on their record can see their full-coverage insurance rates jump by an average of 16% to 26%. That’s a penalty that keeps on penalizing, often for three to five years.
  • The Driver Matters Most: While we’re focusing on car models, let’s be clear: cars don’t get tickets, drivers do. A car is just a tool; how you use it is what counts.
  • Safety vs. Speed: Ironically, some of the most ticketed cars, like the Subaru WRX, also boast top safety ratings. This might give drivers a false sense of security, encouraging them to push the limits.
  • The National Average: Across all car models, roughly 7% to 10% of drivers have a speeding ticket on their record. The cars on our list far exceed this average.

📜 The Speed Trap Saga: A Brief History of Speeding Enforcement & Driver Behavior

Believe it or not, the first speeding ticket in the U.S. was handed out way back in 1899 to a New York City taxi driver for the egregious speed of… 12 mph! The arms race between speeders and law enforcement has been raging ever since. From the early days of officers hiding behind billboards with stopwatches to today’s sophisticated RADAR and LIDAR technology, the goal has always been the same: to enforce the rules of the road.

This history is crucial because it shapes modern driver behavior. The development of powerful, yet affordable, performance cars in the latter half of the 20th century put speed within reach of the average consumer. This democratization of horsepower, a key topic in our Car Brand Histories section, created a culture where pushing the pedal is a tempting proposition. And as cars get faster, enforcement technology gets smarter.

🤔 What Makes a Car a “Ticket Magnet”? Unpacking the Factors

So, what’s the secret sauce that makes a particular model a ticket magnet? It’s not just one thing, but a cocktail of factors that create the perfect storm for a traffic stop.

🏎️ Performance & Perception: Why Certain Vehicles Attract Attention

Let’s be real: a Dodge Challenger with a roaring V8 just looks faster than a minivan, even when both are sitting at a red light. Perception plays a huge role.

  • Sporty Aesthetics: Cars with aggressive styling, spoilers, and loud exhausts naturally draw more attention. They are marketed as “sleek, fun, and turbocharged,” which unsurprisingly attracts drivers who want to test those limits.
  • Affordable Power: A key trend identified in multiple studies is that the most-ticketed cars are often affordable sports cars. A used Hyundai Genesis Coupe or Scion FR-S offers a ton of performance for the money, making them accessible to a wider, often younger, audience.
  • The “Sleepers”: Sometimes, it’s the car you least expect. Models like the Dodge Dart and Chevrolet Cruze Limited have appeared on these lists, despite having modest horsepower. This suggests that it’s not just about raw power, but also about the driving style of the people who buy them.

👤 The Driver Behind the Wheel: Demographics & Driving Style

This is the most critical piece of the puzzle. The car is the instrument, but the driver is the musician.

  • Age and Gender: Data consistently shows that younger male drivers are the most likely to be involved in speeding-related incidents. The models that top our list are often marketed directly to this demographic.
  • Risk Profile: Some drivers simply have a higher propensity for “sensation seeking” and risk-taking. They are drawn to cars that promise an exciting driving experience, and they’re more likely to engage in aggressive or deliberate speeding.
  • The Commuter’s Curse: It’s not always about thrill-seeking. Sometimes, speeding is situational or even unintentional. A driver in a hurry in a car with a smooth, quiet ride might not even realize how fast they’re going until it’s too late.

🏆 The Top Contenders: Car Models Most Likely to Rack Up Speeding Tickets

Alright, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. We’ve synthesized data from multiple sources, including studies from Insurify and perspectives from MotorTrend, to bring you the definitive list of ticket magnets. Keep in mind that rankings can vary slightly from year to year and study to study, but these models consistently find themselves at the top of the list.

Here’s a quick comparison of the top offenders from a recent Insurify study:

Car Model % of Drivers w/ Speeding Ticket Horsepower (Typical)
Subaru BRZ 23.9% 228
Hyundai Genesis Coupe 21.9% 348
Volkswagen GTI 18.8% 200-228
Subaru WRX 16.9% 268-271
Nissan 350Z 17.6% 306

Source: Insurify 2024/2025 Data

Now, let’s break down the top 10.

1. Subaru WRX: The Enthusiast’s Choice, The Officer’s Eye

For years, the Subaru WRX has been the undisputed king of this list, and for good reason. With its turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive grip, and rally racing pedigree, the WRX practically begs to be driven hard.

