Over 110 car insurance providers
Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
Michael Foote is the founder of Quote Goat and has over 20 years experience working in finance & insurance. Since launching Quote Goat he has appeared on TV as well as many of the largest online publications including Forbes, The Telegraph and The Metro. Prior to Quote Goat, he worked in finance in the city.
What Is Car Insurance Group 50?
Car insurance groups in the UK range from 1 to 50, with group 50 representing the highest risk category. Cars in this group typically cost the most to insure because they’re expensive to repair, attractive to thieves, or capable of high performance.
Insurers use these groups, determined by the Group Rating Panel, to assess the likelihood and cost of claims. Group 50 vehicles sit at the top of this scale, meaning premiums will be significantly higher than cars in lower groups.
Which Cars Fall into Group 50?
Group 50 includes some of the most powerful, luxurious, and technologically advanced vehicles on UK roads. Common examples include:
- Porsche 911 Turbo S
- Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S
- BMW M5 Competition
- Audi RS6 Avant
- Range Rover Sport SVR
- Tesla Model S Plaid
- Lamborghini Huracán
- Ferrari Roma
- Bentley Continental GT
These vehicles share characteristics that push them into the highest insurance group: powerful engines, expensive parts, advanced electronics, and high replacement values. Many also have desirable badges that make them theft targets.
Why Are Group 50 Cars So Expensive to Insure?
Several factors contribute to the high premiums for group 50 vehicles:
- Repair costs: Specialist parts, advanced materials, and limited authorised repair centres drive up claim costs
- Performance: High speeds increase accident severity and the likelihood of expensive claims
- Theft risk: Desirable brands and models are targeted by organised crime
- Replacement value: Total loss claims can reach well into six figures
- Technology: Complex systems like adaptive suspension, advanced driver aids, and carbon fibre bodywork are costly to repair
Insurers also consider that drivers of high-performance vehicles may be more likely to drive at higher speeds, though this depends on individual risk factors.
How Much Does Group 50 Insurance Cost?
Premiums vary widely based on personal circumstances, but group 50 policies typically start from several thousand pounds annually. Factors that influence your quote include:
- Age and experience: Younger drivers face substantially higher premiums
- Location: Urban areas with higher theft and accident rates cost more
- Claims history: Previous claims increase your premium
- Occupation: Some professions are viewed as lower risk
- Annual mileage: Higher mileage increases exposure to claims
- Security measures: Approved devices can reduce costs
- Where the car is kept: Garaged vehicles typically cost less to insure
A 45-year-old with a clean record in a rural area might pay £2,000 to £3,000 annually, while a 25-year-old in London could face premiums exceeding £10,000 for the same vehicle.
Ways to Reduce Group 50 Insurance Costs
While group 50 insurance will never be cheap, you can take steps to minimise your premium:
Increase Your Voluntary Excess
Offering to pay a higher excess if you claim can lower your premium. Balance this against what you can afford to pay out if the worst happens.
Enhance Vehicle Security
Installing Thatcham-approved alarms, immobilisers, or GPS trackers demonstrates you’re reducing theft risk. Some insurers require specific security measures for group 50 vehicles.
Limit Your Mileage
If you drive fewer miles, you’re statistically less likely to have an accident. Provide an accurate annual mileage estimate rather than overestimating.
Build Your No Claims Bonus
Protecting your no claims discount is worthwhile for expensive policies. Each claim-free year typically reduces your premium, though the effect diminishes at higher levels.
Consider Advanced Driver Training
Courses like Pass Plus or IAM RoadSmart qualifications can earn discounts with some insurers while improving your skills.
Pay Annually
Monthly payments seem convenient but usually include interest charges. Paying upfront eliminates this additional cost.
Compare Multiple Insurers
Not all insurers view group 50 vehicles the same way. Some specialise in high-performance or luxury cars and may offer more competitive rates. For general comparison guidance, you might find our approach to comparing car insurance in York helpful.
What Type of Cover Should You Choose?
For a group 50 vehicle, comprehensive cover is usually the only sensible option. Third party policies rarely offer meaningful savings on high-value cars and leave you exposed to enormous repair or replacement costs.
Consider these optional extras:
- Agreed value cover: Guarantees a set payout rather than market value
- Track day cover: Standard policies exclude circuit use
- Courtesy car: Ensures you’re not left without transport
- Legal expenses: Covers costs if you need to pursue an uninsured driver
- Breakdown cover: Though often cheaper purchased separately
Is Group 50 Insurance Right for You?
Group 50 insurance suits experienced drivers who understand the running costs of high-performance or luxury vehicles and can comfortably afford the premiums.
If you’re a younger driver looking to reduce insurance costs, a group 50 vehicle is unlikely to be financially viable. Consider building your experience and no claims bonus with a lower group car first.
How to Get a Quote for Group 50 Insurance
When comparing quotes, provide accurate information about your vehicle, driving history, and personal circumstances. Misrepresenting details to lower your premium can invalidate your policy when you need it most.
Review not just the price but also policy terms, excess levels, and what’s included as standard versus optional extras. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value if it excludes essential cover.
Ready to compare group 50 car insurance quotes? Use the button on screen to get started and find cover that protects your investment.
