Car insurance is one of the largest expenses for Canadian drivers. In some provinces, premiums can be as costly as the monthly car payment itself. But not all vehicles are created equal when it comes to insurance. Companies calculate rates using accident statistics, cost of repairs, theft frequency, and even the typical profile of who buys the vehicle. That is why some cars consistently land at the bottom of the charts for insurance premiums, saving drivers hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. Here are ten of the cheapest vehicles to insure in Canada, and why they make sense for cost-conscious drivers.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has been Canada’s best-selling car for decades, and it is not just because of reliability and resale value. Insurance companies look favorably on the Civic because it is practical, safe, and easy to repair. Parts are widely available across Canada, which lowers repair costs and therefore claim payouts. Drivers in provinces like Ontario, where insurance is notoriously high, often see real savings with the Civic compared to other compact cars. For young drivers especially, the Civic provides an affordable entry point into car ownership without sky-high premiums.
Toyota Corolla
The Corolla is as close as you can get to a guaranteed low-cost ownership experience. Toyota’s reputation for dependability means fewer claims, while its strong crash test ratings lower insurer risk. The Corolla also has a lower profile in terms of theft compared to flashier vehicles, which keeps premiums down. Canadians who use their car for long commutes or family errands benefit from the combination of fuel efficiency, longevity, and affordable insurance. It is one of those rare cars where what you save at the dealership continues into your monthly insurance bill.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra has matured into one of Canada’s most popular cars over the last twenty years. Insurance rates for the Elantra tend to be low because it is equipped with strong safety features, crash ratings are favorable, and repairs are relatively inexpensive. Many Canadians appreciate that they can buy a well-equipped Elantra with modern features while still enjoying insurance premiums lower than comparable models. For drivers in provinces like Alberta or Manitoba, where premiums vary based on claim history, the Elantra’s track record for safety helps keep costs down.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is a close cousin to the Elantra and is just as budget-friendly when it comes to insurance. The Forte appeals to cautious, practical drivers, which reduces its risk profile in the eyes of insurers. Theft rates are relatively low, and parts availability has improved as Kia has grown its Canadian presence. For students and young professionals, the Forte is a particularly smart choice, balancing affordability at purchase with manageable monthly insurance costs.
Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf has always had a loyal Canadian following, and not just for its European driving feel. Insurance costs are surprisingly reasonable, especially for base and mid-range trims. The Golf’s small size, high safety ratings, and widespread availability of parts all keep premiums down. While performance versions like the GTI or Golf R cost much more to insure, the standard Golf is a sensible option for Canadians who want something fun to drive that is still cheap to own. In provinces with snowy winters, many owners opt for the Golf with winter tires rather than paying extra for pricier AWD crossovers.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 is a favorite in Canada for its mix of stylish design and driving fun. Insurance rates stay affordable because it has consistently earned top safety scores, it is less commonly targeted for theft than rivals, and repair costs remain modest. Canadian drivers enjoy that the Mazda3 feels more upscale than its price tag suggests, yet insurance premiums reflect its status as a safe and sensible compact. For drivers in Quebec and British Columbia, where insurance costs can swing wildly depending on vehicle class, the Mazda3 often represents a sweet spot of affordability and enjoyment.
Chevrolet Cruze
Though discontinued as a new model, the Chevrolet Cruze is still a popular option on the used market. It is consistently one of the cheapest cars to insure thanks to its safety ratings, affordable parts, and the sheer number of units sold in Canada. Insurers see it as a low-risk vehicle, driven by practical owners rather than thrill-seekers. For families and young drivers looking for a used car with low ongoing costs, the Cruze is still a strong contender. In provinces like Saskatchewan, where vehicle repair costs factor heavily into insurance, the Cruze’s inexpensive upkeep is an advantage.
Ford Focus
Like the Cruze, the Ford Focus is no longer sold new, but it continues to be one of the most affordable used cars to insure in Canada. Insurance companies favor it because it was a mass-market compact with strong safety features, making claims both less likely and cheaper to resolve. Canadians looking for budget-friendly motoring often turn to the Focus, especially in the hatchback version, which offers added practicality. Drivers in Atlantic Canada, where weather and road conditions are challenging, appreciate that the Focus remains cheap to insure while still being dependable.
Toyota Camry
For Canadians who want a larger sedan without taking a hit on insurance, the Toyota Camry is a standout. It has long been regarded as one of the safest and most reliable family cars, which keeps claims lower and premiums modest. Insurers reward its strong reputation, and many Canadian families benefit from its combination of comfort, space, and affordability. In Ontario, where family sedans can often carry higher premiums, the Camry is one of the exceptions, thanks to its proven safety and conservative driver base.
Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza is one of the few cars in its class to come standard with all-wheel drive, making it a natural fit for Canada’s snowy climate. Yet despite its added capability, insurance premiums remain low compared to SUVs or trucks. Safety ratings, Subaru’s reputation for reliability, and relatively modest repair costs all help keep premiums affordable. For Canadians in snowy provinces like Quebec and Alberta, the Impreza offers peace of mind without punishing insurance rates.
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