12 Most Reliable SUVs in Canada to Buy Now
Finding the most reliable SUV is something that might be important as you prepare to buy your next new or used vehicle. Learn which SUVs rate as the most dependable for Canadian drivers.
If you’re in the market to purchase a new or used SUV, you might be wondering which ones are the most reliable and can get you where you need to go. While there are plenty of sport utility vehicles on the road, some rate better than others when it comes to dependability, cost and features. We’re making your search for the most reliable SUVs easier by doing the legwork of comparing vehicles for you. We’ve analyzed ratings across the board to find the 12 SUVs that rate best for reliability for Canadian drivers.
12 Most Reliable SUVs in Canada to Buy Now
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Kia Sorento
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota C-HR
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Mazda CX-9
- Toyota 4-Runner
- Kia Niro
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Ford Expedition
- Hyundai Tucson
- Buick Encore
1. Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox is one of the most dependable compact SUVs on the road according to J.D. Power, and it’s designed to fit virtually any lifestyle. The 2020 model seats up to five passengers, leaving plenty of room for running errands as a family or taking a weekend camping trip with friends. In addition to being a reliable SUV option, it’s also one of the safest vehicles on the road which can give drivers peace of mind. You can expect to pay a starting price of around $40,000 for a brand-new Equinox but if you’d rather buy used, you can pick up a 2018 model for between $22,000 and $32,000.
2. Kia Sorento
There’s a lot to like about the Kia Sorento, starting with its high-reliability ratings. Aside from being a vehicle you can count on, the Sorento features one of the best warranty programs around, covering drivers for up to five years and 60,000 miles standard. The 2019 model earned excellent crash test safety ratings and it also gets high marks for being a fuel-efficient midsize SUV. Pricing starts at $30,995 and that includes features like dynamic all-wheel drive, built-in UVO Intelligence and smart cruise control. All around, it’s one of the most reliable SUV picks for families.
3. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander offers a comfortable and smooth ride, along with plenty of dependability at a price that’s affordable. This is the only hybrid midsize SUV you can buy in Canada, so that’s a plus if you’re looking for a vehicle that’s both fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. The standard engine may suit you if you just need something for tooling around town but if you’d prefer more power, you can upgrade to a V6. The 2019 Highlander starts at $37,300 but you can find 2017 to 2019 used models in the $25,000 to $27,000 range if you’re looking for the most reliable used SUV at a discount.
4. Toyota C-HR
If the Highlander is a bit more vehicle than you need, you might try the Toyota C-HR instead. The C-HR is a subcompact SUV that’s proven itself to be both reliable and fun to drive. It’s got an eye-catching design and comes with many of the same standard safety features you’d expect in a larger SUV. One thing to note is that this subcompact SUV features front-wheel drive rather than all-wheel drive, which might matter to you if you’re planning on doing any driving over rougher terrain. Aside from that, it’s a solid buy for budget-focused drivers, with the 2019 model starting at $23,675.
5. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse ranked as the Most Dependable Midsize SUV in the U.S. for 2018, according to J.D. Power. This SUV is great for families who are looking for a vehicle that combines dependability with plenty of room and upgraded features. The Chevy Traverse also rates exceptionally well for safety and it provides a comfortable ride for trips across town or across the country. The manufacturer suggested retail price for current year models is $35,900 but it’s possible to find used models selling for under $20,000.
6. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is a reliable, full-size SUV that features seating room for seven and a superior driving experience. This sport utility vehicle comes equipped with a turbo-charged engine and it gets excellent fuel mileage when driving in town or on the highway. Adjustable heated front seats, climate controlled zones and Apple CarPlay add to this SUV’s comfort. Price-wise, 2016 models can go for under $30,000 while a 2018 model might cost closer to $40,000, depending on the included features.
7. Toyota 4-Runner
The Toyota 4-Runner is another midsize SUV that ranks well for reliability. Aside from being one of the most dependable sport utility options on the road, it’s also one of the most affordable when buying used. If you have a larger budget for buying, new models start at $48,120. This SUV’s rugged design and capabilities make it a possible contender if you’re looking for something you can drive off-road. It’s also functional and comfortable enough to make it suited for running errands or making the daily commute.
8. Kia Niro
Drivers who are interested in a hybrid SUV that rates as one of the most reliable SUVs might like the Kia Niro. It’s one of the best in class for hybrid vehicles when it comes to fuel efficiency and it handles well on the open road. The Niro offers plenty of leg room and regenerative braking to help you get the most mileage possible from every drive. As far as the price goes, the 2019 model rates as one of the more affordable dependable SUV options, with an MSRP of $25,495. The all-electric EV EX Niro starts at $44,995.
9. Volkswagen Tiguan
As reliable SUVs go, the Volkswagen Tiguan is a crowd-pleaser for families who are looking for safety, dependability and sporty design. This midsize SUV has just the right mix of power and efficiency to make it versatile enough for making the daily rounds or planning weekend excursions. The 2015 used Tiguans sell for around $15,000 to $16,000 but you can also find newer models for less than $20,000. The MSRP for new Tiguans is $29,225, so it’s still pretty affordable compared to some of the other SUVs on the list.
10. Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition is one of the most reliable SUVs you can buy if you want a full-sized vehicle that’s great for towing and can accommodate the entire family. It’s one of the best in class SUVs for leg room and towing and despite being a larger SUV, it also fares well for fuel economy ratings. The interior is designed for maximum comfort and connected tech capabilities make it easy to go wireless when you’re on the road. Newer models start at $62,500 so this is one dependable SUV you might want to consider buying used if you’re looking for a bargain.
11. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is one of Canada’s most fuel-efficient vehicles and in terms of pricing, it’s fairly affordable with an MSRP of $25,599. This SUV is designed to meet your needs and fit your lifestyle, whether that involves driving for work or play. Features like all-wheel drive, downhill braking control, hill assist control and forward collision avoidance assist make it a great choice if safety is just as important to you as reliability. It also comes with nice tech extras like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a BlueLink connected car system.
12. Buick Encore
The Buick Encore is a small SUV that’s big on luxury. This SUV is designed for urban living but it’s still big enough for families to ride comfortably, seating up to five. The Touring model offers an exterior design that’s a bit spiffier than the Preferred model while the Essence comes loaded with features like leather interior and heated seats. The latest Preferred models start at $26,400 so it’s not a budget-breaker. If you’d like to spend a little less but still get a dependable SUV, it’s possible to find 2017 Encore models for around $2,000.
When buying a new or used SUV, you may be looking at spending a little more compared to a sedan or compact car. Financing the purchase may be necessary and it’s important to connect with the right lender. Birchwood Credit Solutions can help. We offer vehicle financing for buyers from a range of credit backgrounds, including those who’ve been through bankruptcy or divorce. We can also work with you if you’re a newcomer to Canada who has yet to establish credit so you can get behind the wheel of the SUV you want.
Browse our extensive vehicle inventory for the most dependable SUVs, along with cars and trucks. If you’re ready to learn what kind of financing terms you may qualify for, complete our quick and simple online application today.
