For many Canadians, buying a brand new SUV is out of reach. High prices, steep insurance premiums, and depreciation make older used SUVs an attractive option. Vehicles that are more than a decade old can still offer reliability, capability, and value, especially if you pick the right model. In a country where snowstorms, rural backroads, and long stretches of highway are part of daily life, a tough and trustworthy SUV can make all the difference. Here are some of the best used SUVs more than ten years old that Canadians still swear by.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has long been one of the most reliable family SUVs on Canadian roads. Older models from the mid 2000s and early 2010s are still running strong thanks to solid V6 engines and Toyota’s reputation for durability. Canadians value the Highlander because it strikes a perfect balance between practicality and comfort. It is large enough to haul a family and gear, yet still easy enough to live with in city traffic. In provinces where harsh winters are the norm, the available all wheel drive system makes it an excellent companion. Finding one with a clean history can give you years of dependable driving.
Honda CR V
The Honda CR V is another compact SUV that has proven itself over decades. Older models more than ten years old continue to run reliably with basic maintenance. Canadian drivers like the CR V because it is affordable to maintain, has excellent visibility, and handles winter roads better than many rivals when equipped with all wheel drive. It may not be flashy, but it is one of those vehicles that simply does its job year after year. For buyers looking for a used SUV that won’t empty their wallet, a well cared for CR V remains a top choice.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 has been a Canadian favorite since its introduction in the 1990s. By the third generation in the mid 2000s, it had matured into a roomy, efficient SUV with powerful engines and available AWD. Older RAV4s are particularly valued in Canada because they hold up well against rust when properly maintained and because parts are plentiful across the country. Many owners praise their ability to power through snow and slush without drama. For budget minded Canadians looking for a reliable compact SUV, the RAV4 is one of the safest bets.
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is often considered one of the best winter vehicles available, especially in older form when it kept things simple. Canadian drivers appreciate that every Forester came with symmetrical all wheel drive, giving it an edge over rivals in snowy conditions. Even models from the mid 2000s are still running strong, although buyers should keep an eye on common Subaru issues like head gaskets. When maintained, the Forester is an affordable and confidence inspiring SUV that feels built for Canada’s backroads and long winters.
Toyota 4Runner
Few SUVs have the reputation of the Toyota 4Runner. Older models, especially from the early to late 2000s, are prized for their body on frame toughness and off road ability. Canadians living in rural or northern areas often rely on the 4Runner for its ability to handle deep snow, gravel trails, and heavy towing. While fuel consumption is higher than smaller SUVs, the payoff is durability and capability that few vehicles can match. A well kept 4Runner with minimal rust can easily last for decades, making it one of the most legendary used SUVs you can buy in Canada.
Lexus RX
The Lexus RX is essentially a more luxurious version of the Highlander, which makes it a great used buy for Canadians who want comfort without giving up reliability. Older RX models from the mid 2000s deliver smooth V6 power, plush interiors, and plenty of features that still feel modern today. Canadian buyers like that the RX combines refinement with the same winter capability that Toyota vehicles are known for. Maintenance costs are higher than the Highlander, but for those willing to invest, the RX rewards with comfort and longevity.
Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute
The Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute share much of their engineering, and both became popular budget SUVs in Canada in the late 2000s. They are often found at reasonable prices on the used market and can be great value if properly maintained. Canadians liked their compact size, decent fuel economy, and available AWD, which made them suitable for both city life and winter conditions. When buying used, it is important to check for healthy transmissions, but once sorted, these SUVs can deliver many more years of service.
Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
For Canadians who need big space and strong towing ability, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have long been trusted choices. Older examples from the 2000s are rugged, with simple V8 engines that can handle high mileage when maintained. In rural Canada, these SUVs are common sights because they can pull trailers, carry large families, and still plow through snow covered roads. They are more expensive to fuel and maintain, but for buyers who need capability above all else, they are some of the best used SUVs available.
Nissan Xterra and Pathfinder
The Nissan Xterra and older Pathfinders have earned their reputation as adventure ready SUVs. Canadians liked them because they offered real off road ability at prices lower than comparable Toyotas. Their simple drivetrains made them durable in tough conditions, from logging roads in British Columbia to backcountry trails in Quebec. While they may lack the refinement of some rivals, their rugged character and reliability make them solid used buys for Canadians who spend as much time off pavement as they do on it.
Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX 5 is just now crossing the ten year mark, and early models are already proving themselves as excellent used SUVs. Canadians love the CX 5 for its combination of sharp handling, fuel efficiency, and comfortable cabins. While it may not be as rugged as a body on frame SUV, it is one of the most enjoyable crossovers to drive, and its AWD system is perfectly suited for Canadian winters. For buyers who want something modern yet affordable, the first generation CX 5 is quickly becoming a used market favorite.
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