SUVs and crossovers have taken over the Canadian market, earning their spot as the most popular vehicles. But with every manufacturer offering an SUV of some sort these days, which one do you choose? We’ve done the research for you.
According to the Consumer Reports Buying Guide, SUVs have gained popularity because they provide the best balance of interior space, fuel economy and engine power.
After researching through dozens of reviews, blogs and ratings, we’ve discovered the 20 most talked about SUVs in Canada:
- Toyota RAV4
- Honda CR-V
- Ford Escape
- Nissan Rogue
- Hyundai Tucson
- Mazda CX-5
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Chevrolet Equinox
- GMC Terrain
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Chevrolet Blazer
- Land Rover Range Rover
- Kia Soul
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Subaru Ascent
- Dodge Durango
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Porsche Cayenne Turbo
- Audi Q5
Top 10 Best SUVs to Buy in Canada
Toyota RAV4
Not only was it Toyota’s best-selling model last year, but Consumer Reports also granted it the title of most popular SUV of the year. By offering optional all-wheel drive, switching power automatically to all four wheels when roads are slippery, the RAV4 is particularly good on fuel. Plus, it’s also fairly affordable with 2018 models starting as low as $25,000.
Honda CR-V
This SUV comes close to the RAV4 in sales, sporting similar features to its competition, like the continuous variable transmission (CVT). Its extra features, such as heated steering wheel or powered seat with lumbar support, do come at an added cost though. This means it’s important to shop around for the best deal with the CR-V.
Ford Escape
As Ford’s best selling SUV, The Escape is a top pick with SUV buyers as it has higher ground clearance and fits more cargo than most other Ford models. Ford even claims the Escape has more features than any other SUV on the market. We’re not so sure about that. However, it does park itself, steer itself within a lane and hold its speed in cruise control to the speed of the vehicle in front, to name a few.
Nissan Rogue
The Rogue is Nissan’s best selling model in Canada for two main reasons:
- It’s the sportiest-looking of the compact SUVs on the market.
- It’s practical, offering tons of additional cargo space, like a wet and dry divider and luggage compartment.
Hyundai Tucson
This is a new generation for Hyundai and has helped the manufacturer keep up to its competition. Though it’s stylish and economic, it doesn’t have much of the “off-road” features you can count on with other SUVs. However, it does rate well across reviews for performance.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 makes our list as it was voted Best Small Utility Vehicle in Canada by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. Its sleek design with strategically placed lower headlights and stylish grill, elevate its look to a sports car level.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Known for its spacious interior and ability to seat seven comfortably, the Outlander is Mitsubishi’s most advanced cross-over yet. The main reason we’ve knocked it lower down on our list is that it hasn’t evolved much through the generations.
Subaru Crosstrek
This re-engineered model has new features from the ground up. The passenger cabin is more spacious and the design is sportier all while keeping the price point the same. At $23,000, you can’t go wrong with the Crosstrek.
Chevrolet Equinox
Very well fitted for its price, the Equinox is both comfortable and capable. Its turbocharged engine makes it especially capable for towing. But it received more reviews from Canadians when it came to cost.
GMC Terrain
The last SUV to make our list had pretty tough competition to beat for a higher spot, but it does check our boxes for fuel efficiency with its diesel engine as well as comfort with its soft suspension system. However, its low horsepower and luxury add-ons rank it at number 10.
At Birchwood Credit Solutions, we carry an extensive inventory of SUVs and crossovers. As a member of one of the largest network of car dealerships in Winnipeg, Manitoba, you can choose from our inventory of new and used cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans.
Related blog posts:
