Canada's love affair with the crossover shows no signs of cooling off, and it's easy to understand why. These versatile vehicles offer the elevated driving position and all-weather capability we crave, paired with the practicality and fuel efficiency that make them ideal for everything from city commutes to cottage country escapes. With nearly every automaker now offering multiple crossover options, narrowing down the field can feel overwhelming.
To simplify the search, we've assembled this list of the best crossovers available in Canada right now. From efficient hybrids and rugged adventure-ready models to spacious three-row family haulers, this guide covers a wide range of needs, budgets, and lifestyles. Whether buyers are shopping for their first SUV or upgrading from an aging model, these standouts represent the strongest options on the market today.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Best Crossovers in Canada for 2026
CarGurus expert rating: 8.2 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Crisp exterior and interior design that leads the compact SUV segment |
Underpowered engine feels even more sluggish with the added weight of this redesign |
| Standard AWD, a generous safety suite, and low starting price make it a strong value |
No hybrid option until 2027, so expect poor fuel economy |
| Noticeably improved rear passenger space and cargo room |
Aging six-speed automatic can't match the refinement of competitors' eight-speed transmissions |
The Mazda CX-5 arrives with a thoroughly reworked design that elevates it to the top of the compact crossover segment for visual appeal. A wheelbase extended by more than 11 centimetres translates directly into a more accommodating cabin, with class-leading rear headroom and 954 litres of cargo space behind the second row. Mazda has also leaned into premium materials and added a new 12.9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in as standard equipment, giving the interior a distinctly upscale ambience.
Power comes from a carryover 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower, sent to all four wheels via standard all-wheel drive. Acceleration won't set hearts racing, but the chassis preserves Mazda's hallmark engaging dynamics with quick steering and well-controlled body motions. Standard active safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, rounds out a thoughtful package for families.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The CX-5 is one of the best-looking and best-equipped compact crossovers you can buy, but its sluggish and thirsty powertrain and odd interior quibbles hold it back from greatness." - David Undercoffler, CarGurus Head of Consumer Insights
Read our full Mazda CX-5 review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple trims and styles |
Confusing trim levels |
| Standard hybrid |
Size hasn't kept up with rivals |
| Updated tech |
|
Now in its sixth generation, the Toyota RAV4 returns with sharper, more truck-inspired styling split across three design themes—Core, Rugged, and Sport—to appeal to a wide spectrum of buyers. The cabin makes smart use of every centimetre, with clever storage cubbies, comfortable accommodation for four adults, and 1,070 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. Drop those seats and the cargo hold opens up to 1,994 litres, plenty for a weekend's worth of family gear.
The big news is that hybrid power is now standard across the lineup. A 2.5-litre four-cylinder works with three electric motors to send 236 combined horsepower through a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The base LE returns a frugal 5.5 L/100 km combined. A tech overhaul brings a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a snappier touchscreen running Toyota's new Arene operating system.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In the Toyota RAV4, the good gets better. It has a hybrid drivetrain as standard offering excellent fuel efficiency along with more standard features and improvements across the board to bolster its bestselling position." - Robert Duffer, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Toyota RAV4 review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.7 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Great ride quality |
Underwhelming off-road chops |
| Efficient hybrid powertrain |
No SiriusXM radio |
| Easy-to-use technology |
Limited tech features |
The Honda CR-V Hybrid pairs everyday usefulness with strong efficiency, making it a natural pick for Canadian families. A two-motor hybrid setup mated to a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine produces 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, delivering smooth, near-instant response while returning 6.4 L/100 km combined in most all-wheel-drive variants. Practicality is a strong suit, too: 1,028 litres of cargo volume sits behind the second row, with a cavernous 2,030 litres available when the seats fold flat.
A new TrailSport trim joins the hybrid lineup this year, adding all-terrain tires, orange accent stitching, and a retuned all-wheel-drive system that can send up to half its torque to the rear axle for improved grip on slippery climbs. It's not a true off-roader, but the CR-V continues to shine where most owners actually drive—on the road—thanks to plush ride quality, precise steering, and a full Honda Sensing suite. A 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handles the connectivity duties.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The CR-V is one of the best compact crossovers on the market, and the hybrid powertrain only makes it better. If serious adventure and off-road driving are your things, though, the CR-V TrailSport may not be the right choice." - Matt Smith, CarGurus Head of Content
Read our full Honda CR-V Hybrid review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.1%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Fairly pedestrian performance |
| Great safety ratings |
X-Pro's underwhelming value proposition |
| Impressive technology |
|
The Kia Sportage continues to punch above its weight thanks to bold styling and serious everyday usability. The refreshed exterior leans into a rugged aesthetic, but the real story is inside, where rear-seat legroom leads the compact class. Families will also appreciate the 1,036 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,962 litres with them folded—numbers that make weekend adventures or Costco runs equally easy to manage.
