Steering Into Sales
Some cars fly off dealership lots, others seem permanently parked, and every year, Canadians vote with their wallets to reveal who’s in and who’s stalled. Come with us as we look at the 10 worst-selling cars—and which 10 people can't buy fast enough. (Spoiler: it’s not always horsepower that seals the deal.)
1. Fiat 500X
In 2023, just 18 people across all of Canada bought a new Fiat 500X, a number that reflects more than low interest; it signals a full collapse in demand. Between limited dealership presence and little brand momentum, this model was essentially invisible to buyers.
2. Hyundai Ioniq
The Ioniq was already being phased out in favor of newer electric models, so its low 2023 sales weren't a surprise. With only 26 units sold across the country, it marked the end of a hybrid era as the brand pivoted to the all-electric Ioniq 5 and 6.
3. Chrysler 300
After years of steady decline, the Chrysler 300 closed out with a mere 32 sales. The reason is that most buyers looking for large vehicles now lean toward SUVs, and without significant updates, the 300 simply faded from view.
4. Nissan GT-R
Only 36 Canadians bought a new Nissan GT-R in 2023. With a starting price below $140,000 and a design that hasn’t seen major changes in years, most buyers looked elsewhere. In a market shifting toward modern performance and value, the GT-R also felt too expensive for what it offered.
5. Chevrolet Malibu
The Malibu used to be a go-to family sedan, but those days are long gone. In 2023, it barely registered, selling only 41 units, which reflects how much Canadian buyers have shifted toward compact crossovers and away from mid-size four-door cars altogether.
6. Kia Stinger
Kia brought sharp design and sporty dynamics to the table with the Stinger; still, it didn’t catch on with the broader public. Only 45 people in Canada bought it in 2024, likely due to limited brand perception in the performance sedan space.
7. Genesis G90
For a car priced well about six figures, selling just 47 units isn't shocking, but it still highlights a problem. The Genesis G90 faces an uphill battle against long-standing European luxury brands, and in Canada, the brand still lacks the recognition needed to drive real volume.
8. Toyota Mirai
With just 52 units sold in 2023, the Mirai remains a rare sight in Canada, and infrastructure is the reason. It runs on hydrogen, and outside of a few spots in British Columbia, fueling stations don't exist, making it impractical for almost everyone.
9. Lexus LS
It rides like a dream and lasts for years, but in 2023, fewer than 60 Lexus LS models found homes. Buyers looking for flagship-level comfort have more choices than ever, many of them electrified, which may explain the declining numbers.
10. Chevrolet Camaro
As GM prepares to retire the Camaro, Canadian buyers are already moving on. With just 69 sold last year, it’s clear the muscle car isn’t matching modern preferences, especially in a country where winter tires and AWD matter more than horsepower.
Let's switch and take a look at the ones that continue to perform well in Canada. These are the ones people keep buying, year after year.
1. Toyota RAV4
Drivers across Canada continue to choose the RAV4 because it fits into everyday routines without asking for much in return. It's practical for urban driving, light off-roading, and weekend trips, which helps explain how it crossed 61,000 units in 2024 sales.
2. Ford F-150
If there's one truck Canadians rely on for both personal and work use, it's the F-150. Buyers stick with it because it delivers where it counts, whether on job sites or family trips. The truck even dominated 2023 sales charts, racking up more than 119,000 units sold.
3. Honda CR-V
The CR-V appeals to people who want space, comfort, and strong fuel efficiency in a single package. With many buyers using it for long commutes or weekend travel, its 2023 sales of over 50,000 units show that it's still a smart pick for everyday use.
4. Ram 1500
Buyers looking for a smoother ride in a full-size pickup often settle on the Ram 1500. It combined a comfortable cabin, serious towing strength, and choices galore to win less than 57,000 buyers last year.
Guillaume Vachey from Chalon sur Saone, France on Wikimedia
5. Chevrolet Silverado
Construction crews and seasonal workers continue to rely on the Silverado for its durability and hauling capabilities. Familiarity also plays a role since this truck's reputation helped Chevrolet move more than 500,000 units last year, proving it's still in the full-size pickup fight.
6. Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson made steady gains last year, especially among families and young professionals who want something more compact than a full SUV. Hyundai's updates in design and features further helped boost it to nearly 30,000 units sold.
7. Toyota Corolla
Although SUVs dominate the market, the Corolla shows that compact sedans still have a place. The vehicle is trusted by first-time buyers, students, and commuters who want low maintenance costs. In 2023, it achieved over 24,000 sales, demonstrating that simplicity remains a compelling selling point.
8. GMC Sierra 1500
The Sierra 1500 appeals to drivers who want a workhorse with a bit more comfort and brand appeal. Additionally, strong rural and suburban demand, paired with upscale options and smooth highway manners, helped it move close to 58,000 units last year.
9. Mazda CX-5
In 2023, more than 25,000 Canadians bought the Mazda CX-5. Many drivers choose it because it handles better than most in its class yet still works well as a practical daily vehicle. That balance between comfort and control has kept it consistently popular across the country.
10. Tesla Model Y
More than 19,000 units were sold in Canada in 2024, placing the Model Y at the top of the electric vehicle market. Its long driving range, quick performance, and easy access to charging through Tesla's Supercharger network make it a common choice among EV buyers.