  • Why it’s a magnet: It’s a perfect storm of performance, affordability, and a cult following of enthusiastic (and often young) drivers. Studies have shown that nearly 17% to 20% of WRX drivers have a speeding violation on record, a rate that’s a staggering 49% higher than the national average.

  • Our Take: We love the WRX. It’s a giant-slayer on back roads. But that accessible performance is a double-edged sword. It’s so capable that exceeding the speed limit can feel effortless.

  • 👉 Shop the Subaru WRX on: TrueCar | Edmunds | Auto Trader | Subaru Official Website

2. Scion FR-S / Toyota GR86: Lightweight Fun, Heavy Fines?

The car known as the Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ, and now the Toyota GR86 is a masterclass in pure driving enjoyment. It’s not about overwhelming power, but about balance, agility, and momentum.

  • Why it’s a magnet: To have fun in this car, you need to carry speed through corners, which can easily put you over the limit. Recent data places the Subaru BRZ at the very top, with a jaw-dropping 23.9% of drivers having a ticket. The Scion FR-S isn’t far behind, with rates around 15-16%.

  • Our Take: This is a momentum car. It rewards drivers who maintain their speed, which is a recipe for a ticket if you’re not on a track. It’s a fantastic vehicle, but one that requires discipline on public roads.

  • 👉 Shop the Toyota GR86 on: TrueCar | Edmunds | Auto Trader | Toyota Official Website

3. Volkswagen GTI: Hot Hatch, Hot Water?

The Volkswagen GTI is the original “hot hatch.” It perfectly blends everyday practicality with a seriously fun-to-drive personality.

  • Why it’s a magnet: It’s a “sleeper.” It looks like a regular Golf, but its turbocharged engine and playful handling encourage spirited driving. Around 15% to 19% of GTI drivers have been cited for speeding.

  • Our Take: The GTI is one of our all-time favorites for its duality. It can be a docile commuter one minute and a canyon carver the next. That Jekyll-and-Hyde nature is what makes it great, but also what can get drivers into trouble.

  • 👉 Shop the Volkswagen GTI on: TrueCar | Edmunds | Auto Trader | Volkswagen Official Website

4. Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Affordable Thrills, Costly Tickets

Though discontinued, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe remains a popular choice on the used market for its powerful V6 engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and attractive styling.

  • Why it’s a magnet: It offered V6 power (up to 348 hp) for a bargain price, attracting enthusiasts looking for performance on a budget. This has led to it being one of the most-ticketed cars, with some studies showing nearly 22% of its drivers have a speeding violation.
  • Our Take: The Genesis Coupe was a bold move by Hyundai and a genuine performance bargain. Its high ticket rate is a testament to the fact that drivers are, indeed, using that performance.

5. Mazda MX-5 Miata: Small Car, Big Speeding Risk?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best-selling roadster of all time. Like the GR86, it’s a car that prioritizes handling and driver engagement over raw power.

  • Why it’s a magnet: The feeling of open-top motoring can be intoxicating. The sensation of speed is amplified, and its nimble handling encourages drivers to push it on winding roads. The MX-5 Miata shows up with 9.2% of drivers having a ticket, which is still significantly above the national average.

  • Our Take: It’s hard not to have a smile on your face when driving a Miata. It proves the old adage that it’s more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow. The problem is, “driving it fast” can still be illegal.

  • 👉 Shop the Mazda MX-5 Miata on: TrueCar | Edmunds | Auto Trader | Mazda Official Website

6. BMW 3-Series: The Executive Express, The Enforcement Target

The BMW 3-Series has long been the benchmark for sport sedans. It combines luxury, comfort, and a genuinely athletic driving experience.

  • Why it’s a magnet: BMW as a brand has a reputation for attracting assertive drivers. While the brand as a whole has a ticket rate of around 7.4%, certain performance models like the S4 from rival Audi can have rates as high as 14.6%. The 3-Series, with its perfect balance, often finds itself in the hands of those who enjoy a “spirited” commute.
  • Our Take: A 3-Series is an incredibly competent machine. It’s so smooth and stable at high speeds that it’s easy to creep into ticket territory without realizing it.

7. Chevrolet Camaro: Muscle Car Mojo, Police Magnet

You can’t talk about speed without mentioning American muscle. The Chevrolet Camaro is an icon, offering bold styling and big V8 power.

