Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Crossovers in Canada

Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Crossovers in Canada

As fuel prices continue to fluctuate and environmental consciousness grows, Canadian drivers are increasingly prioritizing vehicles that offer a compelling blend of flexibility, comfort, and most importantly, excellent fuel economy. Crossovers, with their car-like handling, SUV-like utility, and often available All-Wheel Drive (AWD), have become the go-to choice for many Canadian families and individuals. 

However, not all crossovers are created equal in terms of fuel efficiency. This article delves deeply into the Best Crossovers in Canada that stand out for their efficiency, helping you make an informed decision for your next vehicle purchase. 

At YST Auto Sales, we understand the importance of finding a vehicle that meets both your needs and your budget, and fuel efficiency plays a significant role in that equation. Let’s go on this journey to discover the most fuel-efficient crossovers in Canada.

Fuel-Efficiency Crossovers: What Do the Numbers Mean for Canadians?

When looking for fuel-efficient crossovers in Canada, you’ll come across a whole bunch of numbers and acronyms: L/100km, MPG, hybrid, PHEV, combination, city, and highway. Understanding these figures matters for selecting one of the Best Crossovers in Canada that truly meets your efficiency expectations. For Canadians, who often face long commutes, diverse weather conditions including harsh winters, and varying fuel prices across provinces, making sense of these metrics can translate into significant savings and a more environmentally friendly driving experience.

First, let us clarify the fundamental unit of measurement in Canada: Litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km). This figure represents the amount of fuel a vehicle consumes to travel 100 kilometres. Quite simply, the lower the number, the better the fuel efficiency. You might occasionally see Miles Per Gallon (MPG), particularly in American automotive media or for older vehicles, but L/100km is the standard set by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the government body responsible for providing official fuel consumption ratings. To convert, remember that 1 US gallon is approximately 3.785 litres and 1 mile is about 1.609 kilometres. A common point of confusion is that a higher MPG is better, while a lower L/100km is better.

NRCan provides three key ratings for each vehicle:

• City Rating (L/100km): This simulates urban driving conditions, characterized by frequent stops and starts, lower average speeds, and more idling. For many Canadians living in bustling urban centers like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver, this figure is particularly relevant for daily commutes.
• Highway Rating (L/100km): This reflects driving at sustained higher speeds, typical of highway cruising or long-distance travel between Canadian cities. If your driving predominantly involves open roads, this number will be a crucial indicator.
• Combined Rating (L/100km): This is a weighted average of the city (55%) and highway (45%) ratings, offering a general estimate of a vehicle’s overall fuel performance. It’s often the most cited figure when comparing different efficient crossover vehicles.

However, it’s critical to understand that these official ratings are achieved under standardized laboratory conditions.  Your real-world fuel economy can and will vary.  Several factors unique to Canadian driving can influence this:

• Driving Habits: Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and excessive speeding significantly increase fuel consumption. A smooth, anticipatory driving style can improve efficiency by as much as 20-30%.
• Weather Conditions: The Canadian winters are well-known. Cold temperatures reduce engine efficiency, increase warm-up times, and make lubricants thicker, all contributing to higher fuel use. Winter tires, while essential for safety, can also have slightly higher rolling resistance than summer or all-season tires. Furthermore, the use of heaters, defrosters, and heated seats/steering wheels in winter draws more power, indirectly impacting fuel consumption in gasoline vehicles and directly impacting range in electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
• Terrain and Road Conditions: Driving in hilly or mountainous regions, prevalent in parts of British Columbia and Alberta, requires more engine power and thus more fuel. Poorly maintained roads or those covered in snow and slush also increase rolling resistance.
• Vehicle Load and Aerodynamics: Carrying heavy cargo or using roof racks and cargo boxes (popular for ski trips or camping) increases the vehicle’s weight and aerodynamic drag, leading to higher fuel consumption. This is a key consideration when choosing from the top 10 crossovers if you frequently transport gear.
• Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular checks are crucial, especially as temperatures fluctuate.
• Vehicle Maintenance: A well-maintained engine, clean air filters, and regular oil changes ensure your crossover operates at peak efficiency. Neglecting maintenance can lead to a noticeable drop in fuel economy.

