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Top 10 Compact SUVs in Canada for 2025: Our Top Compact Crossover Picks

  • EPA Category: Compact SUV
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    Dan Heyman
    The category of choice for young families in 2025 continues to evolve, with a special focus this year on PHEVs and hybrids.

    Subaru Forester (gas-only)

    2025 Subaru Forester
    2025 Subaru Forester | Photo: D.Boshouwers

    The Forester is into a new generation for 2025, and with that it integrates a new front grille, headlights and taillights as well as more squared-off fenders and some unique spoke designs and copper colourway.

    2025 Subaru Forester, three-quarters rear
    2025 Subaru Forester, three-quarters rear | Photo: D.Boshouwers
    2025 Subaru Forester, interior
    2025 Subaru Forester, interior | Photo: D.Boshouwers

    It also gets an updated steering rack which allegedly shares some components with the sporty WRX sedan. Power has been slightly tweaked going from 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torqu in 2024 to 182 hp and 178 lb-ft. AWD and a CVT transmission are both standard.

    Unfortunately with the change in design, we'll have to wait for the next generation of the rugged Wilderness model; for now Subaru will continue offering the 2024 Wilderness version as a 2025 model.

    Toyota RAV4 (gas-only, hybrid and PHEV)

    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV | Photo: D.Rufiange

    While it hasn’t been officially confirmed, it appears as though Toyota’s ultra-popular RAV4 will be getting a complete redesign in 2025, for the 2026 model-year. It’s also said that only the hybrid powertrain will continue to be available which isn’t a surprise, considering that’s been the case in a number of markets for quite some time now.

    If it goes through, expect a much more aggressive front-end in keeping with the likes of the all-new 4Runner and Tacoma a well as more flowing lines than previously.

    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, in profile
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, in profile | Photo: D.Rufiange
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, three-quarters rear
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, three-quarters rear | Photo: D.Rufiange
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, interior
    2025 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, interior | Photo: D.Rufiange
    Dan Heyman
    Dan Heyman
    Automotive expert
    • Over 12 years' experience as an automotive journalist
    • More than 70 test drives in the past year
    • Participation in over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists