Quick Summary: Car insurance pricing has changed. The Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR) approach scores newer cars on performance, damageability, repairability, safety and security. Drivers in Shropshire and Mid Wales can save by understanding these new levers.
Car insurance in 2026 rewards good choices more than it used to.
What you drive, where you park, and how you set up your policy can move the price significantly. Newer vehicles registered from August 2024 are assessed using the Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR) approach rather than the old 1–50 group system.
If you understand the levers, you can usually pay less. This applies across the UK, including drivers in Shropshire and Mid Wales (Shrewsbury, Telford, Newtown and surrounding areas).
10 Ways to Cut Costs at a Glance
| 1. Use VRR thinking |
Saves money for years |
| 2. Check the tech |
Sensors can increase repair costs |
| 3. Prioritise repairability |
Parts availability affects premiums |
| 4. Reduce theft risk |
Parking + security = big rating factors |
| 5. Consider telematics |
Good drivers save, regardless of age |
| 6. Re-quote annually |
Insurers price risk differently every year |
| 7. Be accurate |
Mileage, usage, parking: get these right |
| 8. Audit add-ons |
Avoid paying twice for cover |
| 9. Quote exact models |
Premiums vary hugely by trim |
| 10. Check Groups/VRR |
Compare spec before you commit |
1. What is VRR and how should you use it?
The short answer: VRR (Vehicle Risk Rating) is the new way insurers assess vehicle risk for cars registered from August 2024.
The vehicle receives an overall score from 1 (lower risk) to 99 (higher risk) based on five factors. Lower scores generally mean lower premiums.
The Five VRR Pillars
| Pillar |
What It Measures |
What Keeps It Low |
| Performance |
How powerful it is |
Moderate engine, sensible power |
| Damageability |
How easily it's damaged |
Strong crash structures |
| Repairability |
How quickly/cheaply it's fixed |
Common parts, easy access |
| Safety |
Crash protection + assistance |
Good Euro NCAP, modern features |
| Security |
Theft resistance |
Immobiliser, alarm, keyless protection |
Real-world tip: You might not always see a VRR score when shopping (especially on used cars). Treat VRR as a way of thinking: shortlist cars that are safe, hard to steal, and straightforward to repair.
Note: If you're buying a used car registered before late 2024, it will likely still use the traditional Insurance Group (1–50) system. The advice below applies to both.
2. Does more safety tech always mean cheaper insurance?
The short answer: Not always.
Modern driver assistance (AEB, lane assist, adaptive cruise) reduces accidents. But those same sensors and cameras can increase repair costs after minor bumps. The sweet spot is strong safety + sensible repair costs.
| Factor |
Impact on Premiums |
| Collision avoidance & lane assist |
↓ Reduces accidents |
| Expensive sensors & cameras |
↑ Increases repair costs |
| Best value |
Strong safety + simple repairs |
What works: Compare quotes between trims. We've seen customers save £150+ just by choosing a mid-spec over a top-spec on the same car.
3. Why does repairability affect costs?
The short answer: One of the biggest drivers of premiums is the cost to put your car back on the road after a claim. Cars that are quicker and cheaper to repair score better on VRR. That feeds directly into your premium.
Repairability Factors
- Parts availability: Common, widely stocked parts keep risks low.
- Repair complexity: Standard workshop equipment is cheaper than specialist tools.
- Previous repairs: Poor bodywork can make future repairs harder.
Practical tip: If you're buying used, ask about previous repairs. Our vehicle health checks can flag potential issues before you commit.
4. How does theft risk affect my insurance?
The short answer: Security is a core VRR pillar. Where you park overnight and how you protect your car are major rating factors. Reducing theft risk makes you easier to insure and can lower premiums.
| Action |
Why It Matters |
| Be honest about parking |
Garage > Driveway > On-street |
| Use a Faraday pouch |
Blocks relay theft (keyless cars) |
| Visible deterrents |
Steering locks still work |
| Keep keys away from doors |
Prevents signal boosting |
Catalytic converter theft is still a problem in some areas. If you're concerned, read our Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention Guide for practical steps.
5. Is telematics insurance worth it?
The short answer: Yes. Telematics (black box or app-based insurance) uses real driving data to price your policy based on how you actually drive.
If you drive smoothly and consistently, it can mean genuine savings. It's no longer just for new drivers. Many insurers now offer "app-only" telematics that track your driving via smartphone, with no box installation required.
Who It Works For
Good Fit: Steady style, mostly daytime trips, consistent routines, speed limit compliance.
Think Twice: Regular late-night driving, high-stress urban routes, irregular patterns.
6. Should I still compare quotes at renewal?
The short answer: Yes. Always.
