The sprawling landscapes, bustling cities, and unpredictable weather in Illinois demands a versatile and reliable car. But with so many options on the market, choosing the perfect vehicle can be overwhelming. Cheap Insurance explores the choices of Illinois drivers to uncover the top 5 cars that rule the state’s roads. We’ll also explore the factors that influence car choices in Illinois and how to secure inexpensive auto insurance.
Key Takeaways:
- Illinois drivers prioritize factors like fuel efficiency, safety, and winter driving capabilities when choosing a car.
- The top 5 car models popular in Illinois include the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Explorer, Jeep Wrangler, and Honda CR-V.
- Features like AWD, heated seats, and winter tires are crucial for safe winter driving in Illinois.
- Fluctuating gas prices make fuel efficiency a major concern, but some drivers prioritize power and performance.
- Choosing a safe and reliable car with a good repair history can help get the best car insurance quotes in Illinois.
What Are the Top 5 Cars in Illinois?
- Toyota Camry: The Camry reigns supreme, offering a winning combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, reliability, and safety. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for families, while its reputation for longevity assures peace of mind on Illinois roads.
- Honda Accord: A perennial rival of the Camry, the Accord boasts a sporty driving experience, excellent fuel economy, and a long list of standard features.
- Ford Explorer: The Explorer caters to families and adventurers alike, offering ample space, a comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive for tackling winter conditions. Its towing capacity makes it perfect for weekend getaways with gear in tow.
- Jeep Wrangler: For those who crave adventure and off-road capability, the Wrangler is an Illinois icon. Its legendary 4WD system conquers any terrain, while its removable top provides an open-air driving experience perfect for sunny days.
- Honda CR-V: The CR-V strikes a perfect balance between a compact SUV and a family car. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, a comfortable interior with plenty of cargo space, and available AWD for winter driving.
What Do Illinois Drivers Consider When Choosing a Car?
Recognizing the unique challenges and preferences of Illinois drivers allows us to better understand their car choices.
Weather. Illinois experiences all four seasons, with harsh winters that can include snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Features like AWD, heated seats, and remote start become highly desirable during these times.
Terrain. While Illinois boasts flat plains in many areas, there are also hilly regions. Drivers who navigate these areas may prioritize features like good handling and a powerful engine.
Fuel Efficiency. Gas prices can fluctuate, and Illinois drivers often consider fuel efficiency as a major factor, especially for long commutes.
Safety. Safety remains a top priority for most drivers. Features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring are becoming increasingly popular.
Family Needs. For families, factors like seating capacity, cargo space, and passenger comfort become paramount.
Budget. The overall cost of ownership, including the purchase price, gas mileage, maintenance costs, and affordable car insurance, plays a significant role in their selection.
Features for Safe Winter Driving in Illinois
All-Wheel Drive (AWD). AWD provides superior traction in snowy and icy conditions, allowing full control of the vehicle in certain seasons. While not essential for all drivers, it’s a valuable asset for those who frequently encounter winter weather.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). ABS prevents wheels from locking up when applying the brakes, a standard feature on most modern vehicles.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC). ESC helps prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically adjusting engine power and braking to individual wheels.
Traction Control System (TCS). TCS helps prevent wheels from spinning when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
Heated Seats and Steering Wheel. These features provide warmth and improve grip, making winter driving more comfortable. While they don’t provide a direct safety benefit, they can help maintain driver focus and alertness during inclement weather.
Winter Tires. Investing in a dedicated set of winter tires with deeper treads and softer rubber compounds can significantly improve traction in snow and ice.
What Affects Car Insurance in Illinois?
- Safety Features: Cars with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and airbags often qualify for cheap auto insurance.
- Theft Rates: Cars with higher theft rates typically cost more to insure.
- Repair Costs: Vehicles with expensive parts or a history of high repair costs can lead to higher auto insurance quotes.
- Engine Size and Performance: Cars with larger engines and higher horsepower are generally considered riskier to insure so compare auto insurance quotes.
Some tips for drivers when looking for auto insurance quotes in Illinois.
Shop around and compare cheap car insurance quotes from multiple insurance carriers.
Maintain a good driving record. Traffic violations and accidents can significantly increase the cost of auto insurance.
Take advantage of discounts. Many insurance companies offer discounts for low mileage drivers, defensive driving courses, good student, insuring multiple vehicles and bundling auto insurance with other policies, such as home insurance, or motorcycle insurance.
Consider raising deductibles. A higher deductible can result in inexpensive car insurance, but it means having to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim.
