Best compact SUV: Toyota RAV4
History repeats itself in 2021 as the mighty RAV4 continues to lord it over all others in this very popular segment. It's not for nothing that the Toyota RAV4 dominates compact SUV sales, especially since the 2019 redesign that gave the vehicle a more rugged visual appeal. What's more, with the arrival of the Prime variant, there's now a RAV4 for any buyer, from the basic front-wheel-drive model to the 302-hp plug-in hybrid “beast”.
Other factors to consider include the proven reliability of the model and a reinvigorated driving experience, especially with the hybrid and Prime editions. As for the model's prices, they're competitive, as the manufacturer wants to make its RAV4 the "Honda Civic" of SUVs in the country.
Honourable mention goes to the new Nissan Rogue, which raised its game impressively in 2021, and did it without getting an inflated price point.
See also: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Review: What Do You Get the SUV That Has Everything?
See also: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime pictures
See also: Top 10 Compact SUVs in Canada in 2020-2021 (Based on Sales)
See also: It's the Toyota RAV4 Prime’s Turn to Fail Swedish Mag’s Moose Test
From our review (of the Prime):
"The success of the RAV4 is no accident, of course. Canadians have good reason to flock to this model that benefits from its maker’s legendary reputation for reliability, great quality of construction, interior versatility and comfort, fuel economy and overall bang for buck."
- Derek Boshouwers, Auto123