Beyond traditional gasoline engines, the selection of fuel-efficient crossovers now includes some electrified options:

• Mild Hybrids (MHEV): These systems use a small electric motor/generator to assist the gasoline engine, primarily during acceleration and start-stop operations, and to recapture energy during braking (regenerative braking). They offer a modest improvement in fuel economy over conventional gasoline engines but cannot drive on electric power alone for any significant distance.
• Full Hybrids (HEV): These vehicles, like the popular Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, have a more powerful electric motor and a larger battery pack. They can travel short distances at low speeds on electric power alone, significantly boosting city fuel economy. The gasoline engine and electric motor work in tandem, seamlessly switching or combining power sources for optimal efficiency. The battery is recharged through regenerative braking and by the gasoline engine.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV): PHEVs, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV or Ford Escape PHEV, feature an even larger battery that can be charged by plugging into an external power source (like a home outlet or public charging station). This allows them to travel a significant distance (e.g., 40-80 km) purely on electricity before the gasoline engine kicks in. For many Canadians with average daily commutes, a PHEV crossover could mean most of their driving is emission-free and very low cost, provided they charge regularly. NRCan provides an “Le/100km” (litres equivalent per 100 kilometres) rating for PHEVs when running on electricity, and a standard L/100km when the gasoline engine is active.

Understanding these nuances allows you to look beyond the sticker prices and assess which efficient crossover vehicles will truly deliver savings based on your specific driving patterns and the unique Canadian environment. 

Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Crossovers in Canada

Navigating the market for fuel-efficient crossovers in Canada can be overwhelming with so many excellent options. To simplify your search for the Best Crossovers in Canada, we’ve compiled a list of standout models renowned for their impressive fuel economy, practicality, and suitability for Canadians. This section details the first five of our top 10 crossovers, focusing on their fuel consumption ratings (NRCan figures where available, typically for newer models, but general efficiency for used market understanding), key features, and why they are compelling choices for Canadian drivers. 

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid & RAV4 Prime (PHEV)

The Toyota RAV4 is a longtime bestseller in Canada, and its Hybrid and Prime (PHEV) versions are arguably the kings of fuel-efficient crossovers. Known for Toyota’s legendary reliability and strong resale value, they offer a compelling package.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

RAV4 Hybrid (HEV): Typically achieves around 5.8 L/100km (City) / 6.3 L/100km (Highway) / 6.0 L/100km (Combined). These figures are outstanding for an AWD-equipped compact SUV.

RAV4 Prime (PHEV): Offers an impressive all-electric range of up to 68 km. Its combined NRCan rating is around 2.5 Le/100km (electric + gasoline). When operating in hybrid mode after the battery is depleted, it still achieves excellent fuel economy, often around 6.0-6.5 L/100km.

Powertrain:

RAV4 Hybrid: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, producing a combined 219 hp. Standard electronic on-demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

RAV4 Prime: Same 2.5L engine but with more powerful electric motors and a larger battery, resulting in a potent 302 hp, making it one of the quickest RAV4s. Standard AWD.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Standard Toyota Safety Sense suite, available heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, good cargo capacity (around 949-1059L behind rear seats depending on configuration), and robust AWD system ideal for Canadian winters. The Prime’s electric range can cover many daily commutes in Canada emission-free.

Pros: Exceptional fuel economy, proven reliability, strong resale value, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, advanced safety features, widely available. The prime version offers significant electric-only range and impressive power.

Cons: The prime version can be difficult to find due to high demand and has a higher purchase price (though a pre-owned market can offer value). Infotainment, while improved in the latest models, was a step behind some competitors in slightly older versions.

The RAV4 Hybrid and Prime hit the sweet spot for efficiency, practicality, and reliability, making them top choices for fuel-efficient crossovers for a wide range of Canadian buyers. 

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Honda CR-V Hybrid

The Honda CR-V is another incredibly popular compact crossover in Canada, known for its spacious and versatile interior, refined driving dynamics, and Honda’s reputation for engineering. The introduction of the CR-V Hybrid to the Canadian market (more recently than some competitors) has been eagerly awaited.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

CR-V Hybrid (HEV): Expected to achieve around 6.0 L/100km (City) / 6.9 L/100km (Highway) / 6.4 L/100km (Combined) for AWD models.

Powertrain: A two-motor hybrid system typically pairing a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing a combined system output of around 204 hp and substantial torque. Available with Real Time AWD™.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, available heated front seats and steering wheel, large cargo area (often class-leading), flexible interior configurations, and a comfortable, well-appointed cabin. The available AWD system is well-suited for Canadian weather.

