The Honda CR-V remains Canada’s most stolen vehicle for 2025, topping the annual list released by Équité Association.
The model also held the top position in 2021 and 2022, demonstrating its persistent vulnerability to car theft networks. While national theft rates dropped by 18% compared to 2024, organized criminal networks continue to exploit technological vulnerabilities in modern vehicles to generate approximately $900 million in illicit annual gains.
Although the CR-V ranks highest by the total number of vehicles stolen, industry data highlights a shift in criminal targeting. Luxury models, specifically the Lexus TX, are now experiencing theft rates exceeding 11%, a figure deemed disproportionate to the number of insured vehicles on the road.
Heather Masterson, president and CEO of Équité Association, noted that vehicle theft remains a particularly lucrative criminal activity, and that organized networks continue to profit from technological flaws.
In Quebec, the landscape of vehicle theft differs slightly from the national average. While the Honda Civic was the most stolen vehicle in the province by total volume in 2025—with 487 reported thefts—the Toyota Tundra recorded the highest frequency of theft at 0.65%.
Équité Association notes that SUVs account for half of all vehicles stolen within Quebec, where total theft volume saw a 25% decrease compared to the previous year. To qualify for this frequency ranking, a vehicle must account for at least 50 thefts.
Experts warn that absolute theft numbers often mirror the popularity of a vehicle on the road, whereas theft frequency—calculated against the number of insured vehicles—provides a clearer picture of which models are specifically targeted by criminal groups using relay attacks and electronic system reprogramming.
Équité Association is advocating for an overhaul of the 2007 Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, arguing that current standards are insufficient to combat sophisticated theft methods. Heather Masterson, president and CEO of the association, emphasized that intervention by law enforcement alone is insufficient to address the crisis.
« Nous devons rendre les véhicules plus difficiles à voler », a déclaré Heather Masterson, présidente et chef de la direction d’Équité Association.
The organization is calling for a collaborative approach with Transport Canada to harmonize regulations with international best practices. Public sentiment appears to align with these calls for systemic change; a recent survey indicated that 72% of Canadians believe anti-theft technologies should be mandatory integrated components of vehicle manufacturing rather than optional aftermarket accessories.
Additionally, 64% of Canadians surveyed reported being concerned for their safety and that of their families due to vehicle theft.
