Insurance and factory options ....
Originally posted by gonnandgotone
the ABI ratings [take] into account the full potential range of factory fitted optional euipment available from the company selling the vehicle...
That's exactly how it works. Any other system would be impossibly complex to work - for example, you'd have to rate a Cooper with the Chili pack as a completely different model, in a higher group. And almost every MINI made last year would be considered "modified."
NU's proposal form/statement of fact says "Have any changes been made to the maker's specification...?" Opting for bigger alloys, or CD changer, or Chili pack, is still part of the maker's specification - it's just an option.
As far as being under-insured is concerned, just make sure that you specify the true total cost of the car with all the options (i.e what you're paying the dealer). Insurers don't even use the value you state to work out the premium - unless the car is extremely valuable.
And make sure that your policy includes "new car replacement." That way the insurer will buy you a new car of the same specification, if yours is nicked or is damaged beyond 50%/60% of the new list price in its first year.
It's understandable to be cautious when dealing with insurers but if I'd made the "mistake" of being "too honest" about my options (like some people have) I'd be pretty miffed at being charged extra. Those that have been surcharged should ask for some money back!!