Pros: Excellent fuel economy for its size, spacious and high-quality interior, refined ride and handling, strong safety ratings, Honda reliability. The hybrid system is smooth and responsive.

Cons: Hybrid version was introduced later to Canada than some key rivals, so used market availability might be slightly less initially compared to the RAV4 Hybrid. Can be priced at a premium.

The CR-V Hybrid builds on the standard CR-V’s strengths of practicality and refinement, adding impressive fuel efficiency. It’s a strong contender for families and individuals looking for a well-rounded and efficient crossover vehicle.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Kia Sportage Hybrid & PHEV / Hyundai Tucson Hybrid & PHEV

This Korean duo shares platforms and powertrain technology, offering stylish designs, a wealth of features, and very competitive fuel efficiency in both hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) forms. They have made significant inroads in the Canadian market.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

Sportage/Tucson Hybrid (HEV) AWD: Around 6.1 L/100km (City) / 6.3 L/100km (Highway) / 6.2 L/100km (Combined). FWD versions (if available) would be slightly better.

Sportage/Tucson PHEV AWD: Offer an all-electric range of around 50-55 km. Combined fuel economy is typically in the range of 2.5-2.8 Le/100km. Hybrid mode fuel consumption is also very good, often around 6.5-7.0 L/100km.

Powertrain:

Hybrid: 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of around 226-227 hp and ample torque. Typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (a differentiator from some CVT-equipped rivals).

PHEV: Same 1.6L turbo engine but with a more powerful electric motor and larger battery, producing around 261 hp.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Available AWD, comprehensive suites of driver-assistance features, large touchscreens with modern infotainment, available heated/ventilated seats and heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof options, and distinctive styling. Good warranty coverage is also a plus.

Pros: Striking designs, feature-packed interiors, strong performance from hybrid and PHEV powertrains, competitive fuel economy, good value proposition, comfortable ride. PHEV offers useful electric range.

Cons: Long-term reliability is still being established compared to Toyota/Honda, though vastly improved. Some may find the styling polarizing. Availability of PHEV models can be tight.

The Sportage and Tucson twins offer a compelling blend of style, technology, and efficiency, making them strong alternatives in the fuel-efficient crossovers segment. Their PHEV versions are particularly attractive for maximizing electric driving.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Ford Escape Hybrid & PHEV

The Ford Escape has long been a staple in the compact crossover market. Its hybrid and PHEV versions offer significant fuel savings and a comfortable, car-like driving experience.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

Escape Hybrid (HEV) FWD: Around 5.6 L/100km (City) / 6.5 L/100km (Highway) / 5.9 L/100km (Combined). AWD versions are slightly higher.

Escape PHEV (FWD only for many model years): Offers an excellent all-electric range of up to ~60 km. Combined fuel economy is around 2.3 Le/100km. Hybrid mode consumption is also efficient.

Powertrain:

Hybrid: 2.5L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 192-200 hp (depending on model year). Available with FWD or AWD.

PHEV: Same 2.5L engine setup but with a larger battery, producing around 210-221 hp. Historically, many Escape PHEV models in Canada were FWD only, which might be a consideration for some buyers needing AWD.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite of safety features, available SYNC infotainment system, comfortable seating, sliding rear seats for flexible cargo/passenger space, available heated seats and steering wheel.

Pros: Very good fuel economy, especially the PHEV’s electric range and Le/100km. Comfortable ride, user-friendly tech. FWD hybrid offers excellent efficiency for those not needing AWD.

Cons: PHEV often FWD only, which might not suit all Canadian winters/terrains. Interior material quality in some trims may not feel as premium as some rivals. AWD hybrid is less efficient than some AWD competitors.

For those prioritizing maximum electric range in a PHEV or excellent FWD hybrid efficiency, the Escape is a strong contender. Its comfortable demeanor makes it a pleasant daily driver and a noteworthy efficient crossover vehicle.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Lexus NX Hybrid (NX 350h) & PHEV (NX 450h+)

For those seeking a premium and fuel-efficient crossover in Canada, the Lexus NX Hybrid and its PHEV sibling offer luxury, refinement, and impressive fuel savings, built upon Toyota’s proven hybrid technology.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

NX 350h (HEV) AWD: Around 5.7 L/100km (City) / 6.4 L/100km (Highway) / 6.0 L/100km (Combined).