The FCA's pricing rules mean insurers shouldn't charge renewing customers more than equivalent new-business prices. However, you can still find better deals because insurers price risk differently and their appetite changes month to month.
- Run comparison quotes 3–4 weeks before renewal.
- Keep cover consistent (compare like-for-like).
- Ask your insurer to match a better price.
7. Which policy details should I check every year?
The short answer: The "unsexy" details (mileage, usage type, overnight parking, voluntary excess) are where real savings happen without changing insurer. Get them right, and you avoid overpaying.
| Detail |
Common Mistake |
| Annual mileage |
Underestimating for a lower quote |
| Use type |
Choosing "Social" when you commute |
| Overnight parking |
Not updating after moving |
| Voluntary excess |
More than you can afford |
Important: Never "round down" details to get a cheaper quote. If it's wrong, claims can get rejected or reduced. That's a much more expensive problem.
8. How do I avoid overpaying for add-ons?
The short answer: A cheap headline premium can become expensive once add-ons are included. Before you click buy, check whether you already have the cover elsewhere.
Add-On Checklist
- Breakdown cover: Included with bank or warranty?
- Legal expenses: Bundled with home insurance?
- Courtesy car: Guaranteed? What size/type?
- Windscreen cover: Check excess and limits.
Quick win: Removing one unnecessary add-on sometimes saves more than switching insurer.
9. Is electric car insurance still more expensive?
The short answer: It depends on the model.
EV insurance can be higher on some vehicles (due to repair complexity and specialist parts) but it's not universally more expensive. The only way to know is to quote the exact car you're considering.
[Image of electric vehicle charging port]
Tip: Check if the insurer has an approved repair network for your specific brand of EV. If you're considering an electric or hybrid vehicle, our EV servicing team can talk you through real-world running costs.
10. How much does car choice affect long-term costs?
The short answer: Your vehicle choice is your biggest lever.
Two cars with the same purchase price can have completely different insurance costs over 12–36 months. When buying, pay attention to the Insurance Group (1–50) or the new VRR Score.
| Model |
Group (Est) |
Sweet Spot for Value |
| Hyundai Tucson |
12–25 |
1.6 petrol rates lower than PHEV |
| Kia Sportage |
15–27 |
Mid-range trims balance tech & cost |
| Mazda CX-5 |
15–27 |
Big gap between 2.0L and 2.5L |
| Honda HR-V |
30–32 |
Hybrid tech pushes this higher |
| KGM Torres |
32–33 |
Consistent for a large SUV |
| Isuzu D-Max |
35–50 |
Commercial ratings apply |
Pro Tip: If you're upgrading from 'SE Connect' to 'Ultimate' or 'GT-Line', check if the insurance jump fits your budget. A 5-group increase can add £100+ per year.
What is a "Good" Price in 2026?
We can't tell you exactly what you'll pay, but regional data gives us a helpful baseline. According to the Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index (Late 2025):
UK Average: ~£757/year
Central & North Wales / Shropshire: ~£524/year
What this means for you: If you're an experienced driver (e.g., 40+) with a full No Claims Bonus, you're in one of the UK's best-priced regions. If your renewal quote for a standard family SUV is significantly higher than £525–£600, it's definitely time to shop around.
Local Note: Shropshire & Mid Wales Drivers
At JT Hughes, we know our region. If you're in Shrewsbury, Telford, Newtown or nearby, the biggest quote movers are usually:
- Postcode: Rural to town centre changes quotes.
- Overnight parking: Rural vs urban matters.
- Annual mileage: High if lots of rural/commuting miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question |
Answer |
| What is the Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR)? |
VRR is the newer way insurers assess vehicle risk, using five pillars: performance, damageability, repairability, safety and security. The vehicle receives an overall score from 1 (lower risk) to 99 (higher risk). |
| Does VRR replace insurance groups? |
For vehicles registered from August 2024, VRR is replacing the old 1–50 group system over time. Older vehicles still use group-style ratings. |
| Do safer cars cost less to insure? |
Often yes, but it depends. Safety tech reduces accidents, while expensive sensors can increase repair costs. Best value: strong safety + sensible repairability. |
| Is telematics insurance only for young drivers? |
No. Telematics works for drivers of any age. It mainly depends on driving style and when/where you drive. |
| Does my postcode affect my premium? |
Yes. Postcode and overnight parking are core rating factors. Moving house, even within Shropshire or Mid Wales, can change quotes. |
Disclaimer: Insurance groups and VRR scores listed are for general guidance only and are based on data available at the time of writing (2026). Pricing estimates for the region are based on the Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index (Q3 2025); individual premiums are determined by insurers based on personal circumstances, driving history, and location. Always get a specific quote before purchasing a vehicle.