At one point in time, sedans were the go-to vehicle for the average person or household, but, for a while now, SUVs (sport utility vehicles) have been taking the top ranking for the best type of vehicle to drive in Canada. And why wouldn’t it? It’s the perfect combination of features, with its wagon-like feel, and truck-like body, but yet small and compact - or at least the subcompact and compact SUVs are. There are much larger vehicles that fall under the SUV category that offer all the features as a crossover but can transport extra people and goods. Living in Canada, with the exception of the coastal region of BC, you are no stranger to the four seasons we have, making an SUV ideal for any road condition.
Some will argue the first version of this body style was when automakers took a station wagon and made it all-wheel-drive (AWD) back around 1949, but that is still up for debate. For the sake of relating to what we know an SUV to be, the 1984 Jeep Cherokee (XJ), can take pride in being the pioneer for the most popular body style today and has even evolved its own model and added a more luxury version known as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Since the launch of the Jeep Cherokee, the world of SUVs has expanded to include, crossovers, midsize SUVs, subcompact, luxury SUVs, and small SUVs. In recent years, like any vehicle, the automotive industry and consumers have seen a surge in incredibly fuel-efficient SUVs; an idea that previously never went hand-in-hand with an SUV or truck. But, here we are, the new age of vehicles.
Canadian car buyers purchase certain vehicles for their personal reasons and usually take into consideration their affordability, fuel economy, reliability, quality, and capacity to go off-road. We’re pretty sure you or someone you know has been in the market for an SUV at some point, and since we are all about helping you out, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling SUVs.
Honda CR-V
Considered a subcompact SUV, the CR-V is loaded with family-friendly features while offering amazing fuel economy. The CR-V is one of the top-selling vehicles of that year. Coming standard with a 1.5-litre, 16-valve, direct injection, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it still has some gitty-up, despite its “cute” look. Honda’s are known to be affordable and reliable vehicles with amazing resale value. So, if you have one you want to sell, we’d love to take it off your hands; see what it’s worth through our fancy technology.
Toyota Rav4
Let’s be honest, Japanese automakers know how to make vehicles. Between the Honda CR-V, Toyota rav4, and Toyota 4runner, it’s obvious. Leading to the rav4, which is available in either a hybrid or non-hybrid, so if fuel efficiency is on your list of what you want in a vehicle; check that off. The rav4 comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission equipped with radar cruise control. Similar in style to the Honda CR-V, if you’re more of a Toyota person, this is the perfect option for a small SUV and you can find it in AWD or front-wheel-drive. If you are fortunate enough to find a used rav4 that has all the upgrades, you would see it has heated front and rear seats, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a moonroof.
Ford Escape
Moving away from the Japanese-made vehicles and into North America, Ford is an iconic name in the auto industry; obviously, Henry Ford created the very first automobile. The Ford Escape is recognized as one of the most affordable SUVs on the market. Although it is classified as a subcompact SUV, the power it provides suggests that of a larger SUV. With a towing capacity of 3500 pounds, it’s no wonder. This small but mighty SUV comes in AWD and has 18 safety features including a rear-view camera, anti-theft system, remote keyless entry, and more.
Jeep Cherokee
This OG of SUVs got a revamp and launched a brand new exterior design and came loaded with features and incredible cargo space. The Jeep brand as a whole is what comes to mind when you think about hitting the backcountry. The ground clearance the Jeep Cherokee offers makes it easy to hit the trails, go camping, or tow heavy loads. Jeep outdid themselves with this model as it came with three engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four, a 2.4-litre Tigershark MultiAir inline-four, or a 3.2-litre Pentastar variable valve timing V6. These vehicles are fully loaded with features such as Apple CarPlay, engine stop/start technology, and a hands-free power liftgate. The best news is, that despite the vehicle shortage, we have a few Jeep Cherokees and Jeep Grand Cherokees on hand that are ready for you to buy online.
Maybe you aren’t a Honda, Toyota, Ford or Jeep fan; that’s okay. There are plenty of incredible SUVs to choose from. Most major auto brands have a lineup of SUVs, so whether you are a Hyundai, Volkswagen, Subaru, or BMW fan, or want three-row seating and last year’s model, the chances are you can get your hands on one. You can start here, by browsing our inventory of used SUVs. We’ve got Nissan Rogues, and luxury SUVs such as Mercedes-Benz, and if you prefer more of a crossover, check out the Hyundai Kona. We told you we’re here to help. We are also here to make car buying convenient, which is why you have the option of buying your vehicle online, in-store or a combination. Heck, you can even get approved online. Come on over and give us a try.
