By

Tito Bucheli

Updated

April 2, 2024

Edited By

Fausto Bucheli Jr
Image Credit: Pixabay

Call For A Quick Auto Insurance Quote

An agent is ready to take your call on our CheapInsurance national network

(833) 391-2036

Florida, the Sunshine State, boasts beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and a unique driving landscape. From navigating bustling Miami streets to cruising scenic coastal highways, Floridians need vehicles that can handle diverse terrains and weather conditions. But what exactly makes a car or truck popular in Florida? Cheap Insurance unveils the top 10 choices and explore the factors that drive Florida’s car culture.

Key Takeaways:

  • Florida’s warm climate and flat terrain prioritize fuel-efficient, reliable, and comfortable vehicles.
  • Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic reign supreme among cars for their affordability and fuel efficiency.
  • Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado dominate the truck market with power and utility.
  • SUVs and Crossovers offer a popular blend of cargo space and car-like handling for Florida families.
  • Consider fuel efficiency, safety features, cargo space, and car insurance costs when choosing your perfect Florida ride.

 Florida’s Top 10: Unveiling the Most Popular Cars

Now, let’s dive into the top 5 most popular cars in Florida:

#1: Toyota Corolla – A Reliable Reign

The Toyota Corolla consistently ranks as the best-selling car in Florida, and for good reason. Renowned for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Corolla is a perfect choice for daily commutes and weekend getaways.  With a starting MSRP around $20,000, it offers excellent value for money.

#2: Honda Civic – Fuel Efficiency on the Go

The Honda Civic is another popular choice for its impressive fuel economy, sporty handling, and spacious interior for its size. It delivers an engaging driving experience while remaining practical for everyday use. Starting MSRP for the Civic sits around $21,000.

#3: Toyota Camry – A Mid-Size Favorite

The Toyota Camry offers a comfortable and spacious ride for families and individuals who need more legroom and cargo space than the Corolla. It delivers a smooth driving experience while maintaining good fuel efficiency.  The Camry’s starting MSRP is around $25,000.

#4: Honda Accord – Comfort and Confidence

The Honda Accord is a strong competitor to the Camry, offering a refined interior, comfortable seating, and a suite of driver-assistance features. It delivers a well-rounded driving experience for both city and highway commutes. The Accord’s starting MSRP sits around $26,000.

#5: Hyundai Elantra – Value Packed Choice

The Hyundai Elantra offers a compelling combination of affordability, features, and warranty coverage. It boasts a modern design, a comfortable interior, and a long list of standard equipment. The Elantra’s starting MSRP is attractive at around $19,000.

Florida’s Top Trucks: Built for Sunshine State Needs

Florida’s truck scene caters to both work and play needs. Let’s explore the top 5 most popular trucks:

#6: Ford F-Series – The Powerhouse Pick

The Ford F-Series, encompassing the F-150, F-250, and F-350, reigns supreme as the best-selling truck in the U.S., and Florida is no exception. Known for its towing capacity, powerful engines, and various configurations, the F-Series caters to both workhorses and adventure seekers.

#7: Chevrolet Silverado – A Reliable Contender

The Chevrolet Silverado offers a compelling alternative to the Ford F-Series. It boasts impressive towing and hauling capabilities, a comfortable interior, and a range of engine options.

#8: RAM 1500 – Luxury Meets Utility

The RAM 1500 stands out for its luxurious interior and impressive technology features. While offering strong towing capacities and comfortable accommodations for passengers, it caters to those who want a truck that feels more like a premium SUV. 

#9: Toyota Tacoma – Mid-Size Efficiency with Off-Road Potential

The Toyota Tacoma is a popular choice for those who want a mid-size truck that balances fuel efficiency with off-road capability. It offers a comfortable ride for daily commutes while boasting features that make it adept at handling light off-roading.

#10: Nissan Frontier – Value-Oriented Capability

The Nissan Frontier offers a compelling value proposition for truck buyers. It delivers a comfortable ride, a capable powertrain, and a long list of standard features at a competitive price point. 

Please note:

  • This list only includes new vehicle sales data for 2023.
  • This Data was from the top selling vehicles in the state of Florida: https://diminishedvalueofgeorgia.com/the-best-selling-cars-in-each-us-state/
  • While this list focuses on the top 10, it’s important to acknowledge the presence of other popular models and the influence of various factors on individual car buying decisions.
 
Image Credit: Pixabay

Beyond the Rankings: Other Popular Florida Vehicles

While the list above highlights the top contenders, Florida’s diverse landscape caters to a wider range of needs. Here are some additional popular vehicle categories:

  • SUVs: SUVs are a popular choice for families and those who need more cargo space and passenger capacity than a sedan. Popular options in Florida include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, all known for their comfort, practicality, and fuel efficiency.
  • Crossovers: Crossovers offer a blend of SUV functionality and car-like handling. Popular choices include the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Nissan Murano, all known for their spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and fuel efficiency.

What Drives Florida’s Car Choices? Is It Climate, Lifestyle Or Terrain

Unlike The Ten Most Popular Cars and Trucks in Texas, several key factors influence what Floridians drive:

  • Climate: Florida’s year-round warm weather means less need for powerful engines designed for cold starts. Fuel efficiency becomes more attractive, along with features like comfortable air conditioning.
  • Lifestyle: Florida’s active lifestyle often involves beach trips, outdoor activities, and frequent errands. Cars with good cargo space and fuel efficiency are ideal for running errands and weekend adventures.
  • Terrain: While Florida has some hilly areas, most of the state is flat. This reduces the demand for all-wheel drive vehicles and prioritizes comfortable cruising on highways and city streets.
 
Image Credit: Pixabay

Understanding Car Insurance Costs in Florida by Vehicle Type

  • Sedans:  Sedans generally fall into a lower car insurance cost bracket due to their smaller size and typically lower performance engines compared to trucks and SUVs. In Florida, you can expect to pay an average of $2,800 to $3,200 annually for full coverage car insurance on a sedan.
  • Trucks: Trucks tend to have higher vehicle insurance prices due to their larger size, powerful engines, and higher likelihood of theft. Full coverage insurance for a truck in Florida can range from $3,500 to $4,000 annually on average.
  • SUVs & Crossovers:  SUVs and crossovers typically fall somewhere in between sedans and trucks in terms of auto insurance costs. Depending on the specific model, size, and performance, full car insurance coverage for an SUV or crossover in Florida might range from $3,000 to $3,800 annually.
 

Remember, these are just averages. Your individual automobile insurance price will be influenced by various factors beyond the vehicle type, including:

  • Your age and driving record: Younger drivers and those with accidents or speeding tickets on their record will typically pay more.
  • Your location: Florida car insurance costs can vary depending on your zip code due to factors like thefts and accident frequency.
  • Your coverage level: Minimum car insurance coverage will be cheaper than full coverage car insurance, but it offers less protection in case of an accident.
  • Your driving habits: If you drive a lot or commute long distances, your insurance rates may be higher.
 

Once you’ve narrowed your options, research specific models and their features online. Schedule test drives to experience the vehicles firsthand and find the perfect fit for your Florida lifestyle.

By understanding the factors that influence car choices in Florida and exploring the most popular models, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect vehicle for your Sunshine State adventures.