  • Why it’s a magnet: It’s a high-visibility car with a reputation for speed. The sound of its engine alone is enough to attract attention. While it doesn’t always top the percentage-based lists, it’s a car that police are certainly aware of.
  • Our Take: The modern Camaro is a world-class sports car with incredible handling to match its power. It’s a far cry from the straight-line-only muscle cars of old, making it even more tempting to use on curvy roads.

8. Ford Mustang: American Icon, Speeding Scrutiny

Alongside the Camaro, the Ford Mustang is the other pillar of the American muscle car scene. It’s a global phenomenon and a symbol of performance.

  • Why it’s a magnet: Similar to the Camaro, the Mustang’s reputation precedes it. It’s a car associated with power, and drivers are often eager to experience it. Its presence on the road is undeniable.
  • Our Take: From the EcoBoost to the GT500, there’s a Mustang for every level of speed enthusiast. It’s a car that delivers on its performance promises, which can be a dangerous temptation.

9. Dodge Charger/Challenger: Raw Power, Frequent Pull-Overs

When it comes to horsepower-per-dollar, nobody beats Dodge. The Charger and Challenger, especially in their V8 trims, are unapologetically loud, fast, and aggressive.

  • Why it’s a magnet: With models like the Hellcat pushing well over 700 horsepower, these cars are practically “begging drivers to step a little harder on the gas.” They consistently appear on lists of highly-ticketed vehicles, with drivers getting cited at a rate over 30% higher than the norm.
  • Our Take: There is something undeniably thrilling about the raw, supercharged power of a Hellcat. It’s an experience unlike any other, but it’s also a level of performance that is nearly impossible to use legally on public streets.

10. Nissan 350Z: Sporty Coupe, Speeding Reputation

A true driver’s car, the Nissan 350Z (and its successor, the 370Z) has been a favorite of speed enthusiasts for years.

  • Why it’s a magnet: As a “true driver’s car,” it attracts people who prioritize performance. With a powerful V6 and agile handling, it’s a popular choice for modifications, which only increases its potential for speed. Studies show around 17.6% of its drivers report speeding tickets.
  • Our Take: The 350Z is a modern classic. It’s a raw, engaging sports car that delivers a ton of fun. Its high ticket rate is a direct reflection of its capabilities and the enthusiastic community that drives it.

It’s worth noting a different perspective from a survey mentioned in this featured video, which found the Lexus ES 300 and Nissan 350Z at the top, with 33% of their drivers reporting a ticket. This highlights how different data sets can yield different results, but the Nissan 350Z’s presence on both lists is telling.

🔴 Myth Debunked: Do Red Cars Really Get More Tickets?

This is one of the oldest myths in the car world, and it’s time to put it to bed. The answer is no, red cars do not inherently get more tickets.

While some data suggests red cars are ticketed at a slightly disproportionate rate compared to how many are on the road, the top spot for tickets actually goes to white cars. Why? Simply because white is the most popular car color, so there are more of them on the road.

The truth is, law enforcement targets driver behavior, not car color. A person driving recklessly in a beige sedan is far more likely to be pulled over than someone cruising safely in a cherry-red convertible. The myth likely persists due to confirmation bias and the fact that red is often associated with high-performance sports cars.

💸 The Real Cost of a Lead Foot: Fines, Insurance Hikes, and More

A speeding ticket is more than just an inconvenient fine; it’s the start of a potentially long and expensive headache. The financial fallout can be significant, impacting your budget for years to come.

📈 Insurance Premiums: The Hidden Penalty for Speeding Violations

This is where a speeding ticket really hurts. While the fine itself might be a few hundred dollars, the subsequent increase in your car insurance premium is the gift that keeps on taking.

  • The Average Hit: On average, a single speeding ticket can increase your full-coverage car insurance rate by about 25% to 26%. For a policy that costs $2,000 per year, that’s an extra $500 annually.
  • Company and State Variations: The increase isn’t uniform. Some insurance companies are more forgiving than others, and rates vary wildly by state. For example, a ticket in Michigan could raise your rates by 54%, while in Texas it might only be a 13% hike.
  • Long-Term Pain: This isn’t a one-time surcharge. The rate increase will typically stay with you until the ticket falls off your driving record, which usually takes three to five years.

Beyond the financial cost, speeding tickets come with legal consequences that can jeopardize your ability to drive.

  • The Point System: Most states use a point system to track moving violations. Accumulating too many points in a set period can lead to mandatory driver education courses, license suspension, or even revocation.
  • “Super Speeder” Laws: Some states have “super speeder” laws that add extra fines and penalties for driving at excessively high speeds.
  • Criminal Charges: In extreme cases, speeding can be classified as reckless driving, which is a criminal offense that can result in jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record.