NX 450h+ (PHEV) AWD: Shares its powertrain with the RAV4 Prime, offering an electric range of up to ~60 km and a combined rating of around 2.8 Le/100km.

Powertrain:

NX 350h: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with Lexus Hybrid Drive, producing a combined 240 hp. Standard AWD.

NX 450h+: 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with more powerful electric motors and a larger battery, delivering a combined 304 hp. Standard AWD.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, luxurious interior with high-quality materials, advanced infotainment system (with a large touchscreen in newer models), available heated/ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, and a quiet, refined ride. Standard AWD is a big plus for Canada.

Pros: Excellent fuel efficiency for a luxury crossover, plush and quiet ride, high-quality interior, advanced technology, and safety features, strong Lexus reliability, and customer service reputation. The NX 450h+ is powerful and offers a significant EV range.

Cons: Higher purchase price compared to non-luxury brands. Cargo space might be slightly less than some mainstream competitors. Infotainment in older models used a touchpad interface that wasn’t universally loved (newer models have touchscreens).

The Lexus NX Hybrid and PHEV prove that luxury and efficiency can go hand-in-hand. They offer a premium experience without a significant fuel penalty, making them top choices for discerning Canadian buyers looking for one of the top 10 crossovers that combines opulence with eco-consciousness. 

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been a trailblazer in the plug-in hybrid crossover segment in Canada for several years. It’s known for its standard Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), spaciousness (available with three rows in some configurations, though the third row is tight), and substantial PHEV capabilities.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models, especially the newer generation):

Outlander PHEV: Offers an impressive all-electric range, with newer models capable of up to 61 km. The combined NRCan rating is around 3.6 Le/100km. When running as a hybrid, fuel consumption is typically in the 8.5-9.0 L/100km range, which is higher than some HEV competitors but good for its size and PHEV capability.

Powertrain: Typically a 2.4L or 2.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two electric motors (one front, one rear) for the S-AWC system, and a sizeable lithium-ion battery pack. Total system horsepower varies by generation but is ample for daily driving. Newer generations boast increased battery capacity and motor output.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Standard S-AWC offers excellent traction and stability in Canadian winters. Available third-row seating (a rarity in efficient crossovers), generous cargo space (with the third row folded), DC fast-charging capability (unique for some PHEVs, allowing quicker top-ups on the go), and a robust warranty.

Pros: Significant electric-only range, standard advanced AWD system, available third row, DC fast charging on some models, comfortable ride. Newer generations feature much-improved interior quality and technology.

Cons: Hybrid-mode fuel economy isn’t class-leading when the battery is depleted. The gasoline engine can be less refined under hard acceleration in older models. Third row is best for children.

The Outlander PHEV’s combination of usable electric range, capable S-AWC, and available seating for seven (in a pinch) makes it a unique and practical efficient crossover vehicle for many Canadian families.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Subaru Crosstrek (Hybrid and Efficient Gasoline Models)

While Subaru did offer a Crosstrek PHEV in some markets (and briefly in Canada), its availability was limited. However, the standard gasoline Crosstrek models, particularly with the smaller engine option, are known for being relatively fuel-efficient for a vehicle that comes with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard. We’ll focus on the general efficiency of the gasoline models, as the PHEV is rare.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent gasoline models):

Crosstrek (2.0L engine with CVT): Around 8.5 L/100km (City) / 7.0 L/100km (Highway) / 7.9 L/100km (Combined).

Crosstrek PHEV (if found): Offered around 27 km of electric range and a combined 2.6 Le/100km.

Powertrain:

Gasoline: Typically a 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer engine (around 152 hp) or an available 2.5L Boxer engine (around 182 hp), paired with a CVT or manual transmission (manual is less efficient). Standard Symmetrical AWD.

PHEV (rare): Used Toyota hybrid technology integrated with Subaru’s Boxer engine and AWD.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Standard Symmetrical AWD is a huge selling point for Canadian winters, providing excellent traction. Good ground clearance for tackling unpaved roads or snowy conditions. Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is widely available. Robust build quality and a reputation for durability.

Pros: Standard AWD across all trims, excellent safety ratings, good resale value, capable handling on and off-road, practical size for city driving and parking. The 2.0L engine, while not powerful, is quite efficient for an AWD vehicle.

Cons: The 2.0L engine can feel underpowered, especially when loaded or merging onto highways. Cargo space is adequate but not class-leading. The PHEV version was very limited in Canada.

