Canadian auto sales edge up 0.5 percent in July, best month in seven years
An estimated 173,000 vehicles sold in July 2026, marking the second consecutive month of gains, though economists note the modest increase reflects ongoing economic pressures.
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Canada's auto sales rose modestly in July, marking the second consecutive month of growth even as the industry braces for potential tariff impacts.
DesRosiers Automotive Consultants estimates 173,000 vehicles sold in July 2026, slightly up from 172,000 in July 2025 — a gain of 0.5 percent. While this represents the best July in seven years, Andrew King, managing partner at DesRosiers, cautioned that even this modest increase is noteworthy given current market conditions. Sales still remain significantly below the 182,000 units sold in July 2017.
The firm is projecting stronger sales for August 2026 compared with August 2025, which saw weaker activity. However, broader economic headwinds continue to weigh on the market. Canadian households have curtailed spending amid heightened uncertainty from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and threats of new U.S. tariffs scheduled for later this month.
Light trucks and SUVs continue to dominate the market — a structural shift that has accelerated over recent years.
By the numbers
How many vehicles sold in Canada in July 2026?
An estimated 173,000 vehicles sold in Canada in July 2026, up 0.5 percent from 172,000 in July 2025.
Was July 2026 Canada's best July in how long?
July 2026 marked Canada's best July in seven years, though sales remained below the 182,000 units sold in July 2017.
