Organized crime is increasingly targeting high-end SUVs and trucks, according to a report from the Équité Association. The organization, which collaborates with law enforcement to combat auto theft, has released its list of the most stolen vehicles in Canada for 2024. Notably, the Honda Civic is the only car to make the top ten list.

Toronto continues to be the primary location for auto theft in Canada. Bryan Gast, national vice-president of investigative services at Équité Association, stated, "Toronto’s still the epicentre. It’s the hub." He noted that young offenders are often used by international crime groups to carry out these thefts.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 SUV tops the list of stolen vehicles, with 2,080 reported thefts across Canada in 2024. Following closely are the 2022 Dodge Ram 1500 Series, the 2020 Honda CR-V, the 2023 Ford F150 Series, and the 2020 Honda Civic. Gast remarked, "The Toyota RAV4’s appearance at the top of the list is a clear sign that organized criminal networks are not slowing down; they are simply shifting their tactics."

The list also includes the 2023 Jeep Wrangler, the 2006 Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500 Series, the 2022 Toyota Highlander, the 2024 Toyota Tundra, and the 2023 Lexus RX Series. Gast explained that profits from vehicle theft often fund other criminal activities, such as drug and firearms trafficking.

Interestingly, no electric vehicles appear on the list of the most stolen vehicles in Canada or Ontario. Gast attributed this to the lack of charging infrastructure in overseas markets, particularly in West Africa and Europe, making electric vehicles less appealing to thieves.

In Ontario, the most stolen vehicle for 2024 is the 2024 Honda CR-V, followed by the 2022 Dodge Ram 1500, the 2019 Honda Civic, and the 2023 Jeep Wrangler. The 2024 Lexus TX Series is noted for being stolen most frequently, with about one in four being taken last year.

Despite a reported decline in auto thefts in the Greater Toronto Area, Gast emphasized that vehicle crime remains a significant issue. He stated, "We're still not in a great spot. Vehicle crime is still a growing concern in Canada."

Law enforcement efforts have contributed to a decrease in thefts, with Toronto Police reporting a 29.5% drop in auto thefts year-to-date in 2025. Gast noted that the decline is likely due to increased public awareness and law enforcement initiatives, including the use of automated license plate recognition technology.

The Équité Association reported that thefts of high-value luxury vehicles have surged by 47.5%, indicating that criminals are adapting to law enforcement strategies. Gast explained that stolen vehicles are often altered with fake registrations and vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to make them appear legitimate.

"We’re seeing a shift toward stolen vehicles being re-VINed for sale or disassembled in illegal chop shops and sold for parts," he said. The financial impact of auto theft is significant, with over a billion dollars in insurance claims reported last year.

Terri O’Brien, president and CEO of Équité Association, stated, "While we see early positive signs of progress, auto theft remains a national issue that has become a significant funding source for organized crime groups. This means that honest, hardworking Canadians still bear the true emotional and financial burden of this crime."