AA Insurance has revealed the country's most stolen cars - and there's one make you might particularly want to avoid.

Honda Torneos have the dubious honour of being the most targeted cars, retaining the number one spot since their debut on the list in 2010.

"The Honda Torneo remains at number one and is the only Honda this year," says AA Insurance customer relations manager Amelia Macandrew.

"Honda Torneos were almost twice as likely to be stolen as all other vehicles on the list."

AA Insurance's own claims data shows the Mazda Familia in second position, followed by the Mazda Demio.

Thieves generally prefer older vehicles, the insurance company says, because they tend to have less sophisticated security features and are often easier to steal.

Ninety-six percent of theft claims for models in the top-10 list were for cars manufactured more than 10 years ago and the average value of a stolen vehicle claim from the list is $3940, according to AA Insurance's claims data.

Ms Macandrew says, while older cars are potential targets, new owners should not be complacent. She says ways to prevent a theft can include installing an alarm, a steering lock or considering a visible immobiliser.

"Thieves will always go for the easiest, fastest option, so it pays to make it harder for them, so they're not tempted," she says.

"It's in everyone's interests to make our cars as difficult to steal as we can - not only to avoid the stress and disruption of a theft, but also help keep car insurance as affordable as possible."

Top 10 Stolen Cars

(Source: AA Insurance claims data Jan 1, 2016-Dec 31, 2017)

Honda Torneo

Mazda Familia

Mazda Demio

Subaru Impreza

Nissan Sunny

Nissan Cefiro

Mazda Atenza

Subaru Forester

Nissan Terrano

Mazda Capella

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