The Canadian auto market saw a decline in April 2026, with sales estimated at 178,000 units, down 3.9% from the same month the previous year. This follows a pattern of market softness, influenced by ongoing trade tensions with the U.S. and high gas prices. Despite the drop, the seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) held at 1.83 million, only slightly below March’s 1.85 million.

While overall sales were down, performance varied by brand. Toyota Canada reported a record April with 26,099 vehicles sold, a 5.9% increase, driven by strong demand for electrified models, which made up 67.8% of its sales. In contrast, Mazda Canada saw a 26.7% year-over-year drop, selling 6,117 units. The electric vehicle (EV) market showed mixed results, with ZEV sales cooling after a strong March, though General Motors Canada maintained its lead in EV sales for the first quarter.

Looking ahead, the re-launch of the Chinese-built Tesla Model 3 at $39,000 CAD is expected to boost EV interest, and there's hope that May will see improved sales, reclaiming its usual spot as the year’s top sales month.