Mitsubishi’s locally manufactured Magna and Verada are the hardest to steal of any of the locally produced large cars, while Lancer Evolution VIII ranked at the top of the list according to a large insurance company report recently released.

Changes made to Magna/Verada’s locking, as part of an extensive model upgrade last year, means that it is now harder to steal than any of its competitors, according to the survey.

Mitsubishi Magna and Verada models are at the top of the thieves’ “too hard” list when it comes to stealing large cars, with a score of 63.5.

This puts it clearly in front of Commodore on 61 and Falcon XT on 57.5.

When added to the other standard safety and security features – dual SRS air bags, side air bags, additional side intrusion bars, anti-skid brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, front seat belts with pre-tensioners, emergency door unlock for front and side impact, rest reminder, remote keyless entry with panic alarm, central locking, two-stage door unlocking, alarm, and anti-theft encrypted immobilisation – Magna and Verada make a compelling story for prospective discerning car buyers seeking a safe, secure and refined large Australian car.

However, Mitsubishi’s star performer in the survey was the white-hot Lancer Evolution VIII that also clearly outpointed its rivals. It was at the head of the list amongst expensive imported machinery, scoring 105 and putting it clearly ahead of BMW Z4 on 102 and Subaru WRX STi on 100.

Evo VIII enjoys its top rating because of the standard fitment of remote keyless entry, engine immobiliser, Data Dot security identification and Tracking and Alarm System.

Mitsubishi Motors’ President and CEO, Tom Phillips, said that he was pleased to see both cars perform so well in the survey, but he wasn’t surprised. “Mitsubishi is all about providing Australian motorists with refined, safe and secure cars with a spirited edge that are enjoyable to drive,” Mr Phillips said.