Lucky for us, the automotive market offers an SUV for all pockets and tastes. Most brands have at least one SUV on their inventory, and they can be surprisingly affordable and fit your lifestyle. We have done the research and compiled our picks for the top 6 best SUVs in Canada.
Looking for the Best SUV in Canada?
Most of the SUVs on this list have top-notch design and engine quality and offer a wide range of features that you can pick from and customize to your budget and preferences. These are powerful vehicles that have been redesigned to provide more technology, innovative safety and comfort options. And overall, they don’t fall short compared to luxury SUVs like the Lexus LX, the BMW X7 or the Infiniti QX80.
Our Picks for the Best SUV in Canada
Just like buying any car, you need to know which features are a priority for you as you shop around. The list below shows the top six best SUVs in Canada.
1 – Honda CR-V:
The Honda CR-V is the leading best-selling SUV in Canada for its family-friendly features. Aside from that, this vehicle displays a sporty design and innovative technology that will grant you a smooth ride in style. The CR-V has best-in-class fuel economy giving drivers peace of mind that they are reducing their carbon footprint. It’s also an affordable option, starting at $27,690. Aside from the spacious design, 90-degree rear door mobility, walk-away auto-lock, blind spot display, and available rain-sensing wipers (yes, this SUV fits all tastes), the CR-V also features a 1.5 litres, 16 valve, direct injection, Double OverHead Cam, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
2 – Toyota RAV4:
Choose between non-hybrid and hybrid models with eight-speed automatic transmission, six speakers to get you in the mood on a road trip, dynamic radar cruise control and three-year (or 60,000 km) warranty plus three-year roadside assistance with unlimited mileage. Similar to the Honda CR-V in price, the RAV4 standard model starts at $27,990 and features a 203 horsepower, 2.5 litres, 4-cylinder engine. Buyers can choose from all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive. Upgrades include heated front and rear seats, smart key system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, power moonroof, and power back door. It’s the car that can provide you with all the comfort you’re looking for if you’re willing to dig a little bit deeper into your pocket.
3 – Ford Escape:
Maybe one of the most inexpensive SUVs in this list, the Ford Escape starts at $25,899 and can come with a 2.5 litres Intake Variable Camshaft Timing, inline-four, 1.5 litres EcoBoost inline-four, or 2.0 litres Twin-Scroll EcoBoost inline-four engine, front or all-wheel-drive, and 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. The 2019 Ford Escape features more cargo space, hands-free, foot-activated liftgate and up to 3,500 towing capacity. The all-wheel-drive system monitors traction and road conditions, and buyers can choose from 18 safety options that include rear view camera, dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags, driver’s knees airbag, anti-theft system, and remote keyless entry.
4 – Ford Explorer:
For a more spacious option, the Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers with a cargo volume of 1,356 litres with seat area. The 2.3 litres EcoBoost inline-four engine with a 230-amp alternator and intelligent all-wheel-drive makes this SUV a great option for those who are looking for comfort, power, and edgy style. The Explorer’s engine can also be upgraded to 3.5 litres Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing with six valves or 3.5 litres EcoBoost V6. Its key features include LED Signature Lighting, 18-inch five-split-spoke sparkle silver-painted aluminum wheels and SiriusXM Radio with more than 130 channels to chose from.
5 – Jeep Cherokee:
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee features a brand new exterior design that still includes the seven-slot grille but has a resculpted front fascia with LED headlamps and a new one-piece aluminum hood that projects clean lines and premium aesthetic. Are your hands full? The new model comes with a hands-free power liftgate that is activated with the simple foot kick. The engine lineup features three choices, the 2.0 litres turbocharged inline-four, 2.4 litres Tigershark MultiAir inline-four, and the 3.2 litres Pentastar variable valve timing V6. All three engines feature Engine Stop/Start technology. The Cherokee also offers three all-wheel-drive systems made to ensure the right tire traction for any road condition.
6 – Mazda CX-5:
This model is also among the most affordable SUVs on this list. Its standard version starts at $27,850 and features a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre engine, improved steering that creates a more consistent drive and precise turning, and i-Activsense features that include Smart City Break Support and Advanced Blind Spot monitoring. If you prefer a quieter trip, the CX-5 will definitely keep up with your expectations, while also satisfying your hunger for great design with its Kodo “Soul of Motion” design described as a marriage between Japanese craftsmanship and innovation. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and available dual-zone climate control offer a comfortable ride for you and your passengers.
If you are on the lookout for a new SUV, check our inventory here.