For those who prioritize standard, proven AWD, and good all-around efficiency without necessarily opting for a hybrid, the gasoline Crosstrek is a very strong contender. It’s a rugged, reliable, and relatively efficient crossover vehicle well-suited to the Canadian lifestyle, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

The Kia Niro is unique as it’s offered exclusively with electrified powertrains: hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and full electric (EV). For this list focusing on fuel-efficient crossovers that often imply some gasoline component or are compared against them, we’ll highlight the HEV and PHEV. It’s more of a subcompact-plus crossover, often FWD only.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for recent models):

Niro HEV (FWD): Can achieve as low as 4.5 L/100km (City) / 4.9 L/100km (Highway) / 4.7 L/100km (Combined), making it one of the most efficient non-PHEV crossovers.

Niro PHEV (FWD): Offers an electric range of around 40-55 km (depending on generation) and a combined rating of about 2.2-2.5 Le/100km.

Powertrain:

HEV: Typically a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), producing around 139 hp.

PHEV: Similar 1.6L setup but with a larger battery and more potent electric motor.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Excellent fuel economy, stylish design (especially newer generations), user-friendly infotainment, good suite of available safety features, and Kia’s strong warranty. Compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in cities.

Pros: Outstanding fuel efficiency across both HEV and PHEV versions. Engaging DCT (for those who prefer it over a CVT). Good value for money. PHEV has a useful electric range for daily commutes.

Cons: Primarily FWD only, which might deter some Canadians from needing AWD. Cargo space and rear-seat room are good for its class but smaller than compact crossovers like the RAV4 or CR-V. Not as ruggedly styled as some other crossovers.

If maximum fuel efficiency in a compact, car-like crossover is your top priority and AWD isn’t a must-have, the Kia Niro HEV and PHEV are exceptional choices. They are truly among the most fuel-efficient crossovers available.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Hyundai Kona Electric / Hybrid

The Hyundai Kona is a popular subcompact crossover known for its funky styling and fun-to-drive nature. While the Kona Electric is a standout EV, Hyundai has also offered very efficient gasoline versions and, in some markets or upcoming models, hybrid variants. Given the “crossover” focus which often includes ICE, we’ll consider its most efficient non-EV forms or future hybrids. (Note: A full Kona Hybrid is becoming more prominent).

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for efficient gasoline or future/available hybrid):

Kona 1.6T (Gasoline AWD, efficient for its class): Around 8.6 L/100km (City) / 7.0 L/100km (Highway) / 7.9 L/100km (Combined).

Kona Hybrid (FWD, where available): Could achieve figures similar to the Niro Hybrid, potentially around 4.5-5.0 L/100km combined. (Newer generations are actively promoting a hybrid).

Powertrain:

Gasoline: Options often include a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine or a more potent 1.6L turbocharged engine. Available with FWD or AWD.

Hybrid: Likely a 1.6L engine paired with an electric motor, FWD.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Available AWD (with gasoline engines), compact size ideal for urban environments, bold styling, good list of standard and available tech features, including Hyundai SmartSense safety suite. Heated seats and steering wheel are often available.

Pros: Fun-to-drive character, distinctive looks, available AWD (gasoline). Efficient gasoline engines for the segment. The upcoming/available hybrid version promises excellent fuel economy.

Cons: Smaller cargo capacity and rear-seat space compared to larger compact crossovers. The ride can be a bit firm for some. Hybrid availability has been less widespread than some competitors historically in Canada, but this is changing.

The Kona offers a vibrant personality and good efficiency, especially in its FWD forms or the anticipated hybrid. For urban dwellers or those who don’t need massive space but want style and thriftiness (and optional AWD with gas models), it’s a compelling efficient crossover vehicle.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Mazda CX-5 / CX-50

Mazda has often focused on optimizing its Skyactiv-G gasoline engines for real-world efficiency and driving pleasure, rather than heavily investing in hybrids for its core models until more recently. The CX-5 and the slightly more rugged CX-50 are praised for their upscale feel, engaging driving dynamics, and respectable fuel economy for non-hybrid AWD crossovers, often featuring cylinder deactivation technology.

