Mazda Demio most stolen car in Canterbury

Canterbury Police have reported a “marked increase” in the number of Mazda Demio hatchbacks stolen in the last four months. 3,186 vehicles in total were stolen in the last six months, according to New Zealand Police. The Demio, sold as a Mazda2 in new vehicle dealerships, is a Japanese model imported into New Zealand and is the most stolen vehicle in Canterbury. Area prevention manager Paul Reeves said it also seemed to be a trend across other parts of New Zealand. "In order to deter offenders from stealing these vehicles, Police recommend that they are fitted with immobilisers and steering wheel locks and, where possible, parked securely at all times," he said. "Offenders see these vehicles as an easy target and believe police will not take a second look at them, which is not the case.” Traditionally, more powerful Japanese sedans have been the target of choice for car thieves, with the Honda Torneo, Mazda Familia, Subaru Impreza and Nissan Skyline topping the list in the past. But these sedans are making way for used hatchbacks, which are seeing a boom in New Zealand on the back of record import numbers. The Mazda Demio is currently the fifth top-selling car for used dealers, with 1,382 units sold so far this year. Last year, a total 5,529 units were sold.