Turbocharged engines have become increasingly popular in recent years, appearing in everything from compact cars and SUVs to high-performance sports vehicles. These engines offer more power, better fuel economy, and a fun driving experience but what does that extra boost mean for your insurance bill?
Many drivers ask the same question:
Are turbo cars more expensive to insure?
The short answer is: Yes, turbocharged cars often cost more to insure but not always. Whether your rate goes up depends on the type of turbo vehicle, how it’s driven, and how insurers assess the associated risk.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- What a turbocharged engine is
- Why insurance premiums may be higher
- Which turbo vehicles are more costly
- How much extra you might pay
- Tips to save on turbo car insurance
Let’s get into the details so you can make an informed (and budget-smart) decision.
What Is a Turbocharged Engine?
A turbocharged engine uses a turbine-driven forced induction system (aka turbocharger) to increase the amount of air entering the engine, resulting in greater horsepower and efficiency without needing a larger engine.
In simpler terms, turbocharged engines:
- Deliver extra power from a smaller engine
- Improve acceleration and torque
- Often offer better fuel economy under light loads
Because of their performance characteristics, many people associate turbos with sports cars but they’re increasingly common in daily drivers, family SUVs, and even sedans.
Why Do Turbo Cars Cost More to Insure?
Insurers base premiums on risk and turbocharged vehicles often represent a higher risk due to several key factors.
1. Higher Performance = Higher Risk
Turbocharged engines provide more power and acceleration, which can:
- Encourage faster driving or aggressive acceleration
- Increase the risk of accidents or traffic violations
- Attract younger or performance-oriented drivers (who statistically have higher claim rates)
From the insurer’s perspective, more power = more risk = higher premiums.
2. More Expensive Repairs and Maintenance
Turbos involve:
- Complex engineering
- Specialized parts (intercoolers, high-pressure lines, etc.)
- Higher repair and labor costs if they fail
Even routine maintenance may cost more. Because of this, insurers may increase your comprehensive and collision rates to reflect the higher potential payout in the event of damage.
3. Higher Vehicle Value
Cars with turbocharged engines often belong to higher trims or performance variants, meaning they:
- Cost more to replace
- Have additional luxury or tech features
- Lead to higher total-loss payouts
Even a modest hatchback with a turbo engine may cost thousands more than its non-turbo base version.
4. Statistical Claim Data
Insurers use historical data to assess risk. If models with turbo engines show higher rates of accidents, speeding tickets, or claims, the rates for those vehicles and similar ones go up.
How Much More Does It Cost to Insure a Turbo Car?
The increase in cost varies based on:
- Your age, driving record, and location
- The specific make and model
- The insurer’s risk model
Sample Premium Comparison (Annual)
| Vehicle | Engine Type | Avg. Premium |
| Honda Civic LX (non-turbo) | 2.0L NA | $1,630 |
| Honda Civic EX (turbo) | 1.5L Turbo | $1,795 |
| Ford Escape S | 2.5L NA | $1,710 |
| Ford Escape Titanium (turbo) | 2.0L Turbo | $1,890 |
| Subaru WRX (high-performance) | 2.4L Turbo | $2,480 |
| Volkswagen GTI | 2.0L Turbo | $2,350 |
On average, turbo variants of everyday cars cost 5% to 15% more, while high-performance turbo models can cost 25% to 60% more to insure.
Are All Turbo Cars Expensive to Insure?
No. Not all turbocharged vehicles result in expensive premiums. It depends on the type of car and how it’s driven.
Turbo Vehicles with Lower Insurance Costs:
- Honda Civic EX
- Hyundai Sonata 1.6T
- Mazda CX-5 Turbo
- Toyota Corolla GR (modest variants)
- Chevy Equinox Premier Turbo
These models offer moderate power with strong safety ratings offsetting some of the risk.
Turbo Vehicles with High Insurance Rates:
- Subaru WRX
- Ford Mustang EcoBoost
- Audi S4
- BMW 330i xDrive
- Mercedes-AMG variants
These are often driven harder, have higher theft rates, and cost more to repair.
Other Factors That Impact Turbo Car Insurance
In addition to the engine type, your rate depends on:
| Factor | Impact on Premium |
| Age and driving history | High |
| Location (ZIP code) | High |
| Credit score (in most states) | Moderate to high |
| Vehicle safety features | Moderate to low |
| Annual mileage | Moderate |
| Anti-theft devices | Low to moderate |
So, while the turbo engine may raise your base rate, your personal profile plays a major role too.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Turbocharged Vehicle
Pros:
- Better fuel economy than V6s or V8s
- Strong acceleration and responsive handling
- Smaller, lighter engines = better efficiency
- Often better resale value
Cons:
- More expensive to insure
- Costlier to repair or maintain
- Turbo lag (delay in acceleration) in some models
Higher potential for driver risk classification
How to Save on Turbo Car Insurance
If you’re set on driving a turbo vehicle, here are smart ways to keep your insurance premium manageable:
1. Compare Quotes From Multiple Insurers
Some companies penalize turbo engines more than others. Use a tool like Alias Insurance to:
- Compare premiums
- View coverage side-by-side
- Filter by vehicle type, ZIP code, and risk level
2. Raise Your Deductibles
A higher collision or comprehensive deductible can significantly lower your monthly premium just make sure you can afford it if you need to file a claim.
3. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Many insurers offer discounts up to 10% for completing a certified safety course especially valuable if you’re under 25.
4. Bundle Policies
Combine auto and renters/homeowners insurance for multi-policy discounts of up to 25%.
5. Drive Responsibly
After buying a turbo car, avoid:
- Speeding
- Harsh acceleration
- Unnecessary modification
Clean driving keeps your rate low even if your car has performance potential.
6. Choose a Turbo Car with High Safety Ratings
Features like:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
…can lower your insurance rate and protect you on the road.
Real-Life Case Example
Driver: Olivia, 30
Location: Denver, CO
Vehicles Compared:
- 2022 Hyundai Elantra SEL (non-turbo): $1,540/year
- 2022 Hyundai Elantra N Line (turbo): $1,775/year
Decision: Olivia chose the turbo model for the power, but compared quotes through Alias Insurance and saved $380/year by switching to a provider that didn’t penalize performance as heavily.
Olivia said:
“I knew the turbo would cost more, but the rate difference wasn’t as bad as I expected and it’s worth it for the fun factor!”
FAQs: Turbo Cars and Insurance
Yes. Young or new drivers with turbocharged cars are seen as higher risk due to age and engine performance, often resulting in steep premiums.
No. Some insurers weigh turbo engines more heavily than others. That’s why it pays to compare rates across providers.
Yes. Engine mods, performance chips, or aftermarket parts can increase your premium or lead to denial of claims if not disclosed.
Some performance turbo models (like Subaru WRX or BMW 3 Series) have higher theft rates, which can raise comprehensive insurance costs.
If insurance affordability is your top concern, stick to moderate turbo trims or naturally aspirated vehicles with strong safety records.
Final Thoughts
So, are turbo cars more expensive to insure?
In many cases, yes, but not always. The type of vehicle, how it’s driven, and your insurer’s risk model all play a role.
Here’s what to remember:
- High-performance turbo vehicles = higher risk = higher premium
- Everyday turbo cars with great safety ratings may only see a modest rate bump
- You can control your cost with smart vehicle choices, safe driving, and comparison shopping
Looking for the best turbo car insurance rates in your area? Use Alias Insurance to compare top quotes and make your next move with confidence.