Fuel Efficiency (Illustrative for 2.5L non-turbo AWD models):

CX-5 / CX-50 (2.5L NA AWD): Around 9.8 L/100km (City) / 7.9 L/100km (Highway) / 8.9 L/100km (Combined). While not hybrid numbers, this is competitive for a well-equipped AWD gasoline crossover of its size, especially considering the driving enjoyment. (Mazda is introducing hybrids, like the CX-50 Hybrid, which would significantly improve these numbers).

Powertrain: Primarily a 2.5L Skyactiv-G 4-cylinder engine, some with cylinder deactivation to improve highway fuel economy. A turbocharged version is available for more power but is less efficient. Standard i-Activ AWD on most trims in Canada.

Key Canadian-Friendly Features: Standard AWD on most models, premium interior design and materials, excellent handling and driving dynamics (“zoom-zoom” feel), a good suite of i-Activesense safety features. Heated seats/steering wheel are common.

Pros: Engaging driving experience, upscale interior, standard AWD on many trims, attractive styling. Cylinder deactivation helps with highway efficiency. Mazda’s upcoming hybrid offerings (e.g., CX-50 Hybrid using Toyota tech) will make them even stronger contenders in the “fuel-efficient” space.

Cons: Fuel economy, while good for a conventional AWD gasoline engine, doesn’t match dedicated hybrids or PHEVs. Infotainment system (rotary dial control) has a learning curve for some. Turbo models are thirstier.

For drivers who prioritize an engaging driving experience and upscale feel in an AWD crossover, and are looking for good (rather than class-leading hybrid-level) fuel economy from a gasoline engine, the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 are excellent choices. They represent some of the most efficient crossover vehicles within the traditional ICE category, and their move towards hybrid options will only broaden their appeal. YST Auto Sales frequently stocks these popular Mazda crossovers.

Shop used fuel-efficient crossovers on YST Auto Sales.

Choosing the Right Fuel-Efficient Crossover 

Selecting one of the top crossovers for fuel efficiency is a great start, but the “best” efficient crossover vehicle for you ultimately comes down to your individual needs, driving habits, and the unique demands of your Canadian lifestyle. 

Canada is a vast country with diverse climates and terrains, from bustling city streets to rugged mountain passes and snow-covered prairie highways. At YST Auto Sales, we understand that finding the perfect pre-owned vehicle involves more than just comparing L/100km figures. This section provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the decision-making process and choose a fuel-efficient crossover that truly fits your life.

Assess Your Driving Patterns 

Urban Commuter: If you primarily drive in city traffic with lots of stop-and-go, a full hybrid (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will offer exceptional benefits. HEVs excel in city conditions where they can frequently use their electric motors. A PHEV, if your daily commute falls within its electric range (e.g., 40-60 km), could mean you barely use gasoline for your routine trips, provided you can charge it regularly at home or work. The Kia Niro HEV/PHEV or a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid/Prime would be excellent fuel-efficient crossovers in Canada for this scenario.

• Highway Cruiser: If your driving involves long stretches of highway, traditional hybrids still offer good efficiency, but highly optimized gasoline engines with technologies like cylinder deactivation (found in some Mazda models) or efficient diesel engines (though less common in crossovers now) also perform well. PHEVs on long trips will operate as regular hybrids once their electric range is depleted, so their highway L/100km in hybrid mode is important.
• Mixed Driving: Most Canadians experience a mix. The combined L/100km rating is a good starting point but consider the proportion. If it’s 70% city, 30% highway, prioritize city efficiency.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) – A Canadian Necessity or Preference?

• Why AWD is Popular: Canadian winters, with snow, ice, and slush, make AWD a highly desirable feature for enhanced traction and stability. Many of the Best Crossovers in Canada offer sophisticated AWD systems, including e-AWD in many hybrid models which can be very responsive.
• When FWD Might Suffice: If you live in a milder coastal region or a city with excellent snow removal, a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) crossover equipped with high-quality winter tires can often be perfectly adequate and will typically offer better fuel economy than its AWD counterpart. Models like the FWD Kia Niro or Ford Escape Hybrid FWD are exceptionally efficient.
• Impact on Efficiency: AWD systems add weight and mechanical complexity (or an extra electric motor), which usually results in slightly higher fuel consumption compared to identical FWD models. Evaluate if the security of AWD is worth the small efficiency trade-off for your typical conditions. YST Auto Sales stocks a variety of both FWD and AWD-efficient crossover vehicles.

