Best Used Cars to Buy in Canada

Buying a used car can be a daunting task. With hundreds of models to choose from, and your budget and driving needs to consider, it all becomes a little overwhelming.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. We’ve put together this list of the best used cars to buy in Canada. No matter whether you’re searching for a reliable vehicle, an electric or gas-powered model or something to suit a tight budget, we’ll show you the best options on the market.

Used car prices

Prices shown on this page are wholesale prices taken from CARFAX Canada’s What’s My Car Worth? tool. Unless otherwise specified, the price range listed for each vehicle is for a 2022 model in base trim with an automatic transmission, located in Toronto and with 100,000km on the odometer.

Best reliable used car: Toyota Corolla

Reliability is a key concern for every used car buyer. If you want peace of mind when shopping for a used vehicle, there are lots of reasons why you should check out the Toyota Corolla. There’s nothing particularly sexy or flashy about the Corolla, but that’s the last thing owners of this ever-popular model are worried about. This unassuming sedan and hatchback has been a regular feature at or near the top of bestseller lists for years, offering unmatched reliability, impressive safety and high resale values. Available with gas and hybrid engines, this front-wheel-drive car also delivers fuel economy figures that’ll put a smile on your face.

Price range: $16,191 – $19,060 (when buying privately), $16,778 – $19,693 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• There are sportier alternatives
• May not be large enough for your needs

Other top reliable used cars

• Honda Accord, Civic and CR-V
• Lexus IS and RX
• Mazda3 and CX-50
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Camry and RAV4

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Best used car to buy under $10,000: Honda Civic

The Honda Civic has a well-earned reputation for reliability and refinement. It was also Canada’s most popular passenger car every year from 1997 to 2021, so that means there are plenty of used models to compare from dealerships and private sellers across the country. You’ll generally need to look for a model that’s close to 10 years old to make sure you stick to your $10k budget, but you might be surprised at the quality of the bargains available.

Price range: $7,090 – $9,070 (when buying privately), $8,437 – $10,575 (when buying retail)
*Price info for the 2016 Civic Sedan DX with manual transmission and 150,000km.

Downsides

• Infotainment interface isn’t the most user-friendly
• Some safety features can be annoying

Other top used cars to buy under $10,000

• Kia Rio
• Mazda 3
• Mitsubishi RVR
• Nissan Micra
• Toyota Corolla

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Best used car under $20,000: Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is a reasonably priced sedan that’s packed with features. It’s powered by a 2-litre 147hp engine in base trim, with the option of an automatic or manual transmission. 15-inch wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen and heated front seats headline the list of features.

Price range: $14,132 – $16,829 (when buying privately), $15,783 – $18,619 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Not the most powerful of engines
• Some interior finishes seem a little cheap

Other top used cars under $20,000

• Honda Civic
• Hyundai Elantra
• Kia Sportage
• Mazda3
• Subaru Outback
• Volkswagen Jetta

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Best used car under $30,000: Toyota RAV4

The multi-award-winning RAV4 needs no introduction. This five-seat SUV is a common sight on Canadian roads, and it offers plenty of bang for your buck for savvy used car buyers. Gasoline-powered models feature a 2.5-litre, 203hp engine, but it also comes as a popular and fuel-efficient hybrid. The 2022 base model sends power to the front wheels but all other variants come with all-wheel drive.

Price range: $23,608 – $27,016 (when buying privately), $25,832 – $29,384 (when buying retail)
*Price info for AWD model

Downsides

• Annoying safety alerts
• Some buyers might like an extra row of seats

Other top used cars under $30,000

• Honda CR-V
• Lexus NX

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Best used pickup truck: Ford F-150

The ever-popular F-150 is a solid option for anyone in the market for a new pickup truck. Available in a huge variety of trim levels, the F-150 comes with a 3.3-litre V6, turbocharged EcoBoost V6s or a hybrid powertrain. You can also customize based on cab and cargo bed styles, and whether you want rear- or four-wheel drive.

Price range: $22,677 – $26,022 (when buying privately), $25,216 – $28,728 (when buying retail)
*Price info for XL trim, 2.7L Turbo V6, RWD, Regular Cab Pickup With Standard Bed

Downsides

• Fuel economy could be better
• Higher trim levels can get quite pricey

Other top used pickup trucks

• Chevrolet Silverado
• GMC Sierra 1500
• Ram 1500
• Toyota Tacoma
• Toyota Tundra

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Best used SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers an excellent value proposition to used SUV buyers. This five-seater comes in gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, with Hyundai’s HTRAC™ All-Wheel Drive and dedicated modes for different types of terrain. It offers a comfortable and supportive ride for you and a few passengers, with a spacious cabin, heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen.

Price range: $19,687 – $22,823 (when buying privately), $21,808 – $25,094 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Plenty of worthy competitors
• Fuel economy could be better

Other top used SUVs

• Honda CR-V
• Hyundai Tucson
• Kia Sorento
• Mazda CX-5
• Subaru Forester
• Toyota RAV4

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Best used EV: Hyundai Ioniq 5

Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 is a five-seat crossover EV that’s well worth a look—if you can get your hands on one. The base model features a 58kWh battery and a 125kW (168hp) electric motor, but there’s also a Long Range and an all-wheel-drive Long Range version available. Range varies depending on the configuration but maxes out at over 480km, while the Ioniq 5’s roomy and well-appointed cabin is as comfortable as they come.

Price range: $23,216 – $26,598 (when buying privately), $25,414 – $28,939 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Not as widely available as some other models
• Not everyone likes those unique looks

Other top best value used cars

• Hyundai Kona Electric
• Tesla Model 3

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Best used hybrid car: Honda Accord Hybrid

Searching for a reliable, comfortable and fuel-efficient hybrid? Look no further than the Honda Accord Hybrid. The hybrid drivetrain in this five-seat sedan delivers 212hp and impressive combined fuel economy of as low as 5L/100km. The Accord’s interior is comfortable and well appointed too, with a 10-speaker sound system, keyless entry and an Anti-Collision System among the list of features.

Price range: $26,722 – $30,329 (when buying privately), $27,964 – $31,647 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Some buyers might prefer an SUV to a sedan
• Back-seat passengers might like more headroom

Other top used hybrid cars

• Honda CR-V
• Hyundai Sonata
• Hyundai Tucson
• Lexus ES300h
• Toyota Camry
• Toyota Prius

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Best used luxury or sports car: Mazda MX-5

The fast and fun MX-5 is well known among sports car enthusiasts. This agile and zippy two-seat convertible is sure to put a smile on any keen driver’s face. It features a 181hp engine, 17-inch alloy wheels and the undeniable romance of open-top motoring. Apple Carplay and Android Auto are supported too, while there’s also an available Bose nine-speaker sound system if you want to crank up your favourite driving tunes when hitting the road.

Price: $23,707 – $27,122 (when buying privately), $24,886 – $28,377 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Not the most spacious of interiors
• Some road noise issues

Other top used luxury or sports cars

• BMW 5 Series
• Chevrolet Corvette
• Genesis G90
• Porsche 911
• Volkswagen Golf R

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Best used AWD car: Subaru Outback

All-wheel drive is an important feature for drivers searching for better traction on Canada’s snowy roads, and the Subaru Outback is our pick as the best used AWD car. The 2022 Outback features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182hp as standard, but higher-level trims get a 2.4L turbocharged engine. Other features include dual touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and automatic climate control.

Price range: $18,142 – $21,164 (when buying privately), $18,628 – $21,686 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Infotainment system could be improved
• Some drivers might want an engine with a little more grunt

Other top used AWD cars

• Honda CR-V
• Mazda3
• Subaru Crosstrek
• Subaru Forester
• Toyota RAV4

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Best value used car: Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V offers plenty of bang for your buck. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the CR-V features a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with 190hp and 179ft-lb of torque. The base trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, while active safety tech like the Forward Collision Warning System and Lane Departure Warning System helps you stay safe on the road. Other features include an adjustable cargo floor height, a fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback and heated front seats.

Price range: $21,668 – $24,945 (when buying privately), $23,468 – $26,866 (when buying retail)
*Price info for AWD model.

Downsides

• Not the most exciting on-road performer
• Infotainment system could be better

Other top value used cars

• Mazda CX-5
• Toyota Corolla and RAV4

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Best used compact car: Mazda3

The stylish and sophisticated Mazda3 is a great compact car for the money. It’s available with a 155hp engine in base trim, while a 186hp engine and an even sportier turbo are also offered. Mazda’s iActiv all-wheel drive is available in the top three trims, and the Mazda3 boasts plenty of active and passive safety tech to help you stay safe on the road.

Price range: $16,548 – $19,446 (when buying privately), $17,977 – $20,986 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Base engine isn’t the most powerful
• No AWD in base trim

Other top used compact cars

• Chevrolet Cruze
• Honda Civic
• Hyundai Elantra
• Kia Forte
• Toyota Corolla

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Best used winter car: Subaru Forester

It’s hard to go past the Subaru Forester if you’re looking for a reliable performer capable of withstanding tough Canadian winter conditions. This five-seat SUV comes with all-wheel drive as standard, and it’s powered by a 182hp engine that delivers fuel economy of 8.2L/100km. On the inside, generous cargo space, advanced safety tech and automatic climate control.

Price range: $20,227 – $23,402 (when buying privately), $22,551 – $25,888 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Engine lacks grunt
• Interior finish isn’t as polished as some rivals

Other top used winter cars

• Honda CR-V
• Subaru Impreza
• Subaru Outback
• Toyota Highlander
• Toyota RAV4
• Nissan Altima
• Volvo XC90

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Best used car for seniors: Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is an all-wheel-drive SUV that’s loaded with features. The 2022 model is powered by a 187hp, 2.5-litre engine that delivers fuel economy of up to 8.2L/100km on the highway. It also boasts a comfortable cabin, a five-star NHTSA Safety Rating, and a 10.25-inch full-colour centre display.

