Used cars can offer drivers good reliability and affordability, but Canadian drivers also require winter-ready cars that deliver performance in cold, harsh weather. Plenty of cars meet all these conditions, coming in the form of a compact, fuel-efficient sedan or a rugged, all-wheel-drive SUV, providing the best balance of longevity, safety, and cost-effectiveness for Canadian conditions. Here are the 25 best-used cars for Canadian drivers:
Toyota Corolla
Through the years, the Toyota Corolla has become a symbol of trustworthiness. According to iSeeCars, the Corolla engine has an 8.9 reliability score out of 10 and a life duration that can reach more than 200,000 miles on average. Besides, its fuel consumption is very economical, with 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on highways. The front-wheel-drive system of the Corolla will keep moving forward, even if the weather is not so favorable, due to stability and traction control.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is an exciting proposition in terms of value and features. RepairPal confirms its extreme reliability by scoring 4.5 points out of 5, higher than the average. The range of standard features in Kia’s Forte compact car is very impressive. The average annual cost for a Kia Forte repair is about $451, much less than the average of the compact car segment. The presence of heated seats and mirrors is essential in the Canadian climate, keeping the driver warm in the cold season.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra has established itself as a reliable, compact sedan. Its annual maintenance costs average around $452, making it budget-friendly for used car buyers. It also has heated seats and a steering wheel, enhancing winter driving comfort. The car was named North American Car of the Year in 2012, highlighting its industry recognition.
Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta combines European design with commendable reliability. Its average lifespan is approximately 133,405 miles, ranking 11th out of 43 in the Most Reliable Small Cars category. The Jetta’s turbocharged engines balance performance and fuel efficiency, averaging 30 mpg combined. It also has heated seats and mirrors and is well-suited to Canadian winters.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is known for its longevity and reliability, with some guaranteeing it to last 200,000 miles. It is a durable vehicle with low maintenance needs. Its front-wheel-drive system and balanced handling make it perfect for navigating snowy conditions for Canadian drivers.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima offers a comfortable ride with reliable performance. It is a reliable car, with average annual repair costs around $483, lower than the midsize car average. The Altima has an all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction on slippery roads. It was one of the first midsize sedans to offer all-wheel drive, setting a trend in its segment.
Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan known for its reliability. It is a dependable choice with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5 from RepairPal. The Sentra’s fuel economy averages 29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, making it economical for daily use. The standard front-wheel-drive system provides adequate performance in winter conditions when equipped with appropriate tires.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has a standard all-wheel-drive system that provides exceptional traction in snowy and icy conditions. It has good reliability ratings and offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which allows it to navigate through deep snow effectively. It has been a top choice among Canadian drivers seeking adventure and practicality.
Chevrolet Malibu
The Chevrolet Malibu offers a comfortable ride with commendable fuel efficiency. Its high-reliability rating reflects its dependability, and average annual repair costs are approximately $532, aligning with the midsize car segment’s average. It is equipped with front-wheel drive and stability control that adequately handles winter conditions and is ideal for Canadian drivers.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 combines sporty handling with reliability and has an annual maintenance cost averaging around $433, which is lower than many competitors. The Mazda3’s fuel economy averages 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, and it appeals to budget-conscious drivers. Its available all-wheel-drive system enhances winter performance and offers a great design and performance that appeal to used car buyers.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage stands out in the compact SUV segment for its reliability and winter readiness. According to J.D. Power, the Sportage holds a reliability rating of 87 out of 100, indicating above-average dependability. Its available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on snowy and icy roads, which is crucial for Canadian winters. Fuel efficiency is commendable, with the Sportage averaging 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 has consistently been a top choice for Canadian drivers seeking reliability and winter capability. Consumer Reports ranks the RAV4 as the most reliable vehicle, underscoring its dependability. The RAV4’s available all-wheel-drive system and 8.4 inches of ground clearance make it excellent at handling snowy conditions. Its impressive fuel economy, averaging 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, makes it the perfect car for Canadian drivers on a budget.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is renowned for its off-road capabilities, which translate well to winter driving conditions. It has a robust four-wheel-drive system and excels in deep snow and challenging terrain. It is highly rated for its reliability and has modest fuel efficiency with averages of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson offers a compelling mix of reliability, safety, and winter readiness and reflects above-average dependability. Its available all-wheel-drive system enhances stability on slippery roads, essential for Canadian winters. The fuel economy is competitive, averaging 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is known for its powerful engine options and substantial towing capacity. It has an available all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction in winter conditions and makes it more reliable for Canadian winters. Its fuel efficiency varies by engine choice but averages around 19 mpg combined. It shares its platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, benefiting from its off-road heritage.
Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza stands out in the compact car segment by offering a standard all-wheel drive that provides enhanced stability and traction during Canadian winters. It is recognized as one of the best used all-wheel-drive cars under $25,000. It has good fuel efficiency, averaging 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The Impreza has a motorsport legacy in rally racing that showcases its performance capabilities.
Audi Q5
The Audi Q5 combines luxury with performance, making it a desirable choice for Canadian drivers. It has Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system and provides superior handling in winter conditions. It is a reliable car with an estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers versatility with its range of engine options and available all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of mixed reliability reports as specific models have been subject to recalls due to fire risks associated with incomplete software updates. Despite all this, it offers commendable fuel efficiency, averaging 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, making it a cost-efficient option.
Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer re-entered the market as a compact SUV with modern features and styling. It provides an all-wheel-drive system suitable for winter conditions and has achieved good reliability ratings. It also has impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, making it an appealing option for Canadians seeking used cars.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan combines European design sensibilities with practical features. The 4 MOTION all-wheel-drive system is available, enhancing traction on slippery roads, which benefits Canadian winters. The Tiguan has also achieved good reliability ratings. Its fuel economy averages around 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, making it a good choice for those seeking cost-effective vehicles.
Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue has earned a strong reputation in the compact SUV category. It offers a comfortable and refined ride and has an available all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction on snow-covered roads. The Rogue demonstrates above-average dependability in the used car market, and its fuel efficiency is another strong suit, with an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. It is a great, cost-effective choice for daily commutes and long drives, and its ProPILOT Assist further helps reduce driver fatigue during long winter road trips.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a top choice for Canadian families seeking a spacious, winter-ready SUV. It is equipped with an Intelligent 4WD and a Terrain Management System, enabling it to adapt to different road conditions, from icy highways to snow-covered trails. It also has multiple engines, including a 300-hp 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost and a more powerful 400-hp twin-turbo V6, ensuring strong performance. The Explorer consistently earns high-reliability ratings, and its decent fuel efficiency, averaging 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, makes it a secure choice for Canadian driving.
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that balances affordability with practicality, making it a solid choice for Canadian drivers with a combined fuel efficiency of 24 mpg. Its available Dynamax™ AWD system provides enhanced grip on slippery roads, and the heated seats and heated steering wheel make winter commutes more comfortable. Third-row seating makes it a great option for families needing extra passenger space. The Sorento is more economical than many other midsize SUVs and is a great option for a used car.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is one of Canada’s most reliable and winter-capable sedans. The optional AWD system, introduced in recent models, gives it an edge over competitors in snowy conditions. With proper maintenance, it regularly exceeds 300,000 km, providing owners with longevity and a dependable car. The fuel efficiency is outstanding, averaging 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, making it an economical choice for those who want winter reliability without the fuel costs of an SUV.
Lexus IS 250/350
The Lexus IS 250 and IS 350 blend luxury with performance and offer Canadian drivers all-weather capability. They have an AWD system that ensures stability on icy roads, and the IS 250 comes with a 2.5L V6 engine producing 204 horsepower. The IS 350 offers a 3.5L V6 with 311 horsepower, catering to those who enjoy a more dynamic drive. It is one of the most dependable luxury sedans, offering fuel economy, standing at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is decent for a performance-focused car.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
Electric vehicles are no longer a luxury for the elite—they’re a smart investment for the everyday driver. With manufacturers stepping up to the plate, affordable EVs now deliver on reliability, range, and modern comforts. Here’s a look at 18 economical electric cars engineered to outlast their payment plans.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