Space Requirements

• Passenger Capacity: How many people do you regularly transport? Most fuel-efficient crossovers are five-seaters. If you occasionally need more, models like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offer an available (though compact) third row.
• Cargo Space: Consider your lifestyle. Do you need space for hockey bags, camping gear, strollers, or large grocery hauls? Check the cargo capacity figures (litres) with seats up and folded down. Some hybrids have slightly reduced cargo space due to battery placement, though newer designs are much better at integrating batteries without intrusion. The Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are known for good cargo utility.
• Maneuverability: A larger crossover offers more space but can be less nimble in tight urban parking spots. Subcompact crossovers like the Hyundai Kona or Kia Seltos (efficient gasoline versions) might be better suited for city dwellers prioritizing ease of parking.

Budget – Purchase Price vs. Long-Term Savings

• Initial Cost: Hybrid and PHEV versions of crossovers in Canada typically have a higher upfront purchase price than their gasoline-only counterparts, even in the used market.
• Factoring in Savings: As discussed in Section 5, calculate potential fuel savings over your intended ownership period. For PHEVs, also factor in any potential government rebates if buying new (though this influences used market values).
• Used Market Advantage: Purchasing a pre-owned efficient crossover vehicle from YST Auto Sales can be a smart way to access these advanced technologies at a more affordable price point, letting the first owner absorb the steepest depreciation.
• Financing: YST Auto Sales can offer various financing options to help make your desired fuel-efficient crossover more attainable. Discussing your budget with their team can help identify suitable models.

Technology and Features

• Safety: Modern fuel-efficient crossovers are often packed with advanced safety features and driver-assistance systems (e.g., automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring). Prioritize models with high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.
• Infotainment: Consider connectivity needs – Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, screen size, and ease of use.
• Comfort and Convenience: Heated seats, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, power liftgate – list your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Many of the top 10 crossovers offer these, especially in higher trims.

Understanding Hybrid/PHEV Specifics

• Charging (PHEVs): If considering a PHEV, do you have a convenient place to charge it (e.g., a driveway or garage for Level 1 or Level 2 charging)? While not essential (it can run as a hybrid), regular charging maximizes savings.
• Battery Health (Used PHEVs/HEVs): When buying a used hybrid or PHEV from YST Auto Sales, inquire about battery health or any available diagnostic reports if possible. However, modern hybrid batteries are designed for longevity and often come with long warranties that may still have coverage.

Test Driving – The Essential Step
No amount of research can replace the feeling of being behind the wheel. Test drive a few different fuel-efficient crossovers that make your shortlist. Pay attention to:

• Acceleration and responsiveness (especially how the hybrid system feels).
• Braking feel (regenerative brakes can feel different initially).
• Ride comfort and handling.
• Visibility and ergonomics.
• Noise levels (hybrids are often quieter).

Choosing the right fuel-efficient crossover involves balancing your specific needs—be it passenger and cargo space, AWD capability for challenging Canadian winters, or the latest tech features—with the compelling advantages of lower fuel costs and a reduced carbon footprint. Whether you’re drawn to the near-silent electric cruising of a PHEV or the steadfast economy of a full hybrid, the options are better and more varied than ever before.

The professional team at YST Auto Sales is committed to helping you find the used fuel-efficient crossover that not only saves you money at the pump but also perfectly matches your Canadian lifestyle. At YST Auto Sales, we are proud to offer a wide selection of high-quality, pre-owned fuel-efficient crossovers and other Best Crossovers in Canada. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you navigate these choices, understand the nuances of different technologies, and find a vehicle that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and budget. We encourage you to visit YST Auto Sales to explore our inventory and discuss your needs with our experts. Embrace the future of driving with a fuel-efficient crossover that’s right for you, right for your wallet, and right for Canada.

For a hassle-free experience, consider YST Auto Sales, your trusted used car dealer. Selling or trading in a used car in Ontario with YST Auto Sales is quick and easy. Simply visit our Sell Your Car page and enter your car’s details to get an instant cash offer within minutes. 

Unlike selling privately through online marketplaces, YST Auto Sales eliminates listing fees and time-wasting negotiations and skips the hassle of meeting buyers. You will receive a transparent cash offer upfront. YST Auto Sales offers pick-up right at your door or a convenient drop-off location.

If you’re looking to upgrade, use your old car as a trade-in for a new one from our extensive selection. YST Auto Sales will even handle the simultaneous pick-up and drop-off for both vehicles. This also saves your valuable time and saves more on your new car—a win-win!