Price range: $19,329 – $22,439 (when buying privately), $21,281 – $24,531 (when buying retail)

Downsides

• Cargo space could be better
• Infotainment system isn’t the most user-friendly

Other top used for seniors

• Honda Accord
• Honda CR-V
• Hyundai Elantra
• Mazda CX-5
• Mazda3
• Toyota Corolla

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What are the best-selling used cars in Canada?

AutoTrader’s Q3 2025 Price Index lists the top-10 vehicles sold on the platform, which are outlined below:

1. Ford F-150
2. Toyota RAV4
3. Honda CR-V
4. RAM 1500
5. Nissan Rogue
6. Honda Civic Sedan
7. Ford Escape
8. Toyota Corolla
9. GMC Sierra 1500
10. Hyundai Elantra

This same price index also reveals the top 10 searched vehicles on AutoTrader for the quarter, as shown in the table below.

What is the best place to buy a used car?

You have a few options when buying a used car, each of which comes with pros and cons:

Option 1: Buy a used car in-person at a dealership

The biggest advantage of visiting dealerships in-person is that you can test drive and physically inspect vehicles one after another. You also have more protections under consumer law if you’re sold a lemon. Just make sure you only visit dealerships that are properly licensed in your province.

Dealerships offer convenient access to in-house financing if you need it. However, you may have to pay a slightly higher price than if you buy from a private seller.

Option 2: Buy a used car online

It’s now possible to shop for a used car completely online. Online car dealerships like
Clutch allow you to browse their inventory of vehicles online, choose the car you want and finance your purchase. The car can then be delivered to you. Depending on the platform you choose, you might also get a limited test drive period.

This method is undoubtedly a quick and convenient way to get your next set of wheels. However, you’re limited to the inventory of vehicles your dealer provides. The fact that you might not be able to inspect or test drive a vehicle in person before buying will also put off some buyers.

The exact buying process varies depending on the online car sales platform, so check out our guide to the best used car websites in Canada to find out more.

Option 3: Buy a used car from a private seller

Once you would’ve browsed classified ads in the newspaper to find cars listed privately for sale, but now you can do this online. Options include platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji as well as dedicated automotive marketplaces like AutoTrader.

When you buy privately, there’s often more room to negotiate and get a better deal. You also don’t have to worry about high-pressure sales tactics you might experience when shopping at a dealership.

The downside is that you have fewer protections if something goes wrong with the car you buy, so it’s important to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before handing over any cash.

Bottom line

There’s a lot to consider when buying a used car, including safety, reliability, fuel economy, cargo space and, of course, your budget. Make sure you know exactly what you want in a vehicle before you go shopping, and compare a range of vehicles to find one that ticks all the boxes.

Frequently asked questions

• Where can I find the best used car deals?

  There are multiple options to consider when searching for the best used car deals. Physical dealerships and online car dealers offer easy access to a wide range of vehicles and in-house financing, but these businesses also have overhead costs to consider.

  You may be able to get a better price if you buy from a private seller who's willing to negotiate, so it's worth browsing ads on sites like AutoTrader and Facebook Marketplace to see what's available. Learn more about new and used car deals.

• What is the most reliable car brand in Canada?

  According to Consumer Reports' annual auto reliability brand rankings, Toyota (66 out of 100) Subaru (63) and Lexus (60) are the three most reliable car brands. These predicted reliability ratings are based on Consumer Reports member surveys.

• Should I buy a used car from a dealership or a private seller?

  There are pros and cons to both options. Buying a used car from a dealership means you have the security of purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle. Dealers also offer easy access to financing, and you're protected under consumer law if you're sold a lemon (provided you buy from a properly licensed dealership).

  But dealers have overhead costs they need to cover, so you may be able to get a car for a slightly lower price from a private seller.

• How can I get the best deal on a used car in Canada?

  There are several things you can do to ensure that you get a good deal when buying a used car. Start by researching car values on sites like CARFAX, Kelley Blue Book and Canadian Black Book. Get a CARFAX report so that you know the full history of a vehicle, and get it professionally inspected to make sure there are no defects.

  Finally, be sure to shop around and compare multiple vehicles to get the best price. Find out more in our guide on what to consider when buying a used car.

To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Leanne Escobal as part of our fact-checking process.

Written by

Tim Falk

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Tim Falk is a freelance writer for Finder. Over the course of his 20-year writing career, he has reported on a wide range of personal finance topics. Whether you're investing in stocks and ETFs, comparing savings accounts or choosing a credit card, Tim wants to make it easier for you to understand. When he’s not staring at his computer, you can usually find him exploring the great outdoors. See full bio

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