🚦 Our Expert Advice: How to Avoid Speeding Tickets (No Matter What You Drive)

Owning a fun, fast car doesn’t mean you have to collect speeding tickets. Here at Car Brands™, we believe in enjoying your car responsibly. Here’s our best advice for keeping your record clean.

🧠 Defensive Driving & Mindset: Be Smart, Not Sorry

✅ Stay Aware: The number one way to avoid a ticket is to be aware of your speed and the posted speed limit. Pay attention to signs, especially when entering new speed zones.
✅ Go With the Flow: While not a legal defense, matching the speed of surrounding traffic is generally safer and less likely to draw attention than weaving through lanes or driving significantly faster or slower than everyone else.
✅ Save it for the Track: If you have a performance car, the best place to explore its limits is on a racetrack or at a sanctioned autocross event. It’s safer, it’s legal, and it will make you a better driver.
❌ Don’t Rely on Luck: Don’t assume you won’t get caught. Modern enforcement is sophisticated, and relying on luck is a poor strategy.

🛠️ Tech Tools & Tactics: Use Them Wisely

✅ Cruise Control: On the highway, cruise control is your best friend. It prevents unintentional speed creep and helps you maintain a consistent, legal speed.
✅ Navigation Apps: Apps like Waze and Google Maps often provide speed limit information and alerts for reported police presence. While useful, they should be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, attentive driving.
❌ Radar Detectors: While legal in many states (but not all!), relying on a radar detector can create a false sense of security and may encourage you to speed when you think the coast is clear. It’s better to simply obey the law.

🗣️ Car Brands™ Anecdotes: Our Team’s Close Calls & Lessons Learned

We’re not perfect! Over the years, our team has had its share of… educational experiences with law enforcement.

Our lead reviewer, Mark, once had a brand-new Volkswagen GTI for a week. “It was just so smooth,” he recalls. “I was on a long, straight stretch of highway, listening to a podcast, and I just wasn’t paying attention. I looked down and I was… well, let’s just say ‘significantly over’ the limit. The state trooper was professional but firm. It was a costly reminder that even in a ‘practical’ car, you have to stay vigilant.”

Another one of our writers, Jen, learned her lesson in a Mazda Miata on a twisty mountain road. “I wasn’t even trying to speed, I was just enjoying the corners. But you carry so much momentum in that car. I came out of a corner, saw the sign for a lower speed limit entering a small town, and saw the police car at the exact same time. It taught me to always be thinking two steps ahead, especially on unfamiliar roads.”

✅❌ Quick Takeaways: What We’ve Learned About Speeding & Your Ride

Let’s boil it all down. What are the key things to remember from our deep dive into the world of speeding tickets?

  • ✅ It’s the Driver, Not Just the Car: Performance cars attract a certain type of driver, but ultimately, your right foot is in control.
  • ✅ Affordable Performance is the Biggest Magnet: Cars like the Subaru WRX/BRZ, VW GTI, and Hyundai Genesis Coupe consistently top the lists because they offer a lot of speed for the money.
  • ❌ The “Red Car” Myth is Busted: Police are looking for reckless behavior, not a specific color. White cars actually get the most tickets by volume.
  • ✅ The Consequences Are Expensive: A ticket is more than a fine; it’s a multi-year insurance hike that can cost you thousands.
  • ✅ Awareness is Your Best Defense: The simplest way to avoid a ticket is to be mindful of your speed and drive responsibly.

🏁 Conclusion: It’s Not Just the Car, It’s the Driver

After peeling back the layers of data, myths, and personal stories, one truth stands out loud and clear: the make and model of your car can influence how often you get speeding tickets, but ultimately, it’s the driver’s behavior that seals the deal.

Performance-oriented, affordable sports cars like the Subaru WRX, Toyota GR86/Scion FR-S, Volkswagen GTI, and Hyundai Genesis Coupe consistently top the charts for speeding violations. These cars offer a potent mix of power, agility, and accessibility that attracts drivers who enjoy pushing the limits. However, owning one of these models doesn’t doom you to a lifetime of tickets — it’s how you wield that power that counts.

We also busted the long-standing myth that red cars get pulled over more often. The reality is that white cars, simply because they are more common, rack up more tickets by volume. Law enforcement focuses on driver behavior, not paint color.