Powertrain choice is among the best in the segment. A 2.5-litre four-cylinder making 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque anchors the lineup, with standard all-wheel drive on nearly every trim providing winter confidence. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions step things up, using a turbocharged 1.6-litre paired with electric motors to produce as much as 268 horsepower. An IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and comprehensive standard driver-assist tech round out the appeal.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The refreshed Sportage arrives with the competent execution we've come to expect from Kia. It can still rely on a unique design, excellent safety ratings, and a strong warranty." - Stephen Edelstein, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Kia Sportage review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.3 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable |
Not much cargo space |
| Quiet cabin |
|
The redesigned Volkswagen Tiguan brings a distinctly European flavour to the compact crossover field, with sleek styling cues borrowed from VW's EV family. The interior reflects a minimalist philosophy, anchored by a standard 12.9-inch touchscreen and digital instrument display. The third row is gone for this generation, but second-row occupants benefit with nearly four centimetres of additional legroom—a worthwhile trade for the way most Canadians actually use a compact SUV. Maximum cargo volume reaches 1,668 litres with the first row in place.
A 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder produces 201 horsepower and works through an eight-speed automatic, with VW's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system included as standard equipment. The suspension is tuned to absorb the kind of broken pavement that defines Canadian spring driving, contributing to a hushed and composed cabin. Standard active safety gear includes forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The new Tiguan is a handsome crossover and the only sub-luxury German option. However, amid an incredibly competitive field, the redesigned Tiguan does too little to separate itself from the crowd." - Mark Takahashi, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Volkswagen Tiguan review
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CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple powertrain options |
Design not to all tastes |
| Impressive technology |
Not as spacious as some rivals |
| Great warranty |
Expensive in top trims |
Now in its fifth generation, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a polarizing but rewarding pick for Canadian families. Its boxy, distinctive shape rides on a longer wheelbase that pays dividends inside, where three rows of seating come together with genuinely usable space. Lowering the third row opens up 1,148 litres of cargo room, and dropping the second row stretches that to 2,267 litres. A wider liftgate opening also makes loading bulky cargo notably easier than before.
Most Canadian buyers will gravitate to the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, which sends 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic and standard all-wheel drive. A 1.6-litre four-cylinder hybrid making 231 combined horsepower is also on offer for shoppers prioritizing efficiency. Inside, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto leads the technology charge.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size crossover that fashionable families will love. Though, those with more traditional tastes might find it all a bit too much." - Emme Hall, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Hyundai Santa Fe review
CarGurus expert rating: 7.2 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Multiple powertrain options |
XRT trim loses luxury features |
| Great ride quality |
Fuel economy lags behind top rivals |
| Spacious |
|
The redesigned Hyundai Palisade leans further into the comfort-first ethos that's made it a Canadian favourite, with room for up to eight passengers in a cabin Hyundai now dresses with mid-century modern accents. Material quality is impressive across the board, and the top Ultimate Calligraphy trim genuinely pushes into luxury territory. Cargo space measures 540 litres behind the third row and grows to a maximum of 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded—ideal for family vacations or hauling the season's gear.
A 3.5-litre V6 producing 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque is the standard powertrain, mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. New for this generation, a hybrid option combines a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors to deliver 329 combined horsepower. Whether it's a stop-and-go commute or a tow up to 2,268 kilograms, the Palisade delivers a calm, well-insulated ride.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Hyundai Palisade is an improvement over the model it replaces in every meaningful way. Consider it a top choice if you're in the market for a comfortable three-row SUV with space for the whole family." - Jeremy Korzeniewski, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Hyundai Palisade review
CarGurus expert rating: 8.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 25.2%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stylish design |
Outdated technology |
| Comfortable |
Irritating lane-assist system |
| Great safety ratings |
Sticky brakes in thick traffic |
The Kia Telluride continues to set a high bar for midsize three-row crossovers, blending upscale styling with thoughtful family-friendly touches such as available heated and ventilated second-row seats. Cargo capacity is generous, with 601 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,455 litres available when the rear rows are folded—well-suited to long road trips or a hockey team's worth of equipment.
