If you’re in the market for a used vehicle, 2016 model-year cars strike a strong balance between modern features, safety upgrades and affordability. These models offer contemporary styling and technology without the premium price of newer vehicles, and they avoid the excessive wear often found in much older cars.
Prices listed below reflect national averages in Canadian dollars for vehicles in good condition. Actual costs will vary by mileage, trim level and whether you’re buying privately or through a dealership.
Infiniti Q60 Coupe
The Q60 Coupe stands out for its styling — one of Infiniti’s more elegant designs, especially compared to the brand’s more aggressive offerings. Replacing the G37, it delivers a smooth, fast ride, particularly with the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 producing up to 400 horsepower in the Red Sport trim.
Rear-wheel-drive models are less suited to harsh winters. If buying one, check for rust on the undercarriage and insist on a full pre-purchase inspection.
Runner-up: Infiniti QX60 Hybrid — a practical and fuel-conscious midsize SUV, though rare on the market.
Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai’s rise in quality over the past decade is well reflected in the 2016 Tucson. It’s feature-rich, competitively priced and impressively refined. Heated front seats were standard — rare in this class at the time — and its compact size suits both urban and rural driving. The Tucson also benefits from a relatively efficient four-cylinder engine, keeping emissions in check without sacrificing versatility.
Runner-up: Hyundai Elantra — a comfortable, value-packed sedan that still offered a manual transmission.
Subaru Crosstrek
With standard all-wheel drive and good ground clearance, the Crosstrek blends rugged capability with car-like comfort. It’s well suited to Canada’s diverse terrain and road conditions. A short-lived hybrid variant exists but is rare; if you find one, it offers modest fuel savings and cleaner emissions, making it an appealing option for eco-conscious drivers.
Runner-up: Subaru Legacy — a quietly handsome AWD sedan that deserves more attention.
Jaguar F-Type Coupe
The F-Type Coupe is a striking sports car with a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 that offers a true performance experience. Even the base model hits 100 km/h in just over five seconds. Its refined cabin, strong acceleration and aggressive exhaust note make it a thrill to drive, though upkeep can be costly, and it’s less suited to those prioritizing efficiency or all-season practicality.
Runner-up: F-Type Convertible — all the same appeal, plus top-down driving in 12 seconds.
Note: All-wheel drive (AWD) improves traction in winter conditions but is not a substitute for proper winter tires, which remain the most effective upgrade for safety in snow and ice.
Our verdict
If you’re looking for a used vehicle with real Canadian credentials — comfort, winter capability and long-term value — this list offers strong choices. The Hyundai Tucson and Subaru Crosstrek are top picks for combining reliability, cold-climate performance and fuel efficiency. The Infiniti Q60 delivers power and flair, while the Jaguar F-Type brings style and speed for drivers focused on performance.
Choosing a well-maintained used vehicle is not just smart financially — it also helps reduce environmental impact by extending the life of existing resources.
No matter which model you choose, always get a trusted mechanic to inspect it before you buy. Run a report to check for past accidents, flood damage or outstanding recalls. A few simple checks can help ensure your used car is a smart investment — and not a costly surprise.
Specs
Infiniti Q60 Coupe
Estimated price: $20,000 to $27,000
Fuel economy: 12.2 L/100 km city, 8.9 highway
Drive type: RWD or AWD
Known issues: Oil consumption on turbo models
Reliability: Average
Winter-ready? AWD recommended
Hyundai Tucson
Estimated price: $13,000 to $18,000
Fuel economy: 10.1 city, 7.8 highway
Drive type: FWD or AWD
Known issues: Dual-clutch hesitation
Reliability: Above average
Winter-ready? Yes, with heated features
Subaru Crosstrek
Estimated price: $14,000 to $20,000
Fuel economy: 9.1 city, 7.0 highway
Drive type: AWD
Known issues: Early oil consumption
Reliability: Above average
Winter-ready? Excellent in snow and ice
Jaguar F-Type Coupe
Estimated price: $38,000 to $55,000
Fuel economy: 11.9 city, 8.4 highway (V6)
Drive type: RWD or AWD
Known issues: Electrical/infotainment issues
Reliability: Below average
Winter-ready? Only with AWD, best in summer
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