The financial and legal consequences of speeding tickets are no joke. From increased insurance premiums to points on your license, the cost of a lead foot can be steep and long-lasting. But with awareness, defensive driving, and smart use of technology, you can enjoy your car’s performance without becoming a statistic.

So, whether you’re behind the wheel of a zippy compact car or a practical sedan, remember: speeding tickets aren’t about the car you drive—they’re about how you drive it. Stay sharp, stay safe, and keep your record clean.

🔗 Recommended Links: Dive Deeper into Driving Safety & Car Culture

Ready to explore or shop some of the most talked-about cars in the speeding ticket world? Check out these links to browse inventory, compare features, or learn more from the official sources:

❓ FAQ: Your Top Questions About Speeding Tickets Answered

Are some cars ticketed more often?

Yes. Data from insurance companies and traffic enforcement agencies consistently show that certain car models, especially affordable sports cars like the Subaru WRX, Toyota GR86/Scion FR-S, and Volkswagen GTI, have a higher percentage of drivers with speeding tickets. This is often due to the car’s performance capabilities and the demographics of their typical drivers.

Which car attracts police attention?

Cars that look sporty, fast, or aggressive tend to attract more police attention. Muscle cars like the Dodge Charger and Chevrolet Camaro, as well as performance sedans like the BMW 3-Series, often get noticed. However, it’s the driver’s behavior that ultimately leads to a ticket, not just the car’s appearance.

Is it true that red cars get pulled over more often?

No. The myth that red cars get more speeding tickets is largely unfounded. In fact, white cars get the most tickets by sheer volume because they are the most common color on the road. Law enforcement focuses on driving behavior, not color.

What are the penalties for speeding in different states?

Penalties vary widely by state and can include fines, points on your license, increased insurance rates, and even license suspension for excessive speeding. Some states have “super speeder” laws with additional fines for very high speeds. It’s best to check your local DMV or state police website for specifics.

Do sports cars get more speeding tickets than SUVs?

Generally, yes. Sports cars are designed for performance and tend to attract drivers who enjoy driving fast, leading to more speeding tickets. SUVs, being larger and often less agile, are less frequently associated with speeding violations, though exceptions exist.

How can I avoid getting a speeding ticket?

The best way is to obey posted speed limits and drive attentively. Use cruise control on highways, stay aware of changing speed zones, and save spirited driving for the track. Defensive driving courses can also help reduce tickets and insurance costs.

What are the riskiest driving behaviors that lead to speeding tickets?

Besides speeding itself, behaviors like aggressive lane changes, tailgating, distracted driving, and driving under the influence increase the risk of tickets and accidents. Speeding combined with these behaviors is especially dangerous.

Does the type of car I drive affect my insurance rates?

Yes. Insurance companies consider the make, model, age, and safety ratings of your car when setting premiums. Cars with higher performance or those statistically associated with more speeding tickets often have higher rates.

Are certain car models more prone to speeding?

Yes. Models like the Subaru WRX, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Volkswagen GTI, and Nissan 350Z have higher proportions of drivers with speeding tickets. This is linked to their performance capabilities and the driver demographics they attract.

What car color gets pulled over the most?

White cars get pulled over the most by volume, simply because they are the most common color on the road. Color itself is not a significant factor in traffic stops.

What kind of cars get the most speeding tickets?

Affordable sports cars and performance-oriented compact cars tend to get the most speeding tickets. These include the Subaru WRX, Toyota GR86/Scion FR-S, Volkswagen GTI, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and Nissan 350Z.

What car brand has the most tickets?

Brands like Subaru, Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Nissan frequently appear on lists of cars with the highest speeding ticket rates. This is due to popular models within these brands that appeal to speed enthusiasts.

What type of car gets the most speeding tickets?

Compact sports cars and sporty coupes are the types most associated with speeding tickets. These cars combine performance with affordability, attracting drivers who enjoy spirited driving.

📚 Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading

Ready to keep your driving record spotless? Remember, it’s not just the car you drive — it’s how you drive it. Stay safe out there! 🚗💨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads the editorial direction at Car Brands™, focusing on evidence-based comparisons, reliability trends, EV tech, and market share insights. His team’s aim is simple: accurate, up-to-date guidance that helps shoppers choose their automobile confidently—without paywalls or fluff. Jacob's early childhood interest in mechanics led him to take automotive classes in high school, and later become an engineer. Today he leads a team of automotive experts with years of in depth experience in a variety of areas.

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