Every Telluride uses a refined 3.8-litre V6 producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. The result is confident, smooth performance whether drivers are cruising through the city or venturing onto gravel roads. NRCan rates combined fuel consumption at 11.7 L/100 km, a reasonable trade for the cabin space and capability on offer.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Aging technology caused some irritation during a five-day road trip in the Kia Telluride. Otherwise, it was perfectly suited to long-distance travel whether rolling down a highway, roaming a major city, or romping down trails." - Christian Wardlaw, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Kia Telluride review
CarGurus expert rating: 6.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 15.7%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Spacious third row |
Uninspired styling |
| Standard advanced safety features |
Some technology only available with a subscription |
| Multiple powertrain options |
|
For Canadian families needing more elbow room than a standard Highlander provides, the Toyota Grand Highlander delivers a notably more spacious package. The third row alone offers roughly 15 centimetres of additional legroom, making it genuinely habitable for taller passengers. Cargo numbers are equally impressive, with 586 litres available behind the third row and a sizeable 2,761 litres on tap once the second and third rows fold flat.
Buyers in Canada have three powertrains to choose from, all with standard all-wheel drive. The base option is a 265-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder, followed by a standard hybrid that sips fuel at a combined 7.0 L/100 km. At the top of the range, the Platinum Hybrid Max combines the turbo-four with a hybrid system to produce 362 horsepower—enough for confident merging and up to 2,268 kilograms of towing capability.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Despite a few small foibles, the Toyota Grand Highlander is perfect for active families who need a bit of extra space and comfort." - Emme Hall, CarGurus contributor
Read our full Toyota Grand Highlander review
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CarGurus expert rating: 7.8 out of 10
CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 0.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Capable AWD |
Expensive |
| Smooth engine performance |
Trades fuel efficiency for AWD capability |
| Stylish design |
Unimpressive technology |
For Canadians who want efficiency without sacrificing capability, the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a compelling subcompact option. Its new hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-litre engine with two motor-generators to produce a combined 194 horsepower, sent to all four wheels through Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. The setup yields smoother acceleration than gas-only Crosstreks and delivers an estimated 7.6 L/100 km in real-world driving. With a 63-litre fuel tank on board, drivers can expect more than 800 kilometres between fill-ups.
Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid keeps the rugged-meets-refined theme going with standard heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof. Importantly, the hybrid battery doesn't eat into utility: 527 litres of cargo space sits behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,433 litres when folded. An 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handles infotainment duties, though it can be slow to respond. Standard X-Mode helps push through deep snow or mud when adventure calls.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With its attractive styling, comfortable interior, and tested AWD system, the Subaru Crosstrek delivers a terrific package, even if it's not as efficient as some larger (and more expensive) competitors." - Matt Smith, CarGurus Head of Content
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FAQ
What's the difference between a crossover and an SUV?
Crossovers are built on a car-based unibody platform, which typically results in a smoother ride, better fuel economy, and more car-like handling. Traditional SUVs use a body-on-frame design borrowed from trucks, offering greater towing and off-road capability at the expense of refinement. Most vehicles Canadians think of as SUVs today are actually crossovers.
Are hybrid crossovers worth the extra money in Canada?
For most Canadian drivers, yes. Hybrid crossovers typically deliver 20% to 40% better fuel economy than their gas-only counterparts, and that gap widens in the kind of stop-and-go traffic common in major Canadian cities. The fuel savings often offset the price premium within a few years of ownership, and resale values tend to remain strong.
Which crossovers are best for Canadian winters?
Any crossover with all-wheel drive and a good set of dedicated winter tires will handle Canadian winters well. Models such as the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, the Toyota RAV4, and the Kia Sportage stand out thanks to standard all-wheel drive across most or all of their lineups, along with features such as heated seats and steering wheels that make cold mornings more bearable.
How much cargo space do I really need in a crossover?
For a couple or a small family, a compact crossover with around 1,000 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats is usually plenty. Larger families, frequent road-trippers, or anyone hauling sports gear and strollers will appreciate the additional volume of a midsize or three-row model, which often provides 540 litres or more even behind the third row.
Should I buy a three-row crossover if I only occasionally need the extra seats?
It depends on how drivers will use the vehicle most of the time. Three-row crossovers such as the Toyota Grand Highlander, the Kia Telluride, and the Hyundai Palisade offer flexibility, but they're larger, less efficient, and pricier than two-row alternatives. For buyers who only need extra seating a few times a year, a two-row crossover plus the occasional rental may make more financial sense.
Are crossovers safe family vehicles?
Modern crossovers are among the safest vehicles on the road, with most offering standard advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Many models in this guide, including the Kia Sportage and the Kia Telluride, have earned top safety honours from the IIHS and strong crash-test results from NHTSA.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car-buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations driven primarily by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers—real owner experiences and current market value.
Our expert reviewers come from some of North America and Canada's most trusted automotive publications, bringing hands-on experience testing vehicles. They put each car through its paces and create detailed reviews covering everything from form and function to performance and cost effectiveness.
But we don't stop there. We also analyze hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus.ca to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of great deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to hear from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings rated as good or great deals into a final Overall CarGurus Rating—a three-way approach that reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver real satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus market data in this guide was last updated in June 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
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