Quebec’s Automotive Market Trends: What to Expect in 2025-2026

Introduction

In recent years, Quebec’s auto market has undergone rapid shifts: the rise of SUVs, growing electric-car adoption, semiconductor shortages, and the aftermath of COVID-19. As we enter 2025, these dynamics persist, influencing consumer preferences, new-car pricing, and average ownership duration. Quebec residents now have a chance to stay informed on key trends and understand their impact on future purchases. This article breaks down sales statistics, auto financing, the increasing share of light trucks, the used market, and 2026 forecasts, all in six sections.

General Context: Quebec’s Automotive Landscape in 2025

Despite global upheavals, Quebec’s auto market remains resilient. Car-sales data for 2025 indicate an overall rebound compared to the pandemic years, though not every segment is growing at the same pace.

Trend: Are SUVs Dominating Quebec’s Market?

SUVs have been center stage for a few years. In 2025, they remain highly popular, thanks to:

• An elevated driving position, reassuring for Quebec’s snowy roads
• Flexible cargo space and often AWD, suitable for winter
• Consumers seeking a sense of security and a rugged image

Though their fuel consumption can be higher than sedans, demand remains strong, sidelining compact cars.

Evolving New-Car Prices in 2025

Average new-vehicle prices continue climbing, driven by:

• The semiconductor shortage, limiting supply
• Increasing advanced tech features (connected systems, sophisticated driver aids)
• High demand for compact and mid-size SUVs, pricier than small cars

Meanwhile, automakers offer aggressive financing or rebates at times to cushion rising MSRP.

The Semiconductor Shortage’s Auto-Market Impact

Ongoing since 2021, this crisis leads to:

• Extended delivery times for certain models
• Prioritizing higher-margin models (SUVs, trucks)
• A limited supply of entry-level vehicles

In Quebec, some popular trims are in short supply, increasing demand for better-equipped models.

Growth of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Soaring EV Popularity in Quebec

Thanks to abundant hydroelectric power and eco-minded consumers (plus government rebates), EVs have gained momentum, surpassing a 10% market share in specific segments. This boom comes from:

• Provincial rebates reaching thousands of dollars
• An expanding charging network (Circuit Électrique)
• Fluctuating gas prices and environmental awareness

Quebecers’ Preferences: Cars vs. Trucks in 2025

Although trucks and SUVs still dominate, electric hatchbacks or compact sedans are making strides in urban areas. Environmental concerns, easy home charging, and fuel savings motivate many to adopt a secondary EV for commuting.

Average Auto-Financing Rates in 2025

Typical interest rates range between 3.5% and 7% depending on credit score. Some manufacturers (often in partnership with government incentives) offer discounted financing for EVs. Overall, a slight rise in bank rates still affects standard auto loans but remains moderate.

Light-Truck Market and the COVID-19 Effect

Light-Truck Segment in Quebec (Market Share)

Beyond SUVs, pickups (Silverado, Sierra, F-150, Ram) are thriving—fueled by families needing towing capacity (campers, snowmobiles) and professionals in construction or self-employment. Demand grows as trucks match the province’s climate and lifestyle.

COVID-19’s Impact on Quebec Auto Sales

After major disruptions in 2020–2021, we saw a notable rebound in 2022–2023. Some families delayed purchases, others seized the chance for a new car after saving more during lockdowns. By 2025, we see gradual normalization, although telecommuting has slightly lessened the need for daily car use.

Most Popular Car Colors in 2025

Classic hues (white, black, gray) still rule, but brighter shades (blue, red) gain traction—especially for SUVs or EVs, giving them a distinctive edge in a bustling segment.

Used-Car Trends and Imports

Quebec’s Used-Car Market: Recent Developments

The used market is hot, given rising new-car prices. Late-model cars command high values as demand outpaces supply. Used EVs (Leaf, Bolt, Kona EV) are now more visible, but battery condition checks are essential.

Importing Used Cars from the U.S.: Up or Down?

U.S. imports have decreased due to a weaker Canadian dollar and stronger U.S. domestic demand. Nevertheless, specialty models (high-end pickups, sports cars) still cross the border, attracting enthusiasts seeking unique trims or unavailable options in Canada.

Average Car Ownership Duration in Quebec

Now around 5–6 years, driven by:

• Improved reliability
• 6- or 7-year financing terms
• Limited availability of certain models

Technologies, Market Share, and Forecasts

Automotive Tech Trends (Connected, Autonomous Cars)

Mainstream brands are integrating OTA software updates, expansive touchscreens, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems. Quebec’s tech-savvy population is gradually embracing these innovations. By 2026, we can expect a higher level of autonomy in certain models—particularly on well-mapped roads.

GM’s Market Share in Quebec (Chevrolet/GMC/Buick)

GM remains a strong contender, particularly for pickup trucks (Silverado, Sierra) and SUVs (Equinox, Enclave). Its electrification push (Bolt EV, upcoming Silverado EV) may further bolster its position, assuming incentive programs stay robust.

Top 5 Best-Selling Vehicles in Quebec, 2025

Based on 2023–2025 trends:

• Pickups (F-150, Silverado/Sierra) consistently lead
• Compact SUVs (RAV4, CR-V, Equinox) dominate family segments
• Compact sedans (Corolla, Civic) hold a loyal audience
• EVs (Tesla Model 3/Y, Chevrolet Bolt) are rising

Gas Price and Its Effect on Vehicle Choices

Whenever gas edges above $1.80/L, interest in EVs and hybrids surges. Conversely, lower prices nudge some shoppers back to SUVs/trucks. Automakers are forging ahead with electrification anyway, aiming to meet emissions regulations and market shifts.

Quebec’s Auto Market Outlook for 2026

Likely developments:

• Continued dominance of SUVs and trucks, as smaller-car offerings dwindle
• Ongoing EV sales growth, propelled by battery-cost declines and range improvements
• Potentially stable (or lower) pricing if the chip shortage eases, replenishing inventories
• Expanded connected and autonomous technologies, with regular software updates even post-purchase

Conclusion

Quebec’s auto market is transforming fast, marked by the surge in SUVs, strong demand for pickup trucks, and rising EV adoption boosted by rebates. Fluctuating gas costs, semiconductor shortages, and post-COVID shifts have all impacted new-car availability and pricing, while the used-car market sees climbing values.

In 2025, consumers increasingly prefer compact/mid-size SUVs, show growing curiosity about EVs, and continue to embrace pickups. GM (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick) maintains a loyal base, particularly in trucks and SUVs, although competition remains fierce and EV newcomers (Tesla, etc.) are stirring the field. Classic paint colors (gray, black, white) still lead, yet bolder shades are emerging for EVs and some SUV lines. By 2026, further electromobility growth is expected, aided by government eco-targets, improved range, and partial resolution of supply chain issues.

That's why consumers buy their vehicules at Garage Tardif, that offers Brand New Vehicules and Used Vehicules for any kinds of budgets.

Quebec buyers are mindful of after-sales service, reliability, and new tech, staying vigilant about gas price swings when deciding on a sedan, SUV, or truck.
In this dynamic environment, it’s wise to monitor inventory in real time, compare promotions, and plan ahead for future needs, whether purchasing a new or used vehicle.